People of Grace - A New Year's Reflection

Dear friends,
 
Last year held significant transition for me and for Grace Church. I first visited Grace just under a year ago, on January 21, 2018. Since then I have been surprised and delighted by those who serve so faithfully, whose presence and generosity have helped us put down roots and grow together. I am grateful for the bulletin folders, budget updaters, Eucharistic Ministers. I am so glad to serve alongside the Vestry and PMC members and give thanks for our Tribe leaders, offering counters, Streets of Seattle servers, and flower team. I am grateful for the adults who care so well for our children, for the youth leaders at Grace Camp and Camp Resurrección, for the people who clean our kitchen without being asked, and for those who maintain our labyrinth and flower beds. I thank our pastoral care team, those who offer rides to our elderly parishioners, those who share music and study Scripture and poetry, and those who pray together at Grace week after week. So much vibrant activity has been just under the surface at Grace throughout this year.

In the midst of it, I have also been fortunate beyond measure to serve alongside Grace’s creative, committed employees, past and present. In 2018 Valerie Reinke, Ann Strickland, and Julie Davis shared their many gifts and open presence with us week after week, taking our youth to Mount Vernon, meeting with parents, playing music inside and outside, and hosting a full and energetic week of Grace Camp. It is a joy to find these three continuing to participate in our community life, even if they no longer work on our staff.  

It was then Grace’s privilege to welcome new staff. Parish Administrator Diane McGrew is capable, kind, efficient, and resourceful. When Krista Webb concluded her able work on Grace’s weekly eNews and website, we welcomed Lindsay Masters, who shares her keen eye, gentle humor, and gifts for language. Kim Cockroft joined us in September, bringing an enthusiastic, insightful, and openhearted perspective to people of all ages. Wendi Olinger has shared her vocal and instrumental gifts along with encouragement and a steady presence. (Please take a moment to say “thank you” to Wendi on Sunday, as her time as Interim Music Director concludes.) On January 13, we will welcome Martin Cockroft as Grace’s Music Director. Through all the change, Eric Matthews continues to attend Grace’s buildings and grounds with devotion and a spirit of hospitality.

During this first month of 2019, please take a moment to share your gratitude with the folks listed above, and with others whose presence, creativity, and good humor bind us together as we journey in faith.
 
With gratitude,
 
 - Wren
 
Photos of Julie, Wendi, and Diane by Ronda Broatch.