January, 2023
Beloved,
I do not know how you feel about 2022, but it came and went in a blink of an eye for me. So much happened in our faith family – grief and sorrow over losses, joy and excitement from all things new, like births, relationships, ministries, and opportunities, anxiety to find a new normal or to face a health scare, and panic over crises. The privilege of serving as your rector allows me to witness many transitions in your life. As I continued my graduate work in gerontology social work and practicum, I also got to meet many people outside the church who were going through similar situations as us. The study of aging involves all generations – not just older adults – because our lives are closely intertwined. I’ve found many common denominators of life challenges happening all around us. However, what struck me the most beyond the common challenges was individual feelings of isolation. Despite the commonality, many of us feel alone in suffering, not wanting to seek help. I don’t know how many times I felt like saying we could feel a sense of relief if we all got together and opened up to share more!?
I remember your senior warden, Sandi, constantly reminding us that we are a team. We help each other out in challenging times.
I am in a huge debt of gratitude to the staff, the Magi, the vestry, and other ministers, and Fr. Roger and Beau for reminding me of my life as a rector, priest, and family man, meaning that no man is an island – I am part of One Body in Christ. You, the St. Paul family, help me grow to be a better pastor, administrator, and human each day though I have a long way to go. I learn more about the person I am becoming through these unique relationships I treasure. Although there were times when I wanted to plug my ears and ignore what you were saying, I always came away glad when I brought myself to receive your wisdom because you helped me realize we are all in this together. I am not alone on this journey because we have each other. While we may not see eye-to-eye on things at times, it gives me immense joy to be with you. I suppose this assurance is what Jesus meant about being One Body.
Vestry and I will guide you to this sense of Oneness through worship, formation, and service as we dive into a new year. It involves each one of you. Whatever obstacle you are going through, you are never alone. Each of you has a unique God-given gift that is a treasure for somebody. So “At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person, each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” – Albert Schweitzer
Fr. Andrew
