A Heartfelt Letter from a Former GS Parishioner

Dear Father Tim:

You don't know me, but I feel like I know you. I was born & raised in Sioux Falls and have lived in Arizona since 1975. I was one of the first babies christened at Good Shepherd in 1956, by then Bishop Roberts. My family (parents and us 8 kids) was one those who left Cathedral downtown and built/founded Good Shepherd. My mom (Jeanne Perry Farrell) was forever on the vestry, taught 8th grade Sunday School (in coordination with the rector's confirmation class), and was editor of the state Episcopal magazine (the South Dakota Churchmen) for many, many years.

Zeno Johnson was the first rector I knew, but Bob Wright was priest I knew best. Many an 8 a.m. service on Sunday morning he'd fish me out of a thin congregation to acolyte for someone who didn't show up. When my father (George Perry) passed in 1966 we donated his "memorial" fund for the fireplace down in the basement. At any rate, I digress.

I'm traveling to Sioux Falls at the end of September and thought I would try to attend a service on the 30th. So, I went on the web and read about where Good Shepherd stands with the TEC. I simply had to write and let you to know that I applaud the position you and your parish has taken. I am proud to know that my original home parish feels (corporately) as my family does about the direction of the TEC, and that you are all endeavoring to keep Christ, and the Bible's teachings, at the center of your worship. We are doing the same down here in Arizona at the Christ Church of the Ascension, where we attend. but it has been a mighty struggle. May God bless you. I am praying for you and the Good Shepherd parish. I'll try to get to a service on the 30th, and will try to say hello to you personally if I am there.

By the way, looking at the photo of the vestry, I see that one other "old" GS family (the Lenkers) is still represented. "Billy" Lenker was the baby of the Lenker family and his dad (with the same name) was another of the founding families of the church.

May God's blessing be upon you. Sincerely,

Michael R. Perry