In September of 1980, Pastor Roger Kinkead was installed at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church. He began writing monthly News and Notes to keep the community informed, amused and inspired. As this church is entering its 50th-year anniversary, I thought it fitting to share some of his writings, or at least this first one. Pastor Roger served Prince of Peace from 1980-1983 and again in 2002-2004 as Interim Pastor. Enjoy his first column!

Shele Kinkead

October 1980

Searching for the Forest …

One of the most dreaded nervous disorders of modern America is, as we all know, “Move-itus.” Those who have felt its awesome power have been known to say as they recovered, “Next time they’ll have to blast me loose” or “They’ll have to bury me here.” The victims are easy to spot. Just look for the loose-kneed, bent-over gait, one hand to lower back: the sure signs of having recently lifted overstuffed boxes. The glassy stare and tendency to fade off into snores in mid-sentence is another reliable clue. But the dead give-away is the poor soul aimlessly wandering around downtown Forks, mumbling under his breath about being lost.

The dazed and glazed look must be disappearing from our eyes. Folks are beginning to ask if we’re feeling settled in finally (we’d just moved from Wisconsin). The worst must be over! We’ve survived another bout of “Move-itus.”

Sure enough, Prince of Peace and Forks are beginning to seem like home. We’ve agreed we like it here. Already, Port Angeles seems like the big city. We go in to shop and find ourselves eager to come back home. But the real feeling of being comfortable here is because of YOU. Your graciousness and warmth and concern for our welfare is the sincerest and most Christ-like welcome you could have given. Thank you, good friends.

A word about the title of this column and the one on the next page. The old saw is … “Can’t see the forest, for the trees.” The truth is that we often need to step back and get a broader perspective on what’s happening in our congregational life and our community. “… Searching for the Forest” will be bits and pieces of reflection, sometimes humorous, sometimes more serious, on our life together. “…and Looking at the Trees” on the other hand, will try to keep us all up-to-date and informed on the specifics of what’s happening around here.

And Looking for the Trees …

Also in this first newsletter were several uplifting announcements and a chance for us to walk down Memory Lane:

Congratulations to Inez

Our own Inez Halverson, lovingly known as Halvy, was selected as 1980 Citizen of the Year by the Forks Lions Club. We are proud of her well-deserved recognition. We think you’re someone pretty special too, Inez!

A Word of Commendation

To the whole Prince of Peace family, a word of commendation for the concern shown to your community. Under the leadership of our council, wise use of our resources has enabled a wide range of groups and activities to make our community an even healthier place to live. Did you now that during a month’s time, you can find in our building: the Forks Community Choir, the Discipline Committee of CARE, the county immunization clinic, St. Swithin’s Episcopal Mission, a parenting class and a preschool?

Bravo for Faithful Stewardship of God’s Gifts!

Growing through Learning, Growing to Life

Education is crucial and it can be exciting and entertaining. This week our dedicated staff of church school teachers begin their fall courses. There are learning opportunities for all ages, including adults. Learning is not just kid stuff. Most of us are used to the idea that living in our world involves constantly learning new things and updating old knowledge. Continuing religious education is just as vital for us as adults as it was in childhood. God’s people of all ages find Life as we learn together.

(The teachers were these wonderful folks covering Preschool through Adults: Howard Thronson, Wendy Larson and Shana Hunt, Kim Borde, Bill Greene, Gayle Thronson and Pastor Roger.)