Greetings to all, and Merry Christmas! I am absolutely thrilled to be taking the reins as your Senior Warden, and I appreciate the kind words that so many of you have shared.
The first thing I’d like to do is to offer a huge thank-you to Lois Sauer, our out-going Senior Warden. I may be almost a foot taller than Lois, but I could never begin to fill her shoes. It’s enough of a commitment for anyone to serve on Vestry, let alone take on the added responsibility of serving as a Warden. Lois has done all of that and more – serving as Junior Warden during the first two years of her Vestry term, and as Senior Warden this past year. Her commitment, energy and leadership over the past three years are most appreciated.
My family and I began attending St. John’s shortly after we relocated to Wake Forest in 2005. Tori is a lifelong Episcopalian, and has served on the Stewardship Committee and Vestry. While I was a latecomer to the party, I was confirmed at St. John’s. Our two children, Jayne and Tyler, served as acolytes and grew up with the EYC program. Needless to say, St. John’s is an important part of our lives.
Over the years, it has been my privilege to serve in various roles – as a reader and chalice bearer, as Treasurer, as Stewardship Chair, and as a member of the Vestry. In those service roles, I’ve repeatedly witnessed the love, mutual support, energy and commitment of this congregation. Those characteristics offer comfort during difficult times, and energize us to do even more when we’re at our peak.
This past year has been more challenging than any of us could have ever imagined, but we have adapted, and in many ways we are thriving. The coming year will no doubt bring its own twists and turns. Regardless of the situations we may face, I know that St. John’s will be there to sustain each of us individually, and that we will all work together to support St. John’s.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at any time with questions, comments or concerns – I look forward to serving you.
