This week Steven Patterson retires as Palmer’s Business Administrator after having worked for this congregation in more than one role for almost 16 years. Many of you have interacted with him about calendars and room set ups and, yes, even the temperature inside the church. I will greatly miss his unique sense of humor in the church office! Blessedly, it will continue to be present in the pews on Sundays.

Today we also bid farewell to Yuri McCoy, who has served over the last two years as Palmer’s Associate Organist. That’s been a part-time position. He will soon begin a full-time position just down the street as the organist at South Main Baptist Church. It’s a wonderful opportunity and a natural next professional step for him to take.

Gracious God, we thank you for the work and witness of your servant Steven, who has tended the activities and the buildings on this campus, and your servant Yuri, who has filled this church and adorned our liturgies with beautiful music to glorify your holy Name. They have each strengthened this community of faith and shared their gifts with us. Now bless and preserve them at this time of transition. Day by day, guide them and give them what is needed, friends to cheer their way, and a clear vision of that to which you are now calling them. By your Holy Spirit be present in their pilgrimage, that they may travel with the One who is the way, the truth, and the life, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

— The Rev. Neil Alan Willard, Rector