| Notes |
- Ursula Damgaard
November 14, 2017
Dear Sandra and Family,
Your family meant the world to me as I was going through the critical stages of preteen through young adult going to university. I was honored to watch a young and beautiful family blossom in front of me.
Pastor Peter.....
The words come easily but are hard to keep concise.....proof of a wonderful and faithful human/soul. These are my memories of his service at Zion Lutheran Church in Athabasca.
It was during a transition of passing that Pastor Peter first served our family. My grandfather was passing away and Pastor Peter visited with extreme compassion and faith. He co-officiated the funeral for Sven Damgaard.
Soon after, Pastor Peter became my confirmation pastor and I must say.....critical thinking was most encouraged. I felt like I was given an introduction to university theology and it felt great. My faith was strengthened immensely.
As life went on, my grandmother passed away in 1991. She was ready to be with her husband. Pastor Peter, with his gentle kindness, officiated the funeral for Luise Damgaard.
Later that year, on December 30th, the unexpected death of my father shook our family as well as the community. Life stood still for me. Pastor Peter officiated the funeral of his congregation member and friend, Edward Damgaard. His compassion and example of faith were amazing. At the gravesite service, there was a point where everyone paid their respects and left. I couldn't leave.....I couldn't move. This was it.....how could I move? Family members tried to help but I couldn't move. Pastor Peter gently guided me away from the gravesite with comforting words. He remained a source of strength for our family as we all had to get used to a new normal.
Flashing forward, it was time for university. I thought about references and Pastor Peter came to mind. He never hesitated. He told me Augustana would be lucky to have me. My faith continued to grow in this wonderful academic environment infused with faith.
From that point on, my wings could spread. I will always feel Pastor Peter's strength as I move through life. His name means "Rock". Pastor Peter was a rock for his faith. His selfless kindness truly exemplified the life of a Christian.
Pastor Peter made it his mission to reach as many people as possible with the Good News. He wanted everyone to know the peace and grace of Jesus Christ. In one of his superb sermons, he reminded the congregation that when we feel like the impossible is upon us, Jesus knows our pain and struggles.....He walked this earth....felt/experienced everything we do....and He reminds us that He is with us and that through Him, all things are possible. These words of that sermon will always be with me.
May the grace and peace of God our Father, through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior, be with you now and always +.
In Christ,
Ursula
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, d. 30 Dec 1991 (Age 56 years)