Prince of Peace Burlington inducts vicar

BURLINGTON, Ont. – David Zakel, a student of Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary in St. Catharines, has been assigned to serve the Lord as vicar at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Burlington, where he will serve under the supervision of vacancy pastor, Rev. Robert Krestick. Zakel was inducted to that position on Sunday, July 19, 2020.

The Service for the Seventh Sunday after Pentecost followed the Order of Matins, and the officiant was Rev. Robert Krestick. The readings were from Isaiah 44:6-8, Romans 8:18-27, and Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43. The organist was Murray Birkett. The sermon text was Romans 8:18-27, and the preacher was Rev. Dr. Thomas Winger. The assembly was reminded that the gift of the Holy Spirit is given by Christ.

During the Induction of the Vicar part of the Service, Zakel was asked, “Are you prepared to serve as vicar in this congregation under the supervision of the vacancy pastor, undertaking your assignments as one who seeks information and aspires to hold the office of the holy ministry?” He answered confidently, “I am, with the help of God.”

The service was altered because of health protocols in place as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. While one could dwell on the absence of hymn singing and social customs such as shaking of hands, it is better to emphasize that Vicar Zakel is now able to assume his vicar responsibilities and that the congregation has an additional leader to guide them through these unprecedented times.

Vicar Zakel’s wife Stephanie and their four children were present for this celebration, as well as his parents and his parents-in-law. Seminary friend Rev. Vishal Paul and his wife Ashu were also in attendance.

Vicar Zakel originally hails from Walsingham, Ontario, and was a member at Peace Lutheran in Tillsonburg.

Lois Munz

Photos by Craig Lemon and Brad Smith

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