Tribute to a Friend

Thanks to Sr. Mary Dennison, the Founder and Director of the Spiritual Direction Institute at the Cenacle Retreat House in Houston.

• Who, on the threshold of a sabbatical, has shared her wonderful gift of listening and empathy, of clarity and intellect to everyone she encounters
• Who, in welcoming and accepting others, frees their gifts for joyful service and love
  
• Who first told me that my love of reading and study was not weird but a valid spiritual discipline and tool for prayer and growth
  
• Whose dedication and joy in her ministry these many years is not only beautiful but smart and contagious
• Whose Midwestern spunk, good humor, and patience always brings fresh air to the seriousness and judgment of our Bible belt religion
• Whose permission-giving, thought-provoking, and authority questioning gave me the freedom to rethink, discern, and repent
• Who tells the stories of saints and martyrs with reverence as well as friendliness
  
• You have embodied in the classroom and beyond the ideals of my spiritual heritage: "First do no harm, practice doing all the good you can, and stay in love with God."
• Thank you, friend and sister in the Lord, for all you have done for me and for the church we share in Jesus.
• Thank you for inviting me into this safe and healing place, and for all your encouragement in the SDI, in spiritual direction, and as a pastor!

We in the SDI third year are deeply grateful for your bringing us together! What a wonderful gift you have given the church and our city! May your sabbatical be filled with hope and rest and light and life.