Rector's Warden Report: June 30, 2022

Every time I spend time with another staff member or a parishioner at St. Martin's, I find a new treasure. And the treasure chest gets bigger and fuller. We may have been acquaintances or even friends for 20 years and as we talk during this transition season, I'm discovering and re-discovering the depth of your gifts and love for each other and God. As beautiful and healthy as you were six months ago, many of you are blooming even more during this transition time at St. Martin's.

I see people sharing their hearts and spirits in new and refreshing ways. Jim Littrell's kindness has rubbed off. We're looking at each other with fresh eyes and attitudes and it's been joyful celebrating each other.

Our world is different than it was 2+ years ago. As we are re-connecting at St. Martin's while seeking an Interim Rector, I see smiles and cheerfulness that we couldn't see in each other during the pandemic. We also still see violence and illness, as well as SCOTUS decisions that leave us scared and heartbroken. However, those with joy are leaning into those who are not so happy. The joyous are respecting and honoring those who are fearful that their spirits and God's love is waning or that they may have never been loved by God. However, while God's love may feel bleak at times, it truly remains. I am seeing people reach out to each other to re-assure each other that God's love remains and our spirits don't break. I am very grateful for these treasures.

Speaking of the Interim Rector Search, we interviewed a candidate who appeared to be a very good fit and then withdrew his application. We are waiting for more applicants. We are confident the right one will come soon enough. Our prayer from the Prayer Team last week focused on patience and it's a good time to practice what we preach. Let's enjoy our transition time together with an eye toward fabulous results. While we do this work, let's have fun along the way.

In gratitude,

Barbara Thomson

917-687-5298