Dear family and friends of Christ Church,

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At our Vestry meeting this month, I anticipate that our leadership will formally elect me as the 20th Rector of Christ Church. This is a moment and demonstration of trust that brings me great joy, personally and vocationally. I believe that God has called me to serve here and now, and am humbled by the (literal) vote of confidence!

 

“Rector” is a title we give to clergy tasked with spiritual and administrative oversight of a particular context, most often a parish like Christ Church. But just what is this whole “rector” thing about? I’ve looked at many different Rector job descriptions over the years. Sitting at my desk this morning, four priorities come to mind as I prepare to make a commitment to this role:

 

1.         Articulate and Lead Toward a Vision

I see as a primary function always looking at the horizon toward which God is calling us, and ensuring we all are pulling in that same, faithful direction. I am particularly sensitive to this priority as we find ourselves (thanks be to God!) in a season of growth. I hope to help us avoid some of the pitfalls of siloed ministry thinking, which can stall progress and turn us away from the life-giving path God has paved for us to walk.

 

2.         Build Up Our Ministry Teams   

I want to continue working to build up our capacity and provide opportunities for members of this community to use Christ Church to deepen faith practice. This involves both plugging new faces into existing ministries, and working with established members to create new ministries.

 

3.         Provide Spiritual Leadership

I take seriously the responsibility to be the CSO (Chief Spiritual Officer) of this community. This involves direct, one-on-one conversations about individual spiritual journeys, and helping equip others to be faith mentors. This also involves a commitment to personal accountability. I continually seek ways to feed my own spirit, trusting that personal health is directly tied to my capacity to support the health of others.

 

4.         Develop & Steward Resources

I am keenly aware of the generations of generosity I am stepping into as the 20th Rector of this special place. So much of what we do here is focused on sharing the Gospel of Christ because we are blessed with resources. As Rector, I look to form trusting relationships in this community that will encourage continued support of our mission and ministries.