Weekly thoughts from the Rector of Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church in Houston, Texas, where these words remind us that Jesus’ peace goes with us into the world.
At Palmer last Sunday, there was a beautiful service of Evensong that was offered to glory of God and also in thanksgiving for the ministry and presence of the Rev. Dub Brooks and his wife Suzanne in our midst. Father Brooks will be the celebrant at our liturgies this morning, after which he will retire as our Senior Associate Rector.
Words are not adequate to express the joy and prayerfulness and priestly collegiality that I have experienced in Father Brooks’ presence across the hall from the Rector’s study. More than anyone else, he has oriented me to the life of God’s people here. For that, I’m grateful. He and Suzanne are also the most fun to sit beside at a party!
Today, however, the party is for both of them. It’s a festive reception in the Parish Hall at 11:15 a.m. And we are all invited, so please join us.
Gracious God, we thank you for the work and witness of your servant Dub, who, through serving as a priest and pastor among us, has strengthened this community of faith and shared his gifts with us. Now bless and preserve him at this time of transition. Day by day, guide him and give him what is needed, friends to cheer his way, and a clear vision of that to which you are now calling him in retirement. By your Holy Spirit be present in his pilgrimage, that he may travel with the One who is the way, the truth, and the life, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
— The Rev. Neil Alan Willard, Rector
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