Notes from the August 1 Celebration of Ike Sturm

Ike Sturm's last Sunday with us as Director of Music, Jazz, was August 1. After Jazz Vespers, we had a small gathering to celebrate Ike, bless him and his family, and give him this framed portrait taken in the Saint Peter's sanctuary. At the bottom of this email you can read the full text of the blessing from Pastor Stahler, and the benediction from Pastor Lind.

A CELEBRATION OF IKE STURM
AS HE COMPLETES SERVICE AS DIRECTOR OF MUSIC, JAZZ
SAINT PETER’S CHURCH
NEW YORK CITY

BLESSING
The Rev. Jared R. Stahler, Senior Pastor

The Lord be with you.
And also with you.

Let us pray.

We give you thanks, O God, creator of the universe, for your abundant gifts.
The whole earth reflects your glory; all your creatures praise you.
We lift our voices to join the sounds and song of heaven and earth,
of things seen and unseen, in praise of your glory.

You alone do great wonders,
and by your wisdom you made the heavens and the earth.
You have breathed your breath of mercy into your children,
to hear from them a joyful shout with their own song.

In the fullness of time, O God, you sang your new song, our Lord Jesus Christ,
who is exalted by poets, musicians, and all your saints.
Your Spirit is the breath of our music and song.

Send your blessing now upon Ike as he goes forth.
Bless also Misty, Rylan and Kendall.
Bless their new ventures.
Grant soaring dreams, tunes of peace and rhythms of joy.

Support us all in this time ahead.
In all things, enliven the proclamation of your word
for the building up of your church, to the glory of your name,
and to the good of all your people;
through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and forever.
Amen

BENEDICTION
The Rev. Dale R. Lind, Jazz Pastor Emeritus

The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord’s face shine on you with grace and mercy.
The Lord look upon you with favor and grant you
Peace, Shalom, Salaam, and all Good Things.
Amen