Pastor Of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Moving From City

The Rev. Bob Dunn bid farewell to the parishioners of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church last weekend.

After serving the Spokane church for six years, Dunn is moving into semiretirement and a new part-time position in Monroe, Wash.

Dunn’s decision to leave Spokane was based on several factors. He already owns a home in Granite Falls, Wash., and when the position in nearby Monroe opened up, Dunn moved up his plans to work only part time.

Dunn has had to deal with health problems in recent years, including a battle with cancer, now in remission.

Plus, Dunn said he can now devote more time to his second career as a wildlife artist.

“I really do feel like my art is part of my ministry,” said Dunn. He has been painting for years, dating back to his career as an artist before entering seminary in 1971.

During that career, he spent 10 years in the art department of the Seattle Times, which is where he realized he was being called by God to do full-time ministry, says Dunn.

He looks forward to working in a small parish that usually sees between 40 and 60 people gather for Sunday services, he said. His job will be to focus on the growth of the church, hoping eventually there will be a need for a full-time pastor.

“I really hope that I’ll work myself out of a job,” he said.

As with any life-changing decision, the move brought out mixed emotions. As movers packed his possessions, Dunn described it as “sadness, expectation, and joy all mixed together.”

St. Stephen’s will use a series of guest speakers to conduct Sunday services while church members search for an interim pastor.

Bible school scheduled

Centenary United Methodist Church, 1012 S. Freya, will host its vacation Bible school Monday through next Thursday.

“Heroes and Sheroes of the Bible” is open to kids and adults alike and will feature music, Bible study, games and international folk dances.

Classes will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and from 6 to 8 p.m. next Thursday.

For more information or to register, call the church office at 534-0881.

Outdoor service planned

Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 314 S. Spruce, will hold its 9:30 a.m. Sunday worship service outdoors this week. The special service will be followed by a picnic.

Those attending are asked to bring a salad and dessert, and the church will provide hamburgers, hot dogs and beverages.

For more information, call the church office at 838-4409.

Yard sale will be Saturday

Lincoln Heights Congregational Church, 3527 E. 29th, will host its annual yard sale Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the church’s general fund.

The church youth group will also hold a car wash during the yard sale hours.

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