Pastor Marcus Wheeler’s Retirement
Pastor Marcus Wheeler led the palm-weaving procession into the Bethlehem Lutheran Church Hermannsburg on Palm Sunday this year, his last full service as a pastor.
Over sixteen and a half years ago, in the very same church, Pastor Mike Semmler, then President of the Lutheran Church of Australia, ordained Pastor Marcus. His ordination took place on 25 November 2007, a month after Pastor Marcus celebrated his 60th birthday.
The Rite of Retirement highlighted his steadfast dedication to our church, his relentless commitment to preaching, teaching, praying, administering holy communion, baptising and officiating at funerals for the Ntaria community. His service touched many lives, young and old.
The church community expressed gratitude for Pastor Marcus and his wife, Betty.
They recognised that, like all of us, Pastor Marcus is both saint and sinner – a man who strives to walk in the light of Christ, both cherished and forgiven.
His dedication to lifelong learning was evident in his regular attendance at Bush Bible Courses, where he sought to deepen his understanding of the Bible. Pastor Marcus travelled to other communities to lead worship services and conduct funerals, always with Betty by his side, supporting him and sharing in the long journeys over bush roads.
As Pastor Marcus transitions into retirement, he is taking a well-earned rest from his pastoral duties. When reflecting on his ministry, Pastor Marcus shared that his most memorable moment was attending the ordination service of his nephew, Jeffrey Wheeler, at Mount Liebig Church.
The congregation asks for God’s blessings on Pastor Marcus and Betty as they enter this new chapter of their lives. Although he is retiring from full-time ministry, Pastor Marcus will continue to provide assistance in particular areas of the congregation’s ministry, ensuring his enduring presence and influence within the church community.
