Osgood minister retires to Ohio home
Wanda English Burnett - Editor

For nearly fifteen years, Rev. Joseph Grace has made his home in Osgood, where he pastored the Osgood Church of the Nazarene.

Many changes have taken place during his time at Osgood, and the pastor has fulfilled many community commitments.

"We've really enjoyed our time here, we'll miss the people the most," the Graces noted from their easy chairs, surrounded by boxes as they were packing for the next chapter of their lives.

Rev. Grace lost his first wife, Louise to cancer, thirteen years ago, and later married Gloria, who has served faithfully with him at the Osgood church.

"We're leaving behind lots of friends," they noted, as they told about the many people they have come in contact with in the area.

The couple was involved in the Salvation Army Kettle Program, and a plaque was given saying, "Outstanding Salvation Army Representative and Kettle Coordinator- Pastor Joseph Grace."

They were also charter members of the Osgood Area Kiwanis Club, where they held offices the first year as president and secretary.

Pastor Grace was active in the Jac-Cen-Del Ministerial Association for 15 years, where he held the position of treasurer.

The couple organized, sorted, and distributed commodities for 13 years, saying they had volunteers who made it all possible.

They were active in politics - and will be working on the election board for the last time this Tuesday, May 4, in Ripley County.

Each week the Graces could be found at the Manderley Health Care Center, where they met on Tuesday evenings to sing songs, and share their faith with resi
dents there. They also would meet with residents of the Buckeye Village to share friendship and the gospel.

Saying he had preached since he was 18-years-old, Grace noted that even though he's retiring, he's confident he'll be working in the church they plan on attending in Marion, OH.

The Graces say they've enjoyed traveling together, and have gone all over the United States and even made a trip to the Holy Land, which they described as spectacular.

"We've enjoyed our stay here - we hate to leave," they concluded. Those wishing to keep in contact with the Graces may do so by writing them at: 893 Oak Grove Ave., Marion, OH 43302.

Rev. Ray Taylor from North Vernon, will be the new pastor at the Osgood Nazarene Church.