Pastor Harald Announces Retirement With Gratitude and Hope
Dear Members of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church,
After a time of prayer and discernment, I have decided that it is time to begin the process of retirement. In conversation with Bishop Malpica and after thoughtful reflection, I have chosen to remain at Good Shepherd until a new pastor is called and begins their ministry among you. Due to the current shortage of interim pastors, this approach differs from past transitions, but it allows for continuity and care during this important time. I will not be involved in the call process, but I will continue to serve to the best of my ability until the new pastor arrives.
My anticipated retirement date is November 20, 2026—five days after my 66th birthday. However, should a new pastor accept the call before that date, I would be willing to step aside earlier. My prayers are with you as you enter this season of discernment and hope.
Although I will be with you for some time yet, I want to take this opportunity to express my deep gratitude. Since August 15, 2013, it has been a profound privilege to serve as your pastor. I thank God that you took a chance on me all those years ago. Thank you for your unwavering support, your prayers, and your generous sharing of time, talent, and treasure.
Change is the one constant we can count on, and I sense the Spirit calling me toward the new opportunities and challenges that retirement will bring. My hope is that we will all continue to grow in faith and courage as we journey forward—together and apart—“by paths as yet untrodden.”
O God, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us and your love is supporting us, through Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen. (ELW, p. 304)
Keep the faith, and never forget: reflecting God’s grace and kindness in the world truly makes a difference. We are blessed to be a blessing.
God’s peace be with you,
Pastor Harald Bringsjord
Senior Pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
