Three Strikes isn't an Out!

Mary Bjorkquist was finishing up with the crew, who stuffed and labeled the newsletters for the month when Pastor trounced and asked for a First’s Look interview. Mary, of course, said yes. Mary is a Gladstone native. Except for one year working at Mackinac College on Mackinac Island, Mary spent her 33-year career working at what would become the ISD. Mary and her husband Gary also raised their two boys, Eric and Dan, in Gladstone. Mary and Gary enjoy their grand puppies, and Mary is an avid bowler. She encourages anyone wanting to join the mixed seniors bowling league to get in touch!

Back in the 1970s, when Eric was little, and Dan was still on the way, Gary and Mary began seeking a warm and welcoming church community for their growing family. They needed more family connections and a place of faith that wasn’t rigid but comfortable. Their mothers instilled a strong faith in the couple, so they committed to trying a new church and had a few friends who attended First Lutheran Church. They visited and then never looked back. 

First Lutheran Church became that place of welcome, and Gary and Mary have been here ever since. They are almost always found at 10:30 services in the front pew organ side. Mary has been on the offering counting team for 6-7 years and has served on the nominating and audit committees. 

Mary's journey in the church has been a testament to its growth and change. The children who once attended Sunday School and Confirmation with Eric and Dan are now parents and grandparents themselves. The church family has expanded, and while the friends who initially led the Bjorkquists to First now worship elsewhere, Mary's faith remains steadfast. As life evolves, God’s presence in the church remains constant. 

One of Mary’s cherished hymns, “Precious Lord Take My Hand,” reflects her deep connection to the church. The lyrics, 'Through the Storm, through the Night, lead me on to the Light,' resonate with her. First Lutheran Church has been a grounding force in Mary's faith journey. She finds solace and believes that our Precious Lord guides us, and the church's role in fostering these connections fills her with gratitude. We are blessed to have Mary Bjorkquist as part of our church community.