LaFox church saying goodbye to pastor, wife
Members of Lord of Life Church in LaFox will have a Texan barbecue at 4 p.m. Sunday to say farewell to the Rev. Barry Kolb and Nancy Kolb.
If you don't have a reservation, you may have to say goodbye at another time. The Lutheran church's Web site reports that there simply isn't any more room for another guest.
It's a testament to the way the community respects the Kolbs, who have served for 13 years at Lord of Life Church and in the surrounding communities.
They will be moving to Texarkana, Texas, where Barry will serve as senior pastor of First Lutheran Church.
Barry Kolb said that moving to Texarkana, which sits on the Texas/Arkansas border, will bring them much closer to their son, daughter and grandson in Dallas. And it helps, he says, that the weather will be warmer.
But these considerations are not the primary reason for the move.
"Little kids have asked me why we're leaving," Kolb said. "I told them, when God asks you to do something, you listen.
"The church in Texas has been through somewhat of a rough time. They are looking for someone who can supply preaching, teaching and leadership," he added. "I thought I could provide these."
Kolb is also looking forward to being much closer to the Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola, which he will be able to reach by car in six-hours. He visits there four or five times a year to lead classes for inmates who are studying to be ministers. This will save him air fare, which he has paid for out of his own pocket. His accommodations are provided.
The Kolbs have already sold their house in Maple Park and consider this a sign that confirms their decision to move.
Still, leaving isn't easy.
"We love our church, we love our house and we love the area," he added. "But both my wife and I felt like we needed a different kind of challenge. I believe we'll have it in Texas."
Kolb is also hoping to continue to be involved in sports. He is a former teacher who has coached high school basketball and football. He has done color commentary on high school football broadcasts for TV station 17.
"Texarkana has a brand new pro baseball team that plays in the Continental League," he said. "I've sent them an e-mail. There's nothing definite, but I know I'll find a way to use my sports background."
ngier@dailyherald.com