This is an extraordinary moment for me! What
can be said that is appropriate to a departure? "Good-bye" would be inaccurate,
because I intend to maintain ties here.
In thinking about some other significant
departures in my life, from the church in which I was raised, from the house
that was home for my first 17 years, and from college, I'm struck by the
importance of MEMORIES of these and so many other precious past relationships.
Some memories are so vivid that they take cherished people, relationships, and
events from the past, and resurrect them in such a way that they become part of
my present life. I can remember vividly the first time I was an acolyte at age
8, the heat of that May day, the 3 other older boys serving, and my having no
handkerchief for my runny nose, a lesson I've never forgotten. And in the same
church, my confirmation, and 25 years ago come June, my ordination as a deacon.
I remember that house on Bryant Road in Waltham, Massachusetts, the mysterious
cellar I'd explore for treasure, the outdoor huts which were actually more fun
to put together than to sleep in; it's so real to me even now. I can still
recall many a warm conversation as well as outrageous events during 4 years
living at college: about 30 years ago, but so alive to me as I speak
now.
It would be impossible for me to comment on all
the memories of these 14 years with St. Paul's Church. Our worship has included
many voices and emotions. The challenging moments with the children with their
unexpected participation; the baptisms, confirmations and receptions; the
weddings; the funerals; the music; the variety of Services and their
preparations by so many; all of these memories of worship I take with
me.
There have been religious education and YPF;
moments of pastoral care; the maintenance and repair of our building and
grounds; vestry meetings; Sunday fellowship; pot luck suppers; and so much
more. Pictures and feelings surface with the mention of each aspect of parish
life.
On Tuesday of this week at Diocesan House, I
happen to chat briefly with Roberta Walmsley while awaiting my appointment with
Bishop Walmsley. I mentioned that we'd have a party today at St. Paul's.
Remembering her visit here, she warmly smiled and said, "St. Paul's is a great
party place." A memory of a St. Patrick's Day party was noticeably
brought alive to the present.
Knowing the importance of remembering, our
Christian ancestors have provided us with the Eucharist to help us bring into
our lives their memories of Jesus Christ and his teachings. In this very
Service now, we remember, with the help of symbols and fellowship, God's Word
for us...not as dull ancient history, but as a living memory, an enduring Word,
which warms our hearts, stimulates our minds, and inspires our wills.
When Alan Jones moved to California, I felt a
loss of a fine colleague: we remarked at the time that though separated, we
would still be connected, in a sense, through the same shared Eucharist. What
we are doing here this morning Alan and other Christians throughout the world
are doing today, also. In this worship not only do we remember Christ, but we
also remember each other: we pray for and become united with the whole church,
people here and gone from us: individuals in California and world-wide. Our
hymn stated it well: "In Christ there is no East or West; in him no South or
North, but one great fellowship...."
This is not to deny the realities and feelings
of losses. But somehow we learn to cope with the movement of people in and out
of our lives: speaking somewhat clinically, we grieve; we adjust; we go on:
and, the good memories of each person are cherished.
If a departure evokes memories, it can raise
hopes as well. I hope that I can find another parish where I can in time feel
at home, among friends. I am hopeful that my new focus on educational
activities in the church and elsewhere will be as satisfying as these 14 years
of general pastoral ministry have been. I hope that my "Rite IV" style will be
supported elsewhere as has been the case here!
And, I have high hopes for Saint Paul's Parish,
a great party place.
[notes follow]
- in Worship:
variety; with informal dignity; with a
readiness to laugh or cry; to feel and to think; led by lay and ordained; minus
magic and superstition; further development of televising for homebound;
worship as the unifying factor; all within one hour!
- Religious Education:
the best of being an Anglican:
responsible, thoughtful diversity in ordinary language. with concern for real
issue of our lives.
- Pastoral Care: the ministry of presence and support by clergy
and lay
- Administration:
a congregation of ordained and lay
collaborating with each other and the diocese, so that worship, religious
education, and pastoral care can take place effectively.
[verbatim follows]
The bishops have been very supportive about what has taken
place here during these past 14 years; and, I leave with a great sense of
completion. But the proof of it all is yet to come. If in the coming months, at
least until a new pastor is named, the Spirit of ministry continues alive and
well, then we will know with greater certainty the extent to which my years
here were truly well spent.
Memories! Hopes! Both are so necessary as we open new
chapters of our lives! Now, let us continue our celebration of the Eucharist,
the beginning of today's party, a memorable one, I'm sure!