Rev. Mark Kloha of LCMS Retires

Rev. Kloha with some gifts presented to him by the congregation — one being a clock engraved with words of encouragement and appreciation from the members, the other a drawing created by a congregant, David Ramey, who has done some mural work within the church, depicting St. Paul at Berea, referencing Acts 17:10–12, where Paul preached faithfully to the Bereans who received the Word eagerly.

by Cousby Fernandez

INTERNATIONAL – For many Lutheran congregations, the retirement of a pastor marks a significant transition in the life of the church. It is not uncommon for pastors to serve a single parish for decades, forming lasting relationships with congregants while shepherding generations of members through Word and Sacrament. Such moments are familiar to congregations in both Lutheran Church–Canada and the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.

Rev. Mark A. Kloha began his ministry at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Ashland, Kentucky, on May 10, 1989, and officially concluded his service there on March 08, 2026. He received his M.Div from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO on December 31, 1979. Over the course of his ministry, he faithfully used the knowledge and wisdom God granted him to shepherd the congregation and encourage its service to the surrounding community.

During his decades of service, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church remained active in caring for those around them. The congregation has supported early childhood education within the church, provided aid during times of disaster, and assisted in supporting missionaries. In 2024, the congregation reported 122 confirmed members and 149 baptized members. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church originally joined the LCMS Ohio District on December 31, 1866.

Rev. Kloha faithfully served St. Paul’s Lutheran Church for 37 years. His long ministry is a reminder of the gift faithful teachers and pastors are to the Church. As Scripture says, “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.” (1 Timothy 5:17). We give thanks to God for the many years Rev. Kloha proclaimed the Gospel and pray that the Lord would grant him a blessed and restful retirement.

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