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

New to Grace? Curious about the Episcopal Church or exploring the Christian faith? Begin your spiritual journey with our Inquirers' Class, a 5-week series designed for anyone eager to learn more about our liturgical worship.

 

Whether you're a newcomer or a lifelong Episcopalian, this class offers a unique opportunity to explore the historical roots, spirituality and theological significance of the Eucharist. In a safe, small group setting, we’ll journey together through dynamic discussions, where every question is welcomed and valued. The class meets on Mondays —October 14, 21 and November 4, 11, 18 — from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. Feel free to join us for any or all sessions! For more information, please reach out to Father Santiago Rodriguez (Click here to email him).

 

We look forward to walking this path with you!

Women and girls of all ages are invited for an intergenerational bible study that focuses on women in the Bible! This will be a 5-week series occurring in tandem in the Fall Inquirer’s Class. We will gather in-person on Mondays —October 14, 21 and November 4, 11, 18 — from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. Together we will pray, study scripture, and build a community of support that spans across ages. If you want to know more about women in the Bible and to know women at Grace Church more deeply, this series is for you! For more information or to sign up, please email Mother Emma Brice here.