Greetings! The lazy days of summer are upon us. As we continue to pray for Father Roman during his sabbatical, we look forward to welcoming him back on August 9, refreshed and rejuvenated. One of the best ways to celebrate his return is by attending his class in the BEC between the 9:00 and 11:15 a.m. services. I know he would love to see you there.
Over the past few months, the work of the church has continued with energy and purpose. Father Steve and Father Naty have faithfully celebrated our Sunday services and have remained available to serve the parish. Our Pastoral Care Ministry has continued its important work, surrounding parishioners in need with prayers, home visits, meals, flowers, and countless other acts of compassion. Our Stephen Ministry facilitators including Kelley Helmick, Tracy Santoro, Sandra Jamison, and others have been providing meaningful insights into empathy during Sunday School sessions. Powerful lessons of how to better understand, connect with, and empathize with family, friends, and coworkers have been explored.
Our music ministry and choir, led by David Horn, and our technology team, led by Doug Barber, have continued to flourish, faithfully supporting weekly worship. Bishop Fisher's recent visit was especially meaningful as we celebrated confirmations and receptions into the Episcopal Church.
Our office staff, Dede and Kyra, continue to serve the congregation with diligence, keeping us organized and ensuring excellent communication. One highlight of the summer was our Parish Picnic—a joyful gathering where families and friends enjoyed fellowship together.
Our youth have had wonderful opportunities for faith and fellowship this summer. Many thanks to Sandy Jones for her leadership. Some attended Camp Eagle, while many children, youth, and adults enjoyed time at Camp Allen. June also brought a very successful Vacation Bible School. We are grateful to Angela Stengl for her leadership and to the many volunteers whose dedication made the week such a blessing. Children's Chapel has continued throughout the summer, and while Children's Christian Formation classes concluded in June, plans for an exciting fall semester are already well underway.
Behind the scenes, the work of stewardship and leadership has continued. The Finance Committee and Vestry have kept us moving forward, our budget remains on track, and our campus continues to be well maintained.
Our project managers—Rod Johnson, Cat Jones Penco, and Burgess Stengl—have continued pursuing our campus improvement and growth initiatives. Although we have experienced delays while waiting for the necessary Harris County permits, we remain patient and faithful, trusting that approval will come soon so this exciting work can begin.
Through every season, Saint Dunstan's remains focused on our mission. We aspire to live out the Gospel of Christ as a body of believers rooted in faith and growing in community.
As you enjoy these slower days of summer, may you also find time for rest, renewal, and God's presence. May we continue to live out our core values by nurturing our children and youth in their spiritual development; gathering as a community to build friendships and share the love of God; deepening our commitment to Christian formation; embracing opportunities for outreach; celebrating the rich traditions of Episcopal worship; and extending Christ's love through compassionate pastoral care—both by offering support to others and by graciously accepting it when we are in need.
May God continue to bless you and your family throughout this summer season. We look forward to worshiping with you soon.
In His service,
Jodie Leach
Senior Warden
