Reflections on my first month

I have had a wonderful first month as Priest-in-Charge here at St. Raphael’s. It has been a pleasure to get to know you and to spend time with different groups in our church and in the community. It has become apparent to me that the people of this church love God, love one another, and take genuine joy in participating in the mission God has given us. That is a great testament to you, to the Rev. Helen, and to all the saints who have called St. Raphael’s home through the years. The spirit of harmony here has made my transition into this new role a smooth one.

I am especially grateful for our wardens, vestry, and Finance Committee for their support and guidance; for the Altar Guild, Eucharistic Ministers, and all who quietly serve to make our worship beautiful each week; and for the Daughters of the King, whose faithful prayers sustain this parish in ways we may never fully see. Thank you for your kindness, your encouragement, and your patience as I continue to learn and grow alongside you.

As we move into the fall, I find myself looking forward not simply to a new calendar of activities but to another season of growing together in faith. Beginning in September, we will once again observe the Season of Creation with the permission of our Assisting Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Jeff Lee. While this will be my first experience with this liturgy, I have been inspired by the excitement and care with which so many of you have spoken about it. I especially look forward to worship surrounded by the beautiful hangings created by members of this parish, exploring Tobit’s Trace and to concluding the season with the Blessing of the Animals on St. Francis Day.

This fall will also give us an opportunity to gather around Scripture as we explore Paul’s Letter to the Romans together on Wednesday evenings. Whether we meet in person on Sundays or connect over Zoom during the week, my hope is that we continue to discover that Christian formation is not simply about gaining knowledge. It is about allowing God’s Word to shape our hearts, deepen our love for one another, and send us into the world as faithful witnesses to Christ.

Thank you for welcoming me so warmly into this parish family. I am grateful to be here, and I look forward with hope to all that God has in store for St. Raphael’s in the months ahead.

– Rev. Melanie Yankey