St. Paul's Lutheran Family Honors Minister
BY RHONDA COSTA-LANDERS
Appeal Features Wnter
 

In celebration of Clergy Appreciation Month, the congregation of St. Paul's Lutheran Family honored its pastor, the Rev. Stan Pesis. Well, "roasted," is more appropriate.
 

With special guests the Rev. Jerry Hanley of St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Community and the Rev. Jeff Paul of St. Peter's Episcopal Church, the evening was shared by more than 150 others who have witnessed the appreciation, dedication and love Rev. Pesis has given the church and community.

Moments were both light-hearted and serious. They brought tears of laughter and tears from soft spoken, fond memories shared by others. But nothing could out-do the hearty laughter that resounded throughout the fellowship hall after telling of some pretty "tall tales."

"He should can it—and sell it," said Carole Baker of Pesis' laugh.

Rev. Pesis' connection with the ministry started around 1970.
 

After leaving the U.S. Air Force with a strong knowledge of electronics training, he worked for a two-way radio communication business in Woodland, Calif. He then got a twoyear job with the Sonoma County Communication Department at Santa Rosa, Calif., where he repaired two-way radios for the sheriff's department, highway department and fire department.

While in Sonoma County, Pesis developed a strong 3-year connection with the pastor of Davis Lutheran Church, Paul Krueger.

"Pastor Paul was responsible for changing my understanding of how the Bible and church might be incorporated in one's life, and I wanted to explore the Bible and literature as a result," said Pesis.

Pesis received a degree in English from Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Wash. It was through the suggestion of Krueger that he attend Christ Semi-Seminex in St. Louis, Mo., to continue his education.

Pesis served in Jamestown from April 1982 through March 1985. Ruth had not received a pastoral call and was very busy being a mother. Having three children, and Pesis only pastoring part-time, the family could not afford to remain there.

In the fall of 1990, Stan took sole responsibility as pastor of St. Paul' Lutheran Family.

The evening's affair was initiated by Flo Bilderback when she asked if anyone knew about Clergy Appreciation Month From there, Nellie Revelle, church secretary called member Eric Anderson an asked him to chair the event. Then a committee was formed.

The ladies group of the church, WELCA, handled the preparation of the fellowship hall, directed the serving of the salads, hot dishes and desserts. Most of the planning was being kept from Pesis. His only knowledge was that the event was more of an Ocktoberfest potluck in the fellowship hall.

"If Stan had his druthers, he'd rather not (be roasted)," said Revelle. "He's not one for the attention and hoopla. And the Jell-O salad, it's a Lutheran thing."

The girl's choir presented the opening prayer for the meal, and the men's choir sang the "Lefse Song," to the tune of Camptown Races.

Flowers were presented in respect to Ruth Hanusa, Doug Thunder, Roger Volker, Fred Wechsel, Jeff Paul and Jerry Hanley.

Pesis was presented with a book of memories, provided by members of the congregation and friends, with their fondest memories of him. Two of his best friends, Hanley and Paul, were the highlight of his roast, who presented him with a pair of Paul's hiking boots worn in the Holy Land as a gift.

"I have always felt very, very blessed to be so well-connected with my congregation," said Pesis. "And with two others who are so well-connected with their congregations," referring to Paul and Hanley.

"Carson City is extremeIy blessed to have three such healthy, loving congregations in its city. I am very lucky and
blessed to be here.

"I am most surprised to see Paul and Marilyn Kruger. When I met Paul, I had no direction for my life at the time. He provided a new way to see the gospel every day. And I try to continue to do that. I am blessed by you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart."

Pesis, Hanley and Paul are affectionately known about town as "The God Squad," as noted by Revelle. "Which proves God has a sense of humor.”

The best summation of Pesis and his impact as a minister was said by Anderson. "He's our spiritual leader ... our confidant ... a man that has been touched by the fingertips of God.”