In Gratitude for the Rt. Rev. Rayford B. High, Jr. Assistant Bishop of West Texas

Dear Friends in Christ,

On Tuesday, August 1, the Rt. Rev. Rayford B. High, Jr. will retire as Assistant Bishop of the Diocese of West Texas. For the past two and a half years, Bishop High has faithfully served our Diocese, and assisted me, in ways far larger than his part-time status. He has brought joy, wisdom, and encouragement to every Sunday visit during his time with us - plus his good guy’s white cowboy hat. His children’s sermons, fishing stories, and handwritten notes of gratitude to clergy and lay leaders after those Sunday visits have achieved near legendary status, and he has contributed greatly to the re-energizing of our diocesan Small Church Ministry.

I am so grateful for Bishop High’s cheerful and steady service to the churches of West Texas and for the friendship and ministry we have shared. Long before his unhesitant “Yes” in response to my invitation to come and serve in West Texas, he had become a good friend and wise colleague.

While we will all miss his ministry as Assistant Bishop, I’m delighted that he and Ann can now return to the well-earned retired life they had been enjoying, with more time for family and friends. Their own partnership in ministry has been a blessing to us, and to them. Bishop High began his ordained ministry in this diocese in 1966, and we can all rejoice that he and Ann will continue to make their home among us and remain part of the diocesan family.

On behalf of the whole Diocese of West Texas, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant!” Thank you, Rayford, and thanks be to God for you and Ann. May the Lord continue to bless you!

Love in Christ,

+David Reed
Bishop of West Texas