Wednesday Word from Rev. Grace

Thanks to all who completed the survey about children's ministry. We received 36 responses, evenly split among parents of children currently in the program, parents of past participants, and people who have never participated.

It is no surprise that there is a lot of love for St. Thomas children’s ministries. We love the welcoming and inclusive environment, the joy children experience in being part of St. Thomas, and opportunities to participate in worship. When asked to rate the importance of each of our children’s ministries (Acolytes, Shine Time, Children Chapel, etc.), almost all of the responses said high or very high in importance. People also love the traditions associated with children’s ministry, particularly those that involve children in worship. The only activity with a somewhat mixed response was children’s choir.

Clearly, Erin Redden has built a wonderful community of children and parents over many years at St. Thomas. We all owe her a huge thank you, and we plan to thank her in several ways. See below for details and join us on June 25 to say a hearty thanks be to God!

We also want to thank Katie Buckley for serving as children’s ministry assistant for the past several years. Katie recently married and has taken on more responsibility at her school, so is also stepping aside. Katie and Erin have been a good team, and we are grateful that they both will continue to be part of St. Thomas.

Our vestry recognized a need to build on this good foundation. I am delighted to share that we are beginning a search for a full-time Director of Children and Family Ministries. The position will be 30 to 40 hours a week, depending on the candidate’s availability. The goal is to expand this ministry and offer activities for children of different ages.The position will also include oversight of intergenerational parish life activities. For now, we do not plan to include children’s choir as part of this position so as not to limit ourselves to candidates with musical ability. Once our current children’s programs are re-established, we will evaluate where a children’s choir fits.

A detailed job posting will be on our website soon. Please spread the word and encourage people to apply quickly! Please pray for this search. And please join us on June 25 for worship and lunch to celebrate and thank Erin and Katie.

Blessings -
Grac