Celebrating a New Era: Rev. Runza is Officially Installed at St. John's
After a busy five months getting acquainted with the church, Rev. John Runza officially became St John’s Priest In Charge at a Celebration of New Ministry Service yesterday. The service, which marks the beginning of new ministry in a parish, includes a series of promises (or covenants) between the priest and his congregation, witnessed by members of the area clergy.
It was a beautiful service which brought familiar faces and new friends together to mark this exciting chapter in the life of the church. Attendees included clergy well known to St John’s such as Rev. Ruth Adams, Rev. Gloria Master, and Rev. Ann Blane, as well as some special visitors - Bishop Riscylla Shaw, Archdeacon John Anderson, Canon Ted McCollum, Canon Milton Barry, Rev. Samantha Caravan, Rev. Susan McMillan, and Rev. Lorraine Runza.
We were also delighted to welcome Rev. John’s family - his wife Janice, and his kids Paul and Isabella.
Thanks to everyone who helped make the day a success. Prim chose a passage from Galatians to decorate the cake - ‘All One in Christ Jesus’ - and we certainly saw that spirit of love and fellowship yesterday.
Rev. John’s Message to St John’s
I am deeply humbled and honored to serve as your Priest-in-Charge at St. John the Baptist. My heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making this Celebration of New Ministry so special and to those who prepared a lovely luncheon afterward.
Janice, Isabella, Paul, and I also wish to express our sincere gratitude to the entire St. John’s family for your warm welcome and prayers over these past months. Your love, support, and encouragement have profoundly touched us and continue to strengthen us.
I eagerly look forward to serving this wonderful community, growing in faith together, and continuing the meaningful work of our parish. Together, with God's grace, we will strive to live out our mission with love, compassion, and unwavering commitment.
We have much work to do in the coming years, and with God’s help and our unity and shared dedication to living God’s purpose for us, there is no limit to what we can achieve.
Thank you once again for your ongoing support and for welcoming us so warmly into your parish family.
Yours in Christ,
Rev. John Runza
