Words From The Warden
Last Sunday, Deacon Mary Raysa encouraged each of us to move beyond our usual New Year's resolutions by identifying a single word that can guide our thoughts and actions throughout 2026. Have you taken the opportunity to reflect and select a word that will shape your journey this year? I have spent significant time considering this challenge and am still in the process of settling on my guiding word. However, one word stands out that I believe should focus the collective efforts of St. Luke’s and the vestry: Transition.
As we started 2025, we were fortunate to welcome Reverend Julia Joyce-Miesse into our parish family. Under Pastor Julia’s leadership and care, our congregation deepened not only in knowledge but also in love for long-standing parishioners. Bonds of trust began to develop between Julia and our members. As the year concluded, we experienced both change and progress: our dedicated treasurer, Jean Schelhorn, will move her talents from her current role to another while the Finance Committee responsibilities have increased. This committee is diligently working to redefine the treasurer’s responsibilities and to redefine the role of the accounting firm to collaborate closely with both the Finance Committee and the new treasurer. While such parish work can be both routine and invigorating, it is crucial for our continued growth. In addition, four vestry members are rotating off this year.
Therefore, the word that I believe will direct St. Luke’s and its vestry is Transitions. We invite you to be an integral part of this ongoing transition. We are seeking four individuals to serve on the vestry and are also in need of a treasurer. Serving on the vestry requires a time commitment: members attend regular monthly meetings, act as liaisons to one or more St. Luke’s committees, participate in Sunday services, and represent our church in both community and diocesan activities. The work is demanding, but as legendary Buckeyes football coach Woody Hayes said, “If it comes easy, then it's no damned good.” There is much joy to be found in working together. Personally, deepening relationships with fellow vestry members has brought me great joy, and connecting with diocesan staff has been a valuable experience. Witnessing the positive changes that arise from the dedication of parishioners and vestry members is profoundly rewarding. I encourage you to consider offering your time, talents, and love by becoming a vestry member.
Currently, the role of treasurer is evolving. The expectations will not be as demanding as those Dr. Jean shouldered. Our Finance Committee will be taking a primary role, and we plan to reevaluate the role of our accounting firm to serve as accountant, trusted advisor and coach. Additionally, the Finance Committee is working toward appointing an investments advisor to complete St. Luke’s finance team.
Our guiding word for 2026 at St. Luke’s is Transitions, and I warmly invite you to join the leadership team. If you have any thoughts or questions, please reach out to Pastor Julia, Junior Warden Tom Bancroft, or me.
My personal word for 2026 is gratitude. I am deeply grateful for each of you, for our vestry and treasurer, for our staff, and for our Pastor. Most of all, I am thankful to be part of this time of transition.
Peace,
Henry Zaborniak, Senior Warden