Bishop Timothy Dugas

Daniel Segraves

On October 20, 2017, I wrote the following letter to Bishop Timothy Dugas. Although he is now absent from the body, he is present with our Lord (II Corinthians 5:8). In an attempt to express my love for Brother Dugas, I am sharing my letter with you:

Dear Brother Dugas:

It is with sincere thanksgiving that I express my appreciation to you for your pastoral care during the past ten years.

When Judy and I, along with my mother, moved to this area in 2007, you greeted us in such a way that we immediately felt at home and knew that The Sanctuary would be our place to belong. Although you and Mary were suffering in a way we had not experienced, both of you loved us, demonstrating what it meant to live a life of faith and trust in God. When Mary departed from this present world to be with Christ, you continued to model that life of faith before us with consistent transparency.

Your personal illustration of how to suffer in a way that glorified God, refusing to fall into despair, was such a help to me when Judy was diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer. Your sensitivity to us, your spiritual care, and your visits to our home with your wife Deanna helped us to survive this experience. After Judy passed away, you were there to help me through those dark days. I am so grateful.

Now Susan and I are richly blessed with the privilege to continue to receive spiritual nurture from your ministry. Your ministry is not limited to words, although your words are encouraging and edifying. What you say flows from a life deeply rooted in genuine faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, regardless of the circumstances you have encountered.

Many years ago, when we were in Stockton, Jerry Renison was hospitalized, facing the amputation of a foot. Without planning it, Brother Kenneth Haney and I arrived at his bedside together. As we talked about what his future held, Brother Renison said something that had a profound influence on me. He said, “I guess faith is different things to different people, but for me, faith is knowing that God will do what is right for me.” His words were as if God had spoken to me.

Susan and I are praying for you and your family as you once again walk into a future that calls for trust in God in the face of uncertainty. We know you will show us how we should live as we too confront the unknown.

With Grateful Hearts,

Daniel and Susan Segraves