The Pension Board of the Presbyterian Church does an excellent job keeping those who receive a pension up to date. Several times a year their mailing includes a newsletter containing the information available. On the back page are the names printed of former ministers, spouses and diaconal ministers who are no longer with us. The last newsletter included a long list of those who have passed away. Occasionally an obituary is printed in the Presbyterian Record. Most of the time that is not the case. My question is, should presbyteries not see this as an opportunity to express thankfulness to God for the years of service given to His church by His servants? It will give others an opportunity to express their sorrow to the family in question. When I read the list of those now gone to glory I recognized many of them, not being aware they are no longer with us. I believe that’s the least we can do for the families seeing an empty place among them, of servants in the service in Christ’s kingdom.
Hugh Appel, London, Ont.
I think it is a sad reflection on the publishers of the Presbyterian Record to print obituaries that are over three months old. To me printing obituaries three months after date of the deceased is an insult. It seems that each month this is a common occurrence and the June issue verifies my point. Come on, let’s get with it people and print something that is current.
Anonymous
Editor Responds:
Even though this author wants to issue a complaint without naming themselves, we thought it an interesting point. Obituaries are not editorial material; they are paid for by those related to the deceased. We publish in the most available issue after receipt of the obituary.
And Rev. Appel—‘tis true, so much passes through the Church that goes unreported.
