Personal From Ministerial and Member Services

East Texas Church Visit—Retirement of Dr. Don Ward

Dr. Don Ward was one of my instructors at Ambassador University in the mid-1970s. Like numerous students, I always appreciated Dr. Ward’s classes and profited immensely from them. He, along with his wife, Wanda, have contributed greatly to the Church of God throughout many years of faithful service at Ambassador University as President, Head of Faculty and as a professor spanning many years. Don was also a pastor in the Houston area, Texarkana and East Texas, as well as Ruston, Louisiana. Of course, Don also served many years on the Council of Elders and as Chairman of the Council.

On the Sabbath of June 19, a special celebration was held after services in East Texas, showing appreciation to Don and Wanda. Randy Urwiller, on behalf of the congregations, thanked the Wards for their dedicated service.

The local church also presented several gifts which included a piece of cut crystal engraved with one of Dr. Ward’s favorite scriptures, Isaiah 6:8, “Also I heard the voice of the LORD, saying: ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?’ Then I said, ‘Here am I! Send me.’” Other gifts were a framed print of “Daniel’s Answer to the King” by Briton Riviere, a lovely floral bouquet for Mrs. Ward, and a shadow box with the poem “Hoe to the End of the Row” and a large card with messages from members of thanks and encouragement to the Wards. At the end of the presentation, everyone stood and spontaneously applauded Dr. and Mrs. Ward.

I was pleased to be able to represent the home office and Ministerial and Member Services to show our appreciation for the Wards, as well. Dr. Ward expressed how much it has meant to him to serve God and His people in many ways over many years. He also mentioned that Wanda was “the perfect minister’s wife”!

Of course, like so many faithful elders, Don will continue to contribute in a variety of ways in the East Texas area and in the United Church of God.

It was also a very memorable and rewarding weekend for me personally, as I was invited to stay with the Wards in their lovely home and enjoy their wonderful southern hospitality! I also had the opportunity Sabbath evening to share a delicious meal and fellowship with most of the many elders who serve in the East Texas and Ruston congregations.

We, also, certainly appreciate Randy and Penny Urwiller and their service as pastor and wife to the East Texas, Ruston and Texarkana congregations going forward.

May you all have a very inspiring Sabbath and weekend!