Weekly Update | February 8, 2026

Interim Dean and Priest-in-Charge's Note

Sunday, February 8

In case you ever wondered about how governance decisions are made in an Episcopal church, priests and vestry members begin with the bylaws of incorporation – similar to other nonprofit organizations. Such documents are written by parish leaders following national and diocesan canons, which are also written and passed by lay and clerical representatives. We are always in leadership together!

This said, we goofed this past Sunday at the election of vestry members, and I take responsibility.

One vestry member, Arcadio Morales, who was completing a term for another vestry member, was actually not eligible to run again without taking a year off – even though he was elected for a second term with flying colors. We forgot about this bylaw.

When the question was raised appropriately, we reread our bylaws, confirmed the mishap, and communicated with everyone involved. Arcadio understood graciously, and agreed to serve on the building committee – thanks be to God. In his place, we welcome Dr. Charlotte Borst as the fourth vestry member to be elected.

This year we extend our sincere gratitude to Arcadio, Roma, Rosalind and Hamilton for their leadership and service on the St. John’s Cathedral Vestry; and we welcome with glad hearts Charlotte Borst, Christoper James, Luciralia Ibarra and Denise Meighan-Lawson as incoming vestry members.

I am most grateful for everyone who expressed willingness to serve on the vestry. Not everyone made it on the slate this year or was elected, but everyone is a beloved member of our congregation. This is the challenge of having an open election; and God is always calling us to serve in ways we have yet to imagine. We must trust that there is a plan for us too.

Thank you for always asking the question to be our best. I am excited for the coming year at St. John’s Cathedral.

With love and blessings,

Anne+

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