A Message from Interim Pastor Michael Meranda

Allow me to introduce myself. I am Michael Meranda, your new interim pastor.

As I begin a term of ministry among you, I do so with a huge bucket of gratitude. I’m grateful for all the congregations that have shaped me since my ordination, over 43 years ago. The inner-city congregation in Seattle completed major renovations while at the same time becoming financially independent from synod subsidy. The congregation in Portland served students at a nearby university as well as at-risk students at a nearby public grade school. They also built a nice 43 rank pipe organ. The congregation in Minnesota generously shared its award-winning facility with all sorts of civic events and services. They were especially aware liturgically and musically (the horizontal trumpets on their tracker pipe organ could shake the fillings out of your teeth). The congregation in Wisconsin was rich in history and tradition. They have on display a German edition of the Book of Concord: inscribed, signed and sent by Kaiser Wilhelm II (this was before World War I). I saved the best for last. I got to be at Messiah in Ashtabula for over 14 years. My predecessor there is currently the presiding bishop of our ELCA. Messiah had a gift for being serious about doing good ministry BUT being so joyful while doing it. I’ve never known a congregation to enjoy so much good-hearted laughter as they.

When I retired in 2022, I was in an identity crisis. I could not imagine life without the rhythms of Word & Sacrament, people and programs, plans, and events. Our Northeast Ohio Synod pulled me out of my crisis by asking me to serve as an interim pastor at nearby Living Lord Lutheran Church. I thoroughly enjoyed their members and ministry and their easy-to-live-in building.

Now I am grateful to be your next interim pastor. Your facility and location afford you with unique opportunities for ministry. Over a year ago I saw your stained-glass windows and realized that one could preach six months of good sermons based on those themes. I know you experienced some recent difficulty in the Call process. But you stayed together and continued to chart a positive course for ministry. During my time among you, you will find me to be transparent and approachable. So, speak to me – about anything and anytime. Dialogue is often the means for miracles. I look forward to getting to know you as persons and learning your congregation’s heritage, ways, and traditions. For this opportunity to pray with you, preach for you, and share the sacraments among you, I am once again so very grateful.

Faithfully, your interim pastor,

Michael Meranda