February 11, 2009

TO:       Christ Church, Hill Country

FROM:  Bishop Lillibridge

RE:        The Future

Dear Friends in Christ,

     It is with mixed emotions that I write to you this day on the status of Christ Church, Hill Country.  I want to begin this letter by commending all of you for your efforts in trying to establish a viable congregation in the Bulverde area over these past few years.  There has been much fine ministry accomplished through the hard work of many people.  One especially bright note has been the relationship between the congregation and St. Jude’s, and for that I am truly grateful.

     I have had several conversations over the last year with both the Fentons and various persons of the leadership team.  More recently, I have had two meetings with Eric about the prospects for the future of congregation.  I met with Eric and Janet this morning.  Painful as it is for all of us, it is very clear that the time has come to bring this effort to a close and see where the Lord will lead as we move into the future.  In addition to a declining attendance, there are huge financial issues that simply cannot be overcome.  In our conversation, it was mutually agreed that I not appoint Eric to continue in this effort, and that his priesthood will begin to take another direction.

     The final Sunday service will be on March 1.  I hope that all who have been a part of this effort will be present to thank the Fentons for their faithfulness, celebrate what was accomplished, and pray for the future for one and all.

      When it was determined that Christ Church, San Antonio, could no longer have active involvement and support for the Bulverde effort, I was open to seeing what might be accomplished if the ministry continued for a season.  In other words, I wanted to give this ministry one more chance to see if this could succeed.  It has been over a year since that decision was made.  By several measures, despite the faithfulness and actions of many, it is apparent that the Lord has something else in mind.

       Please know that I am grateful for all of you and to all of you; and I hope that you will find your spiritual home in another of our diocesan congregations.  You are important members of the diocesan family, and I know that our other congregations would feel privileged to welcome you join them.  Eric will be able to help you with referrals and is willing to contact the congregation of your choosing.

       I know this is a painful letter to receive, even as it is a painful letter to write.  But let our confidence in God be our guide and our hope as we seek the Spirit’s leading in all that we undertake.

                                             Faithfully,

                                             Gary R. Lillibridge

                                             Bishop of West Texas