Yesterday I had the honor and privilege of participating in the funeral service of the Rev. Barbara Knotts. Barbara was a priest in our Diocese as well as the wife of the Rev. Larry Knotts who is the rector of Christ Church Greensburg where the service was held. Barbara and I were in some classes together in seminary and Larry and I have known each other for almost 20 years. Barbara waged a long battle with Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS) and went home to the Lord on New Years Day. The Church was full, there was a large choir, Archbishop Bob Duncan presided and preached and Bishop John Rodgers participated as well. Bishop Duncan preached a very moving sermon testifying to Barbara’s deep faith and stalwart courage in the midst of her valiant struggle.
Most of the rectors and a good number of non-parochial priests and deacons of our Diocese vested and processed. Four or five clergy from the TEC diocese were in the congregation which to me was encouraging and really not surprising given who they were. They did not go unnoticed by Archbishop Duncan as he acknowledged and thanked them for coming following the passing of the peace. Sadly two TEC clergy who had been quite close to Larry were noticeably absent. It could have been they were out of town, or involved in pressing parish, diocesan, or national church business and couldn’t tear themselves away. One of them, however, is an avid blogger and there were no lack of postings yesterday. Who knows why they didn't attend. Nevertheless, it was a sad day but a glorious celebration of life.
I was sorry I couldn't be there, but I'm glad so many were. Larry and family will remain often in my prayers and thoughts in the days ahead. Barbara did fight long and hard; thanking God for her blessed rest and the words "well done, good and faithful servant."
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