A Tribute to the Teacher

On Tuesday, July 5, 2011, the Rev. Dr. Lionel A. "Lee" Whiston, Jr., died at the age of 93.  Dr. Whiston served as Professor of Old Testament at Eden Seminary from 1956-1983.  He was a graduate of Bates College in Maine; received a Bachelor of Divinity Degree from Andover Newton Theological School (1942); and his ThD from Harvard University (1951).

Lee was the professor who sat on my junior oral exam committee at Eden.  He was there as I walked through the deep valley of divorce in 1981-82.  He offered me sage counsel when I contemplated delaying the final semester of my senior year because my father had been diagnosed with a brain tumor in November of 1981, and I felt conflicted in my soul.  In the midst of my confusion, Lee encouraged me to finish the course and get moving in my ministry.  He often signed my graded papers with "Power to you!"  Perhaps he did that with all his students; but for me, it was a special, propelling word of encouragement, a blessing that communicated courage and confidence.

On May 30, 1982, Lee preached the sermon as I was ordained.  The texts were from Jeremiah 1:1-4-10 and Philippians 2:1-11.  Again, I heard the encouragement, "Do not say, 'I am only a boy'; for you shall go . .  . and you shall speak . . . do not be afraid . . . for I am with you . . ., says the LORD."  I still hear it! 

I have often reflected about Dr. Whiston's journey--a New Englander, ordained in the Congregational Christian Churches, who found his way to the Mid-West and was at home there.  In his earlier years, Lee was a close friend of the Rev. H. Gardner "Andy" Andersen, who served in churches in New England, including many years as pastor of the Washington Congregational Church.  Andy died earlier this year, and I sent the worship bulletin to Lee in St. Louis.  Lee responded with a final note on May 11 in which he reminsced about his old friend.  He also said, "It was good to hear from you and find that a Midwesterner can survive in NH."  We each, in our own way, had gone to where we were sent. 

My world has changed.  One who lived with great courage and care for a long, long time is gone now.  I cherish the good memories.  I am grateful for that wise, enduring counsel and encouragement.  Power to you, Lee! 

Peace and Power to you!