As soon as my husband and I arrived at St. James’ for 10:30am Eucharist in early January of 2015, I knew it was a special place. Halfway through the service, I decided this would be a great place to fulfill my Field Education requirement for ordination. Luckily, Lori felt just as positively about me, and I began my Ministry Internship, making my “debut” on Shrove Tuesday, 2015.
What I have experienced in my 17 months here has far exceeded anything I could have imagined. Lori’s thoughtful mentoring has helped me grow in my understanding of the priestly role and develop a sense of how I want to inhabit that holy calling.
My Lay Committee, consisting of Janet Fischer, Marnie Hartmann, Jeanne Morris, and Kurt Drescher, helped me understand St. James’ history and culture, and I have so appreciated their insights and valuable feedback. The staff and vestry also readily included me and extended me every opportunity to help me learn and grow.
But your welcome, your encouragement and your constructive critique, and your joy in watching me grow has been just as important and just as much of a learning experience. My entire time here has been deeply marked by your trust and affection. I can only hope that wherever I land after ordination, I will be able to have the kind of loving relationship that I have had with this congregation. I am so grateful for all of you, and St. James’ will always have a special place in my heart. I will miss you, and I ask that you please keep me in your prayers.
~Anna Horen