January 28, 2007

Dear People of St. Philip’s,

Our ministry together, as you know, began with a whirlwind of pastoral concerns— two deaths in the first week. We all pitched in to take care of the needs of families and the burial liturgy. I had to learn a lot of details very quickly—who digs a hole in the memorial garden for the ashes—what do we put them in—how big of a hole is big enough. Many thanks to everyone—the altar set up, the sewing a container for the ashes, bulletins, helping with Ken’s dogs, setting up chairs, finding additional prayer books, digging the hole, preparing and serving food following the service.

The death of Ken Armstrong came as a painful shock to us all and leaves a big hole in our community.

I have been able, from the very beginning, to see this congregation at its finest of caring and serving and have been very impressed. I am delighted to be in the midst of you as your pastor and priest—there is nowhere else that I would rather be. This meeting comes 28 days after my official start date. I would like to add my goals and vision to yours that many of you have expressed to me. The priorities for ministry this year include:

• Developing a ministry to our children with Sunday school and more involvement for them in the worship service.

• Increasing membership and attendance through developing a plan for growth.

• Increasing opportunities for ministry—every areas of our life together could use more people to be a part—let me know what it is that; you have always wanted to do—sign up on the volunteer Help Wanted list.

• Developing a ministry of outreach into the Sulphur Springs community.

I feel very blessed to be called to be here with you. Please feel free to come talk with me—I want to know you and to hear your vision for our life together. 

I ask God's richest blessings on each of you and on this mission.

Vicar Barbara