Celebrating Deacon Valerie’s Ministry at St. Alban’s

Three years ago this month, our very own Valerie Davis was ordained to the diaconate right here at St. Alban’s on the Eve of Pentecost. We were so blessed that she was assigned by the Bishop to serve here at her home parish after her ordination. This was an exception to the norm that was allowed to help provide stability as we were coming out of the pandemic years and all the upheaval therein.

Now, after three years of ordained ministry at St. Alban’s, Deacon Valerie is being called to a new parish placement in the Diocese. This news is hard and sad for us, because we will miss her presence among us, but it is also a wonderful opportunity for Deacon Valerie to “stretch her wings” in a new ministry context and to share her many gifts with others. Fortunately, we can expect that we will continue to see Deacon Valerie at Diocesan-wide events, particularly those that bring folks together for shared learning and service in our region.

Deacon Valerie is currently in discernment and conversation with the Bishop about where God is calling her to serve in this next chapter. Wherever she is placed, I know she will make a big impact and be a tremendous blessing to her community. In her time here at St. Alban’s, she has provided leadership and guidance in many areas, particularly in her work with the Outreach Team and the St. Alban’s Anti-Racism Team (StAART), in her participation in the monthly women’s gatherings, and of course, in her preaching, teaching, and pastoral care of the community. One highlight of her time here that comes to mind for me is the amazing “All Things St. Alban’s” ministry fair she envisioned and planned last fall in the new Parish Hall—the joyful spirit in the room was a testament her dedicated work. She has consistently been a voice of encouragement and faith, urging us all to trust in God’s goodness and step out in faith to serve others.

Deacon Valerie’s last Sunday with us will be on June 8, the Feast of Pentecost, when we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit in forming the Church, as described in the Acts of the Apostles. On Pentecost, we are also reminded that diversity is very much an intentional part of God’s design for the Church, as we recall the many languages that were spoken among those who were present for the first Pentecost event. Deacon Valerie’s ministry has embodied the gifts of the Holy Spirit and the importance of welcoming a diversity of voices to the table, so it is a most appropriate day in which to celebrate her time at St. Alban’s. Please plan to be with us for worship on June 8 to hear Deacon Valerie preach and attend a reception for Deacon Valerie in the Parish Hall from 9:00 am. to 10:10 a.m. If you would like to send Valerie off with a note of thanks and/or a gift of gratitude, you can bring them to the reception on June 8, or drop them off in the office anytime prior. Checks written directly to Deacon Valerie Davis will be considered gifts and will not go through the Saint Alban's accounting system.  Contributions made to Saint Alban's (online or by check) will be taxable to Valerie. You can contribute online via our online giving page by selecting "Deacon Valerie Love Offering" from the drop-down menu. Checks made out to Saint Alban's can include "Deacon Valerie Love Offering" in the memo line.

Yours in Christ,

Carmen