In June of 1999, Ed Janzen began his role as Chaplain at Grebel, with experience, energy, and passion. He came with a desire to serve the College and with the perspective that service needs to be relational from beginning to end. For more than 22 years, Ed has been a relational chaplain who has endeared himself to many students, faculty, and staff over the years. He has served with commitment and integrity, and has inspired and influenced many to discover and understand their journey of faith and life.
This summer Ed retired, and he has been spending more time with family, is tackling various woodworking projects, and is sailing as often as he can. As part of his retirement celebrations, many alumni, students, and co-workers offered words of farewell and thanks to Ed.
“I have so appreciated the mentorship and wisdom you have offered me in my own ministry over the past several years,” shared Erika Toffelmire. “You have been a beautiful example of discernment, faithfulness, and compassionate care that comes from a spirit grounded in God’s love.”
Miriam L. explained how Ed “has an amazing ability to listen, provide words of wisdom, humility, while also being a wonderful leader in the communities he touches. Ed’s sense of humor is unmatched and his constant willingness to hear how you are doing made him a wonderful teacher, chaplain, and person to work with.”
“Your grace and wisdom are so inspirational to me,” wrote current student Victoria Lumax. “As I’ve served on Chapel Committee, I’ve seen your incredible heart for the community. Thank you for your years of service to the college and to God. I have enjoyed being under your leadership, a style of leadership that is sincere, fun, and loving.”
From a faculty perspective, Dean Troy Osborne wrote, “Ed’s work as teacher and scholar have shaped many students, and he has kept the torch of our mission burning bright in College Council and strategic plans. However, I’m most grateful for the impromptu hallway conversations that have ranged from history to theology to student wellness.”
“Whether organizing Mennonite potlucks in SOC 275, expressing thoughts about Max Weber in SOC 101, or quietly inspiring and provoking the student body with ideas about God’s love for all, Ed has been foundational to the evolution of the College in recent times,” added Marlene Epp.
Ed was often found at the front of a room: leading chapel, teaching a class, facilitating a discussion, or offering an epic prayer of blessing, but he was just as appreciated when not the main focus of attention. Staff member Seth Ratzlaff shared that he has always appreciated, and tried to model in his own life, Ed’s willingness to make time and space during any interaction for deep and vulnerable conversation. An encounter with Ed could leave you pondering a life question or howling with laughter.
“In serving, truthfully, I have had tremendous privilege,” reflected Ed at his online farewell party. “Through these years, I have known immense joy and great growing pains. I’ve known inspiring confidence of and in colleagues, cherished responsibility, powerful collegiality, nurturing supervision, caring administration, an inspiring mission, abundant love, creative and purposeful work, and friendship and spirit that will keep me smiling long after I’ve forgotten my reason for smiling.” Working closely with Chapel Choir directors each week and with the Student Services team, Ed “learned much about care of others and community life and development.”
Ed noted, in particular, the working relationship he had with Director of Student Services Mary Brubaker-Zehr. “I am so grateful for 23 years of trust and confidence in my work, for graciousness in consideration of my perspectives and suggestions over the years.”
Likewise, Mary described the experience of 23 years working closely together. “We’ve worked amazingly well together—despite or maybe because of some of our differences.” She continued, “I’ve appreciated your creative ideas, your warmth, and your friendly hellos each morning, your interest in growth and life-long learning. I’ve appreciated your reliability and your generosity, your graciousness and listening ear. I’ve appreciated the hundreds of times you’ve stood in my doorway to share an idea with me. I’ve learned a lot from you and with you. You’ve enriched Student Services and you’ve enriched the life of this College. Ed, we will never forget how you made us all feel—loved, appreciated, and valued. Go well into retirement, our dear friend.”
