Dear St. John’s,
Blessings to you this Memorial Day weekend. I constantly find myself marveling at how quickly time passes, and that the 2024-5 program year is now drawing to a close. I think about all the ways in which this past year has stretched and deepened our individual and collective journeys of faith and life, and I am constantly reminded of the sacredness and truth of the words by Henri Frederic Amiel with which we conclude our Sunday services each week: "Life is short, and we do not have too much time to gladden the hearts of those who travel the way with us; so be swift to love and make haste to be kind.” Having served among you as your rector for 15 years, I count each day a blessing for the honor of being able to lead such a kind and compassionate community that is faithfully committed to doing the work of God in the world.
This summer, I will be stepping away for a time of sabbatical rest and renewal. My last Sunday before sabbatical will be June 8—Pentecost Sunday—and I will return the first week of September, just in time to celebrate Renewal Sunday with you on September 7.
I am deeply grateful for this gift of time. I will be using these months to write, travel, and reflect—trusting that the Spirit will use this season to refresh my heart and imagination for the years of ministry ahead with all of you.
While I am away, the life of the parish will continue to flourish in the care of two gifted clergy who will serve as Interim Sabbatical Rectors:
The Rev. Eva Cavaleri
The Rev. Eva Cavaleri will serve during the months of June and July. Eva is already a familiar face to many at St. John’s, having preached in our pulpit and led retreats for our Women’s Ministry over the past several years. She currently serves as Senior Chaplain at National Cathedral School, and her ministry has long focused on nurturing the spiritual life of school communities. A native of Michigan, she lives in D.C. with her husband, Jorma, and their two teenage sons. In recent months, Eva’s own faith has been deepened through a Lenten prayer practice that renewed her sense of openness, humility, and hope in Christ’s presence. She looks forward to reconnecting with the St. John’s community and walking with you in this season of reflection and renewal.
The Rev. Ann J. Broomell
The Rev. Dr. Ann J. Broomell will serve during the month of August. While Ann is new to the St. John’s community, she brings decades of experience in Episcopal ministry, having served parishes across New England and the Mid-Atlantic as cathedral dean, rector, and interim rector. Now living in Washington, D.C., to be near her daughter and son-in-law, Ann volunteers as a Nave Chaplain at the National Cathedral and is active in the League of Women Voters and the Society of Companions of the Holy Cross. I am confident you will appreciate her wisdom, warmth, and thoughtful leadership as she joins us this summer.
In addition to Eva and Ann, we will also welcome a variety of guest preachers from across the Diocese of Washington. This will be a wonderful opportunity for the congregation to hear fresh voices and diverse perspectives that can enrich our faith and broaden our sense of connection within the wider church. Be sure to check out the attached Summer Preaching Schedule for details on who will be preaching each week.
While I will miss being with you during these summer months, I know that this will be a rich and Spirit-filled season at St. John’s. I look forward to returning in September—rested, inspired, and ready to continue the journey with you, full of gratitude for the sacred work we share.
Grace and peace,
Sari+