Outer Rim Territories

The house listing is up on MLS: http://fortwayne.rapmls.com/scripts/mgrqispi.dll?APPNAME=Fortwayne&PRGNAME=MLSPropertyDetail&ARGUMENTS=-N694306701,-N271786,-N,-A,-N10879076

Here is the flyer I made up for incoming students:

1513 Runnion Avenue PDF

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When Naomi’s diagnosis of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex was confirmed by the neurologist at Riley in Indy, Ethan, Elsie, and I were also diagnosed, although with lesser symptoms. By way of follow-up, we are to have the same battery of tests yearly for early detection of potential tubers in brain, heart, kidneys, and liver, as well as, calcification and lesions in the brain. A month or so ago, I had my MRI and renal ultrasound. Apparently, if I wanted the results, I had to make another visit to my physician (and make another co-pay. Ugh.)

The results were pretty straightforward. The MRI showed similar affects of the disease, with lesions, small tubors, and some calcification. The brain specialist confirmed my diagnosis from these scans. The renal ultrasound showed the presence of a small cyst in the liver and five or so in the kidneys. None of these resulted in a diagnosis or need for treatment, often reducing or disappearing over time. From these scans, I have a baseline to track these abnormalities. Like Naomi, we are praying that none of them increase or begin to affect bloodflow or organ function.

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The house in Fort Wayne is going on the market on Tuesday. We are being encouraged to move as much stuff out as possible. I will be completing my academic work this week and then will help pack. Sometime at the beginning of June I will make a trip to Dyer with as many non-essentials will fit in a 24′ truck. Our final move will be on or near the 18th of June, followed by a cleaning and painting trip.

The entire family are fighting colds. This makes accomplishing all the requisite packing, cleaning, and preparing for showings difficult. Hopefully, we will have success despite all the factors stacked against a quick sale. Worst case, it will be completely show-ready in late June.

As your summer schedule is likely filling quickly, I hope you can block out July 25th in the afternoon to attend my ordination and installation at Grace Lutheran in Dyer. All LCMS clergy are invited to participate (please bring red stole and arrive at least 30 minutes before the service). The following are the details:

Date: Sunday, July 25, 2010
Time: 4:00pm – 7:30pm
Location: 8303 Sheffield Avenue, Dyer, Indiana 46311
View Grace Lutheran Church, Dyer, Indiana in a larger map

April 28, 2010
Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne

Those of you who are friends on Facebook probably caught my mention of going in for a MRI and renal ultrasound. Along with an ophthalmology exam and EKG, these are the same battery of tests given to Naomi, Ethan, and Elsie. Naomi’s neurologist ordered them since Ethan, Elsie, and I all are diagnosed with Naomi, despite the absence of the seizures. Each year we will have these screenings for early detection of possible tubers in brain, kidney, liver, eyes, and heart. Obviously these tubers could be a significant health issue if they develop without detection in any of the areas listed. I assume my physician will let me know if I had any areas of concern already.

I have also been asked about how I proceed now that I received the call. Here are the relevant points: The election by the congregation is official. The faculty has certified me. I completed all the necessary coursework last year. So, unlike a typical fourth year student who first acknowledges receipt of the call and later accepts when he receives his diploma, I am qualified to accept immediately (which I intend to do). Following this action, I schedule ordination and installation with the congregation and the district.

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Care to visit Dyer?

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In approximately 1830, the first permanent white settlers came to Northwest Indiana, which at that time was home to the Pottawatoomie Indians under Chief Pokagan. These early settlers were primarily Prussian farmers, but additionally included a few carpenters, millers, masons, shoemakers, saloon keepers, and a doctor.

The earliest known records documenting what is now known as Dyer, Indiana date back to 1838. In that year, the original State Line House was built facing Sauk Trail, named after the Sauk Indians. The State Line House was used to house travelers going to Chicago, and became the overnight stopping place for Union soldiers during the Civil War.

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I am pleased to be the pastor-elect of Grace Lutheran Church, Dyer, Indiana. Grace is very close to family. They have a nice parsonage, a great community, and a circuit of solid congregations and pastors. The shock has not abated nor the excitement. I will have more detail to follow as it becomes known.

New website: http://gracedyer.org
Email: pastor@gracedyer.org

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Baptism of Leah Christine Gillespie on Vimeo on Vimeo