Preface
The
Reverend Ralph and his wife Jean Carmichael have been very special friends and wonderful teachers to
many vacationers and permanent residents during summers for more than
thirty-nine years. Father Ralph was Priest-in-Charge of the Church of the
Transfiguration. Jean's diligent behind-the-scenes work on the altar, coffee
hours following the services, and suggestions regarding outreach to
the Adirondack community - and the world at large - helped us to grow
in Christian Responsibility.
Ralph's
insights and teachings challenged us to think critically about our beliefs and to respond
constructively to situations near and far. His own life's journey from scientist,
engineer, theological seminarian, Presbyterian minister, and Episcopal Priest,
with a full measure of musical talent, is indicative of his growth as a person. A
philosopher, scholar, and student of the world around him, he coupled his talents
with a
loving and kind concern for all with whom he came in contact. It has been
a blessing for us all. We were challenged and grew as a result.
This
publication reflects our gratitude and interest in making his teachings
through his sermons available to a wider audience. It will serve as a resource for our own
continuing reflections and meditations. "Understandings," at
the conclusion, is the summary of his religious convictions. The last two sermons in this
collection were delivered in August of 1995. At his request, this publication was
delayed, for he had several things that he wanted included as the result of
his further thought during the period of his final illness. "Christianity
and Other Religions" he delivered on Sunday, August 20, 1995. He died at his Island
on Saturday evening, August 26. The final sermon, "How Shall We
Understand God" was taken from his computer that night and read at
the Sunday service at the Church Of The Transfiguration by Deacon Nancy
Rosenblum, who had grown up in his Parish, St. Andrew's, in Albany, New York.
With thanks to Ralph and Jean, we set his thoughts, delivered at Blue
Mountain Lake and at Chapala, Mexico – and their life’s example – into
print.
Harriet Barlow Tess Clark Virginia
Lawrence
Jan Bartlett
Hall Kirkham
Al Lowe
~~~~~~
Acknowledgments
Thanks to Paul Carmichael, Jane
Bissell, Russell Barrowman, Kabby Lowe and the special congregation at Blue Mountain
Lake for their
guidance, participation, encouragement, and help.
Thanks
also to Connie Blair for her editorial input, and to Ned Landon for preparing the material for
printing. Both Connie and Ned are from Niskayuna, New York, and are members of the
First Reformed Church of Schenectady.
The
Reverend James Brooks-McDonald, Rector of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church,
Schenectady, reviewed the contents and assisted with its preparation.
