Saying Goodbye to Ben

Dear Friends,

We received word from the Jeitz family that our Music Director, Ben Jeitz, unexpectedly passed away February 2nd.

Ben was a profoundly gifted musician who made a wide variety of music on the organ and piano come alive. It was almost three years ago that we first heard him play. Ben had a powerful touch on the keys that made worship a vibrant and immersive experience.

Ben's funeral will be this Saturday, February 7th at 11am. The service will be held at his home church, West Zion Lutheran Church in Hancock MN. There are several members from First who plan to attend. Call the office if you plan to drive out and would like to coordinate.

On Sunday morning (Feb 8th), we will begin worship with an opportunity to share memories about Ben. If you would like to send a card to the Jeitz family, we will be gathering cards to send them together as a congregation after Sunday's service.

Ben liked to sign his letters to the congregation with the Concordia College motto: "Solo Dei Gloria!" Which means, "To God alone be the glory!"

Ben was a servant of God and put his life and his musical gifts into service for God's glory. Our ministry and church has been blessed these past three years through his work. We are deeply grateful that he chose to share his gifts with us at First.

Thanks and peace,

Pastor Colin Grangar