Dear Friends,

You may be surprised to know that January is one of my favorite times in parish ministry.  Full of work on budgeting, reporting, nominating & electing, and planning for the year ahead, there is so much opportunity for rich conversations, dreams, and action!  This is work we do together, and so much of it comes into view during our governance forums and Annual Meeting on the last Sunday of the month.

Last Sunday, we shared the outline of the vestry’s 2026 proposed budget in two forums.  This year’s budget builds on good work, over the past couple of years, developing visibility into the budget process, clearly articulating the dynamics of our financial picture (challenging AND hopeful dynamics), and celebrating the generosity and commitment expressed in a record Stewardship Campaign.  

Now, I invite you to participate in one of the nominee forums this Sunday at 10:15 or at 12:15 in Nativity Hall. You’ll have a chance to become acquainted with our fine nominees and to hear them share a bit about their respective hopes and aspirations to serve this parish community.

2026 Vestry Nominees | 2026 Delegate Candidates | 2026 Budget Presentation

Then comes the Annual Parish Meeting, on Sunday, January 25!  A few things will be different for the day.  We will worship at 7:30, 9:00, (NOT 11), and 1:00.  To make more time for community connection, we’ll share a light, casual brunch in Parish Hall from 10:30-11:30am.  There will be no 11:00 service for the day.  

At 11:30, we’ll begin our one-hour meeting in the nave.  This year, as we continue growing as a diverse parish of “many & one, in the Spirit,” the meeting will be conducted in both English and Spanish.  We’ll elect new members to the Vestry, delegates to Diocesan Council, and members of the Mission Endowment Fund committee.  And, I look forward to sharing the Rector’s Address, reflecting on the year behind us and looking forward with vision toward 2026.

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I also have difficult news to share with you.  After nearly 35 years on staff in ministry to children and families (and so much more), Leslie Sackett will retire this summer. While Leslie and Tim will continue as active members of this parish community, they’ll be discovering new ways to participate and serve with us.

No doubt this announcement will stir many questions.  In the coming weeks, we’ll develop plans to celebrate Leslie and her rich and meaningful ministry among us.  It is important to say “thank you” generously, often, and well.  In collaboration with the Vestry, Personnel Committee, and others, I’ll begin the work of defining a new position for ministry to children, youth and families and setting course for a search process.  (The 2026 budget includes funding for a new role with expanded areas of ministry.)  

For now, please join me in expressing our love and gratitude for Leslie and praying God to guide all of us on the path into new seasons.

With you,
Scott+ 

The Rev. R. Scott Painter, Rector