July 12, 2021 

Dear Prince of Peace family: 

I greet you in that name deliberately, as my family and I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love, support, and encouragement you have been providing to me and my family. This is truly what being Church is all about. 

I know life is full of changes and that our church family has been experiencing a lot of changes this year and this summer! Stay strong and rooted in your faith. I really look forward to when I can come back and work with Fr. Michael, Tori Harris and Mo. Unfortunately, I haven’t had the opportunity to do much more than introduce myself and say hello to all of them. I have worked with Fr. Michael on several occasions and look forward to getting to know our new Pastor. It is exciting to have new leadership for our community. I also look forward to Fr. Tom’s return when he fills in for Frs. Michael and Stephen. He was a blessing to work for. As I look back, we have been blessed with great leadership our entire life of our community. 

People have been asking how I’m doing. I am blessed to be done with both chemo and radiation. Everyone is pleased with the progress the treatments have made, but they do come at a price. I am unable to eat solid food presently and must rely on protein drinks. Fruit juices and smoothies have been helpful, but now they’re too acidic. I am presently scheduled to have my surgery on August 19. I am meeting my Surgeon today and will find out more than I want to know about the surgical procedure. I’m not looking forward to the surgery, but God’s grace is rich and abundant. 

Folks are asking if there is anything they can do to assist me and the family right now. We are set for food for now. We will keep the online calendar for food up until after the surgery, as we really don’t know what we are facing during that time.  

I would like to extend my thanks to all of those who provided amazing dinners during May and June. Some of you need to think about working professionally as a chef or caterer. For those who provided rides, you are amazing. I know how far out of your way you had to go to pick me up and to bring me home. Thank you for your generosity. Most importantly, thank you to all those who have kept me uplifted and embraced in prayer. That has been the most important support you have provided me and I beg you to keep those prayers coming. 

I look forward to when I can return to the assembly on Sunday and worship in person with you all!  Fr. Jim would be proud of how well you are singing with a “strong, clear, voice.” When I was at Fr. Tom’s farewell Mass, there were many times I was moved to tears by your singing. You have been missed in the community! Oh well, that’s enough for now. 

Grace, and peace, 

Brent McWilliams