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From the Parish Mailbox

Dear Stephen [Stanley], I finally got a chance to send you and Mary copies of the Desmond Tutu address at the 1998 Celebrate Conference in Asheville -- just wanted to send you a little "hello" as well. I am now working for the University of California at Irvine. I have a very exciting job and I'll be travelling to some ecologically famous places pretty soon. If you get a chance, I'd really appreciate a quick prayer for safe travels -- I'll be on quite a few planes over the next six months.

Another reason for this letter is to once again let you know how much I appreciated ECM while at UNC. ECM was constantly a positive force in my life and the experiences I had continue to teach and guide me in my life. Many of the trips, missions, etc. that I took part in were totally covered financially through church "scholarships". I have always been immensely grateful for this. Now, I have a really good job and I would like to contribute something financially to ECM. One of the most spiritually strengthening times for me was at the annual Labor Day Beach Retreat. At least two or three of the times that I went, my expenses were covered by 'scholarships.' I think that the Beach Retreat is an extremely strengthening time for everyone who participates. I would like to donate this enclosed check towards a student's costs at the retreat. Knowing what a positive experience it was for me, I would hate for someone who wants to go to be held back by finances. This is only a small part to help continue the wonderful ministry of ECM, but it's a way for me to participate from a distance.

If, for some reason, the retreat gets cancelled, just add this donation toward any other ECM ministry. Thank you for your prayers and support over the years.

Love,
(an old ECMer!)

An email message to Stephen Stanley:

My name is xxxx and I am xxxx's mother. You and I spoke on the telephone in the fall of 1997, when my son was a freshman.

He was homesick and very unhappy and you rescued him. I will never forget all the kindness, comfort and friendship that you have extended. I knew that once he got involved with the campus ministry he would find a purpose and a place and a way to go on. I also knew that you would be impressed with him, because he is so impressive. I can only marvel at the various talents that I have seen blossom in these past three years. Under your care he has really turned into the man I always hoped he would be. I can't thank you enough.

I also want to congratulate you on 10 years of campus ministry. I hope you know what an impact you have had on those kids. And you must also realize that their families benefited too. Best Wishes.

Notes to the rector:

Dear Stephen,

Between May and the present moment, my life has been caught up in a whirlwind of events: graduation, ordination, house-hunting and starting a new job in a new town. By the second week in September I hope that things will have slowed down to a "normal" pace and I can begin to relax in my new house and office (the closing is 9/6).

All this is to say that this 'Thank You' note should have been mailed to you weeks ago, and I apologize for the delay. I am very grateful for your role in the ordination service as one of my presenters, and also for the beautiful red deacon's stole which you put on me. I realize that this gift was from the entire congregation, so I ask you to convey my appreciation to everyone in whatever way you think best. This is the stole I will wear all year, and when I do so I say a prayer for the Chapel of the Cross. All of you will be with me no matter where I go in my ministry, and the stole represents your continuing presence in my life.

I absolutely LOVE my work at St. Philip's (in Brevard, NC)! I realize that I am still in a 'honeymoon' phase with everyone here, and what a wonderful time we are having together. God has blessed me beyond measure.

In Christ's name,
Arlene [Lukas]

Dear Stephen,

We write to offer our sincere condolence to your nation at this testing time as you come to terms with such a great loss due to the recent terrorist activity. We along with the Church throughout England are shocked by the enormity of the atrocity and assure you of our continued prayers.

We were greatly encouraged by the many hundreds of people who have visited the Cathedral to pray, to light candles and lay flowers. Last Friday we had well over one thousand people for the three minutes silence.

With grace and peace,
Revd Canon Andrew White
Director of International Ministry, Coventry Cathedral

© 2001: Chapel of the Cross