Notes of Congratulations

Dear Bishop Lohrmann:
Grace and peace be with you in this joyous season of Easter in the name of our crucified, risen, and ascended Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Thank you for the opportunity to participate in the 2004 assembly of the Northwestern Ohio Synod. I believe that assembly was one of the finest that I have attended anywhere.

True, the assembly represented people from throughout the synod coming together to do some basic business on behalf of the synod, but the overwhelming character of the gathering emerged from worship, prayer, and profound reflection on faith for daily life.

Not so incidentally for me, in the midst of the assembly, was the thrill of your superb first-ballot re-election to another six-year term as synodical bishop. You have brought wholesome qualities to your leadership of the synod and to your participation in the Conference of Bishops throughout these past six years. It is important, I believe, for the health and well-being of our church that you continue to serve with the gifts and strengths that you bring to us all.

Sincerely,
Lowell G. Almen
Secretary (ELCA)

Dear Marcus:
I was delighted to note your re-election as bishop with the people and members of the Northwestern Ohio Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and on the first ballot! Indeed, it is a word of affirmation to be so elected.

You have been an exceptional colleague to me. I value your wisdom, care and judgment. Thank you for the gifts that you share with this church.

The Lord be with you.

Mark R. Ramseth
President, Trinity Lutheran Seminary