The most frequently asked question these days is “How is the search for a new rector going?” The process is continuing although it may not be obvious. We want to thank you for your participation in the parish survey and the focus groups. There were 150 written responses, which demonstrate how many of us care about this place. The information gathered is being tabulated and will be shared with the parish at forums on May 1st at 9 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. At the forum you will also have a chance to share your vision for Messiah in the next five years. Please plan to attend.
The next step, which has already begun, is to compile the information into a profile of our church. After the profile has been approved by the Vestry, probably in May it will be submitted to the diocese. Our profile will be used to inform the diocese and prospective candidates about who we are. Diocesan experts will match prospective candidates with the profile, complete background checks, and verify the application information on each candidate. They will also interview the deployment officers from the applicant’s diocese. All of this takes time and ensures that we get a clean and workable list of qualified applicants.
Meanwhile, the Vestry has approved the Search Committee with Nancy Whitehead as chair. The Vestry and Search Committee will have a joint working retreat in June to prepare for the important work ahead. Then the Search Committee will meet regularly during the summer to assemble information packets, formulate interview questions, and talk with other churches that have completed the process. As soon as the Diocese provides names of potential candidates, the actual search will begin, probably in the fall.
You may wonder what you can do to support this process. First, you can pray. We are in a prolonged process that might challenge our patience, yet we know the Holy Spirit walks with us. Pray for clarity, wisdom, and faith. Secondly, continue to be engaged in the work of Messiah so that our community will remain strong even after Fr. Brad leaves. We are the Church.
In my own life I have noticed lately so many things are changing rapidly. It is crucial for me not to fear in the midst of all the change, for having fear keeps me from being awake and open to the God of love that is giving me everything I need in this moment. So I invite you to join me in this prayer for our journey ahead:
O most loving Father, who wills us to give thanks for all things, to fear nothing but the loss of thee, and to cast all our care on thee who cares for us: Preserve us from faithless fears and worldly anxieties, so that no clouds of this mortal life may hide from us the light of that love which is immortal, and which have made tangible for us in thy Son Jesus. Amen.
Yours in Christ,
Dee Tucker
Senior Warden
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