Welcome to Grace Lutheran Church! I am Pastor Al Berg and I have been called to serve this loving and caring congregation since my arrival here on Pentecost Sunday, 2020. I am grateful to have been called to share in an interim ministry with a community of God’s people who have made quite an impact on the Port Townsend area and beyond.
Needless to say, churches and houses of worship throughout our country and our world have been very much adversely affected by the pandemic of Covid-19. We grieve the losses of life and the hardships faced by so many. What a time to begin an “interim ministry!” What a time to assist God’s people in this place during their transition to Call a new pastor! What has been particularly encouraging to me— has been the eager and joyous welcome I have received from so many members and friends of this congregation. And all of this, in spite of, the many restrictions, “virtual worship,” “social distancing,” and all the “new realities” so many of us are having to adjust to. And yet, even as we pray for healing and relief from this pandemic— I am heartened by what I witness as the compassion, caring, and re-commitment of God’s people in this place to faithful mission and outreach. The people of “Grace” know that ministry extends beyond the four walls of a church.The Spirit of our Lord is very evident in this “Called Out” body of believers!
This has been a congregation that is full of the joy of the Lord. Deep caring for worship, music, fellowship, growth, study, and prayer have been a mark of “Grace” in this community. And a deep passion for continuing to respond to our Lord’s Call and the Spirit’s equipping is very much evident in my short time here. This is the motivation I see as we begin our ministry together! I am honored to offer my 46 years of pastoral ministry to the task of sharing with you our Lord’s call to “Send me!”
Pastor Al Berg
