TRIBUTES PAID UPON RETIRING
Dan, Leona & some family members listening
to the Sunday evening retirement program
"We are excited for you as you are soon to retire from regular ministry. We extend our congratulations and God's blessing as you enter a new phase of ministry."
From Rev. Randy Rohrick, Senior Pastor, Rockyview Alliance Church, Calgary, AB:
to the Sunday evening retirement program
As
an appendix to the previous posting, I want to share some excerpts from tributes
received. Some of these were read at the Sunday evening service. Time did not permit the pastor to read them all. I hesitated to include these, but since they are not personal notes but were shared publicly, I've placed all that were received in my blog. What follows
are a few lines from the tributes received. A couple of the tributes were three pages long.
From Dr. Arnold Cook, President of The Christian & Missionary Alliance in Canada:
"The name Dan Goldsmith goes back many years in my memory. I recall your father a way back in our Chatham church in Ontario. Later I met you folks as a caring pastoral couple in Western Canada. What a heritage!
"The name Dan Goldsmith goes back many years in my memory. I recall your father a way back in our Chatham church in Ontario. Later I met you folks as a caring pastoral couple in Western Canada. What a heritage!
"The
chapter I recall best has been Sevenoaks, playing second fiddle with
class and giving yourselves to ministering to our special older folks.
Thank you for serving both your Saviour, His people, and the Christian
and Missionary Alliance in Canada so well and long..."
From Rev. Brian Thom, District Superintendent of the Canadian Pacific District of the C&MA:
"...God's hand of blessing has rested upon your lives and ministries over these last 42 years as you have served in pastoral ministry. The Alliance family, and more specifically the Canadian Pacific District, have been enriched by your commitment and years of service.
"...God's hand of blessing has rested upon your lives and ministries over these last 42 years as you have served in pastoral ministry. The Alliance family, and more specifically the Canadian Pacific District, have been enriched by your commitment and years of service.
Dan
and Leona you have modeled well what it means to be 'Shepherds of the
Flock.' Your lives have exemplified the love of Christ. As a couple,
your relationship has been a model for the rest of us in ministry.
Thanking you, for giving of yourselves unreservedly..."
From David & Berniece Cadieux, long time members of the Lac La Biche Evangelical Free Church, Lac La Biche, AB:
"Surely the years have (flown) by since you were in Lac La Biche... It only seems such a short time ago, we were at your wedding in Lacombe.
"Surely the years have (flown) by since you were in Lac La Biche... It only seems such a short time ago, we were at your wedding in Lacombe.
"We
are sending retirement congratulations from our family, Bill &
Bertha Sawchuck, Germaine Cadieux, the Bobocels, Melvin & Helen
Rayment (these are folks that were in the church when I was there 1958 - 1960) on behalf of our church.
"God bless and keep you both and may you continue to see fruit from the years of your labour..."
From Rev. Ian Trigg, Senior Pastor, Vernon Alliance Church, Vernon, BC:
"I
guess I send this note with a dual purpose. First, to express my
personal thanks to you both for my time with you over the years,
especially during my internship in Calgary. That was my first taste of
pastoral ministry and the church and staff there so significantly
encouraged me in my pursuit of the pastorate...
"I also
want to express thank you on behalf of the Vernon Alliance Church
family to you both. The health and vibrancy and passion that this
church holds today is due to the faithfulness and integrity of those who
have served this church and community so well over the years... You
helped a struggling church become grounded and develop a sense of
responsibility for its neighbors. You shepherded people well and it is a
privilege to serve here following individuals like yourself..."
From Beatrice Beach, a member of Vernon Alliance Church, Vernon, BC:
"It was the year 1963...Pastor John Klassen submitted his resignation at Vernon Alliance Church. What now?... The church's executive board rose to the occasion... Dan Goldsmith was invited to candidate... Having heard him preach and having interviewed him, the executive board asked him to step out of the room while they made their decision and after a few minutes he was called back into the room and told that the decision was unanimous and the call was extended to him to serve as pastor...
"It was the year 1963...Pastor John Klassen submitted his resignation at Vernon Alliance Church. What now?... The church's executive board rose to the occasion... Dan Goldsmith was invited to candidate... Having heard him preach and having interviewed him, the executive board asked him to step out of the room while they made their decision and after a few minutes he was called back into the room and told that the decision was unanimous and the call was extended to him to serve as pastor...
"Echoes
of Blessing on CJIB never phased him. He seemed to have a specific kind
of love for radio. Also, some of the CJIB staff thought of him as a
friend. At the time that Don Warner (the radio announcer that introduced me
and the broadcast) was in Vernon Jubilee Hospital and his visitors were
restricted, he welcomed Dan into his hospital room when he saw him pause
at the door into his room...
These were the days of
Sunday School picnics everyone enjoyed. Somewhere there's a picture of
Pastor Dan trying out the latest thing, the ever popular hula hoop.
Frances Brown captured that event on film.
