The Apostle Paul's commendation of "our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church...and a benefactor of many" are apt words for Ruth McElraevy on her May 31st retirement. Benefactor: "a person who gives money or other help to a person or cause." Ruth has been a "benefactor" to the cause of the well-being of The Episcopal Church. For the past 11 years at SIM, and the previous 23 at the Diocese of Connecticut, Ruth has given of her resources and provided help and guidance to seminarians, SIM alumni and donors, executive directors, board members, bishops, financial aid officers, and many Episcopalians across the country. Ruth retired from a true vocation of dedication and commitment to The Episcopal Church. 

 

Following SIM's annual meeting of the board of directors on May 21st, a number of Ruth's beneficiaries gathered at the home of the Reverends Hope and Bill Eakins. People came to show their respect and admiration for Ruth's vast knowledge and genuine care of the church and her people; her dedicated work ethic and trustworthiness; her years of service with deep care; and her special brand of friendship. The evening was highlighted with a surprise retirement gift to Ruth: presentation of a silver tray inscribed with the announcement of the "Ruth McElraevy Annual SIM Scholarship." To have kept the surprise a secret from Ruth was no small feat, and it worked. To everyone's delight, Ruth was deeply touched.

After such an impactful career, Ruth departs with our love, respect and prayers for a joy filled retirement. Ruth will be missed by many and "myself as well."