Giving Thanks for Glenn Klumb
by Bonnie Jacques, Congregational President, and Pastor Carol Tomer, Lead Pastor
Last Thursday afternoon, Aug. 10, The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd gathered to give thanks for Glenn Klumb’s 40 years of service. A reception was held in Crary Hall, and several past and current staff and Good Shepherd members were in attendance. We shared in prayer and proclamation, in testimonies and words of gratitude, in cake and conversation, and in gift-giving. It was a delight to hear from members of the facilities work group, from congregational leaders, and even from Pastor Rob Hoftstad. Glenn was gifted with two quilts, a gift card on behalf of the church, a special card from staff, and numerous cards and gifts from congregation members and colleagues, and a big poster that many of you have signed with words of thanksgiving. Check out the photos from this special gathering.
Glenn began his employment at LCGS working evenings doing custodial work. As the years passed, his work evolved, and Glenn began working during the day. During Glenn’s time at Good Shepherd, the needs of the church and the tasks changed. Custodial work is now a half-time position, still done in the evenings, and buildings and grounds maintenance has evolved as well. Recently, the congregation voted to shift the maintenance position to a half-time position. However, Glenn was offered the custodial half-time position as well, in an effort to continue to employ him full-time. Regretfully, Glenn decided to retire rather the continuing to work in the combined half-time maintenance and the half-time custodial positions.
The LCGS members, staff, and colleagues will miss Glenn. His calm, kind, and supportive manner will be missed. We wish him God’s blessings in the next steps of his journey.
Here is Pastor Carol’s opening prayer at Glenn’s reception:
Gracious God, we thank you for Glenn Klumb and for his 40 years of Good Shepherd ministry. In your bible, O God, we read the number 40 many times. And we know that in many places in the bible, that number represents the time it takes for a new generation to arise, as Eli, Saul, David, and Solomon all served for 40 years in their roles. So, now, O God, we pray that you will bless Glenn as he enters into this next chapter of life. Thank you for the ways Good Shepherd has been blessed through him. And, we pray that you will guide Good Shepherd, now facing the next generation of its care of these buildings and grounds. Such a blessed 40 years you have given. We praise you! Amen.
Here is a thank you message from Glenn Klumb:
To all people of Good Shepherd.
Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. MATTHEW 5:6
Thank you for the love shown, the care expressed and the gifts bestowed upon me. May God’s gracious blessings overflow each one of you always.
All praise to God,
Glenn
