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November 14, 2008
Centennial Quotes
Alaska, PC(USA) leaders praise Walter Soboleff, 100
SITKA — On Oct. 18, religious and Native leaders gathered here to celebrate the 100th birthday of Walter Soboleff.
What some of them had to say:
“It seems like forever that I’ve been saying how much we love you. Your wisdom is timeless.” — Elder Adeline deCastro-Kasteew, First Presbyterian Church of Craig & Klawock, Craig, AK
Tlingit Chief Herman Kitka. “One of the greatest leaders Native people ever had. All Natives always looked to Walter first.” — Herman Kitka, Sitka Tlingit tribal chief
“I became a Christian when Walter spoke at Sheldon Jackson School Spiritual Emphasis Week in 1941. I am a product of what God has done through Walter Soboleff.” — Elder Isabella Brady, First Presbyterian Church, Sitka, AK, and member of PC(USA) Native American Consulting Committee
Walter Soboleff (left) and the Rev. David Dobler, president of Sheldon Jackson College and executive presbyter for Alaska Presbytery.
“Too often we don’t appreciate the gifts God gives us at the time. Walter Soboleff was a role model when there were no others. He prepared the way. People have thronged to hear him preach, but it has always been his example that is paramount.” — the Rev. David Dobler, president of Sheldon Jackson College and executive presbyter, Alaska Presbytery
“I’ve known of you since I was a little girl growing up in the Pacific Northwest. When I came back I was so glad to learn you’re still alive!” — the Rev. Joyce Emery, former executive presbyter for New Brunswick Presbytery in New Jersey and now transitional synod executive, Synod of Alaska-Northwest
The Rev. Henry Fawcett (left), professor at Dubuque Theological Seminary and lifelong friend of Walter Soboleff (right).
“Walter has honored us by his commitment to Jesus Christ. We have seen a little bit of Christ in Walter. Always concerned about Native people and churches, he has been a friend, mentor, example. Walter has honored us in ways we’ll never know.” — the Rev. Henry Fawcett, professor at Dubuque Theological Seminary and lifelong Tlingit brother and friend
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