I retired 17 ½ years ago as bishop of the Diocese of Northwest Texas – eighty counties stretching from Perryton to Monahans to San Angelo to Albany to Vernon where I served for 27 years of ministry out on those prairies and loved it. When I returned to my hometown of Fort Worth, I found a diocese in turmoil and sadness. Since then I have been deeply impressed by the faithfulness of many Episcopalians who now compose the Diocese of Fort Worth. Lately we have been mightily blessed by the gracious and devoted ministry of Bishop High and grieve with him the death of his marvelous partner Pat.
Now we are looking forward to the episcopacy of Bishop Scott Mayer. I have known him, his wife, and children for 21 years as an associate rector, rector and Northwest Texas bishop. What a person – faithful, intelligent, a lot of quiet and beautiful simplicity, insightful, strong, and industrious. He is taking on no small challenge but a doable one, and he operates in the Anglican milieu at its best – open, learning, serving. The question for both dioceses must not be, “What’s in it for us?” but “How can we best serve?” How can we carry on the Great Commission, the mission of the Resurrected Christ?”
The entire Church is in a state of flux, and it’s certainly true when one says, “All it takes to be the Church is Jesus and a few people.”
Bishop Mayer will be a good pastor, a good prophet, a good overseer, and a good leader. We have many fine days ahead.
Faithfully,
+ Sam B. Hulsey