While I was dressing this morning, the light through the oxalis leaves here in the bathroom window had me reaching for the camera. At that same hour a dear friend and mentor, one of the most important people in my adult life, was loosening his grasp on this earthly existence.
Grahame Butler-Nixon, an Episcopal priest and naturalized American citizen, had the most wonderful Australian accent. In June of 1992 he welcomed me to Grace Church in Camden South Carolina, fresh out of seminary, unsure of myself. Fact is, he taught me with patience and love, over the course of the three years I was his assistant, how to be a priest. I owe very nearly every success I enjoyed during my fulltime parish years to him.
A friend wrote in an email announcing Grahame's death that "the loss is almost unbearable." I agree. But, the last two months have been excruciating for Grahame. I, along with many who have walked closely with him this sudden and final illness, are happy that his pain and struggle are finished.
Rest in peace, Grahame.
Grahame Butler-Nixon, an Episcopal priest and naturalized American citizen, had the most wonderful Australian accent. In June of 1992 he welcomed me to Grace Church in Camden South Carolina, fresh out of seminary, unsure of myself. Fact is, he taught me with patience and love, over the course of the three years I was his assistant, how to be a priest. I owe very nearly every success I enjoyed during my fulltime parish years to him.
A friend wrote in an email announcing Grahame's death that "the loss is almost unbearable." I agree. But, the last two months have been excruciating for Grahame. I, along with many who have walked closely with him this sudden and final illness, are happy that his pain and struggle are finished.
Rest in peace, Grahame.
RSS Feed