Member-only story

Lincoln Christianity: The Enduring Legacy of Michael Burkhimer

Roy Bell

·4.4k Followers· Follow

Published in Lincoln S Christianity Michael Burkhimer

5 min read

1.5k View Claps

99 Respond

Save

Listen

Michael Burkhimer, A Prominent Figure In Lincoln Christianity Lincoln S Christianity Michael Burkhimer

Lincoln's Christianity

by Michael Burkhimer

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1442 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	220 pages

The city of Lincoln, Nebraska, has a rich and vibrant Christian history. One of the most influential figures in this history was Michael Burkhimer, a pastor, author, and community leader who left an enduring legacy on the city's religious landscape. This article explores the life and work of Michael Burkhimer, examining his contributions to Lincoln Christianity and his lasting impact on the community.

Early Life and Ministry

Michael Burkhimer was born in 1945 in Pennsylvania. He grew up in a Christian home and felt a call to ministry from a young age. After graduating from high school, he attended Eastern Mennonite University and Eastern Mennonite Seminary. In 1971, Burkhimer moved to Lincoln to serve as pastor of First Mennonite Church, a small congregation located in the heart of the city.

Under Burkhimer's leadership, First Mennonite Church experienced significant growth and became a hub for Christian community and outreach. Burkhimer had a gift for connecting with people from all walks of life and was known for his warm and welcoming personality. He was also a gifted preacher and teacher, and his sermons and writings inspired countless individuals.

Lincoln Christian Community

In addition to his work at First Mennonite Church, Michael Burkhimer was deeply involved in the broader Lincoln Christian community. He served on the board of directors for several Christian organizations, including the Lincoln Christian School and the Lincoln Urban Mission. Burkhimer was also a founding member of the Lincoln Interfaith Council, which brought together leaders from various faith traditions to promote understanding and cooperation.

Burkhimer's commitment to ecumenism was evident in his involvement with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). He served as a pastor in the Disciples of Christ denomination for many years and was a strong advocate for unity among Christians. Burkhimer believed that the church should be a place where people from all backgrounds could come together to worship, learn, and serve the community.

Community Outreach

Michael Burkhimer had a deep concern for the needs of the Lincoln community. He was actively involved in efforts to address poverty, homelessness, and other social issues. Burkhimer co-founded the Lincoln Food Bank, which has provided food assistance to thousands of Lincoln residents over the years. He also served on the board of directors for the People's City Mission, a homeless shelter and outreach center.

Burkhimer's commitment to social justice was rooted in his Christian faith. He believed that all people are created in the image of God and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Burkhimer was a tireless advocate for the poor and marginalized, and his work made a real difference in the lives of many Lincoln residents.

Author and Teacher

In addition to his pastoral and community work, Michael Burkhimer was also a prolific author and teacher. He wrote several books, including "Forgiving God," "The Way of the Cross," and "The Heart of Christ." Burkhimer's writings have been widely read and appreciated by Christians from all denominations. He was also a popular speaker and teacher, and his conferences and retreats drew participants from across the country.

Burkhimer's writing and teaching focused on the practical application of the Christian faith. He was particularly interested in helping people to experience the transformative power of God's love and grace. Burkhimer believed that the Christian life was not just about following rules or rituals, but about living out the teachings of Jesus in daily life.

Legacy and Impact

Michael Burkhimer passed away in 2019 at the age of 73. His death was a great loss for the Lincoln Christian community and for the city as a whole. However, his legacy continues to live on through the many lives he touched. Burkhimer's impact on Lincoln Christianity can be seen in the thriving congregations he helped to build, the organizations he founded, and the countless individuals he inspired.

Burkhimer's commitment to community, compassion, and ecumenism has left an enduring mark on Lincoln. His work helped to make Lincoln a more welcoming and inclusive city, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Christians to live out their faith in love and service.

Michael Burkhimer was a transformative figure in Lincoln Christianity. His passion for God, his love for people, and his commitment to community made a lasting impact on the city. Burkhimer's legacy as a pastor, author, and community leader will continue to inspire Christians in Lincoln and beyond for years to come.

Lincoln's Christianity

by Michael Burkhimer

4.7 out of 5