Gordon Kwong-Sum Lau of Oakland, California, retires

July 02, 2008 [Episcopal News Service] Church of Our Savior in Oakland, California, held a retirement dinner on June 29 to celebrate the ministry of the Rev. Dr. Gordon Kwong-Sum Lau, who is retiring after 24 years as the parish's rector.

Born in China, Lau earned master of divinity and doctor of ministry degrees from Church Divinity School of the Pacific. He was awarded an honorary degree from CDSP in October 2007.

He began his ordained ministry in Hong Kong, then served as vicar of St. James of Jerusalem Church in Seattle. In 1984, he became the rector of the Church of Our Saviour.

He chaired the team that produced a Chinese translation of the Book of Common Prayer (BCP) of the Episcopal Church. His ministry of preaching and teaching has contributed to cultural awareness and helped bridge cultures.