Our Search for a New Rector
It’s been a while since we’ve gone through the process of searching for a new rector here at St. Philip’s, and many may be unfamiliar with how this process works in the Episcopal Church. We want to keep the congregation updated on what the interim period will look like as we say goodbye to Fr. Mike and begin to imagine what God has in store for us in our next rector.
Below you will find an outline of the many steps involved in searching and calling for a new rector. The process is designed to be intentional and discerning for everyone in the church. While a committee will oversee this process, the involvement of the entire congregation is essential. And we will have the support and guidance of our Diocese throughout the process, especially Bishop David Read and Archdeacon Mike Besson. At this time we are at the very beginning of our search process journey. The overall process for calling a new rector could take 8 to 12 months.
Although this can be an unsettling time for churches, it is an ideal time to reflect on the needs of St. Philip’s in a new rector. Times have changed, people have changed, and the church has changed. We will keep you informed as this process progresses. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
— Sharon Carson, Sr. Warden
Updates from the Senior Warden
We made it through our last Sunday with Father Mike and Cyndy. Such a bittersweet time. Hearts broken to see them go, yet so happy for them in their new adventures. Then this past Sunday, morning prayer. It’s summer and no priest – I expected a very small gathering, but I couldn’t have been more wrong. Both the early and late service had good attendance, and I felt one of the strongest senses of church family I have ever felt.
We are 
all anxious to get the process started in our search for a new shepherd. After consulting with the vestry, Lory Zimmerman has been asked and has accepted the role of chairman of the search committee. Lory recently served on the search committee for our new suffragan bishop and has also recently retired. Thus, she has experience and time to devote to the process. Not only that, she is a faithful, steady, and thoughtful servant, and will lead the committee with an open mind and ear turned to God.
Work will now begin forming the search committee. The senior warden and search committee chair work together, in consultation with the vestry, to form the committee. Many have come forward willing to serve on the committee, and many names have been submitted by others. We will strive to form the most diverse committee possible, anywhere from seven to nine members.
Please keep the search process and those involved in your prayers.
God’s peace,
Sharon Carson
Senior Warden
St. Philip’s Family,
We have good news! During our search process for a new rector, the Rev. Bob Counselman will be our interim priest! Father Bob now serves as a supply priest for two congregations, and is committed to them through the end of June. He needs and deserves a break between the end of June and beginning as our interim; consequently, his first Sunday with us will be July 20th.
At this time, we plan to celebrate the eucharist with a supply priest on June 29th, our first Sunday without Father Mike, and morning prayer July 6th and July 13th. However, please watch for developments in the newsletter as we begin this journey.
God’s peace,
Sharon Carson
Senior Warden