Dear All Saints parishioners,

There is a saying in the Quaker tradition of discernment: Way will open.

I like that. The earliest followers of Jesus were said to be followers of The Way. 

In his book Let Your Life Speak, Parker Palmer recounts a story of a wise old Quaker who said to him, “Parker, I am a birthright Friend (Quaker), and in sixty-plus years of living, way has never opened in front of me. But a lot of way has closed behind me, and that’s had the same guiding effect.” 

My friends, for several months throughout this Mutual Ministry Review, I have been praying and discerning how best to love and serve All Saints. In my heart, and through the caring counsel of wise mentors, I sense that way is closing on my call as rector of All Saints. 

This has been terribly difficult to discern, because I love you all dearly. I have felt your love, support, and prayers. I am proud of much of what we have accomplished and experienced together over the past three and a half years. But now, paradoxically, faithfulness to that call looks like letting go. 

My last day at All Saints will be Sunday, July 13th. I hope to be able to share with you in the coming weeks what is emerging as the next step in my discernment and service to the Church. Martha and Alexa, our Senior and Junior Wardens, have been in communication with Bishop Curry, and will be able to share plans for the interim with the parish in the coming weeks. 

Some may speculate as to why I am leaving. While such speculation would be understandable, I want to be clear that I came to this decision after much prayer, deliberation, and guidance from wise mentors. No one has asked me to leave. 

Even as my call to serve as your rector comes to a close, my love, prayers, and care for you will continue. I am grateful beyond measure for the love you have shown me and my family. 

Grace & peace,