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Carole Mikita ReportingThe Episcopal Diocese of Utah said farewell recently to a priest known as much for public outcry as he was for his sermons.
Rev. Webster takes his new post as director of media relations for the National Council of Churches next month. 35 Christian and Orthodox faiths make up this organization, which takes a stand on current social issues.
On his last Sunday in Utah, the Reverend Dan Webster spoke to his congregation about his ordination nine years ago, and a charge another priest gave him.
Rev. Webster: "You should always welcome into this church, those who are unwelcome, even those who the council of the church would declare to be unwelcome."
In March 2003 he went to Capitol Hill with a message for the President.
Rev. Webster: "You justify death and destruction in the name of God, and you can't do that, Mr. President."
He took that seriously. As the spokesman for Utah's Episcopal Diocese he has marched in protest of war and urged lawmakers to eliminate the sales tax on food. He is never afraid of controversy.
The Rev. Dan Webster: "There are a lot o people who say, you should stick to religion and stay out of politics. You know, I would if Jesus had, but he didn't. The Hebrew scriptures are full of verses that talk about taking care of those who are less fortunate."
Webster is taking his passion for helping the poor to the National Council of Churches. He hopes to increase the cry about poverty, homelessness, and the environment.
Dan Webster: "I'm gonna let the holy spirit inspire me and then, I'm gonna follow my heart. My motivation may be religion but the purpose of it is justice."
Saying goodbye was not easy, but many told him he made a difference here.
Those of us who have worked with Dan, know him to have a great sense of humor. He told me the one thing he will not miss about Utah is pineapple on pizza. That, he says, is not allowed in New York City.
