Dear People of Grace Episcopal Church,
It is my privilege and delight to announce that the time of mutual discernment between the Grace Vestry and The Rev. Dr. Anne M. Turner results in the Vestry’s decision to call Mother Anne to return as rector of Grace Church. Mother Anne has accepted this call. The Vestry decision comes following a year of thoughtful contemplation by the Vestry, by parishioners, by Mother Anne, and by Bishop Stevenson. Bishop Stevenson has explored the future of Anne’s vocation with her in depth and affirms that her call is to return to parish ministry at Grace. Bishop Stevenson will come to Grace on Monday, October 28, for a 7 p.m. worship service to mark this new beginning.
The Vestry acclaims Mother Anne’s gifts as preacher and liturgist. During her previous tenure as Grace’s rector, her gifts as pastor and innovative leader were evident. It has been clear that she has the God-given gifts, skills and temperament to continue to excel as Grace’s rector.
One year ago Bishop Stevenson suspended Mother Anne from active ministry in the Episcopal Church. During this year the people of the parish have carefully contemplated the best path forward while Mother Anne engaged in the difficult and deeply personal work necessary to prepare for a return to pastoral ministry. The Vestry has carefully weighed the responses gleaned from Affinity group gatherings. I have met twice with Mother Anne, followed by her meeting with the entire Vestry. We base the decision to call her as rector at Grace on her humility, candor, and vulnerability, as well as her commitment to repair trust where it has been damaged.
As Christians we are committed to the practice of redemption and reconciliation marked by genuine repentance. We affirm these beliefs in calling Mother Anne to a restored relationship. The Vestry recognizes that the parish has not had the opportunity for conversation with Mother Anne that we have, and we believe the coming months will provide time for renewed trust and collaboration. Please contact me or other Vestry members if you would like to talk about this decision. I may be reached at mary.hix@gracealex.org or via phone at 703.261.9730.
With eager anticipation and gratitude to God, I look forward to welcoming Bishop Stevenson and Mother Anne on October 28th. This date will mark the beginning of Mother Anne’s service as rector as we move into a time of renewed stability in the parish. We will celebrate on October 28 and give thanks for God’s abundant provision!
In peace,
Mary Lewis Hix
Senior Warden