Congregational Meeting
following the 9 am service
3/22/202610:00 AM
Letter from Rev. Bryant March 16, 2026
Congregational Meeting Sunday, March 22
Dear St John's Members,
We began a conversation at the Annual Meeting on February 8th regarding St John's ministry.
The Reverend Shirly Smith Graham described the parish as 'at a crossroads' due to declining participation and the burden of leadership. The conversation will continue Sunday, March 22, with a Congregational Meeting immediately after worship.
Reverend Smith Graham identified two options that we will consider: one is to elect a Vestry; the other, to set down the burden of managing this parish, and follow the Spirit into new opportunities.
It is important that we come together to make this decision prayerfully and courageously. Through this weighty discernment, let us seek clarity without fear, honesty without despair, and trust that the Holy Spirit is at work.
The Meeting will be live-streamed using Sunday worship Zoom access.
Yours in Christ,
Julie + & Mary
Reverends Julie D Bryant and Mary E Cushing, Rector and Deacon
St John's, Arlington
