Nora Smith's roots lie in a farm in the Manistique/Gulliver area. Post-high school, she explored various career paths, including a brief stint in cosmetology. However, her life changed with marriage and a move to Gladstone. Together with Jerry, she raised three boys, and together, they played a significant role in nurturing many more children, thanks to Jerry's 41 years of coaching and Nora's continued service to the youth of First Lutheran Church.
A humble soul, Nora wasn't seeking a career change when the Parish Assistant position at First Lutheran was posted. Yet the Holy Spirit had plans, and her friend Pat Casteel encouraged her to apply. She said, "God calls and equips reluctant people, and that was me." For 18 years, she served this congregation, changing lives and witnessing to the people at First and in our greater community.
Nora had always been involved with our Sunday School, but her engagement as parish assistant became mission-critical for the church.
When Nora took the position, she attended Lay School to help her with the more theological side of the job. Nora's adaptability was evident as she explained that working for the church "tucked away awesome memories…" The position led her to do things she never thought possible, including attending and chaperoning three ELCA Youth Gatherings.
We continue to be grateful for Nora's faithful witness at our church. She helps to facilitate our sewing group and shows up when we need help. When young folks connected to First Lutheran speak of the church or come back home for a visit, one of the names that always seems to come up is Nora Smith.
Nora's faithful service at First Lutheran has impacted generations of young people, and she keeps going. Nora is a blessing, and as she said, "Blessings tend to come back to you in different ways." We continue to Thank God for Nora Smith and how she blesses us. She said First Lutheran Church, "It's a good place to be." Part of why it's a good place is because God spoke, and Nora listened. Thanks be to God.
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