Note: This date, forty-two years ago, being the occasion of my ordination to the Sacred Order of Priests of the Episcopal Church in America, annually, for me, is a time for especial contemplation.
Today, I reflect on some words of the Most Reverend William White (1748-1836), first bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Pennsylvania, first and fourth Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, and second United States Senate Chaplain.
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…(O)ur Lord, after his resurrection, delivered to his disciples the commission – “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature”…In short, it is wished to hold up the idea, that there is no time and no place, in which a clergyman may not perceive an obligation laid on him, to discourse in such a manner as falls under the name of preaching. This, indeed, may be said of prayer also…
In early 2015, I retired from full-time (sometimes also referred to as “active”) ministry. Nevertheless, for my entire vocational life, now, forty-two years and running, I have believed, as I’m wont to say, as long as God grants me breath and strength, I have life to live and labor to do. Thanks be to God!
Endnote: Bishop White’s words, taken from White on Ordination (Stanford and Swords, 1848), Duties of the Ministry, On Preaching, pages 141-142
occasional observations of mind and heart, soul and spirit 
Paul,
Congratulations on your amazing milestone! I pray that your life and labor continues for years to come for all the lives that you touch and the communities that you serve!
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Always, Loretta, I appreciate you and your encouragement.
With gratitude and love,
Paul
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