Vestry News & Review:
A reflection on Radical Welcome by Beth Capell,
member of the Vestry
An important part of being on the Vestry is the spiritual practice with which we begin each Vestry meeting (as well as the parting prayer). The Rector usually leads us in this practice. In March, we heard a moving presentation from Gabe Avila about the power of radical welcome that St. Martin’s offered to him, as well as the importance of that radical welcome in our lives, most particularly in this cultural moment. At St. Martin’s when we say, “all are welcome” we mean it. And we don’t only mean it, we try to act on it by including newcomers in the many ministries of this parish. Many come to us in spiritual pain, and simple inclusion can be the first step in healing.
We spend lots of time on Vestry talking about budgets, trying to balance our hopes and goals with the reality of the dollars that come in. (One departing Vestry member said he never expected to spend so much time on balance sheets. The pandemic years were tough years for church budgets generally and here at St. Martin’s.) To each and everyone who contributes financially, either through pledge or plate, thank you for keeping our doors open for worship and more.
As Elise Keddie said earlier this year, a taskforce has been working on discerning our capital needs, including the stained-glass window project and more as we look ahead to an always uncertain future. More to come on that in the coming months.
One of the nice things we have started doing in Vestry is recognizing the many parishioners who contribute their time and talents. This gives the Vestry members a chance to practice gratitude and to learn about the many things parishioners work on. At the March meeting, the Vestry recognized Carla Harris and the Communion bread-baking team as well as Carole Hom and the Sacred Ground team. We hope those who are recognized for their efforts know how much they are appreciated.