Pastor Jim Carstensen

Post date: May 2, 2013 3:51:27 AM

When I interned in Baltimore, Maryland in the early 70s we tried to get an urban ministry going. All of the ALC boys said that there was truly one man for the job -- Bob Graetz!! I had heard of this "legend" even before I arrived in Baltimore. He interviewed and stayed a few days even coming to our conference assembly (called conventions back then). I spoke at the assembly about one of my favorite authors, Wm. Stringfellow and the legend even told me what a good job I did. That really made me feel special. I also had the chance to see him in D.C. and went by the Longworth building where we both decided that it was big enough for 9 people.

I had the chance to read which I believe was the first of his two books - the White Pastor in the Black Parish and his recollections of Montgomery. Some of my friends got the book as well. After internship I pastored at Martin Luther in Mobile for nearly nine years. For me that was a wonderful experience and I knew that if I kept up with the legend that I had done well in Mobile. In the last few months, I have visited SPLC and met Lecia Brooks, a truly wonderful person. Together we have had lunch and dinners together. I am still humbled when I get the chance to acquaint myself all over again with the legends - yes, both are legends.

And now age is catching up with us all. The legend is 85. Jeannie is graduating and having an After School Adventures program named after her. I have retired and live outside Jackson, MS. Looking back, I can hardly think of two more deserving people than Bob and Jeannie. For what they have done for justice in our country; for what they have done for our ELCA; for what they have done in their response to the ministry of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. Congratulations both of you on a life well lived!!