First Christian Church-Festus said farewell to Rev. Lari Grubbs at a retirement party weekend. After serving in ministry almost 54 years, Lari is entering his second retirement. Lari has held many roles in the local, area, regional and general ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Prominent among those roles are pastor, area minister, teacher, mentor, jokester and friend.
On Saturday, July 10, the church held a catered retirement dinner with family, friends, colleagues, and congregants. Lari was presented with a Peanuts-inspired stole which was signed as a guestbook/card, a bookstore gift card, and a glass cup with the church anniversary commemoration by leaders of the church. John Evans, Keith and Liam Osterberg played musical tributes. Rev. Mindy Kiepe brought greetings and words from the regional office.
On Sunday July 11, Rev. Grubbs, wearing his new stole, shared his last "Moments with the Peanuts," preached his farewell sermon from Ephesians 1:3-14, and presided over communion. Special music was performed by Samantha Roberson, John Evans, and lifelong friend, violinist John Meurer. The Holy Spirit was present through the inspired song "You've Got an Friend in Me," both a statement of love from the congregation and the embodiment of Lari's ministry at Festus.
Among the balloons, cake, cards, presents, celebration, shed and unshed tears, music and stories shared, the church participated in the resurrection celebration of "Good Grief" in wishing their beloved pastor a fulfilling retirement. They are looking forward to Lari's book on their church history.
Thank you to Karen Stoll for this story and photos.