Laborers in the Vineyard
Dear Friends,
Much of what is accomplished in terms of the Church’s Ministry, would not be possible without the volunteerism of committed and faithful persons.
For a Cathedral of our size, we have a relatively small staff: our Cathedral Administrator, two custodians and a Director of Music. I will also use this month to celebrate their efforts on behalf of the Cathedral.
At Trinity Cathedral, we have a long and storied history of many persons serving voluntarily with distinction.
Who are the ministers of the Church?
The ministers of the Church are lay persons, bishops, priests and deacons.
What is the ministry of the laity?
The ministry of lay persons is to represent Christ and his Church; to bear witness to Him wherever they may be; and, according to the gifts given them, to carry on Christ’s work of reconciliation in the world; and to take their place in the life, worship and governance of the Church.
To this end Margaret Nartey, a Vestry member, expressed a desire to show appreciation for the efforts of the Choir, Clergy and volunteers. I’m grateful to our musicians and our Priests & Deacons who serve faithfully above and beyond, largely without remuneration. But so do the Wardens, Vestry and various leaders of our Cathedral ministries!
So, I’m declaring October “Volunteer Appreciation Month”:
October 1st we will celebrate the Choir at Mass & Fellowship
October 8th we will celebrate the Clergy at Mass & Fellowship
October 15th we will celebrate all volunteers at Mass & Fellowship.
Please join us in giving a round of applause to our faithful laborers in God’s vineyard!
Gratefully in Christ,
The Very Rev. René R. John
Dean