Pastor Honors Vow To Leave Locks

Sat., Jan. 24, 1998

Associated Press Grand

The Rev. Doug Diehl is letting his hair grow for a cause.

Nearly a year ago he told his congregation at Zion United Methodist Church that he wouldn’t get a haircut until ground was broken for a $500,000 addition to the church. Then spring floods inundated Grand Forks and the church. And Diehl’s hair grew. His lengthy locks became a symbol for the church’s growth.

Dale Taylor, chairman of Zion’s administrative council, said, “A few ad hoc groups have shown up with shovels, ready to break ground.”

But the ponytail remains, and what started as a half-serious fund-raising ploy became a bigger deal after the flood.

“So many thought I would cut it, and no one would notice, after the flood.” Diehl said. “In some ways, it has become a positive symbol for people in the church - most people, anyway - and colleagues.

“It’s become a sign of hope that we are still moving forward.”

Church repairs are nearly complete, and two-thirds of the $500,000 building fund has been pledged. Ground-breaking could come as early as summer, but Diehl may back out on his deal. He told the congregation he may keep his hair long, but trim.

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