Fredericksburg Pastors Retire After 41 Years of Service

Retirement ceremony for Casey and Lucinda Zesch celebrates their decades-long ministry at Bethany Lutheran Church.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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Pastors Casey and Lucinda Zesch were honored for their 41 years in the clergy and 31 years of service at Bethany Lutheran Church in Fredericksburg, Texas. The retirement ceremony, originally delayed due to icy roads, was rescheduled and held at the Gillespie County Fair Grounds Exhibition Hall, where hearts were warmed and many belly laughs were shared.

Why it matters

The Zesches' long tenure at Bethany Lutheran Church reflects their deep commitment to the Fredericksburg community. Their retirement marks the end of an era for the congregation, which will now need to find new spiritual leadership.

The details

The Zesches have served as co-pastors at Bethany Lutheran Church since 1995. Prior to that, they spent 10 years in the ministry elsewhere. The retirement ceremony, which featured heartfelt tributes and humorous anecdotes, celebrated the couple's decades of service to the church and the local community.

  • The retirement ceremony was originally scheduled but delayed due to icy roads.
  • The rescheduled event took place on Sunday evening at the Gillespie County Fair Grounds Exhibition Hall.

The players

Casey Zesch

Co-pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church for 31 years, retiring after 41 years in the clergy.

Lucinda Zesch

Co-pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church for 31 years, retiring along with her husband Casey after 41 years in the clergy.

Bethany Lutheran Church

The church in Fredericksburg, Texas where the Zesches have served as co-pastors for the past 31 years.

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What they’re saying

“41 years is such an incredible accomplishment. The Zesches have dedicated their lives to serving this community, and we are forever grateful for their leadership and guidance.”

— Parishioner (Fredericksburg Standard)

What’s next

The Bethany Lutheran Church congregation will now begin the process of finding new pastoral leadership to continue the church's mission in Fredericksburg.

The takeaway

The Zesches' retirement after over four decades in the clergy is a testament to their unwavering commitment to their faith and their community. Their long tenure at Bethany Lutheran Church has left an indelible mark on Fredericksburg, and they will be deeply missed.