When I first got back to Christ Church in June 2022, I’ll admit that I expected at least a few people to say “Welcome  back!” More often than not, however, what people actually said was “Welcome home.” It was a fitting reception to say  the least! Coming back to serve at this parish is not an opportunity I take for granted in the slightest. As of this time last  year, it was still unclear whether or not we would be allowed to come back to Christ Church, considering I had already  served on staff here for over ten years. Now, six months into my new role as an Associate Rector, I feel more grateful  than ever to be able to serve at Christ Church again. 

I consider my role as head of pastoral care to be such a privilege. It is a joy to visit with people, whether in their home, at  the hospital, over lunch or in our church office. Getting to know so many of our parishioners on a deeper level and to  pray for them has been one of the highlights of my year. If you (or know of someone) who would appreciate a visit,  please let me know! 

After a long hiatus due to Covid, I’m thrilled to say that our Jail Ministry is up and running again. So far we have a small  group of committed volunteers who help lead a weekly Bible study at the Albemarle County Regional Jail. It’s my hope  that our jail ministry will grow this year, to help develop a women’s ministry and to get more parishioners involved.  Please let me know if you’re interested in volunteering! 

Our Men’s Bible Study is thriving these days. Every Wednesday morning, we host about 25-40 men for a time of rich  discussion and genuine fellowship. After finishing Ephesians, we have recently moved onto the Gospel of John. 

After seven years of discernment and seminary, I was ordained to the priesthood on January 7, 2023. The service was an  incredibly moving experience to say the least! It was an honor to hear our very own Paul Walker preach and to have so many of you in attendance. And it will be such a privilege to perform baptisms, weddings and funerals at the church I  have loved so dearly. Needless to say, it’s good to be back home!