Pastor Virginia (Ginger) Georgulas died suddenly on Sunday, June 26, 2011. She had previously been diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. Ginger was a long-time ally of LGBTQ people in the Lutheran Church. Lutherans Concerned/North America honored Ginger in a message this morning, noting that she founded the North Texas Chapter of Lutherans Concerned and attended the first Reconciling in Christ training.
Pastor Jeff Johnson has posted a reflection on the University Chapel’s website. Ginger was a member of the Chapel in the 80’s.
Rev. Donn Rosenauer, member of the ELM Roster and Proclaim, shares this reflection about the role Ginger played in his life recently as he has sought to rejoin the clergy roster of the ELCA:
“When I knew I was moving to the Dallas area I thought I was moving to the “wilderness.” I called friends and asked for advice. I was alerted to contact Virginia”Ginger”Georgulas. I called from San Diego, and I knew from her first words I would have a new friend in the Dallas area. We were welcomed and extended an invitation for dinner our first week in Texas.
I would soon learned of Ginger’s fierce commitment to the LGBTQ community. For more that 20 years she worked on our behalf. Active in LC/NA, she established a chapter in Dallas. She was a friend to many in ELM. She worked in a focused and direct way to advocate for us through her many positions and contacts within the ELCA. She willingly, with wise counsel and support became my strong ally and supporter. She set up meetings with the local ELCA synod office. Ginger was a part of every conversation with the synod and opened every door to help establish conversations at every important level.
A number of weeks ago she became ill and was told she could expect another 14 months or more to complete her journey. She was insistent that I continue to work for re-rostering. Last Friday was our most recent conversation about working to fulfill this expectation.
I am grateful for her leadership, support and her advocacy for us all. The people of God have a great example to follow in this ‘Saint for Justice.'”
Ginger is survived by her husband, the Rev. Fred Behrmann. Upon her retirement in 2002, she and her husband relocated to Coppell, TX, and became members of Rejoice Lutheran Church, Coppell, TX. A memorial service, giving God thanks for Pastor Georgulas and her ministry, will be held at the time and location noted below. Clergy are invited to vest (green) and process. There will be a reception following the service. Pastor Georgulas’ pastor, The Rev. Phil Geleske of Rejoice, Coppell, TX, will preside.
Condolences may be sent to Ginger’s husband, The Rev. Fred Behrmann, at his home address: 145 Cherrybark Dr., Coppell, TX 75019-3557, or email him at fred.behrmann@verizon.net. You are requested to not send flowers.