I am honored by the support you have already shown me in this role of serving St. Mary’s, and I thought it would be in the same spirit that I provide you with a brief introduction.
My husband, Dave, and I came to St Mary’s in 2016 from St. Andrew’s in Saratoga where we were members for about 30 years. I vividly remember the warm welcome we received from a Welcomer who greeted us at the door of St. Mary’s. That same feeling is one of the reasons we returned to attend church services regularly and became active, pledging members. Eventually, I joined the Altar Guild, Welcome Team, Connections Team, and Prayer Shawl ministry. Dave served on the vestry at St. Andrew’s for two terms, including Building and Grounds, and for now prefers a soft role here at St. Mary’s. Prior to the pandemic he was a part of the CSC team of devoted volunteers.
Kristine’s calling to St. Mary’s helped solidify our commitment. Soon she invited me to consider being on the vestry, and from there I was asked to chair the Re-entry Team. When she invited me to be the Sr. Warden, it seemed a natural progression of my commitment and support for her and her calling. This role is indeed a leap of faith for me but I am excited and eager to do a good job for us and our broader community.
During this Covid-19 pandemic, the strength of our community shows in the number of attendees at our Sunday services, coffee hour and many other online opportunities being provided by our clergy and volunteers. Although not ideal, we have held together and I feel we’ve grown closer which will make our in person reunion even more joyful.
Looking forward, I see communication and innovation key in sustaining St. Mary’s and its ministries as we deal with the many challenges facing churches and our broader community today. I hope you will call me or Kristine if you feel there is something calling you to be a part of the future of St. Mary’s.
Stay safe and well.
Fran Foote