Along with decisions regarding timeline and consolidation plans, the St. James vestry is committed to making sure we care for one another in the months to come.
At the top of the list: Stories
— making visible our joy of the past, loss and grief in the present, and opportunities for the future. Toward this end, Neal Cuthbert and Beth Harvey are putting final touches on photos and artifacts for a history wall in the Gallery. Neal is also designing a space for stories. Maybe in the narthex, it will be a place where every one of us is invited to share our St. James memories, gratitudes, and more. Plus, long committed to make room for every voice during this period of transition, Jeanne LaBore is organizing a team to conduct phone interviews with any-and-all who are interested. If you’d like to be interviewed, if you want to do interviews … get in touch with Jeanne,
JeannelaBore@gmail.com
.
Next on the list is our
2020 Stewardship Campaign
. Jim Larson will do some of the background work (in the words of Max Athorn) “to assure our enduring legacy through an energetic campaign, with a theme of transition and investment in our future.” Lots of people depend on the love and generosity of St. James. Assuring our financial health into 2020 is an important way to demonstrate that strength into the future. Watch for your pledge card and for other opportunities to exhibit financial generosity.
Kerry and Vince Nelson are creating an
inventory of St. James personal property.
Our puppets, candlesticks, Haiti library, hymnals. and Godly Play materials. Our organ and bike racks. The Piotrowski Bench and other items endowed by our ancestors. All will have opportunities for new homes when St. James vacates our building on the Parkway. Many items likely will have a new home in our consolidated parish. Others might be a legacy to churches where smaller numbers of us decide to go next. We’ve even heard of consolidating parishes holding a garage sale for members. An inventory will help us make all that happen.
Some years ago, our ancestor I
rene Dahl endowed
us with funds that have made the difference between black ink and red. In the eight months ahead, I’ll work with Treasurer John Heintz and the vestry to assure that our mission and relationships continue to be at the core of our decisions for their use.
And, finally,
A PARTY!
By next spring, we’ll be ready to celebrate. Lots of former St. Jamesians who live nearby — and some who live far away — will be eager to worship, sing, eat and reminisce. It will be one final celebration in our beautiful building, joining together in praise, thanksgiving, and fellowship. Who among all who are reading this right now likes to help plan a party? You know who you are …. please contact Kerry Nelson
kerry1316@charter.net
.
I can’t help but feel energized and proud to be part of such a beautiful community — intent on looking to the future. I hope that’s true for you too!
Ruth Anne Olson
Transition Coordinator
