by John Little

Dear friends, Proverbs 15:23 tells us “… how good and delightful is a word spoken at the right moment – how good it is!” This issue of our “Vestry Corner” is a unique invitation not previously expressed.

We are, without question, a parish filled with grateful hearts and joyful spirits. We appreciate that St. Clares’ parishioners of all ages are seriously generous with their dedications of time, talent and treasure in a wide variety of roles associated with our mission: Worship with Joy, Grow in Faith, and Act for Justice. And we especially appreciate the pastoral care  given to the “in-reach” needs of our members; e.g. prayers, visitation, assistance for special occasions, and meal trains, etc.

However, this Vestry Corner is not about our traditional encouragement to invite your assistance in these tasks, but to join hands with us on an intentional “journey of gratitude”.

It is the vestry’s observation that while all who serve at St. Clares are truly appreciated, it is also believed that not all who serve feel that acknowledgement. So, without fanfare, please join us in raising our noticing skills of those who serve in any capacity, visibly and invisibly, and “thank them”. Be sincere, be specific, and be timely.  And if a compliment or a thank you is shunned, simply repeat it, with a smile. Typically, the receiver will accept it the second time.


… how good and delightful is a word spoken at the right moment – how good it is!

We do indeed have grateful hearts and joyful spirits.  Let us show it.