May 2008
This past month seemed to go by quite quickly for me, and I am certain for most of you as well. When I wrote last, we were just entering into Holy Week, and the ensuing weeks provided many opportunities to share in a myriad of ways with many of you across the diocese.
On Palm Sunday we participated in a moving liturgy and confirmation with the people of St. Thomas, Monroe. Other visitations included St. Alban's, Monroe for worship and confirmation; the semiannual confirmation at St. Mark's Cathedral, Shreveport; St. Paul's, Winnfield, where the liturgy also included confirmations.
St. Timothy's, Alexandria was the setting on Tuesday of Holy Week as the majority of clergy in the diocese gathered with me for the Mass of Collegiality and renewal of ordination vows. Following this special liturgy, we were provided with a wonderful luncheon prepared by Women of St. Timothy's under the leadership of JoAnn Kellogg.
Easter was spent at St. Mark's Cathedral where I celebrated at two services, and the interim dean, the Rt. Rev'd Gethin B. Hughes preached. This was Bishop Hughes' last day at the Cathedral, and I give thanks to God for his wonderful ministry here in the diocese these past months.
Other settings for worship included St. James, Alexandria; St. Timothy's, Alexandria; Camp Hardtner; and the Daughters of the King spring assembly at Holy Trinity, Sulphur.
Susan and I had the privilege of being able to be a part of Cursillo 136, and on which I served as one of the spiritual directors. It has been some time since we were actually served on a weekend, with both of us having served on teams a number of times over the thirty years since we made our Cursillo.
A special program was offered for those interested in being presenters for the "Safeguarding God's Children." I am pleased to share that we have about fifteen individuals now trained to offer this important program in the five convocations of the diocese. My thanks go to St. Timothy's, Alexandria for offering to host this educational event.
Under the leadership of Brenda Milam, chair of the Commission on Stewardship, and communicant of St. James, Alexandria, a Stewardship program was offered for clergy and lay leadership. This daylong event was presented by the Rev'd Michael E. (Corky) Carlisle of Sewanee, Tennessee. A noted presenter in the area of stewardship, we were blessed to have him come and provide a well-grounded teaching on this important element of our lives shared. I am grateful for the work of Brenda and others in making this happen, and to St. James for their gracious hospitality. I would not be honest if I didn't also share my disappointment in the fact that only eight priests and eight laity were in attendance.
Again this year Susan and I joined the diocesan Episcopal Church Women for their annual offering of the Time for Joy weekend. The weekend, held at Camp Hardtner, saw the involvement of a number of women from congregations across the diocese, and their appreciation for this unique program was quite evident.
Rounding out the week before sending this off for printing, those in administrative and secretarial positions in the diocese joined Susan and me for the annual Administrative Professionals Day. This is a gathering at which we recognize and honour those who serve so faithfully throughout the year providing support for their local congregations. The luncheon was held this year at the Diamond Grill in Alexandria, and each of the attendees received a special gift as a sign of our gratitude for their ministry. The speaker, Susan Comeaux of Trinity, Crowley, provided an interesting, insightful, and at times, humourous presentation on Bible study and development of faith.
Looking ahead, it will be my privilege to preside and preach at St. Matthias, Shreveport on Thursday, May 15, at the Institution and Celebration of New Ministry for the Rev'd Dr. William G. McBride as rector. The service will begin at 7:00 p.m. and is open to all.
Until next month, blessings, prayers and appreciation for the ministry we share.