For five years I had the honor to serve as Pastor of Peace Lutheran Church in Manhattan, Kansas. There are several hundred people whose lives became interwoven with mine during those years. The relationship with Maury Berggren was one of the precious ones that will never end. He welcomed Ann and I to Peace and remained a partner in our personal and pastoral journey. He cemented a compassionate connection from the moment of our arrival. Thank you, Maury, for your friendship.
Maury as an artist gave his gifts to so many. Hundreds of students will never forget him. Dozens of churches continue to feature art made from a variety of wood, pottery, and other mediums that proclaimed the sacredness of all creation and the wonder of divine love. The statue of the “Boy with fishes and Loaves” and “Christus Rex” are two of my most prized works of art. Maury created a lasting memorial for our daughter Molly which remains on display at Andover Lutheran Church. The Peace Dove Window shines every night in our back yard. Thank you, Maury, for your art.
One year during Lent, Maury asked if we could create together a vision of the “Last Words From the Cross.” Each Wednesday Lenten evening I prayed and spoke, the congregation sang and listened and watched as Maury shaped with his hands the cross and the people around it. Watching the artist create was an act of worship that touched us deeply. Thank you, Maury, for your worship leadership.
Several years Maury made presents which Ann and I gave to each other. He invested hours planning, creating, and completing these symbols of devotion that remain a part of our home. Our “Family Cup of Blessing” was used for celebrating our family and our hospitality shared with others. Thank you, Maury, for helping our family grow in love and compassion.
Maury Berggren completed his earthly life the first week of 2021. The relationship he made will last forever. Thank you, Maury, for being a wonderful child of God and one of the best human sightings I have ever witnessed.
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