| Bishop Paul posted a copy of the
following letter to Dean Lane on the diocesan Internet early on
Sunday, July 31, with the following preface: “Today the Cathedral Church of the Nativity says farewell to Dean Lane.” Dear Bill, As you and the people of Nativity celebrate your ministry today, please know that many of us throughout the Diocese of Bethlehem thank God for your presence and work among us. Many gathered this morning will appropriately note your dedicated ministry as pastor, leader, and friend to the people of the cathedral community. Please allow me to add a few observations from my perspective as your colleague and bishop. From your first appearance at the cathedral, you have consistently and cheerfully reached out to all of us who serve in Northeast Pennsylvania with hospitality and encouragement. You have been present with us and served as our host and friend on many occasions. Under your leadership, Nativity has grown in its role as flagship of the larger diocesan community. I have rejoiced on each occasion when you have welcomed a diocesan gathering with the words, "This is your cathedral." You have consistently been a cooperator and team player, even when that has required you to walk an extra mile. Those of us who live in the Lehigh Valley also know how on your watch the presence of Nativity has flourished in the community. The greatly increased ministry to the south side of Bethlehem has been welcomed by many. Your stand for the poor and for the powerless on countless occasions has been an expression of commitment to the ministry of Christ that no one is capable of forgetting. Community and political leaders know that the people it is easiest to forget in our community have a friend and advocate in you. You actions and your words have been consistent congruent – on your watch the cathedral has taken the dramatic step of giving away its two largest collection of offerings each year – a faith-filled and compassionate act to which I know of no parallel. You have shared with us your passion for Christianity in Palestine, broadening our awareness of our community with other Anglicans and connecting us in ministry with those who very literally walk in the footsteps of Jesus on a daily basis. On the personal level, like many throughout the diocese, I have found you to be supportive, wise and most valuable of all, encouraging to me and our colleagues. Your presence will be sorely missed even as it has been greatly valued. As you and Beverly move on to what God has next for you, may you both be kept in peace and the knowledge that so many of us have known our lives touched by God in a ministry marked by both passion and commitment. Gratefully and faithfully yours +Paul Bishop of Bethlehem Dean Lane's Serman |
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