The following is the text of Scott Fikse’s farewell address to the congregation. I was secretly thrilled that he included my name!

I give thanks to God for leading me and Marcus on a path that brought us to all of you. I’ve told this story to many of you, but when Marcus graduated from PLU in 2009, we took a trip to Hawai‘i. My longtime friend Marisa Castello invited me to LCH during the Oahu portion of our trip. I had the privilege of hearing Pr. Jeff preach, listening to the choir, and meeting Carl Crosier. I was pretty taken with the community here and thought to myself, “I would love to serve a congregation like this some day.” It was a dream that 2009 me had NO idea would actually come to pass, and so specifically. 

So I thank God for blessing me abundantly. For the opportunity to learn and grow, to serve and make music in this place, and to be a part of the greater Hawai‘i music community. And while there’s just no time to thank everyone who has played an important role in my life here, I want to mention a few stand outs. 

First of all, I want to thank the choir section leaders and new assistant director, Samuel Chen. The music program is in your good hands until the search committee finishes finding my replacement. I know you’re going to continue to do great things. 

Marcus and I have collected a few hanai relatives during our time here. Randy and Jeanne Castello, thank you for always being there for us, especially at holidays when you adopted us for food and game-filled family gatherings. I never would have tasted squid luau if it weren’t for you. And thank you for your gracious willingness to volunteer your time and talents. 

Ian [Capps] and Jeannette, your generosity and support go above and beyond. You’ve always been there to cheer me on, generously support the music ministry here, lend your voices, and share good conversation. 

I also want to thank Bill Potter and Carol Langner. I don’t know if people realize just how much they do around here. Bill’s commitment to this ministry is tireless, and he is hands down the best proofreader I have or probably ever will meet. He has proofed and edited nearly every single publication I’ve created in the last 7 years. I might have a grammar question or two when I’m writing my next term paper, Bill. And Carol, you have a passion for the work of this church. It’s magnified by your creative spirit and dedication; the event posters, courtyard banners, artwork and poetry, and care of the plants. The list goes on. I can tell just how much you care, and we’re all better for it. Folks, thank these two people next time you see them. We owe them so much.  

Next I want to thank Keane Ishii, who with his rich bass voice instills confidence in both his fellow choir members and this conductor. He also has helped me to feel grounded during times of stress or doubt, something you can’t put a price on.  Ben Sobel, who has been a wonderful collaborative partner on so many occasions, an instrumentalist, and a steadfast tenor in the choir. He also played a huge role in keeping music alive at LCH during the worst parts of the pandemic. Marie Lickwar, you too have been a steadfast colleague and friend, and you give so selflessly of your time and talents. And you bring horn students to play bells on Easter Sunday.  

With just a few more names to mention, I want to thank Kathy Crosier, who gave me such a warm welcome from day 1, and has been my organ teacher, collaborative partner, consultant, and friend. Kathy has been a link for me to the rich history of this church and her husband Carl, who built and nurtured the music program here for decades.  

Next I want to thank Marcus, my partner, who has seen me through all of my struggles and victories, and who jumped in as videographer to keep things going when the pandemic hit – and hasn’t stopped since. He’s a true example of a person for others. 

Last, I want to thank Pr. Jeff, who saw something in me and demanded I achieve it. We’ve butted heads, and for my first couple years here we had a bit of a challenging relationship, but I now consider you a friend and am so grateful for your support and leadership. We’ve achieved a lot together. 

With all of these thank yous in mind, I want to leave you with one thought. LCH is a very special place. Its history, ministry, and community are truly remarkable. It wouldn’t be what it is if not for the efforts of these people I’ve named, and those that came before them. So this is my hope for all of you. If you care about LCH, if you value this community, get out there and really be a part of it. Volunteer for that committee. Check out Bible Study. Help set up chairs before a courtyard concert. Work with Pr. Bree in the garden, or learn to assist with our new live-streaming setup. Walk at the pride parade or join the next beach cleanup. Or simply go to that event that was mentioned during the Sunday morning announcements. You know the food or music is going to be good. We’re Lutherans. LCH is special only because of all of you. Without your presence, it’s just a roof and four walls. And God is here in this place, because of all of you. 

Thank you, and God bless you all.