Letters from the Rector

Fr. Eric Dudley

June 1, 2011: New Children's Ministry Director and Upcoming Sabbatical

June 1, 2011

Dear Parish Family:

Summer is upon us and there are two important things I'd like to hold before you before vacations begin.

I am very happy to announce that Tracey Hess will be moving into the position of Director of Children's Ministry. Tracey, together with her husband Chad, has been deeply involved in the life of the parish over the last several years through Sunday School, Alpha, the Wednesday night program, and in many other ways. Tracey has a keen interest in children's ministry (with two boys of her own), a strong orthodox faith, and a terrific background in administration (having worked as Assistant Registrar at F.S.U., Dean of Students at Kaplan University and Associate Director of Admissions at Flagler College). Strong administrative skills, combined with a passion for children, and a love for Christ is the perfect combination for this position. Tracey will begin at 10 hours a week in June, moving to 20 hours in September. Carol Long will continue as Interim Director through the summer and will hand off the baton to Tracey in September. Carol has done an outstanding job of carrying our Children's Ministry program to the next level during this transition period, and will continue to be a huge support as we move into the future to which God is calling us. At the Festival of St. Peter on September 11, I would like to acknowledge the wonderful work that Carol has done while welcoming Tracey to the staff.
As you know, I am preparing to take a brief sabbatical. I will preach at the Pentecost services on June 12 and then step away from my duties until September 11 when I will be back in the pulpit for the Festival of St. Peter. It will be difficult for me to be away from the community of St. Peter's, but I feel this is a greatly needed time of rest and refocusing. Please pray for me and my family during this time; pray that we return refreshed for the next season in the life of St. Peter's Church. In my absence, Fr. John Wallace will act as Priest in Charge, moving into my office and taking on all the normal duties of Rector. Please support him with your prayers and assistance. The staff of St. Peter's is the best in Christendom, and I have no doubt they will move the parish forward with great energy and care in my absence!

God’s Peace,

Eric D. Dudley+
Rector