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A message from the Rector
Yesterday in our staff meeting we gathered around the table in the Glenn Family Center and the five of us (Fred, Michael, Alison, Noël and I) dove into a large stack of worship bulletins that needed our attention. Fourth Advent, Christmas Eve (both times!), Christmas Day, First Christmas (Dec 28) and even the Celebration of New Ministry happening on January 6. We checked spelling, discussed music, strategized the right way to dim the lights for Silent Night, and decided when to turn them back on.
Amidst the flurry of conversation and edits, Noël made a point of leaning over to me to check in about pastoral visits that needed to be made over the coming days. As always, she wanted to make sure no one was forgotten. As always, she offered her own care and time to be sure the visits were made.
Over the last five months, partnering in ministry with Noël has been such a gift to me. She offers gentle help and support, pitches in anytime she is needed, and cheerfully and faithfully serves this parish.
You may have heard her joke that she “flunked” retirement by coming to Trinity, be she is also quick to add what a wonderful experience she has had here. While she could certainly retire at any time, she has expressed an interest in staying at Trinity through our Tricentennial year for all the plans and celebrations that lie ahead, and then “float off into retirement” after that. I only hope that I have her energy and heart after so many years of ministry!
While she will stay on with us for another year, there will be slight adjustments to her schedule. She will be with at Sunday worship once a month (instead of taking once a month off, which is her current schedule), she will lead the Wednesday Eucharist and Healing Service 3 times a month (I typically lead worship the first Wednesday of the month) and she will continue to assist with pastoral care. While she serves in a very part-time capacity, she brings such fullness to our common life.
As we head toward the holiday for which she was named, and as her birthday approaches (Sunday!!), I feel especially grateful for Noël and her ministry among us. Happy Birthday Noël – thank you for your continued example of God’s love in our lives!
With deep gratitude,
Meaghan
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