From Pastor Anna

Dear ones,

After almost eight joyful years with St. John United, God is calling me into a new adventure. My partner, Octavio, has accepted a teaching professor position at Arizona State University, so we will be relocating to Phoenix. I know you will join me in congratulating him and celebrating this hard earned achievement. My last day as your pastor will be August 14th.

This is both a difficult decision and a necessary one. It’s difficult because the community of St. John United has been so life-giving. I have experienced the sanctuary and sustenance that this place offers. I have been personally and professionally shaped by your love and trust. I have seen you be the hands and feet of Jesus in your service and presence. I have felt the growing pains and see the signs of new life that the Holy Spirit is birthing among and around you. 

This decision is necessary, because I know it’s right for me and for my family. I expect to work and am in active discernment, but do not yet know what that will look like. It’s both scary and exciting, like most good adventures. I also don’t know what will come next for St. John United, but the same would be true if I were staying! I simply know that it’s time, as Sr. Jessica would say, to “bless and release” my part in the ministry we have shared. 

I also know that you all have built an amazing legacy at St. John United. You have long nurtured genuine and joyful fellowship, radical inclusion, justice-seeking and compassionate service, and a vibrant and creative expression of faith that is curious and willing to be challenged. This kind of community is precious and much needed in this world. Since long before I came, you have lived this calling and adapted to keep living it, as circumstances and life changed.

You continue to have an engaged council and staff, all of whom are clear about the challenges ahead and serve the congregation and community with the hearts of servants. Regarding the pastoral transition, your Synod will provide support and guidance. Ongoing discernment through SJU’s future visioning and nonprofit exploration need not change with my leaving. You are doing good work and are more than ready to carry it forward. Most importantly, you have Jesus Christ, who is alive among you and within you. 

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me.

In my Father’s house there are many dwelling-places.” 

– John 14:1

In my remaining time here, I will relish our being together in worship and song, over cups of coffee and gazing out at the Olympic mountains and garden blooms. Further transition details will come in time. The way forward will emerge. I look forward to what remains of our work together over the next two months.

Your sister in Christ, 

Pastor Anna