March 11 update regarding Bishop Barbara C. Harris

Bishop Alan M. Gates issued the following update on March 11 to the diocesan community.

Dear Friends,

This is just a brief note to let you know that Bishop Barbara Harris has been transferred to a residential hospice facility.  She is comfortable and receiving excellent care there, and has friends in regular rotation at her side.  I thank you for your prayers which continue to uphold her, her loved ones and her caregivers.

In lieu of visits, your cards and notes are appreciated and can be sent to her in care of The Office of the Bishop, Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts, 138 Tremont Street, Boston MA 02111.

Faithfully,

The Rt. Rev. Alan M. Gates


Bishop Barbara C. Harris was hospitalized on Feb. 29, with serious gastrointestinal symptoms and underwent a corrective surgical procedure on March 1. 

Bishop Alan M. Gates issued the update that follows below on March 7 to the diocesan community.

Cards and notes may be sent to Bishop Harris in care of The Office of the Bishop, Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts, 138 Tremont Street, Boston MA 02111.

Dear Friends,

I write you this evening with an update about our beloved Barbara Harris.

Following several days of stability after surgery last Sunday evening [March 1], Barbara's condition has continued to weaken, and she is now being kept comfortable by the hospital medical team.  She is not receiving any visitors, but all of us hold her in our deepest and fondest prayers.

I will be in touch with you again as soon as there is word to share.

Be present, O merciful God, with your servant Barbara,
and protect her through the coming hours,
so that she who is wearied by the changes and chances of this life
may rest in your eternal changelessness,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer, p. 133, adapt.)

Faithfully,

The Rt. Rev. Alan M. Gates