Dear friends in Christ, what a wonderful whirlwind Mary Ellen and I have been on.

The Diocese of Southwest Florida is long geographically and powerful spiritually. We have experienced lots of miles and hospitable smiles. In our short time here we have seen (as of this writing) in nine congregations, life-transforming ministries and loving pastoral clergy. I suspect that these congregations represent well the remainder of the diocese. We are so pleased to be here and share in the opportunity to serve Our Lord together with you. God has truly blessed us.

I want to express my huge gratitude and admiration to so many saints in our diocese that have enabled such a wonderful transition for us and a glorious consecration service. I am grateful for the work and energy of the diocesan staff, Karen Patterson and the Standing Committee, the Rev. Michael Basden, Judy Stark and the Nominating Committee, Joan Kline and the diocesan ECW, the clergy of the diocese, the diocesan Worship Committee, the folks at DaySpring, the musicians, multiple choirs and altar guilds. In particular, and in fear of leaving someone out, I want to thank Chuck Miller, Fr. Fred Robinson, Archdeacon Gary Cartwright, Fr. Rich Doscher, the Very Rev. Russell Johnson, the Rev. Canon Gigi Conner, the Rev. Chris Gray, Jackie Robe, Wayne Farrell, Jan Nothum, Bishop and Marcie Lipscomb, and most especially, Mary Ellen. There are so many people involved in making this new time in the diocese special. I have absolutely marveled at the activities, details, planning and achievements. Thank you.

I add one simple reminder. The reason for all of this activity is because we serve the Risen Lord. This is not about me. It is about Jesus Christ. When we forget Him, we lose focus. When we remember Him, we gain reality. Therefore, as a gentle and strong reminder to us and to me, I thank you Jesus Christ.

May our diocese continue to serve Him with gladness of heart. May God bless all of you.

Love in Our Lord,
Dabney T. Smith