Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ,

I'm told that the summary of the Rev. Canon Fletcher Montgomery's remarks to Vestry, which I published last week, were helpful for understanding the transition process. I'm delighted to now report that Canon Fletcher will be here on September 21st to worship and speak with you, as well as to answer any questions you might have.

I also want to acknowledge the great gift and blessing that the Rev. Roger Allee and the Rt. Rev. Robert (Pastor Bob) Schaefer are for St. Nicholas. As you know, Fr. Roger has assisted at St. Nicholas' altar for roughly 13 years and Pastor Bob has, since retiring from St. Stephens, been a frequent guest celebrant and preacher. Both Fr. Roger and Pastor Bob have agreed to act as Sunday Supply Clergy going forward for the weekly celebration of the Eucharist. This provides a rare sense of continuity in the midst of clergy transition.

We also anticipate that several individuals will participate in diocesan training to be licensed as lay worship leaders to officiate at Morning Prayer with Holy Communion. While this primarily represents a "back up" in case ordained clergy are not available, I believe it's also a great development for the spiritual growth of the parish.

I've been praying the Daily Office (Morning Prayer, Noonday Prayer, Evening Prayer, and Compline) for 25 years. It's a tremendous way to absorb Scripture and ground one's day in relationship with our Heavenly Father through Jesus Christ. I cannot tell you how often I've felt the Holy Spirit speak to me during Morning Prayer.

In the midst of change many opportunities are developing because God is not done with Christ's Church at St. Nicholas. We have experienced some great moments together and I'm convinced that the Spirit working through you will do even greater things in the future - and do them with great love.

Be bold in love and service of our Lord!

In Christ's Peace,
Mark Andrew+

"Anxiety weights down the human heart, but a good word cheers it up" (Proverbs 12:25).