During the July 10-13 ELCIC National Convention in Winnipeg I was elected to serve as the fifth National Bishop. This means a very immediate transition with a start date in Winnipeg of September 1. My final Sunday at Our Redeemer Lutheran will be August 10 followed by holiday time (moving time from Penticton to Edmonton to Winnipeg). A Service of Installation will take place Saturday afternoon (further details will be shared), September 27 in Winnipeg which will be live-streamed.

Dear members and friends of Our Redeemer, it has been my privilege to serve as your Interim Pastor and as Assistant to the BC Bishop for Special Service...a return to my first love...parish ministry. We don't know what the future will hold. But we have what we need.

Jesus is feeding us, we have bread, we have wine, we have the scriptures, we have each other. We know that we will not get to where the Spirit of God is leading without going together. And, we know that Jesus comes alongside (Luke 24:13-35, the journey to Emmaus); love is at our side.

Cathy and I will continue to hold you in prayer, as we trust you will hold us in prayer.

Shalom, beloved of God.

Rev. Dr. Larry Kochendorfer

National Bishop-Elect