From the Rector: February 2023
Dear Parish Family,
What a delight to witness the wonderful turnout for our annual parish meeting on Sunday, January 8th. My thanks to all who were present. The spirit of the gathering was bright and hopeful - with gratitude for where we have been as a parish and enthusiasm for where we are headed together in 2023 (the Annual Report is still available online).
As you may recall, a key part of our meeting was the election of four new members to our Vestry. The Vestry has twelve members, with each new cohort of four serving for a three year term. The timing for this election was important, as our clergy and full Vestry then gathered for a winter retreat the weekend of January 14-15. That time included the passage of a balanced 2023 budget, a mutual ministry review for the Rector and Vestry, plans for advancing our parish strategic plan and a prioritization of program and facility needs in the year to come.
I’m grateful to report that our Vestry is fully engaged in both service and leadership for our parish. Senior Warden Leslie Jarrett and Junior Warden Alex Murchison complement each other well with their strengths and talents, and all members bring a unique diversity of experience and opinion. Wonderfully, all members are fully committed to their personal faith and to the advancement of our Christ-centered mission.
I look forward to sharing developments in the season ahead. In particular, look to hear more about the beginnings of a St. James Tri-Centennial Committee. It’s not too early at all to begin planning for our 300th anniversary in 2029!
I would ask you to keep the good work on the St. James Vestry in your prayers. If you have questions or ideas, I know any one of them would be happy to talk with you.
Jesus invited his earliest followers to “come and see” where he was staying, so as to know him more fully. I invite you to do the same with folks you encounter. Invite them to St. James Parish - to come and see the good things happening here in our midst.
Blessings,
The Rev. C. Phillip Craig, Jr.
Almighty and everliving God, source of all wisdom and understanding, be present with those who take counsel for the renewal and mission of your Church. Teach us in all things to seek first your honor and glory. Guide us to perceive what is right, and grant us both the courage to pursue it and the grace to accomplish it; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
BCP 818
Rector
Director of Communications
Financial Administrator
Parish Coordinator
