Commemoration
Justus Falckner, d. September 22, 1723; Pastor in North America
Reflection
Our calendar of commemorations lifts up three “Pastors in North America” on this day; we will devote three days this week to remember them.
Justus Falcner was the first Lutheran pastor ordained in North America. His ordination was truly ecumenical, as Falckner, who was German (born in Saxony), was ordained by a Swedish pastor, to serve a Dutch congregation. The service was held at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Philadelphia (a Swedish congregation), and it featured an organ, orchestra, and men’s choir singing in Latin. Falckner and his two brothers followed the vocation of their father and grandfathers on both sides for six generations. Falckner wrote a Dutch catechism for adults, and he is remembered for his hymn, “Rise, O Children of Salvation” (LBW 182, unfortunately not in our current ELW).
Prayer
Eternal God, Whose praise by the saints in light thunders like the sea, you brought together a diversity of peoples and traditions in the ordination of your servant Justus Falckner: Strengthen, we pray, all servants of your church in their ministry that, supported by the fellowship of the faithful and bold who were victorious in their spiritual warfare, your people may be steadfast in the truth, united in purpose, and comprehensive in their ministry to the world; through your Song Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. (Philip H. Pfatteicher)
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