October
Diocesan Convention Shortened
to One Day
A message from Bishop MacPherson
September 15, 2005
Dear Diocesan Family:
Over these past days I have, as I know many of you have, given much thought and prayer to the days ahead. One of the things that has been heavy on my heart is that we seek to be good stewards in the midst of that which has taken place.
We were originally scheduled to meet on Friday and Saturday, October 28 and 29, at St. James Parish, Alexandria for our annual diocesan convention. The sponsoring convocation, under the wonderful leadership of Charlotte Ray and Tish Fresh, had planned a dinner complete with music and dance for Friday evening at a cost of $30.00 per person. In addition to this, many would have had overnight accommodations on Friday.
As I thought about this weekend, and envisioned the expense for people for hotels [if there is any space open by then] and dinner, my sense of the Spirit led me to the position of reviewing this with the Standing Committee and obtaining their counsel. They agreed fully with my proposal. Thus, we will have a one day event on Saturday only. Registration will begin in the early morning and the opening Eucharist will follow with the Rt. Rev'd John B. Lipscomb, former priest of this diocese, and present Bishop of Southwest Florida, preaching. We will then move into our day, pause for a simple lunch, conclude our business and all will return home before nightfall. Full details and times will come in the convention packet that will soon be mailed.
We must be about the churches business and exercise of ministry regardless of what happens, but again, my concern is the message we send to the church at this time in our lives and ministry. I trust this action will be seen as a step toward good stewardship and sensitivity to those around us.
This comes with my continuing prayers and appreciation for all of you and the vast amount of extra work and ministry that are being carried out at this time.
Faithfully in the God of hope,
The Rt. Rev'd D. Bruce MacPherson
Bishop of Western Louisiana
e-mail: dbm3wla@aol.com, 318-442-1304, 318-442-8712 fax