Clergy Notes — 22nd Sunday after Pentecost, October 20, 2024
For the past few months, the parish of St. James’ has been in a period of transition, which will continue for at least the next several months. In addition to being in an ‘interregnum’ (an interval between permanent rectors), our much-beloved choirmaster and organist, Gerald Harder, has announced his retirement for the summer of 2025. As well, the Trustees are assessing and prioritizing a number of capital projects, which will likely require some significant fundraising efforts.
This is a lot of change all at once! Times of significant change like this may feel quite unsettling for many of us; we may even perceive it as a loss of stability.
Indeed, when I am going through times like this in my own life, focusing on the things that are uncertain; the answers I do not yet have, can certainly feel overwhelming at times. Yet, I also find that when change does come (and it always does!), it is the Benedictine way of life that holds and sustains me. Daily prayer, the Psalms, the Rule of Life, and my Benedictine family, are all reminders that our true stability is in God and in each other.
These reminders of God’s steadfast love, and the stability that comes with prayer and a community of faith, can and will hold the people of St. James’ too.
Over the next few weeks and months, the parish leadership will be keeping you posted as to what steps come next in this journey of change and transition. All who call St. James’ their home will be invited to participate in feedback, conversation, and more. And, as always (especially as we approach Stewardship Month!) your offering of time and talent towards the various ministries of the parish are warmly invited. If you are feeling curious about ways in which you might be able to help, please come and talk to me or one of the Wardens.
As always, I am praying for each and every one of you, and for the parish as a whole. You are so loved, and so precious. May God richly bless each of you, and the ongoing and important ministry of St. James’ now, and always.
Mother Amanda