"The years
have slipped by so quickly. When we got the news of your retirement,
Pastor Dan, we were happy to think of a more relaxed pace for both of
you in the days ahead. Your days as pastor have been:
Full and varied
with people to be married
and people to be queried
with times when you felt harried
and times when you tarried
with people that you carried
and people that you buried.
"Unbelievably,
there were times you possibly did it all in one day... Wishing you both
God's richest blessings as you step into those wonderful days called
Re-tire-ment."
From University Drive Alliance Church, Lethbridge, AB (No signature given):
"Congratulations Dan & Leona on your many years of ministry and service to the Lord...We remember those years 1970 - 1975 with fondness. Your leadership qualities and your dedication to standing firm on God's Word and truth is a vital component in the foundation of this local church.
"Congratulations Dan & Leona on your many years of ministry and service to the Lord...We remember those years 1970 - 1975 with fondness. Your leadership qualities and your dedication to standing firm on God's Word and truth is a vital component in the foundation of this local church.
"We are excited for you as you are soon to retire from regular ministry. We extend our congratulations and God's blessing as you enter a new phase of ministry."
From Rev. Randy Rohrick, Senior Pastor, Rockyview Alliance Church, Calgary, AB:
"On
behalf of Rockyview Alliance Church, we want to congratulate you on
your retirement. We are still reaping the benefits of the ministry you
had with us some years ago now.
"It is our prayer that God would give you and Leona many years of enjoying your retirement.
"It is our prayer that God would give you and Leona many years of enjoying your retirement.
"God bless you and encourage you..."
From Brian & Barbara Argue, members of Rockyview Alliance Church, Calgary, AB:
"We want to add our congratulations to those already given on the occasion of your retirement. We have many memories in common of the births and dedications of our sons, support through health problems, of course the joy of opening our present ministry location. Remember, in those days there never was enough room for our burgeoning pre-school population!
"Thank you for your spiritual guidance and moral support. May you be granted many exciting more years together in which do your own thing."
From Pastor Rita Lihaven, children's pastor at Sevenoaks Alliance Church:
"...Nine years ago this July, Norm and I came to Abbotsford for a weekend to candidate. On the Sunday morning, after being hired, we wandered into a very empty gymnasium, except for one man. That gentleman came over to greet us and introduced himself as Pastor Dan Goldsmith. Naively, I told him that I had been hired to come on staff here and after an awkward moment because he didn't know they were hiring he suggested that he take us to see the Christian Education wing... I went away that first morning, saying to Norm, I like that Dan guy and today I can say after nine years of working together that we have not had a word or even a thought on my part, of malice...
"As I thought back to what memories I could share about Leona, what stood out is her gift of hospitality. Several times we have been to the Goldsmith home where we would meet with a roomful of others... We still know persons from those visits who we may not have ever visited with otherwise.
"Some time ago, the district introduced a reading program for women in ministry to become certified in lieu of ordination. That program called us to choose a mentor. I went to (Leona) and said that if I do this I would like you to be a mentor. Your response was humble. I did not ask you Leona because I knew what you would say or because I thought you had lots of spiritual answers. I chose you because of what you model, because I saw in you a committed wife and mom, committed to the Lord and obedient in His service and not for the short-term but for the long haul. As special as Dan is as a pastor and friend to many, so are you very special to many...
"On one of our several trips to prayer retreat together, Norm made the comment that when he gets to heaven he wanted to hook up to Dan, cuz Dan can introduce him to everybody...
"Dan and Leona, as we celebrate your retirement with you tonight... I pray for you... (that) you would enjoy wonderful health for years to come so that now that you have the time, you can do things together that so far you have sacrificed... You will be greatly missed on our staff and I speak for pastoral, office and custodial staff alike. For me you have been an older brother, encourager and friend.
From Dr. Leighton Ford, Charlotte, NC, life time friend since elementary school days in Chatham, ON:
"When I heard you were retiring I was astounded! Not Danny! Not my buddy who just the other day was with me for the YFC (Youth For Christ) float in the Chatham parade! Not the guy who was my pal at ISCF (Inter-School Christian Fellowship) and more!
"Whoa, there... how did you get to retirement so fast?!?!
"Then I stop and say to myself: Leight, if he's getting there, so are you!
"Danny for your retirement I send you my heartfelt thanks for a life well lived, for years of loving service to Christ and the church, as well as for being my friend over these years.
"In eternity you well know you will see how many lives you have touched.
"But, until then, may you keep on running your race, well and with vigor...
"What a life you have had. What a mission you still have! I love you and look forward to the times we can walk the future together.
"Your devoted friend of half a century plus."
From David Goldsmith, Dan's brother, Dublin, OH:
"...Dan has never ceased to be a brother in spite of his pastoral responsibilities. I have gone through several low periods of my life, and Dan was always available to talk with me - as a brother, but with the added advantage of being a pastor. He has cried with me at times, prayed with me and given me excellent advice and counseling that no other person could provide...
