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A CELEBRATION OF THE NEW MINISTRY OF THE REVEREND TIMOTHY W. BACKUS
AS VI RECTOR OF ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI EPISCOPAL CHURCH
On Sunday, July 19th, The Rt. Rev. Philip M. Duncan, II made his last visitation as Bishop of
the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast. He did so at St. Francis parish, and was Officiant and Celebrant for
A Celebration of New Ministry. The choir and music were glorious, with special guest musicians Jack Grimley
and Shelby Smith. During the Induction, members of the Vestry and congregation made presentations of a Bible,
a vessel of water, a stole, a book of prayers, oil, keys of the church, Constitution and Canons of the Church,
and finally, bread and water to Fr. Tim as signs of his ministry with us. After prayers from Fr. Tim devoting himself
to God’s service, the Bishop presented Fr. Tim to the congregation with the words, “Greet your new Rector.”
It was a joyous time. During the service, D. Thompson was received into Communion at St. Francis, and
Sarah McCarren reaffirmed her baptismal vows. Holy Communion was followed with a Post-communion
anthem and prayer. Our newly inducted Rector pronounced the final blessing.
A beautiful reception was held in the Parish Hall, organized by Freida Palmer and prepared and served
by many willing hands. Exquisite flowers adorned the parish hall, and the buffet table laden with a
delicious brunch. A special cake echoed a time of transition, saying goodbye to Bishop Duncan and
hello to Fr. Tim, our new Rector. The Bishop was presented with parting gift: a St. Francis icon,
written by Patricia Resmondo. Cathy Duncan was presented with a framed print of an original
painting by a Pyramid Inc. student.
For parishioners who were unable to attend the Celebration of New Ministry, copies of the video recording
of the service are available to check out and view on your computer or television.
It was indeed a fine day in the life of St. Francis of Assisi parish and an indication of our bright future ahead.
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We welcome you to a place of worship and Christian growth
in the
knowledge and love of the Lord.
Our purpose is to fulfill our mission
to the members,
the Pensacola Bay Area community,
the Episcopal Church,
and to all who enter this holy space.
All are welcome to come and join
the congregation of
St. Francis of Assisi to glorify and praise God.