Linda Addington

Each of the Vestry members were asked to reflect on the following questions:

 

WHY DO YOU FEEL CALLED TO SERVE ON THE VESTRY OF ST. MARK’S?

I had been thinking and praying about how I could be of more help at St. Mark’s. I received a call asking if I would be willing to serve on the Vestry.

 

PLEASE DESCRIBE YOUR PARTICIPATION AT ST. MARK’S AND/OR IN THE COMMUNITY, INDICATING EXPERIENCES THAT YOU THINK WILL BE HELPFUL FOR THE VESTRY.

I graduated from the Education for Ministry program and have commenced my 5th year of co-mentoring an EfM group at St. Mark’s. I participated for many years in a weekly reflection group formed by the Rev. Dr. John Lewis, during which we reflected on our lives through the lens of scripture. Rev. Beth Knowlton’s weekly Rector’s Lectionary Bible Study is a steady opportunity for study and theological reflection in community. I’ve participated as both an attendee and a team member at Cursillo. I’ve been blessed by many years of Spiritual Direction. I’m listing some experiences that specifically teach and nurture theological reflection, as viewing our individual and communal lives through the lens of faith is a powerful tool in accomplishing the work of God’s Kingdom. Another small thing (that takes a lot of words): some years I sing a song at the Shrove Tuesday talent show. I don’t have an outstanding voice, nor am I a natural entertainer. I sing because community is richer and more fun when everyone participates as fully as they are able. Also, my grandchildren are in the audience. I want them to see that when you have something to contribute, you stand up and let your voice be heard.

 

ST. MARK’S CORE VOCATION IS FEEDING SAN ANTONIO WITH THE BREAD OF LIFE: FEEDING THE HUNGRY WITH REAL FOOD; FEEDING THOSE WHO ARE HUNGRY FOR KNOWLEDGE AND MEANING; FEEDING THOSE WHO ARE HUNGRY FOR BEAUTY AND CREATIVITY. HOW DO YOU ENVISION THE VESTRY WORKING IN SUPPORT OF THIS VOCATION?

Utilizing the combined gifts of many individuals, prayer, careful reflection, and the power of the Holy Spirit, the St. Mark’s Vestry would consider each decision in relation to our Core Vocation and discern whether each choice would or would not keep St. Mark’s on the path toward these goals.

 

WHEN DID YOU JOIN ST. MARK’S AND WHAT CONTINUES TO DRAW YOU TO THIS COMMUNITY?

Doug and I joined St. Mark’s on June 20, 2005. I was initially attracted to St. Mark’s by the outstanding preaching and music, inclusiveness of the congregation, amazing learning opportunities, and a holy energy I sensed in the parish. All those elements have flourished over the years. And each year I fall in love with more dear people. St. Mark’s is my home.