Wednesday, October 18, 2006

Evidence

We had a Celebration of New Ministry here at St. Mary Magdalene about a month ago. I said some vows in my office in the presence of the wardens and the bishop before the service began (the only one that included "so help me God" was the one where I swear obedience to the bishop. Hmmmm.) A good friend preached an excellent sermon, and the bishop read the letter to the parish making me the incumbent. I was also presented with some symbols of my ministry, such as keys, a Bible, canons, water, bread, and wine. A joyous celebration, and many friends were there along with members of the parish.

All went very well until the passing of the peace. Nothing went wrong when we passed the peace, but a man from the back approached me. He looked familiar. But when he said "peace be with you, father," I nearly fell out of my chair - it was a friend from seminary, who happens to live in *Alaska*, who just happened to be at the service.

As it turns out, Dick was on his way through Winnipeg from Alaska to Maine, where he is starting a new ministry.

So I did the Anglican thing, and had him over for Scotch after the service, we caught up, and he was off on his way the next morning.

It's hard to believe, really. It all happened so quickly. But here it is - the evidence. Dick gets first prize. He was the first friend to see me in action here at St. Mary Magdalene, and I've got the picture to prove it.

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4 Comments:

Blogger Elliot said...

[jotting notes]

Anglican thing... heavy drinking... Got it!

Thursday, October 19, 2006 8:28:00 AM  
Blogger Preston said...

Elliot - so long as you are taking notes - the Anglican thing is to enjoy the fruits of God's good creation.

So Dick and I slowly sipped, and enjoyed a single glass each.

Lest people get the wrong idea . . .

Thursday, October 19, 2006 10:26:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi, Preston, I got the news of your moving to Canada a couple of weeks ago. I hope you all are well. Surprised! Dick was there with you!

We all are well with new neighbors in Nichols. Still, Hannah asks about you sometimes, and she is curious about when you will stand up!

with peace,

Joseph, Miriam, Yohan and Hannah

Friday, October 27, 2006 12:02:00 PM  
Blogger Preston said...

Hi Joseph - great to here from you. I checked out your blog, and even thought about leaving a comment, but my Korean is pretty rusty. And whe I say rusty, all I remember is what I should call you in the sacristy - Joo shibonyim. And I probably got that wrong!

Send my best to Nichols folks, especially Hannah and your family. I think of you guys once in a while, and I'm glad to know you're doing well. Say hi to Miriam, Yohan, and Hannah.

Friday, October 27, 2006 12:34:00 PM  

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