From the Stewardship Desk:

As we wrap up the 2020 calendar year, the outpouring of love and support for this special place of worship called St. John's Cathedral is astounding. We have all done our part to keep this community of Christian soldiers strong and fortified to withstand this 2020-2021 Pandemic, called COVID-19. As you found a ministry or activity that spoke to you and kept you plugged into our parish life, here is a list of what I have witnessed:

Each day, much-needed food items for the St. Mary's Pantry fill Ingram Lounge. On the third floor of Cathedral House, helpers regularly meet to fill the "Blessings in a Backpack" bags to serve the community. Regularly, throughout the pandemic, the big, red Blood Mobile has been busy servicing willing donors. Throughout the week, I am touched by the people who busily prepare the altar for several in-person services in the Nave. The choir and its leader are a committed, talented crew who fills Taliaferro Hall and the Nave with weekly inspirational music.

The flower ministry adorns our altar with lovely, meaningful flowers that beautify the church during worship and afterward are delivered to deserving congregants. Each Sunday, faithful acolytes, sanctuary guild folks, lectors, Eucharistic ministers, ushers, clergy, and most especially our congregants attend services. Pastoral Care angels work tirelessly to reach out to those sheltering in place and may feel a bit isolated. Outside the church, evening compline services are offered, a sound bath and yoga classes are taking place. Also, the incredible virtual participation in Zoom prayer groups, worship and morning prayer devotions is reaching people both near and afar. The list is endless, and you have selflessly shared your time and talents both in and outside our church home.

Now, let me talk about your treasure. As I have worked in my newly assigned duties at the cathedral as your Stewardship Manager, I have been one of the first witnesses to the financial blessings that you have given St. John's Cathedral. On behalf of the clergy, vestry and staff, thank you for listening to the call, acting, and making sure this place of worship will be here when the pandemic is over. Because of you, we are just a few dollars shy of last year's annual goal, which is remarkable considering the obstacles surrounding us at home and abroad. To date you have pledged $1,273,418. Thank you for your generous hearts.

Also, when Kate announced that we had an opportunity to help the church qualify for a grant that would match each donation, dollar for dollar up to $25,000, you did it!! We met the match. This two-month campaign yielded just the right amount to help us achieve our financial and operational goals that directly impact our church and our surrounding community. Let me finish with Pledge Plus. With the anticipation of not meeting our 2020 budget due to the pandemic's impact, the Stewardship council created a Pledge Plus Campaign that ran from August through December 2020. Many of you responded and gave a little extra above your 2020 pledge, raising much-needed funds towards our overall goal. God is good! Whether sharing your time, treasure or talent, in small and big ways, our church can look back on 2020 with gratitude and love towards a church community that will most assuredly survive this all-encompassing, world-wide event.

Pam Searcy,

Due to COVID-19 the annual parish meeting will be held virtually. We will meet via a program called Remo that will allow attendees to move freely between virtual tables to greet one another and discuss points raised during the presentation.

Voting for vestry representatives and convention delegates will occur the week prior with a link sent out via email to all eligible voters. All baptized members and confirmed communicants over the age of 16 are eligible to vote. To receive the email with the voting link you need to be sure that the email listed as your primary email address is correct in Realm. If you are unsure of you eligibility, or need help getting logged in to Realm, please contact Devanne Jones by January 21st.

We are so grateful to all who have pledged so generously. Thank you! If you have not pledged, there is still time to do so. Send in your pledge card or pledge online today.

Ida Rivera, Amelia Erwin,

Carole Clifford

Martha Cox

Anthony Oswalt, Will Riggs,

Catherine Towers, Margaret Faulkner

Jarry Chappell, John Haley

Donna Meyers-Perry

Betty Ann McCarty, Addison Kline,

Dot Fentress, Joshua Baugh

John Naugle