"I cannot talk about Dan without also including Leona. Dan credits me with helping him "catch" her, because the first time she visited in our parents home in Ontario, a "charming" (her words not mine) 12 year old boy served her tea, and she could not get over what a gentleman I was at such a tender age. Obviously she knows better now! I have watched Leona be a partner to Dan in their ministry, support him and team with him in raising three wonderful children. Dan could not have accomplished what he has without Leona as his team mate.
"I realize the time comes for everyone to cut back on their activities and begin to enjoy retirement, but I have mixed feelings about Dan retiring, because I believe he has exceptional gifts, and frankly is so good at what he does. However, I am glad for him that he will have more personal time, and now will have no excuse not to make a trip to Ohio.
"In conclusion I want to say that I watched him as he began his first pastorate, have seen him mature and grow as a pastor and have seen the love and affection bestowed on him by his congregations. I'm proud to say "that's my brother!"
From Brian & Barbara Argue, members of Rockyview Alliance Church, Calgary, AB:
"We want to add our congratulations to those already given on the occasion of your retirement. We have many memories in common of the births and dedications of our sons, support through health problems, of course the joy of opening our present ministry location. Remember, in those days there never was enough room for our burgeoning pre-school population!
"Thank you for your spiritual guidance and moral support. May you be granted many exciting more years together in which do your own thing."
From Pastor Rita Lihaven, children's pastor at Sevenoaks Alliance Church:
"...Nine years ago this July, Norm and I came to Abbotsford for a weekend to candidate. On the Sunday morning, after being hired, we wandered into a very empty gymnasium, except for one man. That gentleman came over to greet us and introduced himself as Pastor Dan Goldsmith. Naively, I told him that I had been hired to come on staff here and after an awkward moment because he didn't know they were hiring he suggested that he take us to see the Christian Education wing... I went away that first morning, saying to Norm, I like that Dan guy and today I can say after nine years of working together that we have not had a word or even a thought on my part, of malice...
"As I thought back to what memories I could share about Leona, what stood out is her gift of hospitality. Several times we have been to the Goldsmith home where we would meet with a roomful of others... We still know persons from those visits who we may not have ever visited with otherwise.
"Some time ago, the district introduced a reading program for women in ministry to become certified in lieu of ordination. That program called us to choose a mentor. I went to (Leona) and said that if I do this I would like you to be a mentor. Your response was humble. I did not ask you Leona because I knew what you would say or because I thought you had lots of spiritual answers. I chose you because of what you model, because I saw in you a committed wife and mom, committed to the Lord and obedient in His service and not for the short-term but for the long haul. As special as Dan is as a pastor and friend to many, so are you very special to many...
"On one of our several trips to prayer retreat together, Norm made the comment that when he gets to heaven he wanted to hook up to Dan, cuz Dan can introduce him to everybody...
"Dan and Leona, as we celebrate your retirement with you tonight... I pray for you... (that) you would enjoy wonderful health for years to come so that now that you have the time, you can do things together that so far you have sacrificed... You will be greatly missed on our staff and I speak for pastoral, office and custodial staff alike. For me you have been an older brother, encourager and friend.
From Dr. Leighton Ford, Charlotte, NC, life time friend since elementary school days in Chatham, ON:
"When I heard you were retiring I was astounded! Not Danny! Not my buddy who just the other day was with me for the YFC (Youth For Christ) float in the Chatham parade! Not the guy who was my pal at ISCF (Inter-School Christian Fellowship) and more!
"Whoa, there... how did you get to retirement so fast?!?!
"Then I stop and say to myself: Leight, if he's getting there, so are you!
"Danny for your retirement I send you my heartfelt thanks for a life well lived, for years of loving service to Christ and the church, as well as for being my friend over these years.
"In eternity you well know you will see how many lives you have touched.
"But, until then, may you keep on running your race, well and with vigor...
"What a life you have had. What a mission you still have! I love you and look forward to the times we can walk the future together.
"Your devoted friend of half a century plus."
From David Goldsmith, Dan's brother, Dublin, OH:
"...Dan has never ceased to be a brother in spite of his pastoral responsibilities. I have gone through several low periods of my life, and Dan was always available to talk with me - as a brother, but with the added advantage of being a pastor. He has cried with me at times, prayed with me and given me excellent advice and counseling that no other person could provide...
"I cannot talk about Dan without also including Leona. Dan credits me with helping him "catch" her, because the first time she visited in our parents home in Ontario, a "charming" (her words not mine) 12 year old boy served her tea, and she could not get over what a gentleman I was at such a tender age. Obviously she knows better now! I have watched Leona be a partner to Dan in their ministry, support him and team with him in raising three wonderful children. Dan could not have accomplished what he has without Leona as his team mate.
"I realize the time comes for everyone to cut back on their activities and begin to enjoy retirement, but I have mixed feelings about Dan retiring, because I believe he has exceptional gifts, and frankly is so good at what he does. However, I am glad for him that he will have more personal time, and now will have no excuse not to make a trip to Ohio.
"In conclusion I want to say that I watched him as he began his first pastorate, have seen him mature and grow as a pastor and have seen the love and affection bestowed on him by his congregations. I'm proud to say "that's my brother!"
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