A Time of Remembrance

The Marco Lutheran Church is inviting the community to join them for a very special event called A Time of Remembrance Celebration. This event will be a time to give thanks and celebrate loved ones who are no longer with us. This special event is planned for December 12, 2025, at 4:00 PM at the Marco Island Lutheran Church. 

“Twenty years ago, during the Christmas season, I saw firsthand the deep ache that so many carried — families grieving, chairs left empty, hearts heavy with memories of loved ones now gone,” said Pastor Jim Thelen.“While the world seemed to sparkle with lights and laughter, I realized that for many, this time of year magnified their loss.” 

“Out of that awareness was born A Time of Remembrance,” said Pastor Jim. 

“A gathering designed to bring comfort, hope, and connection to those walking through grief. What began as a simple idea has become a sacred tradition: a gentle time of worship and music, and time together with fellowship and food. It’s a time when tears are welcomed, memories are honored, and God’s promise of eternal life is celebrated. Most importantly, it’s a reminder that no one walks this journey alone — that in Christ and in community, healing and peace can be found.”  

Pastor Jim and his wife Kristin joined the Marco Lutheran community over a year ago on August 2024, with over 36 years of ministry experience. Prior to joining the congregation in Marco, Pastor Jim served churches in Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, Arizona, and Nebraska. The Thelens have seven grown children and eleven grandchildren, and both have embraced life on Marco Island and being part of a vibrant congregation. 

A committed group of congregants is working hard to launch the first annual Time to Remembrance Celebration for the community. Scott Berner, a member of Marco Lutheran believes “it is important to remember the faithful family and friends that have gone before us to heaven. It is also a time of hope; hope in the knowledge that there is a better life waiting for us in Heaven; hope that we will be reunited not only with our loved ones, but reunited with our wonderful, loving, and most caring Savior, Jesus Christ. The Time of Remembrance Service will also allow us to share this good news with our Marco Lutheran family and also with the community at large.” 

Bonnie Calvin, also a member of the congregation shared, “I was so excited when I first heard about The Time of Remembrance Celebration. I come from a very close-knit family.  I remember each one who has passed away each night in prayer, but this will be a real celebration of their lives. My maternal grandfather, David Elwell passed away in 1958. His wife Carrie died in 1987. My father Pete Bizzarri passed in 1994, and my mother, Jo, in 2005. My husband Richard Calvin died in 2018. This event will give me the opportunity to share how much their lives impacted mine. Their love and devotion sustain me to this day, and I hope this service warms the hearts of many.” 

To become a part of the Time of Remembrance Celebration on December 12, 2025, please register at www.marcolutheran.org or if you have any questions, please email the office at office@marcolutheran.org or call at 239-394-0332.