July 4, 2010
Rectors Weekly Report

It was nice to have a week of vacation to relax and refresh body, mind and soul. One thing that I am particularly grateful for is that vacations are made much less stressful knowing that the ministry team in place in our parish can step in to provide services during my absences. Many thanks to Rev. Judie, Rev. Ron and to all who contribute to the ministry of worship and service in our parish.

I returned on Wednesday and spent part of the day returning phone messages and answering emails. Catching up on what had happened while I was away. In the afternoon I was pleased to make a pastoral visit in our community. Later in the afternoon I met with
Amber Parsons and Justin Myra as they prepare for the Blessing and Celebration of Marriage here at St. Andrew's on July 10th. I would ask you to keep Amber and Justin in your prayers throughout this week as they prepare to for the sacrament of Holy Matrimony.

As I'm sure many of you did, I likewise enjoyed the July 1st holiday. For me it was a quiet day, no fireworks, just the sun setting over the lake as we sat on the deck at our trailer. We shared the evening with Bishop Ron and his wife Marianne as they joined us for a barbecue.

I was at the hospital on Friday morning and was pleased to visit two members of our congregation who are patients there. While there I ran into our newly declared postulant, Marilyn Hamlin, who was also visiting the sick. As a candidate for ordained ministry to the Vocational Diaconate part of Marilyn's role as described in the Book of Alternative Services will be to: 'Make Christ's redemptive love known, by word and by example, to those among whom you live and work and worship. She is also called to interpret to the Church the needs, concerns, and hopes of the world." I believe this is a ministry to which Marilyn is truly called and look forward to working with her as this role develops for the benefit of our parish, our diocese, and God's world.

This coming week I will be meeting with the Rev. Kyle Wagner who will be with us on July 25th for a celebration of Holy Baptism.
Kyle is the nephew of Bernie and Betty Conrad and the cousin of David Conrad whose son Jack David Conrad will receive the sacrament of Holy Baptism on the 25th. I would ask that you include the proud parents, grandparents and Jack David in your prayers as they prepare for this celebration.

May you enjoy the blessings that summer offers in this part of the world offers.. light and life... some time to relax and be refreshed..... and a chance to stop look and marvel at the beauty that this wondrous creation has to offer.

Blessings
Rev. Mike