THE CONGREGATION of Severna Park United Methodist Church said farewell to the Rev. Warren Ebinger, who is taking early retirement, and his wife, Mary -- last night at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie.
The evening was a celebration of the Ebingers' nine-year ministry and a time to wish the couple success in the next chapter of their lives.
To the Ebingers' surprise, they were presented with a book of memories and good wishes compiled by family and friends.
The Ebingers' children -- Lee Plowman, Lori Lear and Jonathan Ebinger -- were at their parents' side.
Reminiscing earlier yesterday, Ebinger said, "As we leave Severna Park, I take with me bushels of memories of wonderful people, who are some of the most committed I've ever seen.
"I'm taking with me a realization that this church is so alive and so well prepared for the future that I only have a joyful heart, no regrets.
"I take with me a joy of having served in so many ways with my wife, Mary, who's been right at my side."
Mrs. Ebinger has been a pastoral counselor and certified counselor and has helped in the marriage retreats that were such a popular part of the Ebingers' Severna Park ministry.
The Annapolis couple have formed a new partnership and will conduct marriage and spiritual life retreats and enrichment.
Marriage retreats are scheduled in October at Cliffside in Harpers Ferry, W.Va., and in February at the Marriott Courtyard in Annapolis.
Pub Date: 6/19/97
