News
Mary Slenski, Assistant to the Rector
This past winter Bishop Breidenthal assigned The Rev. Mary Slenski to Christ Church while she served out the balance of her two-year residency program as a new priest in the Diocese of Southern Ohio. As a resident, the Diocese paid her. That program ended on July 1.
Mary was and is involved in an extensive search for a new call. But out of her love for this parish and ministry in this community, she volunteered to continue working at Christ Church while she continues her search. During her residency Mary was paid for a half-time position, although she worked pretty much full-time. Since our finances do not permit even that level of compensation, in essence Mary is donating her time to us. We are paying her what amounts to an honorarium and she still serves almost full-time. We have agreed to continue this arrangement up to the end of the year.
In addition to assisting with pastoral care, worship, and Christian Discovery the vestry asked me to specifically ask Mary to work with the parish Growth Commission, which is chaired by vestrywoman Peggy Barnes. Mary is responsible for researching best practices, advising the Commission, leading theological reflection, and assisting in implementing plans. If you are interested in how we might better invite people to visit Christ Church, provide generous and genuine hospitality, and assist folk in discerning the ministries to which Christ might be calling them, then speak to Peggy Barnes or Mary Slenski.
It’s been a long time since Christ Church has had the experience of two priests on staff. What may sometimes be confusing is the difference in roles between a priest and the Rector. We share equally the ministry of priest within our community (along with Bob Dwight, Chuck Watts, and Gordon Price, as they have offered.) This is what we model on Sunday when we share the officiating, preaching and presiding at Eucharist. Mary uses my office when it’s available. Hers is upstairs, not air-conditioned during the week, and is distanced from phone and the rest of the staff. But, the role of Rector is mine. She assists in my absence and at my request.
Hold Mary and her husband George in your prayers as they discern where God is calling them next to serve God’s church. And please join me in thanking Mary for the gift of her time and talents to the people of Christ Church.
--John Paddock
Kickoff Breakfast for Christian Discovery
Christian Discovery will kickoff the 2010-2011 year with a carry-in breakfast on Sunday, September 12 at 9:00 a.m. to begin the new year. This breakfast is for the entire congregation since Christian Discovery is for children and adults. Come learn about all the educational offerings that will begin on September 19. All are encouraged to bring a breakfast dish to share. After breakfast the teachers will take their students upstairs to see their classrooms. The Rev. John Paddock will bless those who are teaching during the coming year during the 10:30 service. We look forward to seeing you on September 12.
Christian Discovery for Adults
Sunday mornings 9-10 am
September 19-November 21
Worshipping in the Anglican Tradition:
The Book of Common Prayer
The BCP (Book of Common Prayer) is far more than just a compilation of sets of words Anglican’s use for worship. This fall we’ll immerse ourselves in this particular treasure for Christian living the Anglican Way. Are you ever at a loss for the words to explain what Episcopalians believe about the Bible, or marriage, or death and dying, or what comes after? These and the questions you bring will shape our exploration. We’ll look at history and organization but more importantly, the ideas and theology that shape it. And, as text from 1979, it has some shortcomings. Most sessions will include 15- 20 minutes of lecture or presentation followed by table discussion with the BCP in our hands. While this course is running, we will also be using the BCP for our Sunday worship. Click here for a more expansive course description.
