If you attend the Celebration Worship at 10:15 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 10, at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, prepare to hear a familiar voice from the past.
Reverend John Morris (affectionately known by most as Pastor Morris or Pastor John) will be preaching that day, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of his ordination, which was in July.
Pastor Morris came to Zion in 1967 when the church was celebrating its 100th anniversary. The congregation was meeting in the old church that was built in 1867, but six years later, in 1973, a new church was built.
Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church is located at the corner of Fletcher and Waters Road between Chelsea and Manchester, and the old church still stands across the road from the new one.
Morris served as minister for 20 years until 1987, and he and his wife Karol raised three children, who all attended Chelsea schools.
“It was a wonderful experience,” said Morris. “My family was young, and it was a nice experience for the whole family.”
Pastor Morris served 40 years in active ministry. At retirement, he ad Karol returned to the area, living in Napoleon, and continuing to preach, perform weddings, funerals and share God’s love at church in Albion, Jackson, Michigan Center and Pleasant Lake. Three years ago, they moved to the Chelsea Retirement Community, where he also preaches weekly and provides pastoral care then needed.
“I will be 86 years old on Oct. 13, so preaching at the Celebration Worship Oct.10 may be my last time,” said Morris. “My health has been good and I have enjoyed serving my Lord. I’ve had good mentors along the way and tried to be a mentor to many people, too.”
Please join Zion in celebrating Pastor Morris’ 60 years of ministry, by sending letters or pictures of a memory, or by attending the Celebration Worship and dessert following the service.
