Beginning 9/29, Ryan has been appointed as the vice pastor and stated supply preacher for Holy Trinity, Audubon, NJ. Their interim pastor of two years, the retired Rev. Ed Schmidt, died unexpectedly after a traumatic head injury. The funeral was also 9/29, so that Ryan began to serve as their pastor on the day of the funeral (which took place at Ed Schmidt’s long-term pastorate in Runnemede).
This is an administrative appointment and not a first call, so there is no ordination at this time. Because Pastor Ryan is geographically limited, there will probably be a wait before a congregation becomes available. When one does, this appointment will not preclude that process. In the meantime, he is needed to pastor a grieving congregation.
Ironically, Pastor Ryan has already preached in Holy Trinity’s pulpit, as he was present the day that Ed Schmidt announced his acceptance as their interim pastor. It was part of a pulpit exchange with another Lutheran congregation at which Pastor Ryan was doing field education (St. Mark, Oaklyn).
Please keep Pastor Ryan & Holy Trinity in your prayers.