Dear People of St. James’: Sharing the Gift of Leadership

Dear People of St. James’,

The Nominations Committee of the Vestry is getting to work, and we want all of you, the people of St. James’, to start thinking about leadership. We invite anyone who may be interested in serving on the Vestry, now or in the future, to take part in the discernment process. We are also looking for delegates to represent St. James’ at Diocesan Council. We look forward to seeing whom God calls to this important ministry of leadership and governance.

In a sermon a while back, I told you how a friend helped me find my voice and see a gift I had not seen in myself. Part of being beloved community is doing that for one another, for the good of the whole. So I ask you to pray, to notice and name the gifts in each other, and to nudge one another to consider sharing those gifts. If someone comes to mind, tell them what you see, and invite them to come with you.

Please join us for one of these informational sessions at the church:

  • Wednesday, October 28, 6–7 pm, Founders Hall
  • Sunday, November 1, 9–10 am, Rector’s Office

We can also arrange a one-on-one conversation with a member of the Nominations Committee. If you’re interested in serving , or if you have any questions, please contact Senior Warden Stephanie Dodoo at or me at .

This is a pivotal time for leadership at St. James’. As we prepare to celebrate 85 years of ministry this December, we are also in the middle of a Master Plan process that asks us to imagine how our buildings and grounds can serve the next generation of ministry at 1941 Webberville. This stewardship season calls us to honor the roots that make us who we are: the cultures, languages, and stories that come together as one body in Christ. At the same time, we are discerning how to keep setting tables of welcome in an Austin that keeps changing around us. I believe the Spirit is calling each of us to be witnesses to God’s greater welcome in this emerging world. Among the people of St. James’ there are way-makers: leaders gifted at gathering and listening, at breaking down barriers to service, and at imagining the path we will walk together.

Here is a helpful document about Vestry service.

Rev. Eileen