Beloved,
What a joy it has been to be with you and encounter God in your midst over the first couple of months as your Interim Rector! I write with a few personal updates regarding some upcoming time away. In addition, I will be offering a forum on October 15 to update you all with planning for my time away as well as on the progress in this season of transition.
First, as some of you know, my partner Carey and I were engaged earlier this year. Our wedding will be this next Saturday, October 7, and I will be away from October 4-14 for this. We are to be married in Savannah, Georgia, where Carey previously lived, and we ask for your prayers while you are at the Parish Retreat or here at St. Mark’s as we enter this covenant and celebrate with family. We will be moving into the Rectory the week of October 15 and are greatly appreciative of the ministry of the wardens, transition committee, and buildings and grounds.
Second, and perhaps more notable for St. Mark’s, I will be attending Officer Training School with the Air Force from October 23 – December 23 at Maxwell AFB in Montgomery, Alabama. In my brief time at St. Mark’s, I have heard of some of the history of your ministry with a local reserve battalion, and it is such a blessing. These two months will also be a time to step up for St. Mark’s in a special way, just as you have previously when a priest has transitioned or been on sabbatical. I’m thankful for the planning of your staff team and their commitment to you and to the Gospel for this time. I know you will be looking for how to help and support them as well. I will return just in time for Christmas here at St. Mark’s, which brings joy to my heart!
As I remember you in my prayers each day, I’m thankful to God for the gift of your presence and ministry here at St. Mark’s. See you Sunday!
Yours,
Nick+
