Utah Faith Leaders Bid Adieu to Archbishop Wester

Friday, May. 29, 2015

It is with a great deal of joy and some sadness we hear of the elevation of Bishop John Wester to Archbishop of Santa Fe.  Joy for his special calling and the opportunity to provide a ministry to the Catholic faithful of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe that will bring a great spiritual edification and unity, as he so admirably did here in Salt Lake and Utah. Some sadness because he is such a humble and great leader, who served not only the Catholic Church but all the people of Utah, that we will miss him dearly.  

I have had the privilege and honor to have met and worked with His Excellency, Bishop Wester, soon to be His Excellency, Archbishop Wester, and give thanks for having been blessed with this opportunity. He has provided an example in living his faith and is an inspiration to me in his love for all. He helped in unifying peoples of all faiths and traditions, and was always willing to converse and dialogue to facilitate the continued harmony of everyone. He leaves a legacy with me of walking the talk and doing all he can for the betterment of humankind.  

I would like to express my sincere congratulations and best wishes, and extend my thoughts and prayers always in love and support for many years of continued service to the Catholic Church and to all humankind that he so faithfully serves.

Greek Orthodox Church

Chairman 

The Salt Lake Interfaith Roundtable

Thank you, and thanks be to God for you, Bishop Wester.

Like a shepherd gently leading, sometimes chiding but always caring, you have walked with us in love, calling us to love the little ones and those who are called great, so that, together, we might follow in Jesus’ footsteps. 

And, through your loving care for others, you shared the love of the Church’s chief pastor, the Good Shepherd. 

You have walked in the valley of the shadow, offering hope to all who live in the shadows: Donde no hay camino, Dios ase camino. 

You proclaim light and life because of the Light that shines in the darkness, which the darkness cannot overcome; bestowing blessings on all people regardless of status: “You are beloved children of God!”

You have shepherded us to the table – leaders from all faith traditions and people of all political persuasions – that we might plan and explore new ways to share goodness and mercy. You have graced Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church with your presence, praying and speaking and witnessing ways that we might do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God. And whenever you spoke, it felt like we were beside still waters. 

Thank you for your friendship. Thank you for praying for us. Thank you for your personal words of affirmation and encouragement. Thank you for being a fountain of hope for Norma and me. Your witness and your ministry gave us courage to boldly stand for welcome, advocating for just and humane immigration reform. We will miss you dearly.   

Dear Most Rev. John Wester, in your service to God in the Church, you have carried many titles. You have served as Bishop of the Diocese of Salt Lake City.  Now you are Archbishop-designate of Santa Fe. However, in my heart you are “The Good Shepherd of Utah!” 

May God’s goodness and mercy follow you all of your days.

In and through Christ, 

Pastor

Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church 

I counted them: 60 steps from door to door, across C Street from 1st Presbyterian Church to the Diocese of Salt Lake City offices. 

In fact, our pastoral offices face each other: The Most Rev. Bishop John Wester and The Rev. Dr. Michael Imperiale.

“John” has been a good friend over these years together in Salt Lake City. I have come to know him as one of those authentic Christians who exude the love, mercy and grace of Jesus. Whether enjoying the symphony or a dinner together or an ecumenical event, to share them with John was a delight. 

He has the desire and ability to really be “present” when with others. Although very busy in fulfilling his calling, Bishop Wester never seemed to be “in a hurry.” He always had time to be with you. 

I think with his “trade” to Santa Fe, Salt Lake City deserves not only a faithful and loving successor bishop but at least two “first-round draft choices” as well. :) :)

May the Lord our God bring blessing upon blessing to the believers in Santa Fe as the Lord has brought to us through Bishop John Wester.

All in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,

Pastor

1st Presbyterian Church

Dear Archbishop Wester,

Congratulations on your new ministry assignment.  

We will suffer great loss as you leave, but we are excited about your promotion.

You came to Salt Lake with a strong commitment to shepherd and serve the needs of all of the people; you became an active and vocal member of the Pastoral Team.

Thank you for your fellowship, scholarship, and service. May you be blessed always.

Peace and love,

Pastor

Calvary Baptist Church