So Long and Farewell: Holy Spirit Celebrates Terri Grotzinger and Gretchen Strohmaier
So Long and Farewell
Holy Spirit Celebrates Terri Grotzinger and Gretchen Strohmaier
Sunday’s farewell celebration was one of those rare moments when a community’s love becomes almost tangible. The church was full, the Parish Hall was overflowing, and everywhere you turned there were smiles, hugs, and stories being shared — a beautiful testament to how deeply Rev. Terri Grotzinger and Rev. Gretchen Strohmaier have shaped life at Holy Spirit.
Terri, who first joined us as Rector in 2011, and Gretchen, who stepped into the Co-Rector role in 2024, now move into new chapters: Terri into the fullness of retirement, and Gretchen into her new ministry as Rector of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Hamilton. Both spoke with the kind of honesty and warmth that has always marked their leadership. Terri reflected on the life-giving acceptance of diversity she found here — something she cherished from her first days in Missoula, puppy Journey at her side. Gretchen shared her winding, grace-filled path to the priesthood and offered stories from more than 25 years woven into the heart of this parish. And there was more…
Parishioners Warren Gartner, Margaret Borg, Lindsay Iudicello, and Mary Beth Jourdonnais added their own heartfelt tributes, each one painting a fuller picture of the impact Terri and Gretchen have had. We were also treated to a joyful musical gift from Nancy Cooper and the choir, whose tribute added its own beautiful layer to the celebration. (See story below.) And in a moment that had the whole room laughing and singing along, Mary Beth and Gretchen teamed up for a spirited rendition of the children’s classic “Deep and Wide.”
The parish offered several gifts as expressions of gratitude and affection: framed drawings of the church by graphic artist Kirk Johnson; Leupold binoculars for Terri’s birding adventures, paired with a lovingly handmade case by Diane Rasmuson and Rose Rademan; a stunning liturgical stole for Gretchen created by artist Barbara Morrison; and whimsical birdhouses crafted by Warren and Karen Gartner with joyful decoration by the Nederhoed family. Each priest also received a traditional purse — a final, heartfelt gesture of thanks for their ministry among us.
A deep and warm thank-you goes to Patti Beckley, whose leadership shaped the entire celebration — from the food and special beverages to the decorations and hospitality that made the day feel so welcoming. Gratitude also to Mary Beth Jourdonnais, Holly Swartz, Torian Donohoe, and Anne Geiger for their work behind the scenes, and to Glenn Hladek for guiding the program with care. And of course, to the many parishioners who set up, cleaned up, carried chairs, washed dishes, and quietly made the day shine — thank you.
As we say farewell with full hearts, we also look ahead with hope. This week we welcome Pastor Arne Bergland, who will be with us through June and July, before Father Nate Darville and his family arrive in early August.
Check out some of the moments captured by Jim Streeter on Facebook — a beautiful reminder of a day filled with joy, thanksgiving, and deep appreciation for Terri and Gretchen.