Rev. Ted Haas led his final service at Incarnation United Church of Christ on Sunday, May 2, 2004. Pastor Ted served the church for 2 ½ years as interim minister. During his pastorate he and his wife, Norine, truly became part of the Incarnation UCC family. Pastor Ted observed the 50th anniversary of his ordination, while Incarnation celebrated its 235th year as an active church. His prayers guided the congregation in worship, celebration, and sorrow. Norine added her contralto voice to the choir, and also contributed to the music ministry on the piano and organ.

It was especially meaningful for all that his farewell was made on Good Shepherd Sunday. The choir and the Martin Family Singers offered special anthems with “the Lord as Shepherd” themes. Bill Wivell, president of the Emmitsburg Council of Churches, said good-bye on behalf of the council. He announced that the council was making a special donation to the parish nursing project in honor of Pastor Ted, recognizing his support for this newest service venture by the churches of Emmitsburg.

The Women’s Guild hosted a luncheon for the congregation and visitors following the worship service. The Guild and the consistory gave Rev. Haas a small statue of St. Francis of Assisi for his garden. The Sunday school gave the Haases a mosaic-style stepping stone for the garden, which they had made and signed.