When teachers become friends.

A former professor, the Rev. Dr. Bruce Rahtjen, died recently in an unfortunate accident. Bruce was my professor of Biblical Theology at Saint Paul School of Theology. He was brilliant, charismatic and some of my best learning moments occurred in his classes. He also was tremendously supportive when my father died while his student.
Bruce transitioned away from United Methodist ordained ministry and became an Episcopal priest. His journey also led him away from the seminary into the parish. We found ourselves serving congregations in Independence and reconnected. It was interesting to experience the shift in relationship.  I discovered that I had experience and insights that were helpful to this man who had not been responsible for a congregation for some time.
We became friends ... meeting regularly to discuss our ministry and spiritual lives. I celebrated his ministry at St. Mary's in the urban community in downtown KC. Bruce invited me to share in the school for deacons that he led in the diocese. Later I encouraged his reconnection with the UMC through the Melrose congregation.
There is something marvelous about the way relationships develop and mature. I learned much from Bruce; enjoyed the repartee that marked our conversations; and grieve his passing from this life and world.