23 August 2020
“This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it!“ (Ps 118:125)
To my deeply esteemed sister in Christ, dear pastor emerita Vaira Bitēna!
This is the day when, 45 years ago, you answered Christ’s call and the Church ordained you to the office of pastor! I congratulate you from the heart and give thanks to God that you will mark this day together with the Sala congregation! The Latvian Lutheran Women Theologians’ Association wrote about you: “We take pride that among our ranks is also one of the very first women ordained as pastors in Latvia, Vaira Bitēna. Her life, experience, and steadfastness encourage us…” When they asked what your “I am” testimony is, you wrote: “I die to myself in order to live for God.” That is how you have lived, deeply reflecting the words of the apostle Paul: “I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” (Gal. 3:20a). Truly, Christ called you and blessed your service!
You have served with word and sacrament, through prayers and countless deeds carried out in love! Through you, too, the Kingdom of God was built, where souls found refuge and new strength. Courageously, and with the conviction of your heart, you have carried out the duties of a pastor in both difficult and good times.
On behalf of the LELBĀL Consistory and in my own name, I thank you for your faithful service. May God bless, protect, and continue to inspire you. Please, enjoy the love of others and rejoice together as you look back on a life spent in service with a heart full of gratitude! You are and will be in our prayers!
With sincere respect,
Your sister in Christ
Archbishop Lauma Zušēvica
Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia Abroad