Update from Senior Warden John Whitley

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

I hope everyone is having a great summer. It has really gone fast!

When we read this verse from Proverbs, we are assured that with God’s help and your help, St Andrew’s will prosper and continue to grow. We are truly blessed to have so many committed staff members and volunteers. As we move toward the fall there is a lot of activity getting ready to start at St Andrew’s. I wanted to send out another communication to keep you all updated on some of the many happenings in our parish. I would ask each of you to look for ways to serve in one of our many ministry opportunities. I hope you find this information helpful.

• Vestry Members for 2019: We will be electing four new vestry members in December. Please let any vestry member know if you are interested in serving in this capacity.
• Parish Discernment Introduction: We invite all parishioners to join us for the start of our Parish Discernment. We are offering the same information at three different times: 7 PM Sept 25; 10 AM Sept 26, and between services on Sept 30. Caroline Black will be leading our discernment process. Caroline recently retired from our diocesan office and is now using her years of expertise as a consultant. The vestry hired Caroline to lead us through this process. From my business background, I usually roll my eyes when I hear the word consultant. But after spending an evening with Caroline, I was extremely pleased at her insight and understanding of what it takes to make a strong parish, and I look forward to her facilitation as we move forward.
• Safe Church Training: On Saturday, Sept 22, St Andrew’s will host Safe Church Training, which is required for some volunteer positions here at St. Andrew’s and strongly recommended for others. Information and requirements can be found online here.
• Stewardship Campaign: Our stewardship campaign this year will be titled “Abundant Blessings”. Many thanks to Randy and Susan Bryant for leading our campaign again this year. The Bryants along with Saint Lee, Virginia Darden, Mary Waddill, Bill Wilds, Anne Kirchmier, and I make up our Stewardship committee. This year’s kickoff will be on Sunday, Sept 23.
• Diocesan E News: Want to know more about our Diocese? You can register online for the Diocesan E News at http://www.diosova.org/. In the top right hand corner, enter your email address and you will receive confirmation that you are registered
• Volunteer Opportunities: Here at St. Andrew’s, we have many opportunities for you to become involved in our ministries and activities. Please reach out to me or any member of the Vestry if you would like to help. My contact information is john.whitley@cox.net or 757-469-1351 (cell).

Blessings!

John Whitley, Senior Warden