I am very excited to announce to you that, at the unanimous recommendation of the search committee, I have hired Will Gotmer as Grace's new Organist and Choirmaster. I cannot tell you how much that Will impressed the entire committee with his professionalism, vision, enthusiasm, and musical expertise. He is a graduate of Westminster Choir College in Princeton, New Jersey. In addition, he will receive his Master of Music degree in choral conducting from the University of Miami in a few days' time.

Will's first day at the office will be June 15, and his first Sunday with us will be June 19. Already, he has incredible plans for summer pick-up choirs, membership drives for the chorister program, and musical offerings for the Fall. A crucial piece of his ministry at Grace will be an integrative approach to the music ministry within the sphere of the creative expression cluster, exploring ways to increase our community involvement and foster a deeper appreciation of choral music and liturgy. His enthusiasm is infectious, and his energy is inspiring.

Outside of music, Will maintains an adventurous and active lifestyle. He is an avid rock climber, both indoor and outdoor, and loves being outside. He enjoys, hiking, camping, running, yoga, and kayaking as well. As a native of Minnesota (the land of 10,000 lakes), he is very excited about living close to a beautiful lake. Will has enjoyed his time in the tropics of South Florida, but is excited to move north.

I asked Will to send a short video that I could include, introducing himself to you all. Although short, I know you will appreciate seeing his face and hearing his voice.

I want to thank the search committee for their hard, prayerful work: Ben Wagner, Cheryl Kelley, Tom and Julie Rossi, Phil Dennis, Reed Shoemaker, Jane Bradley, Dwight Hutchins, Newsom Cummings, and Becky Whitmire gave an enormous amount of time and energy to ensure that we could invite a person whose spiritual gifts would be invigorating to the entire community. I also want to say that I will be forever indebted to Becky Whitmire for chairing the search process. Her commitment and eye for detail were invaluable to me as we entered into this time of discernment and prayer.

As we look toward this new space of development and prayer as a spiritual community, I am so grateful for our shared life. I thank you for your prayers and support during this search process, and I thank you in advance for your welcome of Will as he enters this new space of ministry as a key member of my staff.

Many blessings to you all,

Stuart+