I have been a member of Zion my entire life. I was baptized, confirmed and married by Pastor Alber. I was there when Pastor Dale first came to Zion. I have had nothing but admiration for all he has done to keep our church growing and changing. My children all went through Sunday School, Confirmation and Senior High programs. Their comments and feelings about this matter are of utter disbelief. I believe they come away from their experiences with a greater faith in God. Their memories are ones of being able to find meaning in their faith and not ever once feelings of "weirdness" toward Pastor Dale in the way some of you have mentioned. For thirty years I watched this man put in countless hours of his time toward all members of the church. Yes, I believe he was a strong leader, but he was quick to point out that the church was not about one person; it was to honor and perpetuate the discipleship of the church. This is just my opinion, but after reading through all the other blogs I felt compelled to voice mine. Not once in all of those thirty years did I ever feel uneasy or unsure of Pastor Dale’s commitment to the church or its members. He was there to guide my family through so much. He was also there to give advice (when asked) without judgment. I always felt he was a spirit filled individual that gave so much of his time and energy. I don’t know the other side of this; I don’t believe someone would put this out there for no reason at all…..so all I’m voicing is what I saw in this man, every Sunday, all of the learning series, funerals and every other function for thirty years.
Former pastor Giffin faces 6 rape charges
I have been a member of Zion my entire life. I was baptized, confirmed and married by Pastor Alber. I was there when Pastor Dale first came to Zion. I have had nothing but admiration for all he has done to keep our church growing and changing. My children all went through Sunday School, Confirmation and Senior High programs. Their comments and feelings about this matter are of utter disbelief. I believe they come away from their experiences with a greater faith in God. Their memories are ones of being able to find meaning in their faith and not ever once feelings of "weirdness" toward Pastor Dale in the way some of you have mentioned. For thirty years I watched this man put in countless hours of his time toward all members of the church. Yes, I believe he was a strong leader, but he was quick to point out that the church was not about one person; it was to honor and perpetuate the discipleship of the church. This is just my opinion, but after reading through all the other blogs I felt compelled to voice mine. Not once in all of those thirty years did I ever feel uneasy or unsure of Pastor Dale’s commitment to the church or its members. He was there to guide my family through so much. He was also there to give advice (when asked) without judgment. I always felt he was a spirit filled individual that gave so much of his time and energy. I don’t know the other side of this; I don’t believe someone would put this out there for no reason at all…..so all I’m voicing is what I saw in this man, every Sunday, all of the learning series, funerals and every other function for thirty years.
February 27, 2009 at 6:53 p.m. permalink suggest removal