Webmaster's Note: Bishop Mathes has given permission to print his notes to the clergy of his diocese. The Bishop writes regularly to his clergy in order to inform, to teach, to share his joys and sorrows, and to encourage the clergy to likewise share with him. We are grateful to Bishop Mathes for allowing us to share these notes with you.

October 12, 2006

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I am thankful that so many of you attended the Requiem Eucharist for Canon Boone Sadler. Mary Maud and the entire Sadler family join me in expressing gratitude for your tribute to this remarkable priest and friend.

As I looked out on the assembly, I was struck by those who came. It was a moment when those who were divided by theology and recent events in our church came together to remember Boone and to break bread in Christ's name. In a real sense, it was a demonstration of our brokenness as a community as well as our potential for unity. It was what the Eucharistic banquet is supposed to be "a foretaste of the heavenly banquet" where we are surprised by those with whom we are gathered.

As we move from this celebration of Boone's life, may we live ever more into what we experienced that day--a glimpse of unity over division. May we focus on Jesus who is always amongst us beckoning us to be one as he is one with the Father.

I pray that God's blessing will be upon you this week as we do the work that God has given us to do. I look forward to being with you at our annual Clergy Conference. At our closing Eucharist, we will celebrate the Feast of St. Luke and offer prayers of healing for ourselves and our life together.

Pax and agape,

The Rt. Rev. James R. Mathes
Bishop

The Bishop's Homily and the Obituary Notice for the Rev. Canon C. Boone Sadler, Jr.