I am ever mindful that my “wandering” through this faith, this church, this ministry, this God has been significantly easier than others. I have not encountered many roadblocks to serving in the role as a pastor, and am not on the receiving end of questioning legitimacy or the like, as many of my colleagues have faced in the past, and unfortunately, still do today, even in our fairly forward-thinking Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). So, I want to give space in recognition of The Rev. Elizabeth Platz, who 55 years ago, rattled our Lutheran part of the body of Christ for the better.
In Christ,
Pastor Brad
On Sunday, November 23, Celebration Lutheran Church in Chardon gathered for a worship service steeped in gratitude, history, and holy joy.
Together, the congregation celebrated the 55th anniversary of ordination for Rev. Elizabeth Platz, the first woman ordained by the Lutheran Church in America on November 22, 1970.
Rev. Platz presided at the table just as she has faithfully done for more than half a century, and Bishop Laura Barbins (Northeastern Ohio Synod – ELCA) joined to preach. A joyful reception followed worship, complete with stories, laughter, and heartfelt gratitude.
But even more powerful than the celebration itself was the recognition of what Rev. Platz’s ministry has meant for generations of women called to serve. Bishop Barbins reflected on the meaning of standing beside her that morning: Rev. Platz was ordained about 25 years before Bishop Barbins, and Bishop Barbins was ordained about 25 years before Celebration’s current pastor, Rev. Marilyn Matevia. Three women, three eras, one calling: woven together by faithfulness, perseverance, and the Spirit’s persistent work through the Church.
Rev. Platz paved the way.
She did so not only through her ministry, but through resilience during a time when many still doubted a woman’s place in the pulpit or at the altar. Her courage made space for others. Her faithfulness opened doors. Her voice, steady and wise, helped shape a Church more reflective of God’s expansive welcome.
Pastor Sarah Schaaf of the Northwestern Ohio Synod made the two-hour drive to Chardon with her children to be part of the day. She later wrote about what the moment meant to her: “Sometimes we tell ourselves that what we do doesn’t matter, but Rev. Platz would remind us (over the rim of her glasses, mind you) that this moment was possible because there were people who advocated for her place at the table... So do your part, beloved children of God, because God’s welcome is wide.”
As we share some of Pastor Sarah’s photos from the day, we also give thanks — not just for Rev. Platz’s ministry, but for every person who prayed, encouraged, advocated, and made room. Her story reminds us that the Church is continually being re-formed by those who show up, speak up, and follow God’s call with courage.
May we continue that work, so that generations after us can look back and say:
Because of them, we could walk through this door.
Because of them, we knew God’s welcome included us.
Because of them, we were free to respond to God’s call.
Thanks be to God for Rev. Elizabeth Platz - and for all the saints whose faithfulness shapes the future of the Church.
From Walking Together: News from Northeastern Ohio Synod (November 26, 2025)
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