Sep 15, 2009
Family :: Pastor Larry Warren and his Family
Earlier this spring I came home from a photo shoot, checked my mail, and sat down to open up the monthly newsletter from my church. I always love to sit down and read the newsletter because it will include a personal note from Pastor Larry. This time, instead of a little note or poem, there was a formal letter. Pastor Larry was announcing his retirement. My first reaction was very selfish. I was shocked and heartbroken.
I became a member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church about two years ago. I love this sweet little group of folks who make up the church. It was Pastor Larry and Chris (his wife) who were the ones to first make me feel welcome. I have felt so connected to them. Pastor Larry has counseled me through some really difficult decisions and I could never fully express what a difference his advice and prayers have made in my life.
After I got over my shock and selfishness I tried to see things from Larry's perspective. I can now say that as much as I miss him and Chris ... I am so happy for him and proud of him for making this change in his life. I know the transition will not be easy. Before leaving, he told a story about a painting that he saw of a tired old bear with his head laid upon a rock. When he saw that painting he just knew it was a reflection of how he felt. He was a tired bear. He deserves to rest ... relish life with his wife, children and grandchildren.
He does have a beautiful family ... so to honor him I offered to photograph them anytime they would like. It turns out we actually did this session on his last Sunday at Gloria Dei - which I think makes these images even more significant.
Here is my favorite tired old bear: Pastor Larry
I just love this beautiful family.
This is Caleb, Larry and Chris's son, his wife Kathy, and their three kiddos ...
Amelia, Asha, and August
Tonya, Larry and Chris's daughter
Larry and his lovely wife Chris. I dearly loved hearing the stories about Larry and Chris's early years of dating: when he first fell in love with her, hoping to kiss her at the bell tower, when she first mentioned "someday we". Perhaps it will be those stories that I will miss hearing the most.
My favorite shot of the whole family
Be sure to play the slide show ... it has frogs and crickets!
Oh AND! you can keep up with Larry and Chris and their travels by following their blog.
CLICK HERE