Dear Friends - ALL OF YOU: 

Thank you for everything you did to make my ordination day such a glorious one.  From the lovely flowers gracing the altar to the wonderful reception after the service, you were there, just as you have been for the past three years.  I especially felt your presence, both literally and spiritually, during the singing of the Litany as you responded with such power and conviction, “Lord, hear our prayer.”  At that moment, it was as if all the saints, past, present and future, were behind me, lifting me and my ministry into God’s presence.  I am confident this memory will remain with me, to strengthen me when I need it the most. 

Your love, support and prayers brought all of us to ordination day.  Now God is calling me - and you are sending me - to serve the people of God away from Good Shepherd, the parish that has nourished me so richly for so many years.  Please know that, wherever I serve, my spiritual roots will remain in my home soil of Good Shepherd. 

I give God thanks for your steadfast support in the past and pray that you will continue to keep me in your prayers as I will be keeping you in mine. 

Yours in Christ,