Take Two

Linda Albert, in a measured, polite, and soft-spoken manner, reflects on her first season at St. Philip. “I was happy and excited to be here with Dick”, she says, referring to her husband, who was called as pastor of St. Philip in 1983. Linda, a native South Carolinian and a woman of faith, relished life in the congregation and community. She enjoyed time spent with the youth group, singing in the choir and ringing bells, all while being employed as a teacher.

But when Dick was called to another Lutheran congregation in 1991, Linda left feeling that she “had wanted to do more at St. Philip.”

While in Columbia, Linda continued teaching, raising her daughter, and participating as much as she could in church activities. When Dick was ready to retire in 2014, they discussed where they would settle upon retirement. For Linda, the answer was immediate: St. Phillip. It was the only church they considered. “I was at a time in my life when I really could contribute more of my time and talents,” she says, “and what better place to do that than at St. Philip, where the people were always friendly?”

So, they returned.

But this “take two” was more than a homecoming. Linda became more active than ever. She was instrumental in computerizing and strengthening the church’s financial system, served on the Finance Committee and Church Council, co-founded the WELCA circles, formed a knitting group, knocked on doors to get people to attend a stewardship dinner, and had the most reading buddies – 13! - before COVID hit. “COVID really had an impact on the congregation. It was a defining moment when Pastor started drive thru communion. It brought people back.”

After her hip replacement surgery 5 years ago, Linda anticipated slowing down, simply serving as a mentor to the various ministries. But that’s not quite what happened. When the church was without a musical director, she stepped in to play organ and piano. She continues serving in handbells and choir, finance, women’s ministries, and study groups. If she sees someone new in worship, she is among the first to offer a warm greeting.

Linda’s “take two” has fulfilled what once felt unfinished. In a congregation “not afraid to try something new,” she has found renewed purpose, generous friendship, and the joy of giving her time and talents fully.