Farewell, Allisyn!

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I write with a heavy heart to let you know that Canon Allisyn Thomas has submitted her resignation as canon for spiritual formation, effective October 31. She has accepted the position of associate rector at St. Bartholomew’s, Poway, effective December 1. Allisyn will take November to rest and care for family.

Canon Allisyn is a long-standing and well-respected, integral part of our diocese having been ordained at St. John’s, Chula Vista in 2000. She served as associate rector there and then went to St. Paul’s Cathedral where she served as sub-dean with wide reaching responsibilities for the life of that community and the diocese. In 2013, she expanded her relationship with the diocese, having formerly served as chair of the commission on ministry, president of the standing committee, chair of the diocesan deputation to general convention, and many other leadership posts as well.

We appreciate her dedication, care and compassion, and spiritual grounding. Her tireless service to this Church is reflected in all she does. It has been a blessing to walk alongside Allisyn as a treasured member of the diocesan staff. We will miss her and wish her the best on her continued journey called life. 

Faithfully,
The Rev. Canon Nancy R. Holland
Canon to the Ordinary
Dear Friends,

It has been a joy to work with Canon Allisyn over the last year. Her liturgical wisdom has graced a number of diocesan celebrations in ways that I could not have imagined. The diocesan staff have all been much blessed by the spiritual depth and breadth she brings to worship, and by her skill and knowledge in the ministry of transition. We will miss her gifts and presence, and pray for abundant blessings in her next chapter!
 
Your servant in Christ,
The Rt. Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori
Assisting Bishop

Dear Friends,

It is with mixed emotions I announce that I am leaving the office of the bishop at the end of October, with the exception of my teaching duties at the School for Ministry through mid-December. After much prayer and discernment, I have accepted the position of associate rector at St. Bartholomew’s, Poway, beginning December 1. This position allows me to return to parish ministry full-time, which is what drew me to the priesthood to begin with. St. Bartholomew’s is a welcoming, vibrant parish and I am honored they have asked me to serve there.   

At the same time, leaving the bishop’s office is bittersweet. I have been blessed beyond measure for the many opportunities given me over the last five years as I have traveled throughout the diocese and witnessed firsthand the tremendous, faithful work of the people of this diocese. The work done by the whole diocese is inspiring, challenging, meaningful, sometimes humorous, sometimes sad, but done with heart and care, and I have been fortunate people have been willing to share their faith journeys, experiences and wisdom with me continuously over years. Truly the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego takes seriously the call to be the Episcopal branch of the Jesus Movement in this place.    

Finally I want to thank all the people in the bishop’s office I have had the honor to work with during this time. They have mentored me, supported me, set me straight when necessary, made me laugh, and showed me what is possible when people of different backgrounds and experiences come together with a common goal of being of service.

As we are told, truly all things are being made new and I look forward to this next chapter with all of you!

Blessings,
Allisyn 





If you would like to wish the Rev. Canon Allisyn Thomas well, please send her an email. Stay tuned for party information.




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