AN ex-hockey goalie with an interest in agroforestry and viticulture has been welcomed as a new pastor in Renmark.
Pastor Roland Adams, who comes to the Riverland via Townsville, Perth and Adelaide, was installed as the pastor of St John’s Trinity, Renmark and Holy Cross, Paringa at a combined celebration on Sunday, February 21.
Pastor Roland was installed by the Bishop of the Lutheran Church in South Australia and Northern Territory, David Altus, and was warmly welcomed by everyone present at the service.
Pastor Roland was born in Townsville, the youngest of four, before moving to Perth where he grew up and quickly developed an interest in sport, primarily hockey as a goalkeeper.
His interest in hockey extended to attending Como Secondary College as part of the hockey program and he played in the junior state team.
Pastor Roland also attended Agriculture College in Harvey, in south-west of WA, where he developed an interest in both agroforestry and viticulture.
After completing his education, Roland held several jobs – from loading trucks to working with ships – before beginning his studies at Australian Lutheran College in 2015.
“Roland has many hobbies, including gardening and gaming, and is looking forward to serving the community in ministry,” a local Lutheran Church spokesperson said.
“Pastor Roland did his vicarage at Calvary Morphett Vale in Adelaide’s southern suburbs with Pastor Mike Pietsch and has been assigned to St Johns Trinity Renmark and Holy Cross Paringa…”
Pastor Roland was ordained by LCA Bishop John Henderson at Concordia College Chapel, Highgate, last December.
St Johns Trinity Renmark worships every Sunday at 9am at 66 Seventeenth Street, Renmark, and Holy Cross Paringa Lutheran every Sunday at 10.30am.
“All are welcome to join in worship and fellowship,” the spokesperson said.
For more information, contact www.renmarkchurch.org.au or phone 8586 5983.