Service eulogizes Pa. aid worker slain in Afghanistan

August 16, 2010 at 12:00a.m.

Associated Press

LANCASTER, Pa.

A central Pennsylvania nurse killed while on a medical mission in Afghanistan was remembered Sunday for his humor, zest for life and commitment to making the world a better place.

Almost 900 people packed Bright Side Baptist Church for a memorial service for Glen Lapp, 40, of Lancaster.

Lapp was one of 10 relief workers killed Aug. 5 after leaving the remote Nuristan province.

“Glen led an abundant life,” his sister-in-law, Mary Ellen Francescani, told the gathering.

“He had a quiet confidence to him, a trait I always admired in him. Glen was aligned with grace. His purpose was clear. He had no fear.”

Lapp, a member of Community Mennonite Church, was a Mennonite Central Committee worker.

“He was working to bring peace to a country devastated by war,” said his cousin, Joe Lapp. “He did not spend his life working in vain. He gave assistance to people the rest of the world had forgotten.”

Six of the 10 killed were Americans working for International Assistance Mission. The Taliban has taken responsibility for the murders.

John Williamson, another Mennonite Central Committee worker, said he visited Lapp in July and found him especially excited about an eye-care program.

“He appreciated seeing tangible results,” Williamson said.

“Being around Glen, I felt I was on holy ground. It’s hard to put my finger on why. He didn’t seem concerned for his own safety. He had a very peaceful nature. Glen was a part of the body of Christ. I don’t doubt he loved even those who killed him.”