Dear Friends,
After the sabbatical experiences we shared as Vicar and congregation, and a good Summer (which went by so quickly), I am excited about the Fall season before us.  There are special classes and ministry opportunities, strategic planning to discern goals and objectives for the coming years, significant steps forward in Youth Ministry, and the renewal of our lives which is God's to bring when we least expect it.
I have asked our Priest Associate, Father John Duncan, to lead a Strategic Planning process this Fall.  The first step will be the gathering of congregational input on Sunday, September 15 after each service.  As many as possible will be contacted by phone the following week for their input.  A questionnaire will then be prepared for further consideration. 
At the same time, our Youth Ministry Advisory committee is working hard on continuing and strengthening our vibrant Youth Ministry after Jenny Waggoner's departure for doctoral studies at Yale.  They are challenging us all to pledge our support to expanding this staff position , if possible to full-time, and broader focus on Senior High, Middle School, Sunday School and beyond.  Meanwhile, the interim plan for the next two months has Carter Potts continuing to coordinate Middle School ministry and Sally Arcarese stepping into Jenny's position as a volunteer.  Please hold both of them and all our youth in your prayers as we move forward in faith.
Our Sunday School will kick off the Fall offering of age-level classes on September 8.  There are still a few openings for teachers - please see Julie O'Brien, our dedicated Sunday School Coordinator, to offer your help one Sunday per month. 
Special events coming up include the Community September 11 Prayer Service and our October Craft Fair, described within. 
Together and with God's gracious guidance, we will make this a great Fall.  Everyone is needed - see you in church.
Yours in Christ,       Martin