I’m grieving for Jim Kelsey, bishop of northern Michigan, who died suddenly this afternoon, Sunday, June 3rd. I’d only known Jim for about two weeks, first during a trip to his diocese to consider mission opportunities, and then at our joint chapter with our sisters, whose protector he was. Jim was warm, kind, generous; the sort of person who’s immediately loving and who inspires love in return. He was also the least “episcopal” bishop I’ve ever met. He cherished a radical notion of common ministry and refused the adulation bishops tend to attract. This meant that when he did speak with authority, people listened with unusual attention and respect. I pray that his successor will have some measure of his grace and charity. Many will miss him.
May he rest in peace and rise in glory!
