Message from Mary: Blessings

I attended the Safe Church class early last month and in a taped video session, Bishop Curry reminded us that “we are who we are because of whose we are.” Take a second and think about that. I did. Many of the blessings I’ve received began flowing through my memory, one after another. Regardless of the conduit through which each blessing arrived, each has clearly been a gift from God.

I began thinking about blessings and people. My paternal grandmother, Lois, came to mind. She taught me the commandments, how to treat others and how to pray the Lord’s prayer. I knew her life had been rough – Dad told me some of her stories. She and my grandfather raised three boys through the depression and then lost the eldest in a tragic accident at age 17. Although I didn’t realize it until much later, she taught me about walking in faith and then showed me how.

Now, fast forward to 2001 when I was introduced to the Rev. Karl Ruttan at a co-worker’s memorial service. Nearly three years later I recognized the pull toward God through St. John’s. After confirmation, I truly had no expectations. My hope was simply to be a member, assist in ministries, and worship with kindred spirits. God, apparently, had other ideas. In 2020, Donna Hamra suggested that we run for vestry, as in “Let’s do this!” So, of course, who can turn down Donna? I had no idea what was coming, but it was clear change was afoot. Three years later, and I am ever so grateful for the opportunity to have served on vestry and as Senior Warden. To my fellow vestry members, especially the hand-holders, thank you for your support, discernment and steadfast belief in the love and future of St. John’s.

To the members and friends of St. John’s, I thank each of you for your good work throughout this time. Thank you for all the times you’ve stepped up and stepped in to support this wonderful community!