Dear
Fellow Parishioners,
I am sure that you received word of
Shannon’s possible departure with as mixed and intense feelings as
we did. Please let us share some thoughts with you.
We can take great pride in where we have come under
Shannon’s leadership, but we did it, not the
priest alone, as valuable as that leadership was. We have grown as a parish and
developed exceptionally strong lay leadership in all areas. We can and must
continue to grow and to build for the future. It is pointless to look back,
raise “what-if’s” or sound regrets. We must face the future as a united parish,
and we believe you will agree this is necessary.
When the first building program was completed, we had a
balance to finance after the pledges were paid, as we do now. Remember the
“Burn the Note” campaign? We did it then and we can do it now!
On a more personal note, it will be a sad day for us
when Shannon and Ellen leave, whether this year or sometime in the future. They
have meant more to us and done more than they realize. But like your children
graduating from college and taking their first jobs, it is a bittersweet but
anticipated occurrence.
We became members of All Saints’ in 1961 when we moved
to Tupelo. Within the
limitations of our talents and means we have supported the parish in its journey
into the future. We have taken pride in the growth, physical and spiritual, of
the congregation. If has been an inspiration to see the positive changes in
these forty five years. We can and we will continue in that spirit.
We can face difficulties ahead with grace. Let us join
together in looking to the future, putting aside doubts and regrets, that we may
continue to grow “in they eyes of the world and the sight of God”.
With deep gratefulness for enriching our lives with your
friendship and loving support,
Fred and Katie Bush
