“God thunders with his voice in marvelous ways, he does great things beyond our understanding. For to the snow he says, ‘Fall to earth,’ and to the torrential rains, ‘Pour down.’ He causes everyone to stop working, so that all people may know his work.” Job 37:5-7

This has been a long, cold January as God prepares the Earth for the miracle of Spring’s blooms. A bright spot appeared this last month when the parishioners of St. Paul’s came together for our 194th St. Paul’s Annual Meeting (in-person and COVID-safe) in McEwan Hall. It included a lovely review of all that our church community has accomplished in 2021 at St. Paul’s, in Albany and around the world! We thanked the vestry members who had completed their 2 terms (Ninni Jacob, Sheila Smith and Terry Tamer) and voted in 4 new vestry members (Eric Chan, LaTanya Dillon, Dan Halloran and Kay Lee). Kate Storms was also voted in as Convention Delegate. It was a warm, welcome gathering of St. Paul’s parishioners in celebration of all the work we have done. As is said in Romans 8:28, “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.”

So, what are the pending goals and objectives now for the members of St. Paul’s? With the calling of Fr. Michael Greene to be St. Paul’s next rector, the Search Committee, and its amazing Committee Chair Sandie Feck, completed its last official act. We now move forward to continue the good work we have been called to do in Jesus’ name, and to gain understanding of any new initiatives we will identify with the inspiration of our new rector. Fr. Mike has already made trips to St. Paul’s Church, meeting with the Vestry/ Search Committee members, and beginning to familiarize himself with St. Paul’s, the rectory, and some of the highlights of the Capital District.

As we await Fr. Mike’s arrival on April 1st, Fr. John Scott will continue to celebrate the Epiphany season and much of the Lenten season (which begins on March 2nd with Ash Wednesday) at St. Paul’s. Our church community has been greatly blessed to have Fr. John with us long-term during this period between rectors. Planning has already begun for the Lenten programs and for the transition that will take place when Fr. Mike joins us. This is an exciting time to be a member of St. Paul’s Church. We continue to move forward, rejoicing for having found our next shepherd while giving thanks and celebrating the fellowship of Fr. John Scott.

“We continually recall before God our Father the things you have done because of your faith and the work you have done because of your love. And we thank him that you continue to be strong because of your hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.“ 1 Thessalonians 1:3

God Bless!

Jeff Vunck

Kelly Dalton