A Letter from Rev. Susan
Dear People of Good Shepherd,
Many of you were present on Sunday April 23 when I announced my upcoming retirement as of June 30, 2023. A number of factors played into this decision, not the least of which is the financial state of the parish. We have simply lost too many parishioners (including most of our larger pledgers), over the past three years, to be able to afford a three-quarter time priest. You are wonderful, kind, faithful, steadfast, generous folk, and I will miss you very much. You can no longer afford me, but I can afford to retire.
At the same time I feel very settled about this decision. It will enable me to spend more time with my extended family in Vista at a time when much tending is needed. I will have served thirty-one years in parish ministry at the time of my retirement, and I am ready for what God has in store for me with more spaciousness in my schedule. I am ready for a different rhythm of life.
Also, I made this decision now because the bishop and staff have been working diligently to find another, more affordable way forward for Good Shepherd – with someone who can work less than three-quarter time. This is in the works. I am so grateful to our bishop for working to take care of all the parishes and clergy in this diocese! You are in good hands with your leaders. This time ahead, though, will require more of you to step up to widen the group of folks who are giving of themselves for the good of the parish and to the glory of God.
I am so grateful for my time with you – four years to the day when I retire (I began July 1, 2019). These four years have been very intense for all of us because of the pandemic and the catastrophic building damage, but it has also been a blessing for me to be YOUR rector during this time, because of who you are. Being in ministry with you, especially your leaders: Ed, Joyce, Larry, Butch, Debbie, Mike, and the whole vestry, has made this a joy.
I will continue to pray for you as I ask prayers for me and my family as we transition into this new phase of life. You will always have a special place in my heart as the most faithful, kind, and generous folks with whom I have served.
Gratefully,
Rev. Susan+