This time, an 'I do' with all the trimmings

By Rachel Pritchett

LAKEWOOD — Two years ago when they married, there was no family, no reception, no cake, no garter toss.

A hasty exchange of vows was all Army Sgt. Nathan Proctor and Bethanie could pull off in the short time he was home from a deployment in Afghanistan and about to prepare for another.

That changed Feb. 16, when the young couple renewed their vows in a emotion-filled ceremony at St. John's Lutheran Church, where they are members. Dad walked her down the aisle, there was prayer, blessings and communion, and afterward, a full-fledged reception and cake.

"I feel amazing," said Bethanie, a Pierce College student.

No congregation could have been better suited for the occasion. St. John's, in the shadow of Joint Base Lewis McChord, is full of active and retired military.

"St. John's means the world to my husband and I. Since we are a military family, they have always been there when we are in need of help, caring and loving," Bethanie said.

The Rev. Joe Smith said the love goes two ways. The couple have added new life to the church that has financially struggled but is doing better now under synodical administration.

Some 40 worship now, up from before. Two adult baptisms have taken place recently and a third is planned for Easter. A Korean congregation meets at St. John's and partners with the congregation on community outreach.

The synodical-administration status also has allowed St. John's to focus on ministry and not on debt. All non-mortgage debt was retired recently.

"While St. John's future is not guaranteed, the ELCA has chosen to invest resources in St. John's further renewal with a three-year grant," Smith said.

Pictured: Bethanie and Nathan Proctor renew their vow as the Rev. Joe Smith presides.