From the RectorDear Parishioners and Friends, Greetings from Texas, where I am attending the annual conference of the Episcopal Parish Network in Houston. I am writing this from the 24th floor of the Westin Galleria overlooking the parking lot of a “small” church with room for about 200 cars. I guess everything is bigger in Texas. Last night, I had the opportunity to sit at table with our new bishop and share a meal and conversation. It was time very well spent, and I got to meet some folks from Trinity Wall Street as well as catch up with my Philadelphia parish’s next door neighbor, who now ministers in southwest Florida. Yesterday and this morning were “pre-convention,” with events tailored to specific groups like rectors and deans, stewardship and finance, etc. There are also events for wardens and vestry, administrators, and more. I would recommend it to anyone involved in church leadership. As in past years, I am joined by our treasurer, JoAnn Hanson, who is here with the Church Investment Group. This conference is also a great place to meet and network. Last night I attended a rectors and deans after dinner reception hosted by the Episcopal Church Office of Development, where I met someone who is eager to continue a conversation that we started about fundraising for St. Mary’s. The meat of the conference begins after lunch today with our first keynote, featuring our own Bishop Heyd. I am looking forward to bringing some fresh insights and learnings back to St. Mary’s, and to getting home to Pete, the girls, and the garden. See you Sunday! Blessings,
Father Rick
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