Dear Editor: I would like to take a moment to congratulate Ms. Jennifer Baptiste, a true model of lay leadership, who was honored for her ministry as a missionary disciple at the diocese’s 50th anniversary of lay leadership celebration (“Diocese Celebrates Five Decades of Lay Leadership,”Nov. 17).

Ms. Baptiste’s dedication to the Church, based in her baptismal call to service, has led Our Lady of Refuge parish and its Religious Education Program to a high level of Gospel observance, fulfilling Our Lord’s mandate to share the Good News, the Gospel.

By her own studies, prayer and constant discernment, Ms. Baptiste has led others by allowing herself to be led by the Holy Spirit. She has taught by having learned from Christ, the Teacher, and she, as every disciple must, has modeled her life on the Cross of Christ in service.

It has been my honor to learn from and work with a woman of such dedication whose leadership has been by example and encouragement, by loyalty and faith.

Thank you, Jennifer. You have my gratitude, my appreciation and my prayers.

FATHER MICHAEL PERRY

Flatbush/Ditmas Park

 

Editor’s Note: Father Perry is the pastor

emeritus of Our Lady of Refuge parish.