The Rev. Dr. James Reese died on June 17 at age 98; he served over 70 years as a Minister of Word and Sacrament in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.); he lived his life in ministry.
For the Rev. Dr. James Foster Reese (presente!):
for his life and love
for his faith and kindness
for his courage and witness
for his persistent challenge to white supremacy
for his insistent commitment to justice
for his consistent service to Jesus,
revealed in so many ways but particularly
as he ‘refused to leave the table’ where decisions were made
even when he felt pushed to the margins and ignored,
thanks be to God.
For his wife, Neola,
his family,
his friends,
his colleagues in ministry,
his mentees,
and all who knew and loved him,
we ask your comfort, God.
Keep his memory present and alive
as an inspiration and example to us all.
We pray in the name of Jesus
who the Rev. Dr. Reese followed.
Amen.