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Dear Beloved People of St. Christopher’s,
I write to you today with a heart full of gratitude. Over the past two years, I’ve been deeply blessed to walk alongside you in ministry. Your support, generosity, and faith have been instrumental in shaping my journey as a priest. From the earliest days of my discernment through ordination and beyond, the warmth and kindness of this community have been a true gift. I will always carry the spirit of St. Christopher’s—the hospitality, the commitment to service, and the love for Christ—with me, wherever life may lead.
After a season of prayerful discernment, I’ve accepted a call to serve as the next Rector of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in East Greenwich, Rhode Island. This decision was not made lightly, but over time, it became clear that this was the right next step. St. Luke’s is a vibrant and faithful community, and I feel honored by the invitation to join them in their ongoing journey. This move also represents an opportunity for our family to be in a setting that supports and nurtures the many diverse needs we hold at this point in our lives—spiritually, vocationally, and personally. We believe it is the right place for us in this season.
I understand this news may come with sadness—it certainly does for me. Leaving this beloved community, which has been my spiritual home and foundation, is not easy. But I trust in God’s faithful presence in all our journeys. I also have every confidence in the continued strength, love, and leadership of St. Christopher’s as you move forward.
My final Sunday with you will be June 29th, and I hope you’ll join us for a joyful “Sunday Funday” celebration with water slides, hot dogs, and maybe even a cold beer. St. Christopher’s will always have a special place in my heart, and with deep appreciation I will always remember: “once a Christopher, always a Christopher.”
With love,
Father John+
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