Search Committee update

Kristin Johnson

In the last few updates from the search committee, we shared news about the necessary processes we have gone through to begin our work. These have included diocesan training, reviews of our parish profile and the development of an extensive list of thoughtful interview questions and procedures that will help us gather a deep understanding of our prospects.

We are happy to report that, at this time, we have a list of more than fifty prospects from a variety of referrals, and have moved into the next phase of our search which involves research about each one of them. Thankfully, we can learn a lot about our prospects on-line, through their publications, personal and/or church websites, etc. Search committee members are busy at work reading about these individuals and the roles they play within their respective congregations. During the pandemic, most churches began live streaming and recording church services which has created a wonderful opportunity for the committee to view the sermons and preaching styles of any prospects.

We are still in the early phases of the selection process but we are highly encouraged by the number of referrals we have received and the notable experience of these priests. Personally, I have been incredibly moved by the work of this committee and the individuals who serve on it. The thoughtfulness, love and appreciation for the Cathedral and its congregants is profound and it gives me tremendous confidence that we will identify a Dean who exhibits those same qualities.

We are grateful for your patience and continue to ask for your prayers, specifically that the Holy Spirit guides us in this work.

Pastoral Care Corner

Dying in Christ: the end of life in the Anglican tradition

We are Resurrection people, yet talking about death can be hard. You are invited to this three-week series exploring the theology and liturgy of dying, as well as practical information on planning for a funeral. Join us in the Jeffers Conference Room for a light lunch and rich conversation. Wednesdays at 12:15 p.m. Beginning March 1.

Pastoral Care Lunch and Serve

It takes moments of intention and care to bring encouragement to those around us! Come practice with Pastoral Care’s Lunch & Serve on February 5 at 12:30 in the McGehee Conference Room. No previous experience is necessary. We will have a light lunch & brief talk about building a culture of care, and then work on a card sending project to remember in prayer the people on our prayer list and others! RSVP to Claire Soard at csoard@christchurchcathedral.org to ensure we have the correct amount of food and supplies.

Lectio Divina. Using a short passage of Scripture, participants are guided through a meditative engagement with the passage. Lectio Divina is often thought of as a way of listening to the words of Scripture, as if we are in a conversation with Christ, and Christ is initiating the conversation. This is followed by a time of centering prayer, or resting in God. Everyone is invited; you do not have to have any experience with these ancient contemplative traditions in order to join in fully. You’ll receive helpful information about these ancient Christian traditions, and you’ll be led through it all over again each Wednesday evening. And the truth is that human beings are made for this. There’s nothing simpler or more natural than our God-given capacity for contemplation. Many are finding that practicing with others is unusually powerful and provides the support we need to maintain a practice. Participants will arrive with microphones muted throughout the session. All are invited to arrive with their video on, but that is entirely up to the participant. If you are feeling too strung out or exhausted on any given evening,