by Father Jim Warnock
The exciting news this month is the ordination of Jeffrey Boyce, our deacon. Technically, he’s been our “deacon candidate” since he started here, but now we can drop the descriptor. As authorized by the Bishop, he’s been fulfilling the diaconal role all along. Accordingly, nothing much will change on Sunday mornings, except as an ordained deacon he will wear the dalmatic and stole that comes with the order.
There’s never been any question in my mind that Jeffrey has the calling of a deacon. His work with the homeless is evidence of this, as is his concern for All Saints’ involvement in our community. We see this in the continuing provision of dinners for the Veterans’ Camp and in other ways. The Bishop has recognized his calling as well as he has formally assigned Jeffrey to us. Please keep Jeffrey in your prayers as he continues his very valuable ministry here.
We’re continuing to work on the parish hall repairs. We’re getting an estimate from an electrician. This will be forwarded to the Church Insurance Company, and work can begin. Things have been delayed because of Hurricane Ian in Florida. The Company had to hire an independent adjuster rather than send one of their own.
We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. — 1 John 1:3
We’re also working on the property sale. We’ve hired Sonia Grunberg, a Tacoma realtor, to advise us. The Diocesan Standing Committee meets this month at which time they will presumably approve the sale.
Kresha and I are taking vacation in November. We’ll be heading to Ireland on the evening of November 8th, returning on the 19th. We’re going to spend most of our time in Dublin and Belfast with a short trip to Londonderry. My grandfather lived near there before coming to the United States in 1905. This will be our first overseas trip since Covid.
We will have supply clergy on the two Sundays I’ll be gone. The Rev. Blaine Hammond will be here on November 13th. The Rev. Gail Wheatley is scheduled for November 20th. I’m sure they’ll do well and that you will make them welcome here.
You are all in my prayers.