Vestry Corner ~ October 2023

At the end of our vestry retreat in August, we went around the room and everyone shared a take-away from our time together. The take-aways included the testimony of our youth, energy, decluttering our space, progress, all talents and perspectives, follow-through, openness, collaboration and gratitude. Our time together was very full and covered many aspects of our parish. We talked about stewardship, worship, gave feedback and more. One of the things I respect most about members of the vestry is their willingness to communicate in an open and honest way so that nothing is left unsaid. I think this openness of communication and honesty has allowed for vestry members to feel connected to one another in a sweet reminder that we are all a part of God’s family. That connection and experience is just one small part of what makes being on the vestry such a unique opportunity. I share this because we are now asking for nominations for the next class of vestry to be elected at our annual meeting on January 14th. Please take a moment to read more about the vestry nomination process in the October Grapevine publication.

In September we were delighted to have Ansley Trask (Children’s Ministries Coordinator) and Cookie Cantwell (Youth Ministries Coordinator) join us to share their experience and thoughts of how we can best serve the young people of St. James Parish. It takes a LOT of time, energy and money to keep these programs running especially as they continue to grow! The children are busy with Sunday morning formation, Vacation Bible School, Children’s choir and the desire for additional programming for our upper elementary youth. The youth program is nonstop with weekly programs including their well attended Starbucks Bible Study and their new Sunday evening gathering Ignite! The youth also has many special events throughout the year including many service opportunities and mission trips! Please keep our children and youth in mind as you make your 2024 Stewardship pledge!

We are now in full swing with our new Sunday morning schedule! Thank you to the Breakfast Teams for continuing to provide a delicious meal starting at 8:30am on Sundays! Please join us for Faith Formation hour by participating in either the Disciples Class or Faith Discussions, both classes are open to all and require no prep work! These groups have worked hard to develop a robust and interesting schedule of topics to continue to grow in our faith.

Please continue to reach out if you have any questions, comments or thoughts.

-Leslie Jarrett (Senior Warden) & Alex Murchison (Junior Warden)