Nearly 270 people gathered in the Fellowship Hall of Our Redeemer on Sunday evening, June 25^th  to honor and bid farewell to Reverend Karl and LaVon Dunker.  Pastor Dunker is retiring having served more than 28 years as the pastor of Our Redeemer and over 40 years in the ministry.

 Cellist Jacob Garn and baritone Isaac Washington Holmes provided the entertainment during the meal.  Both were accompanied by Ruthie Brannen, the Fine Arts Director at Our Redeemer.  Several pastors praised Pastor Dunker for his efforts while serving as circuit counselor in this area of Georgia and as a mentor.  Pastor Dunker’s younger brother, John, lightened the mood by recalling some anecdotes from the past.  Pastor and LaVon were presented gifts from the congregation and a number of groups within the church.

 After they spend some time visiting family and friends and traveling up the East coast, Pastor and LaVon will fly to New Zealand.  Pastor Dunker is scheduled to serve as an interim pastor to two churches there for approximately four months.  After that they will return to the Augusta area.