Dear Rotarians and friends,
The parking lot at Emmanuel Lutheran Church was full when I arrived on Friday afternoon for the Celebration of Life for Ann Marie Heidgerd.I parked down the street and thought about the impact Pastor John and Ann Marie have had on the community in the 6 years since they arrived as I walked to the church. Pastor John and Ann Marie make the most wonderful team, dedicated to joyful lives of service together. They were “all in” as they opened their hearts to all of us and invited us to join them. I always enjoyed hearing their stories of new ways that they found to help people. They always showed great courage in moving forward with new ideas, eager to share their love with the world and confident about the impact it would have.
One of Pastor John and Ann Marie’s sons talked about how much his mom loved him and said that as much as she loved him, she loved all of us. It occurred to me how beautiful it was that he recognized that and instead of feeling jealous or threatened by it, he wanted to share that love with all of us. The minister at the service gave us all a chance to call out one word that came to mind when we thought of Ann Marie and we heard “love”, “strength”, “courage”, “fun”, “companion” and so much more.
Towards the end of the celebration, Pastor John spoke to the packed church and explained that many people suggested that he take some time away from preaching to grieve. He explained the importance of grieving together. Just as he and Ann Marie love all of us, he feels the love that we have for them.
John and Ann Marie provided an amazing example of the power of partnership and the impact it can have in the world. If they can work together to bring so much goodness, peace, love and joy, then surely if we all work together, we can magnify it all.
In Rotary
Kate Hoath
President