The First Baptist Church of Gloucester City came together for an afternoon worship service of installation for Pastor Richard E. Gehret. Pastor Rick has been serving the congregation as an Intern and then associate Pastor working with Rev. Dr. Robert Muse. The timing could not be better as Rev. Muse is retiring and will continue serving as a mentor and as their pastor emeritus while Pastor Gehret completes his seminary at Palmer Theological Seminary.

The Rev. Jack Vars, senior pastor of the First Baptist Church of Vincentown gave the keynote sermon as Pastor Gehret has been a long time member of that congregation before his internship in Gloucester City this past year. Rev. Vernl Mattson and Rev. Robert Muse shared in the charge of installation, words of installation and prayer of installation. Now the music for the day was a shared effort between the First Baptist Church of Gloucester City and Vincentown because both congregations have played a role in Pastor Gehret's call and preparation for ministry. The co-chairs to the Church Council Dante Fretzer and Virginia Oehlert extended the right hand of fellowship and words of welcome. There were several pastors and member congregations from GDVA in attendance for this service as well as those from the community. A nice reception was provided for everyone following the service hosted by the women of the church.

This was a blessed day in the life of the church as it now continues to do ministry in the community and beyond. Virginia Oehlert, moderator of the GDVA expressed her joy and thanksgiving for the fine support the congregation has received during their search and call process. Pastor Gehret expressed his joy in the day, the gratitude he had for each person who has played a part in his spiritual journey to this point. It was a rich and wonderful conclusion to the service of installation.

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