Dear Friends in Christ—
In this summer of staff transition at Grace Church, we have been talking a lot about who has been going and who has been arriving. But I want to take this Labor Day weekend to celebrate those who have been here steadfastly all along. Their roles are less seen than our program staff, but they are very much the glue that keeps our work together.
Betsy Bamford has worked in the nursery for many years, and she returned without a moment’s hesitation when I called to say we were returning to in person worship. She’s now joined by Shannon Kelly, and together they create the kind of welcoming environment that teach our youngest members about God’s love in community.
Pedro Hernandez, our Sexton, has served faithfully at Grace for a decade and a half, the unseen hand that keeps our floors swept and turns on our alarm at night. (Pedro’s work is now supported by Ben Strohl, who continues on staff at Grace School but who also joined us this summer as our part-time Facilities Manager.) Pedro is also a member of our congregation and a leader among our La Gracia members—the kind of servant leader that all communities need. His quiet reliability is a gift to us all.
Finally, Amorita Quintanilla, our part-time Sexton, has been a true blessing in this time of transition. She has stepped up to every role asked of her, assisting with our Sunday morning set-up, working temporarily in the office, and even assisting on special projects to prepare our office spaces for new staff. She has started to worship with us, as well, and we are blessed to have her in our community. Her flexibility, initiative, and perspicacity are tremendous blessings. She takes on any job I entrust to her—and I trust her with a lot.
Please take a moment, if you see these staff members, to thank them for their work. And if you don’t see them? Make a point to seek them out. They are terrific people.
Yours in Christ,
Anne+