Retirement Weekend Celebration for Pastor Paul Nelson

As you are aware, Pastor Paul Nelson is retiring after 36 years of ministry. As we anticipate his final weekend as our Senior Pastor on June 14-15, 2025, it is important to acknowledge and celebrate all that he has done to serve our congregation, synod and community.

As a lifelong Lutheran Pastor, Paul loves a good potluck! So, on Saturday, June 14, at 5:00pm, bring your family and a dish to share. There will be a short program that evening to honor Pastor Paul.
On Sunday, June 15, we will have one worship service at Immanuel at 9:00am, followed by a reception.
We ask you to consider carpooling, walking, biking as we anticipate a full parking lot the entire weekend!

It is also customary to give a gift to the departing Pastor as a part of the farewell celebration. We know how much Pastor Paul values his family. Karen, the girls and their families have all been a very significant part of his ministry. The “Nelson Clan” enjoys travel and adventure so we will be collecting monies that will go towards a travel fund so they can enjoy a memorable trip together. We thank you in advance for your generous contributions.

Over the weekend there will be baskets for you to leave cards with your goodbyes and sentiments to share with Paul and his family. There will also be ways for members of our congregation to assist that weekend with set up, food service and clean up.

Please use the electronic FORM to:

RSVP for the Saturday Potluck
Indicate interest in volunteering on Saturday or Sunday
Make a contribution towards the farewell gift.

We are excited to make June 14 and 15 a special weekend for Paul, his family, and our congregation. We look forward to gathering with you to celebrate the gift of Paul’s leadership and ministry at Immanuel!

— The Retirement Committee —

Julie and Bill Maes

Sue and Kevin Johnson

Jane and Tyler Callister-Whitaker

Jennifer and John Urbanski

Jody and Jon Ebert

Bev and Dave Lohs

Shelley and Steve Germundson

Kelly Meyers (staff)