Thank you for 8 great years.
Arriving in the Berkshires with my newly retired husband on Labor Day Weekend of 2018, I needed employment. But, not having worked outside the home for nearly 25 years, I was apprehensive about being considered as a candidate. I also wanted more than a job; I wanted to feel that I was contributing to my new community. When I was invited to interview with Tom Dillon, Erin Sullivan, Ginger Smith and Francie Hills, I crossed my fingers and asked for a small miracle. On October 1, 2018, the day our COBRA ran out, I found myself sitting in Kathy Sulock’s chair.
Witnessing the support the congregation of St. Stephen’s provides to not only fellow members of this faith community but to the community at large has enriched my life. And, through my position at St. Stephen’s I too have been able to support St. Stephen’s Table, Cathedral of the Beloved, the Berkshire Immigrant Center, Jewish Family Service, Language Justice Solutions and numerous 12-step meetings.
I have also been privileged to play a part in intimate family and life events; weddings, baptisms and funerals. I learned something about bookkeeping, too. And, all along, St. Stephen’s parishioners have been friendly, understanding and supportive. I have never felt as if I was working for you but with you.
Looking back, it seems like more than 8 years have passed. Rev. Cricket Cooper was on sabbatical when I was hired. After she retired, Bishop John Tarrant arrived and I thought the weeks of Supply Clergy were over. That was not the case but, luckily, Rev. David DeSmith was able to provide stability while the search for a rector continued. And we can’t forget COVID.
By the time Rev. Nina arrived, Bert, a St. Stephen’s treasure, and I were used to just getting on with things. I sometimes forgot that there was a rector who might need to be involved in office decision making.
At the start of 2026, I realized that it was time for a change. Now, Sukeigh is taking over while Rev. Nina is on sabbatical, and you are already showing the same support you provided me with. I will miss our phone chats, the sound of the choir warming up on Wednesday afternoons, the scent of a hot dinner coming from the kitchen on Thursdays and all the other day-to-day interactions we’ve had. Thank you. And you’re all invited to my next art show – I’ll let you know when.
With gratitude,
Sarah Morrison