Katie's Bay View

Thanks & Farewells

I can no other answer make but, thanks, and thanks. — William Shakespeare

I must admit, I am a bit relieved when this time of year comes around. It’s been a pretty good year, a good vintage, with many joys and some sorrows, but all in all, we’ve got a vibrant, growing community, and I love it.

But as the church year comes to a close, there will be some changes. Jean Wilcox, our beloved Director of Religious Education, will be leaving us mid-June. In seminary, we were taught the importance of a good good-bye, and yet, it still doesn’t come easy for me. It always seems easier to imagine things continuing on the same as always, even when we know they won’t. Change is the constant of our lives, yet we still struggle with it. I can say this: There will be a profound hole in our congregation where Jean has been, and yet we’re so much better off for her having been with us that I can’t be sorry. We have been enriched by her relationships with our children, their parents, and all the rest of us. We have been blessed by her wonderful ability to tell stories with art and authority. The staff (myself, Caroline Mazur, Julie Newray) has been grateful for her wisdom, inspiration and willingness to share. I sincerely hope you’ll attend worship on 10 June to listen again to Jean, and to say a proper good-bye.

We are blessed to have so many dedicated individuals as a part of this community. Please make it a point to congratulate the recipients of this year’s minister’s award, who are Bill Schwab and Walt Korus. Bill has build up a grand endowment fund for Starr King Church , as well as ministered to some of our elderly members, helping them manage their finances. Walt has dedicated himself to this congregation’s grounds, joining Carol Henrie as co-chair of the Grounds Committee, and giving himself fully to model joyful service with never a complaint.

A real, true thank you to our outgoing board president, Bob Britton, whose experience as a union negotiator kept our church business moving along. His commitment to social justice and church hospitality will continue to remain central in this congregation. And, as tempting as it may feel to ask Bob to join your committee, remember that he may want a few weeks just to breathe and take a moment for meditation. Blessings for the summer. Love, Katie

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