A New Perspective
Marilyn Canady • July 2, 2021

A NEW PERSPECTIVE - We had been members of St. James for 32 years when I came to work here in 2005. Together, Hoyt and I had served on the Vestry, in numerous Christian Formation capacities, Men’s Group, ECW, Evangelism, Stewardship, Search Committees. We raised our children in this church family, sharing laughter and tears in all of life’s journeys.


Being Parish Administrator at St. James has given me the distinct opportunity to continue in all of those ministries and much more. What a pleasure and inspiration it has been to serve with such passionate and joyful people! And nearly every day, I have been reminded of why I come to work, sometimes through a stranger at our front door who needs someone to care and to help; sometimes through a parishioner who brings an unexpected blessing with a story or a smile. Always through God working in each of these people.


In these sixteen years, I have served with three priests—Joe Ballard, David Hackett, and John Mark Wiggers—and three curates—Pat Grace, Steve White, RJ Powell. I have learned a great deal from each about ministry, leadership, compassion, and grace. 


I have learned more than I ever thought I might about church music from Nancy Wells, Jason Overall, and Ashley Burell. I have worked side by side with administrative and support staff who are uniquely dedicated to serving God and His Church—Linda Goins, Bob Wadley, Rick Brown, Gary Taylor; and with countless blessed volunteers like our dedicated Doorstep Ministers who are the front lines of compassion and warmth to everyone who comes to our door.


And now it’s time to explore new adventures, see more of our family, maybe even attend some Thursday classes! I am thankful that even though I am leaving my position in the office, I am not leaving my St. James family. I’ll just get to be part of the great things this place does from a little different perspective!


From my heart, thank you for allowing me to do ministry in this capacity. God willing, I will continue ministry at St. James in new and exciting ways.


In Christ,

Marilyn Canady

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