A Reflection on Pat

My mom informed me last night that my most remembered Sunday School teacher past away last week.

Though I didn’t take the news “hard,” and I hardly ever do since I’m sure of our entering into God’s promise of salvation, I did find myself thinking much of her and what she offered me in ministry.

As a child one of my most vivid memories was with her in class drawing church symbols. She was always kind and I always remember her with a smile. Her husband sang with me in the choir and really made me feel at home when I made the last transition into the bass line. They hosted a very fun choir party… odd the things we recall of our youth.

Just recently, after about 20 years, we spoke again after the ordination of Bishop Barry Clarke. She told me of her illness and was quite moved. I recall my hug and told her my prayers were with her; I could see how difficult this time had been for her and the family. She was very comforted by my prayers, and that moved me very deeply. It’s funny but I still remember her countenance as smiling, joyful, blessed.

She’s fondly remembered as a very influential model of saintly ministry. My prayers go out to the family and all who love her.

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