References

In my work as Director of Music at Lancaster Church of the Brethren, I had the pleasure of working closely with Bob for several years when he served in interim positions as Associate Pastor and later Senior Pastor. He was dynamic, energetic (perhaps the most energetic person I know), thoughtful and caring, super easy to work with, and always respectful and appreciative of my input and my work with the traditional music services and groups. He is a great guy and a wonderful church leader.

                           -Emery DeWitt, Director of Music(retired), Lancaster Church of the Brethren

Bob Kettering is one of those rare individuals who is gifted in multiple areas of Christian ministry- preaching, church administration and music being foremost among them. With extensive experience as a pastor, as well as denominational responsibilities within the Church of the Brethren, Bob’s interpersonal skills are excellent, and he is highly organized and goal-focused. His leadership at Mt. Gretna Bible Festival has been exemplary. Rich in wisdom and enthusiastic in personality, Bob is the embodiment of Christian service and faithful friendship.

                           -Ross W. Ellison, Ph.D

Bob is a calm, resourceful and creative colleague who thinks deeply about finding solutions that work. He will talk through and listen to all types of options as he helps everyone reach a conclusion and a plan. He’s also easy to be around and definitely someone you’d want at a decision-making table.

-Ted Martin, President of Mount Gretna Tabernacle Association and Member of the Mount Gretna Board of Managers

I highly recommend Bob because he is knowledgeable, experienced and demonstrates compassionate leadership. Brother Bob is also an accomplished musician and vocalist.

-Don Mitchell, Director of Church Development, Atlantic Northeast District Church of the Brethren

 Bob is a rare bandwidth of ministry skill. He is a gifted preacher, but equally comfortable behind an organ or sharing as a soloist; he is also an able administrator but ready and eager to visit his parishioners in their homes. Think of your most pressing ministry need and look to Bob to meet it! His decades of “hands on” ministry experience has translated into a storehouse of wisdom and resources, for Christ and the Church.

                           -Paul Mundey, Minister/Consultant/Writer

 Bob Kettering is a very energetic, experienced and gifted churchman. He is an innovator but doesn’t stray from the gospel message. If you are in need of a mover and shaker, give Bob a try.

                           -Jim Myer, Minister Emeritus at White Oak Church, Manheim, PA

 I have had the opportunity to work with Bob in a pastoral role in our congregation. He is both a gifted speaker and a gifted musician.  He is an ‘idea person’ who seems to always have a positive uplifting solution for any situation that arises. I have found him to be a good teacher as well as a good listener. He is a true ‘all around’ people person.

-Mary Etta Reinhart. Pastor for Congregational Care, Mechanic Grove Church of the Brethren, Quarryville, PA

 I have been blessed as I was given the opportunity to get to know Bob through the Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center, as he taught me some of the ministerial courses while I was preparing to become an ordained pastor. Bob’s ministry as one of my colleagues during his time as interim pastor in Lancaster Church of the Brethren helped me gain spiritual uplifting. His enthusiasm, dedication and zeal for ministry and for the lost souls have been an inspiration to many who know him, especially me.

-Alix Sable, Retired Pastor of the Maranatha Hispanic Fellowship, Lancaster Church of the Brethren

 Preaching, organ-playing, singing, organizing conferences- whatever church activities Bob Kettering engages in-are done with grace, dignity, enthusiasm, and a heartfelt faith.

                           -Dr. Herb Smith, McPherson College

 Bob Kettering has served effectively as a pastor and intentional interim pastor for many years. It has been a pleasure for me to team with him.  He will be a helpful resource to congregations and organizations.

-Dale Stoltzfus, Retired pastor, Bishop and Conference Minister for LMC, Lancaster Mennonite Conference

 Bob Kettering is a visionary who recognizes the possibilities in every opportunity. He is resourceful and practical in his leadership style.

-Earl Ziegler, Retired Pastor and former Atlantic Northeast District Executive with Bob in the same office. Lititz PA

Bob and I have been friends since second grade and colleagues in ministry for nearly twenty years.  Bob’s knowledge, experience and energy will serve churches and parachurch organizations well.  He is a visionary and grounded in his faith.

-Dennis Garrison, Retired Pastor and Brother in Christ