Title
Honoring Rev. Pastor Walter and Raija Weitzke for their 36 years of service to the City of Saint Paul and its West 7th Street community.
Body
WHEREAS Rev. Pastor Walter and Raija Wietzke have continuously served Saint Paul and its West 7th Street community since 1982 through their pastoral care, visionary leadership and faithful stewardship of Saint Mark Evangelical Lutheran Church; and
WHEREAS, over the course of these 36 years, Pastor Walt has provided religious, spiritual and moral guidance to thousands, celebrating and sharing in the life of our community as a pastor, mentor, wrestling coach, religious scholar, community organizer, tireless volunteer, and above all, as a friend to all; and
WHEREAS, over the same period, Raiji Wietzke has devoted herself faithfully to the life of Saint Mark, in myriad, often unrecognized ways, with strength and humor, in true partnership with Pastor Walt in their dedicated service to the community; and
WHEREAS, because of their efforts, West 7th and Saint Paul are stronger and our faith in one another as neighbors and friends is deeper;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Rev. Pastor Walter and Raija Wietzke be formally recognized, honored and thanked for their 36 years of service to the City of Saint Paul and its inhabitants; and by their example, dedicate ourselves the continued strengthening our community.