Bishop Burton to move to Dallas
This Pastoral Letter was read in churches across the Diocese of Saskatchewan this morning
To the clergy and people of the Diocese of Saskatchewan
Dear friends,
This is a difficult letter to write but I must let you know that I have submitted my resignation to the Metropolitan of Rupert’s Land effective September 1, 2008. I begin that day a new ministry as Rector of the Church of the Incarnation in Dallas, Texas.
I cannot begin to express my gratitude for the privilege of serving with you these past 17 years, first as Dean and, since 1993, as Bishop. Our sense of call to Texas is a positive one but at the same time I felt that it would be an opportunity for the Diocese to be overseen with a fresh pair of eyes, and to enjoy the excitement and momentum a change of bishop brings.
Archbishop Clarke will soon be in touch with our Executive Committee to start the process to elect a new Bishop. The person you will choose to carry this ministry forward will be greatly blessed. This Diocese is well known for the singular spirit of cooperation, good will, and thoughtfulness you bring to the challenges of the day. I have good hope and every reason to believe that God has another fruitful season in store for you.
It was said that St. Paul had a thousand friends and loved each as his own soul, and died a thousand deaths when the time came for him to leave them. I suppose every departing bishop feels something of this sense of loss but I feel it acutely today because of the exceptional generosity and openness of heart with which you have consistently encouraged me. I hope to visit with many of you before we go.
Anna, Caroline, Peter and I wish you God’s blessing as you continue steadfast in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers.
Yours in Christ,
Anthony Burton
Bishop of Saskatchewan
Administrator
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Reader Comments (7)
It was with sadness that we read your letter in church this morning. You have had a great and personal impact on us and our faith journey, as well as on so many in our parish. We are grateful to have had the chance to get to know you, albeit for a fairly brief time.
As our parishioners absorbed the shock of the news, one prayerful and insightful lady was what we think a prophetic voice in the midst of it all. She said that although she, too, is sad, she senses that God is doing something new - she doesn't yet know what, but she is convinced of it and consequently has a deep sense of peace. May her prophetic voice prove to be true as you and your family, and we here in the Diocese of Saskatchewan, set out on a new journey of faith.
In Christian love,
Steve & Julie Golding Page
By the way, I just visited the Church of the Incarnation's website and it looks like you are now the Rector of a small planet.
God bless you Bishop and your family. I don't envy the person who must fill your shoes. It will not be me.
Indeed, further to your comment Steve and Julie, God is always doing "a new thing". Let the prophets speak! We may not always know what God is up to, but He's definitely up to something, and we have ring-side seats!
I pray that our Diocese will clearly discern that "new thing" to which God is calling us. It is good to know that "The Lord reigns." (Psalm 97:1)
We at Church of the Incarnation, Dallas are humbled and awed that God would answer our prayers in bringing your shepherd to us. Many of us were part of a rather large and in-depth intercessory prayer initiative that we feel God led us to undertake. Some of us would echo your view that something "prophetic" is happening, and not just in Dallas. If God has answered our fervent prayers, He will do the same for you. "The Lord will provide." Do know that our same intercessors are praying just as hard for you in Saskatchewan. God is encouraging us all. We feel a bond with you.
Charlotte Rundell,
parishoner, Church of the Incarnation, Dallas, TX