Ralph Krazer

My spiritual journey has been a learning experience. That's been a satisfaction for me. I've been a Christian for 49 years. I wouldn't want to go back and re-live many of the past experiences, and I wouldn't want to wish them on anyone else. Still, through these things, God has taught me patience, patience, patience - and he's taught me less fear of the unknown. I have learned to roll with the punches and live one day at a time.

Shepherds have to keep on leading. You can't push a rope or a chain. Shepherds should be out in front of the congregation, but they should not be too far out in front. The role of shepherds is to be around when somebody needs you and to be more than willing to help. That's the kind of shepherd I try to be.

I have been serving as an elder of the Highland Church since 1989 - that's fourteen years - and in that time many things have happened. I think we should keep the present attitude and course. There is a spirit of Christ at this place that is very special and that I hope we keep. We are on the right track as far as I'm concerned spiritually and socially here at Highland. We have a wonderful spirit of unity in spite of our diversity.