Day 21 - March 17
Josie Hoover and
Kathryn Sparks Carpenter
| Community Connections: |
Hoover: Wesley Theological Seminary Alum M.Div. 2008, D.Min. 2015; Wesley Council Donor; WTS Staff and Adjunct Professor Sparks Carpenter: Wesley Theological Seminary Alum M.Div. 2005; WTS Donor Artist-in-residence 2005; WTS Adjunct Faculty 2006-present |
| Superpower: |
Hoover: Empowerment! Sparks Carpenter: Building Community! |
Optimistic, Encouraging, Devoted, Wise, A Presence,
Big-hearted, Loyal and Fun...Pillar of the Community
~ John 14:27
This Prayer-Dance was performed by Josie Hoover and Kathryn Sparks Carpenter in Oxnam Chapel August 27, 2019, in recognition of Raymond Washington’s Retirement, from 45 years of “ministry” to the students, faculty and staff of Wesley Theological Seminary
Gracious God,
We lift up your servant, Raymond Washington, with gratitude for his [45] years of service in this community. We thank you for his gifts, graces and talents. We thank you for the loyalty he has shown this community of faith and learning where we have learned, through his presence, what it means to be a faithful servant.
Devoted, A Presence, Loyal and Fun… When there was someone, be it a student, staff, faculty or a stranger in need, Raymond’s ministry of presence put us all at ease. When the world was going awry, he created a safe space for all, and we now ask that You give him a space of rest in retirement. Keep him vigorous in body, mind and spirit for the new things that are on the way. Let others be blessed with the wisdom he has blessed us with.
Encouraging, Wise, Pillar of the Community… Dear God, we ask that You continue to bless Raymond’s family; we thank you for allowing them to share him with us. We thank you for letting us watch his children grow and witness the birth of his grandchildren. We thank you for the legacy he leaves within the halls and walls of this institution called Wesley Theological Seminary.
We give thanks today for Raymond Washington: Optimistic, Encouraging, Devoted, Wise, A Presence, Big-hearted, Loyal, Fun and Pillar of the Wesley Community.
In Jesus’ name we pray, AMEN.
