My e-mail box and telephone have been filled with messages
about the recent passing of Bishop Martin McLee, bishop of the New York Annual
Conference. He entered the church
triumphant on Saturday, September 6, while on a leave of absence.
We as a denomination and as individuals are filled with
grief and disbelief as we process the news.
We reflect on the brevity of life but also the amazing impact one life
can have and the awesome work that this bishop was able to accomplish in two
short years.
Bishop McLee was an advocate for justice in his
conference and around the United Methodist Connection. He brought new vision and leadership to the Northeastern
Jurisdiction Multi-Ethnic Center for Ministry.
He handled a complaint around the issue of same-gender weddings with
faithfulness and grace. He preached with
power in speech and song, often bursting into the chorus of a well-known hymn
to accentuate his message.
Bishop McLee was a communicator. Early on I figured out that he was great with
text messages. He always answered. I would text “I am praying for you,” and he
would respond, “It is getting better” or “God is with me.” He was always filled with hope and positive
energy that encouraged us all.
Even during his illness and rehabilitation he looked
upward and trusted in a God who provided for every need. He would frequently address the body as
“beloved” knowing that everyone is a precious child of God, no matter who they
are; and in God’s love he embraced all.
I texted Bishop Martin on
Saturday morning. I thought it was
strange that he did not answer me. He
always answered. Seems that he answered
the call from God to rise up to new life and a higher call in the kingdom of
light.
There is no telling what he
is doing now, gifted with renewed strength and eternal life in heaven. We will
join him someday. But on this day we pray for all who
mourn across our Connection and especially for the New York Annual Conference,
even as we celebrate the living legacy of his leadership in ministry there.
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