Beloved companions in Christ, 

I write to you today with the bittersweet news that Fred Backhaus, our music director, and Kathleen Blixt, our parish administrator, will be retiring after fruitful and faithful work among us at Saint Peter’s and after decades of service to the Church and the arts. (For those who were not aware, they are married.) Fred and Kathleen are planning to move closer to family on Long Island, and I wish them every blessing in this transition. 

I am tremendously thankful to have had the privilege of serving with Fred and Kathleen. Their professionalism, organization, and generosity of spirit have been exemplary, and they will be greatly missed.  

Fred has helped our choir be “just a little better” each week, and God has been glorified in that ministry. The Choir has been more than a place to sing praises to our Creator, it has been a wonderful place of community fellowship, faith formation, mutual support, and joy.

Kathleen has been a joy to serve with in the church office, and has graciously helped us stay connected, coordinated, and organized.

She's helped countless volunteers, parishioners, and community members connect to the ministries of our parish, and has done so with ease and grace.  

Kathleen’s last day in the office will be next Thursday, May 5, and Fred will conclude his service as our organist on June 12. It is our plan to celebrate their ministry and wish them a blessed retirement on June 12, as part of the celebrations for Trinity Sunday, and the celebration of the program year we’ve had. 

Please join me in prayers of gratitude for their faithful and excellent work among us.

Yours in Christ, 

Matt +

The Rev. Matthew Lindeman, Rector of Saint Peter’s Milford.