Brothers and Sisters,
I am sure that both the Vestry and members of our parish have been extremely elated and somewhat apprehensive for the future of St. Paul's after the selection of our rector, The Very Reverend Robert C. Wright as the 10th Bishop Elect of the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta.
Earlier this week, I conferred with the Vestry about the transition in leadership. We intend to request that the new Bishop appoint The Reverend Charles L Fischer III as Priest-in-Charge during the search process. During this transition, the responsibility for the internal administrative functioning of St. Paul's falls to the Senior Warden. Fortunately for St. Paul's, we have Vestry who are devoted to this church, a committed and accomplished staff, and many church organizations working hard to make sure we are able to continue God's work in this time of transition.
St. Paul's is a unique and special parish. During this past 10 years, we were called upon by Our Lord to be a part of the development of the next Bishop of the Diocese of Atlanta. God has blessed us. As a parish, we are strong, healthy, and in good condition. Every one of our parishioners-as well as our clergy and staff-are responsible for that fact. We must continue to do our share in serving as a special and powerful congregation within the Diocese and the nation. As your vestry, we will not miss a beat in moving forward as we continue to accomplish God's mission and vision at St. Paul's Episcopal Church. We believe that this congregation will continue to support the Vestry with your prayers and belief in our ability to lead.
We look forward to working with a consultant from the Diocese of Atlanta in establishing an inclusive search process for our next Rector. That process will include the establishment of a search committee, the creation of a parish profile, and continuous opportunities for your voice to be heard during this transition. We will keep you informed through every step of the process.
During the transition process, Fr. Wright's schedule will be as follows:
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July 1-13
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General Convention
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July 14-31
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Vacation
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August 1-September 8
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Regular Schedule and Transition Activities
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September 9
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Final Preaching Service
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September 16
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Homecoming and 10th Year Celebration
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September 30
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Official Resignation as Rector
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We believe that God will provide and will see that St. Paul's Episcopal Church continues to support its feisty seniors, dynamic young people, and energetic youth as we prepare for our future. Our next Rector will be as awesome as our current Rector because of who we are and who we will continue to be as a congregation.
God Bless you all!
Josephine Reed-Taylor
Senior Warden
