On January 22, following the Sunday service, St. Brigid’s parishioners gathered for its Annual Meeting. Fr. John led with prayer. The assembly re-elected Evan Davis and Chuck Zerbe for their second term, and new parish member John Kelly, for his first term on Vestry. On the same ballot, Evan Davis was elected delegate, and Jim Baldree alternate, to the 152nd Diocesan Convention (October 13-14).
The report of New Ministry highlighted the meeting. St. Brigid’s achieved accreditation as a Field Education Placement site for Lancaster Moravian Seminary. William Stewart, preparing for ordination to deaconate, has been part of our community since September and will complete his term in April. Taking on a new ministry in such challenging times demonstrates the bold and generous spirit of this community. Lay committee member Debbie Baldree commented on her experience of watching someone learn and gaining from his perspective of the parish. Bill expressed thanks to his committee and everyone in the parish. This new ministry is made possible from a Mission Resource grant from our diocese.
Other reports included our more intentional ministry with the Nazareth Food Bank, and a review of our feedback survey data taken on two Sundays in October. We have welcomed new members this past year who are already actively engaged. Unfortunately we have lost some members as well.
Fr. John remarked on how this parish has distinguished itself with a commitment to spiritual formation, with three programs in 2022. The challenges for this year are “strictly and only financial,” challenges that can be faced and met. Unthreatened by any rancor or division, St. Brigid’s has no lack of warmth, compassion and generosity. The Vestry already has ideas for creative, low labor-intensive, fundraising and fun-raising.
This annual meeting was more of a friendly and fruitful conversation than a pro forma delivery of reports.