Statement on Wiley-Motes Family Tragedy
March 3, 2009
The people of the United Methodist Church are shocked and saddened to learn of the tragedy that has fallen on the Wiley-Motes family. Kathryn Wiley-Motes was a Bible Study teacher and active lay leader in her church, Living Faith United Methodist Church in Waukegan. She was a former candidate for ordained ministry in the United Methodist Church. Kathy’s commitment to her husband and son was a priority in her life. She fulfilled her call to service through her volunteer ministry in the church and her work as church administrative assistant at the Presbyterian Church in Wilmette.
From Bishop Hee-Soo Jung, Episcopal leader for Northern Illinois:
“It is with great sadness that we have learned of the tragic death of Kathryn, Christopher and Richard. This tragic loss of a family under such difficult circumstances affects us all as we are reminded of the fragility of life. We grieve the loss of Christopher, a young life cut short in a sudden and violent way. We are reminded of the need to work diligently for quality care of those struggling emotionally and with mental illness. We commend these dearly beloved children of God to God’s care.”
From Rev. Oscar Carrasco, Superintendent of the Elgin
District:
(which includes Living Faith UMC)
“I join Bishop Jung in expressing my deepest sympathy on the loss of Kathryn, Christopher and Richard. To our Living Faith United Methodist Church’s congregation and to their pastor, Rev. Melissa Earley, we hold them up in prayer as they deal with the loss of Kathryn, a dear one who impacted and shared with them through Bible Study and leadership. Kathryn’s volunteer service in her church and commitment to her family will be remembered and celebrated as a life in service to Christ and His church.”
