December 24, 2021 / Christmas Eve

Thank You from the Bottom of My Heart

The Rev. David T. Andrew’s Goodbye Post — After eleven years of praying and writing many of the lead reflections for the Weekly eBlast, this week’s reflection is my last.

I wish all members of the Episcopal Church of Saints Andrew and Matthew a blessed and safe Christmas and New Year. Please continue to love and care for one another and to be vigilant as COVID is very much still a part of our lives.

My heart is full as I end my tenure as the Rector of this amazing parish. Last Sunday morning’s worship was magnificent. Thank you to David Christopher, D-L Casson, the SsAM choir and Jonathan Whitney and Friends for a moving fourth Advent liturgy and for Canon Casson’s sermon.

I realize that many hands went into the planning and implementing Sunday’s Goodbye Luncheon. I wish to thank Jenna Christy, Dave and Leslie Clouser and their team for setting up the space and making sure it was safe for all attendees. Thanks to Saundra Johnson and her excellent skills moving the program along with the help of members of the SsAM vestry.

Emily and I were overwhelmed by the many gifts and cards, and we will always remember the carol sing and the blooper video. I so grateful for the contribution to the Center for Action and Contemplation in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The gift to assist with our planned trip to walk part of the pilgrim way (Camino) in Spain is amazing and thank you so much. Finally thank you for the flower bulbs which Emily was able to plant this Tuesday before the cold weather set in. When they bloom this spring, we will fondly remember the community of SsAM.

There is so much more I could say but I think I will stop here. As I leave, please remember to pray for one another and work with the staff so SsAM may continue to be the parish it is and can become.

You will always be in my prayers, and I hope I will be in yours.

Peace and Love,
Fr. David+

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