[Magdalen] The last day and the first day

[Kate Conant]

Kristin,

I was so glad to hear your news, especially about how yesterday's events
went better than you had expected.

May God be with you and Heather and your families.

Love,

Kate

"What does the Lord require of you, but to do justice, love mercy, and walk
humbly with your God?"
Micah 6:8

On Mon, Nov 17, 2014 at 5:44 AM, Kristin Rollins <kristin at verumsolum.com>
wrote:

> Yesterday was my final day as organist at St. John's.
>
> After the anthem, I was called to the top of the chancel steps, and the
> rector said some very nice things about me and then prayed as the choir
> gathered behind me laying on hands and the congregation stretched out
> their arms.
>
> At the announcements, the choir was asked to gather at the altar after
> the postlude so we could take a group photo (since we had pretty much
> full attendance). After that it was a reception in my honor, where I
> believe the choir had brought all the food. I was presented by the
> rector with a gift of a necklace with a silver cross with the four
> evangelists.
>
> I have not heard a single negative thing in response to sharing my news
> with the parish. And I have heard so many positive and supportive things
> that far exceed simple politeness. St. John's has definitely shown
> itself at its best. In fact, I have heard of somebody who is apparently
> now planning to attend, having heard of how well they have responded to
> my news. That is certainly FAR from what I expected when I decided to be
> open about myself, and certainly has me re-evaluating what little I had
> thought I had decided about what happens beyond this point in terms of
> church.
>
> Of course, now this becomes even more real. Today has a real "first day"
> feeling about it. And I think that was only added to by the fact that,
> after a very early night, I ended up waking with the clock reading
> "12:00". And there's both excitement and trepidation. But for today,
> it's a day to enjoy the excitement, and celebrate getting to this point.
> And maybe a day for an afternoon nap!
>
> Kristin
>
> --
>   Kristin Rollins
>   kristin at verumsolum.com
>   Portsmouth, VA
>