I believe that beautiful endings often lead to even more beautiful beginnings – and our church has experienced both this past month.

We joyfully celebrated the ministry of our beloved Rector, Winnie, with a vibrant outdoor farewell filled with fellowship, BBQ, and a water slide. We also heard moving tributes to her lasting legacy at St. Luke’s. On behalf of the Vestry, thank you to everyone who helped make the celebration so meaningful through your support and presence. While this goodbye is still tender for many, our church remains strong, and we look ahead with hope to what’s next.

On June 22, we embraced a new chapter with a visit from the Right Rev. Rob Wright and the Rev. Canon Alicia Schuster-Weltner. They led a 9AM forum about the path ahead, including the process for selecting both an interim and permanent rector. They also addressed questions about recent staff transitions and the broader search process. Thank you to all who joined this honest and hopeful conversation about our future.

Bishop Wright then preached at the 10AM service, encouraging us to hold steady and not fear the power God gives us to grow and change. God has been a faithful presence at St. Luke’s for over 150 years—and God is still here. If you missed the service, you can watch or listen.

Watch

On behalf of the Vestry, thank you for your prayers and support during this time of transition - a true liminal, in-between space. It’s natural to feel uncertainty, but one antidote is information. In that spirit, the Vestry is committed to open and consistent communication throughout this period.

Please look out for a new monthly Vestry newsletter and more frequent “pop-up” updates on Sundays. You can also stay informed through our weekly Shepherd’s Notes newsletter, Realm messages, our website, and social media (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube).

Many of you have asked about next steps and how you can help. Here is what we would like you to know:

• Interim Rector Search- The Vestry is actively networking and evaluating candidates for interim rector, in close collaboration with the Bishop’s office. Our goal is to welcome an interim by late summer or early fall of 2025. Interim rectors typically serve for 1–2 years,offering a vital period for healing, reflection, and preparation as we discern the future God is calling us toward.
• Search Committee Formation- We are in the process of gathering recommendations and forming the rector search committee. This diverse team of lay leaders will commit to a dedicated period that includes: gathering parish feedback and information; engaging in deep discernment about St. Luke’s future; networking and interviewing candidates, and ultimately recommending finalists to the Vestry. The committee will be announced in late summer.
• Bring Hope, Honesty, and Prayer- God continues to guide St. Luke’s. Your hope and honesty are gifts—please share your thoughts, dreams, and concerns with clergy and Vestry. Our clergy and staff remain steadfast in their care for this community. Let’s surround them with trust, encouragement, and prayer as they lead us with grace and faith.

In Christ, with gratitude and hope,
Deneta Sells, Senior Warden