Expressions of appreciation often are communicated to us from current grant recipients (SIMinarians), alumni, and donors thankful for the opportunity to invest in future ordained leaders. Attitudes of gratitude, especially when unsolicited and unexpected, indeed magnify and reinforce our sense of mission and accomplishment.
A recent posting on Facebook by Jason Terhune, a SIMinarian at Nashotah House, magnifies our ministry:
"What a blessing SIM is to the Church. Helping people to follow their call into ministry is a ministry itself. Blessings to all who help in this significant effort."
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Jason Terhune and his wife Rebecca, an MTS (Masters Theological Studies) student
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The Reverend Dr. Frank Hubbard magnifies our ministry with his request to Christ Church, New Brunswick, NJ upon completion as their interim rector -- "To recognize Fr. Hubbard's service to Christ Church, parishioners may express their appreciation by donating to one of his favorite organizations: The Society for the Increase of the Ministry. The mission of SIM is to raise funds for Episcopal seminarian support in order to develop well-educated, well-trained and well-formed clergy."
A wise SIM donor and longtime member of ECW (Episcopal Church Women) magnifies our ministry with her assertion that of course women understand SIM's ministry -- "we produce, nurture and rely on the next generation for the longevity of our own families. I am thankful that SIM offers me the opportunity to invest likewise for the Church family!"
Today at the All Saints Day service at Trinity Church in Hartford, we recognize and give thanks for 35 SIM alumni who increased the ministry with over 500 years of service to The Episcopal Church and who in this past year crossed over to that distant shore in a far greater light.
Indeed gratitude magnifies. Our SIMinarians join us in thanking our donors and all who grasp the importance of supporting future leadership in The Episcopal Church!
Faithfully,
