As part of its 50th anniversary celebration throughout the year, Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church welcomes former pastor, the Rev. Robert Walters, speaking at Calvary on June 12.
Walters was Calvary’s pastor for 29 years, 1971-2000.
During that time, the church purchased two portable buildings, built a new sanctuary and new fellowship room, and developed a strong lay leadership, he said.
“A new generation of leaders was coming up in 2000,” he said. “The seeds planted over years are bearing fruit.”
Some of those leaders now serve as pastors, including Terri Engel Peterson in Indiana and Dean Smith in Minnesota, and interns Anke Edelerock in Germany, and Silvia Misinova, New York City.
Church member Shawn Smith also developed a career as a professional Christian musician,
In his retirement, he spends time on his bike-riding hobby, sings with the Carolyn Mawby Corale in Flint, and visit his grandchildren in Arizona with his wife, Beverly.
He is also organizing the 50th graduation anniversary from Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago.
He earned his Doctorate of Ministry degree with the support and financial help of the congregation. He also served eight years on Clarkston School Board, 1974-1981.
He and his wife still live in the former parsonage in Independence Township.
“Our sons, Bob and Mike, were raised here,” Robert said.
Calvary is inviting all of its past pastors to speak on different Sundays.?
Pastor Bob, who is also celebrating 50 years in ministry since he was ordained, will speak at all three worship services, 8:15 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 11 a.m.
For more information, call 248-625-3288.
? Phil Custodio