Thursday July 21, 2022 we gathered as NT-NL Synod, ELCA at New Life in Christ Lutheran Church, Duncanville to give thanks for the life and witness of the Rev. Dorris Harris. Doris served faithfully in our synod for over 30 years most recently at St. Johns-Oak Cliff-Dallas. She was a strong leader in our synod and a fearless advocate for connecting the gospel to the vital work we must do to confront systemic racism in our society and in our church.
We are grateful for the hospitality of NLIC and Pastor Jeff Bergeron. The Revs Nancy and Rod Maeker, good friends of Doris since they first met in the 1980s in South Dallas preached and the Rev. Willard McIver-St. Andrew-Hurst (who served St. Johns in the 1990s) presided at the Eucharist. Other synod leaders came and participated as well in a powerful service and then as pall bearers for the committal liturgy at the DFW National Cemetery (which happens to be neighbors with my PhD alma mater Dallas Baptist University).
We will deeply miss Doris’ presence in our synod. She leaves a legacy of witness and service as well as a challenge to us to continue the work she championed. To have uncomfortable conversations about our assumptions and biases. To prioritize ministry in every part of our territory, including South Dallas. To live out the fruits of the spirit in our lives each day. Blessed be the memory of the Rev. Doris Harris. #NTNL #InMissionTogether