Calling Our New Rector

The National Episcopal Church Canons require that ordained priests retire upon having reached the age of seventy-two years old. Notwithstanding his zeal and energy for this work our Rector Lou Hays is approaching this milestone. He has apprised the Vestry of his intention to retire. The Vestry has appointed a Search Committee, engaged Dana Phillips, an experienced and capable consultant, and provided a budget for the process of finding the person who will serve as the next Rector of St. Paul’s.

Two things are paramount in this undertaking:

• In this effort we all seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to help us discern the future direction for St. Paul’s and to find the person who, as our Rector, is best prepared to lead us
• That all members of the congregation participate by providing their input and by praying for an efficient, effective process with a timely and successful conclusion

In the modern history of St. Paul’s rector searches occur infrequently – approximately once every 10 to 12 years. Our society and technology are evolving at an accelerating pace. The logistics of the process change rapidly so we are glad to have a consultant to help us understand the latest methods and norms.

For this search, the Parish Profile will be electronic. When it is posted and we are ready to begin receiving applications members of the congregation can offer names. All it will take to offer a prospective applicant will be that person’s name and email address. The Search Committee will contact the person, provide the link to the Parish Profile and invite them to consider if they feel a call to this position.

Clergy wishing to enter discernment with us can make their interest known and supply requested material via email. To keep the process fair and equal for all candidates this is the only method that will be used.

Other aspects of the search will be done that same way they were accomplished decades ago. The Search Committee will review applicants, make visits and conduct interviews of finalists in-person. Much of this work is understandably confidential in nature. The Search Committee plans to keep the Vestry and Congregation posted on the overall status of the search but must remain silent on the particulars. We ask that parishioners understand and respect this necessity.

Fast approaching is the critical process of engaging the congregation in the process of spiritually guided discernment. A series of gatherings is planned. Every member of the congregation is encouraged to participate in providing input. Opportunities are scheduled so you can pick one that works with your schedule. Attend only one. Each session will be identical in format and procedure. The list of dates and times includes:

• Saturday May 21, 2016 at 10:00 AM
• Sunday May 22, 2016 at 9:45 AM (following the 8:45 Service)
• Sunday May 22, 2016 at 12:15 PM (following the 10:45 Service)
• Tuesday May 24, 2016 at 7:00 PM
• Wednesday May 25, 2016 at 10:00 AM

Each of these will be held at the Church. Each is scheduled to last an hour and a half. The Sunday May 22, 2016 session at 9:45 AM runs concurrently with Children’s Sunday School which will extend to the completion of the session – many thanks to the Director and Teachers! Additional sessions are being organized for seniors for whom mobility is an issue and also for High School age youth. Please participate! It’s difficult to choose a leader until we know where God is calling us.

Any questions? – Please contact either Committee Co-Chair Eileen Sharbaugh (412) 983-2462 or Geoff Hurd (412) 760-7280