Marty to host 'Vespers'

Lutheran, The, Aug 2004

Peter W. Marty will become host of Lutheran Vespers, the ELCA's national radio ministry, beginning Feb. 13. Since his role is part time, he will remain a pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Davenport, Iowa. Marty succeeds Walter Wangerin Jr., who will leave the ministry in January 2005.

Marty, 45, said he has little experience in radio ministry but considers himself a communicator. "This ministry needs someone to speak in the vernacular," he said. " I dislike 'holy language' that sounds 'churchy.' "

He earned degrees from Colorado College, Colorado Springs, and Yale University Divinity School, New Haven, Conn. He served congregations in Illinois and Missouri.