[Magdalen] The last day and the first day

[James Oppenheimer-Crawford]

I'm glad you found an accepting home where you can practice your ministry
gifts.

James W. Oppenheimer-Crawford
*“If you have a chance to accomplish something that will make things better
for people coming behind you, and you don’t do it, you're wasting your time
on this Earth.”  -- *Roberto Clemente

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
>