Dear Church Family:
We are writing to you regarding the search process for a new rector. We will continue to keep you informed as the process unfolds. In February and March the vestry began the initial steps.
On February 25, Bishop-elect Kai Ryan and Canon Blake Rider (Diocesan Deployment Officer) met with the vestry to discuss the various steps involved. The vestry had the opportunity to ask questions and share their thoughts. Following discussion at that meeting, a writing group of the vestry was charged with updating the "parish profile" that was created during the last search.
At its March 18 meeting, the vestry reviewed the revised profile and it is now being finalized. The profile will be used by the committee to discern candidates who have the gifts and interest to serve as our rector. It is also a major reference tool for the candidates themselves to learn about St. John the Divine.
The vestry has received numerous suggestions for members of a search committee and has begun the process of reviewing them. Also at its March meeting, the vestry affirmed that the members of the search committee should represent a cross section of the congregation to ensure that the depth and breadth of our parish would be represented. The final selection and announcement of the members of the 6th rector search committee, including the committee chair, will be made in April, after the newly elected vestry members are seated and have reviewed the proposals. This means that everyone on the vestry, including those elected this week, will be able to fully participate in the canonical responsibility of calling a rector.
Names of potential clergy candidates for our 6th rector will be received by the search committee, and all names submitted from any source will be vetted through the diocesan office before any contact is made with a potential candidate. SJD parishioners will also have the opportunity to submit names for consideration. Once the names have been reviewed by the Diocese, the 6th rector search committee will begin contacting those clergy to ascertain their interest in serving St. John the Divine.
Please keep our congregation in your prayers as we move into the search. We are confident that God will lead us through the exciting days ahead. The next update will come soon.
Jim Loftis, Senior Warden, and
The Vestry of St. John the Divine
