Dear People of the Diocese of Massachusetts,

On Sunday, June 12, at 5:00 p.m., it will be our privilege to gather as a diocesan community, at long last, for a memorial service to celebrate the life and witness of the Rt. Rev. Barbara C. Harris, who departed this life on March 13, 2020. In the wider church and world, she was known as a courageous pioneer, an outspoken prophet and an indefatigable champion of God’s justice and witness to God’s grace. To us here in the Diocese of Massachusetts she was also for more than three decades our wise counselor, compassionate pastor, and faithful friend. How we do miss her!

Barbara Harris was born on June 12, 1930, which guided our selection of a date for this memorial. It was the date God gave the gift of Barbara to the world, and Barbara always did love a good birthday celebration!

This celebration, long delayed because of the pandemic, will include a memorial service of Holy Eucharist and is open to the diocesan community for limited in-person attendance at our Cathedral Church of St. Paul in Boston, and simultaneous participation at several regional worship sites via livestream. We know that Barbara’s admirers around The Episcopal Church and around the globe are also eager to honor her and celebrate her life, and so we invite them to join us via the livestream broadcast. More details follow below, and as planning continues to develop, any updates in the days ahead will be posted on our website.

Faithfully yours,

The Rt. Rev. Alan M. Gates, Bishop Diocesan

The Rt. Rev. Gayle E. Harris, Bishop Suffragan

Click here for additional information and links to register or watch live stream.