Smiles and Memories

We will be returning to Montana next May to witness the graduation of one of my former parishioners and give congratulations for the graduation of another. Word of that trip got out and I was asked if I would be willing to preside and preach at Eucharist when we are there. I, of course, said yes.

I have very fond memories of that small church and the people whom I served and am looking forward to the trip.

I shot an e-mail to my former bishop telling him of the trip and asking permission to preside at Eucharist within his diocese (now that I'm elsewhere, it's the proper thing to do). I rather enjoyed my time working with and for him, and I felt that we had a good rapport and friendship. He was, though, for all of his good qualities, a man of very few words. Usually succinct and to the point, he was.

In my e-mail, I sent him greetings, hoped that things were going well for him and the diocese, mentioned the two upcoming graduations, our trip back to Montana, the request to preside at worship service while there, and formally asked permission to do this.

His reply: "Yes."

Some things never change. :-)