Allow me to post another item in the “nostalgia” department. The details listed in the photo below of my father’s pastoral record book are instructive on several fronts: duration of ministry (the list is up to date even though there are no entries after 1950—because he stayed at Osterhout the rest of his life), the number of churches that he served part time simultaneously in the early years, often pastoring one church and serving as interim at one or two others, all while a full time student*; and the amount of compensation he received.
*As I noted in the last post, in his own words, “Our zeal may have exceeded our wisdom and presumption [may have exceeded] our faith. But those were wonderful, precious, and yes, hard days.”
I’m finding these posts about your dad’s ministry deeply encouraging. Don’t hesitate to keep them coming.
Praying for you,
Tim
I have read all your posts about your father. He was a preachers’ preacher. I am so sorry for your loss, but I know you give glory to God for his life and example. Sure glad preacher salaries have gone up since the late 40s. The dedication of these men to the work of God is astounding. I was also interested. You mentioned he was part of the group of post-WWII men. Did your dad serve? If so, when and where? Craig
No, he did not serve in the military. Due to an accident shortly after high school and an illness that almost took his life, he was not eligible for military service. He was out of school, I think, 2 or 3 years before he went to BBS at the age of 21. And yes, “The dedication of these men to the work of God is astounding.” That’s clear in the photo I posted above and also in the comments he made in his funeral sermon for his classmate and fellow pastor that I quoted in the previous post.