Hillsboro

Off to Hillsboro.

Fr. Tommy arrived at the hotel at 6:50 a.m., for the 40 minute drive to Hillsboro.  As we drove South on 1-25 and then West, toward the looming Gila Wilderness, I was encompassed by the desert. 

It carries a stark beauty and in the early morning thought of the Gospel passage of Jesus in the wilderness for 40 days, tempted, waited on by Angels and returning preaching the Good News.  

The beauty of the desert draws one in, like Jesus and those of the early Christians.  

As we drove in the morning, I had the blessing of sharing the drive with Fr. Tommy.  A true Christian servant I learned of his 30 years in Deming, 10 Years in Wyoming, and now serving St. Paul’s.  He makes the drive from his home in Socorro each week, and is like Preacher Lewis.  Bible in one hand, BCP in another, he makes sure that people are fed for the journey.  I listened to stories about a midnight mass years back in Hillsboro with snow on the ground, a small bonfire outside and strains of  Silent Night filling this small community.  I encouraged him to write his history for our Diocese.  

We arrived in Hillsboro and I encouraged poor Fr. Tommy to stop at each historical marker so that I may learn the history.   As we pulled up onto the hill, I stepped back into time as we entered this beautiful church.  Lights and chairs from the Old Opera House in Kingston (7 miles up the road) fill the Church.   

A small altar and the morning sun shining through the windows - Jesus.  A perfect picture - the light of Christ

7 dedicated Christians celebrated Eucharist at 8 in the morning.  While I love the great music of the Cathedral, the beauty and simplicity of 8 voices singing in praise moves one soul.  

At the conclusion of the Eucharist, a small meeting at the local coffee house with the Hillsboro congregation (I hear the red chile is excellent).  I wish I had enough time to spend with them at the Coffee Shop. I hope they invite me back soon - I am yearning to return.  


(Did you know.....Former Lt. Governor Diane Denish and her husband Herb are dedicated Episcopalians.  They have a home in Hillsboro).


Fr. Tommy and I jump into the car and drive back to T or C for the 10:30 service!