The Rev. Kimberly (Kym) Lucas, bishop-elect of the Episcopal Church in Colorado, writes to the diocese about being diagnosed with stage one breast cancer:
As your bishop-elect, I want to make you aware of a deeply personal, but yet publicly important announcement regarding my health. Last week I had my final consultation appointment where I received my diagnosis of stage one breast cancer. The cancer was detected through a routine mammogram. The tumor was so small that without mammography, it would have remained undiscovered for some time. My doctor told me that while “nobody wants breast cancer, if you’re going to have it, you want it the way you have it: detected early at stage 1.” Detected at stage 1, my particular form of cancer has a 98% cure rate and my oncology team deems my quest to be cancer free by the end of January “entirely reasonable.”
… As Breast Cancer Awareness Month winds down, I find myself grateful: grateful that the Episcopal Church prioritizes preventative care for its employees, grateful that my primary care doctor is diligent in her care for me, grateful that technology makes stage 1 cancer detection possible, grateful for the medical team that cares for me, and grateful for all the encouragement from friends and colleagues who are survivors. I am blessed beyond measure for all of the people in my life who make carrying this load easier.
Pending approval by a majority of bishops and standing committees, she is scheduled to begin her duties on March 15. She will be consecrated on May 18.
Robert Morse, president of Colorado’s Standing Committee, added:
I’m reminded of the passage chosen by the Standing Committee when we first met to pray about and to reflect upon the election of a new bishop. This passage from Jeremiah has served us well during this transition: “For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
We are continuing now with the same confidence and trust in God’s grace and healing power. I invite you to keep Bishop-Elect Kym and her husband Mark and children in your prayers.
A Prayer of Thanksgiving for a New Bishop and for Healing
Holy Almighty God, from age to age you call forth and anoint shepherds to tend your flock. We celebrate your calling forth our new bishop, the Rev. Kym Lucas, to lead us forward in faith. As we joyfully welcome her as bishop, pour forth the gifts from your Holy Spirit to strengthen her for ministry. Comfort and give your power of healing to those who minister to her needs, that she may have confidence in your loving care. Through her faithful response to your call, may she come to know the vibrant faith, love, and support of the people of The Episcopal Church in Colorado.
