Rev. Zakel installed at Prince of Peace

BURLINGTON, Ont. - God bestowed many blessings on Prince of Peace Lutheran Church on July 4, 2021. This was a day that the congregation had waited and prayed for, as David Zakel, who had been the vicar at Prince of Peace under the watchful eye of Rev. Robert Krestick, became Rev. David Zakel, filling the vacancy left by the retirement of Rev. Kevin Walrath.

Much planning was required as this was an outdoor service, with all COVID-19 protocols in place. There were no restrictions on the number of people attending so long as they were seated outside and distanced. The congregation prayed for good weather for the event, and God granted the request.

A large white tent was erected to provide some shade and wind protection, and eighteen pastors joined 119 family members, friends, and members of the congregation for the celebration. Approximately 130 people also viewed the service online.

Rev. David and Stephanie Zakel were accompanied by their four children: Kaleb, Ethan, Hannah, and Nathaniel. The parents of both Rev. Zakel and Stephanie were also present.

Music was an integral part of the service, with Murray Birkett serving as organist. Friends of the Zakel Family— Paulo Winterle (violin), Daniela Cruz (violin), and Eduardo Farias (trumpet)— supplied instrumental music at the processional and recessional. The cantor was Rev. Ron Mohr.

The service began with the processional, “Thy Strong Word,” as the acolyte, Ethan Zakel, the crucifer, Kaleb Zakel, and banner bearers, Liam Klages, Mackenzie Klages, Daniel Alexander, and Julia Alexander, were followed by the officiants.

The lector was Rev. Vishal Paul and the sermon for the ordination was given by Rev. Dr. John Stephenson, speaking on the text Proverbs 30:5. East Regional Pastor Marvin Bublitz officiated over the ordination.

David Zakel heard the words: “The Lord Jesus pour out on you His Holy Spirit for this office and work that you may faithfully preach the Gospel and administer the Sacraments.” Rev. Zakel was vested with a stole and a chasuble.

The Rite of Installation followed, with Rev. Bublitz speaking the words: “David William John Zakel, I install you as pastor of Prince of Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church, in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

The Service of the Sacrament followed, with Rev. Zakel consecrating and helping to distribute the Sacrament for the first time as an ordained minister of the Word. The service concluded with the recessional, as the officiants led the way to a socially distanced dispersal of the people in attendance.

Lois Munz Photos courtesy of Craig Lemon