The Southwest Conference holds in prayer Mrs. Doris Miles and her family. Rev. Dr. Lionel Miles died in his sleep early Monday. Dr. Miles was born in South Africa Nov. 21, 1931. He graduated from Roosevelt University, Northern Baptist Seminary, and Pacific School of Religion where he earned his D.Min. in 1977. Dr. Miles was ordained by the American Baptist Convention on July 7, 1957. Most of his ministry was served in the Illinois Conference of the United Church of Christ. In the Southwest Conference Dr. Miles served as interim minister of Church of the Beatitudes (1994-1995).

A celebration of Dr. Miles's life will be held on Monday, April 2, 11 a.m. at his church of membership, Shepherd of the Hills UCC, 5524 E Lafayette Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85018.