To the Congregations of Valhalla Parish,

Dear Friends in Christ,

This week I will be announcing the appointment of Andrew Stephens-Rennie as Director of Missional Renewal for the Diocese of Kootenay. This position was authorized by our last Special Synod to coordinate implementation of the “Path Forward” report from the Structures Working Group

Even as this appointment will be celebrated in the Diocese, I am aware this will bring sadness and uncertainty to your parish. Andrew will begin work in the Diocese part-time in September, and full-time October 1, 2023. This means he will complete his interim work as your parish missioner on September 30, 2023.

Andrew began his work with you as a part-time interim ministry on October 1, 2020. I am grateful for Andrew’s leadership and care of you through these last three years, a longer period than we at first envisioned.

He has coordinated and supported worship, pastoral care and parish life at St. David and St. Stephen through the pandemic and this time of transition in the church, worked with you to continue to clarify your call to mission in your communities, as well as working on your behalf as the West Kootenay Region considers its future as a regional parish.

As you know, work continues on co-operation between Valhalla and Kootenay Summits parishes for future ministry. As Director of Missional Renewal, Andrew will continue to work with me and with you as we find ways to support ministry into the future. I will be meeting with your wardens and other lay leaders soon. I have met with the Rev. John Ruder and the Rev. Marian Craft, who will continue their current pattern of worship leadership with you.

It will be important in the coming weeks to meet together to celebrate and give thanks for Andrew’s ministry in your midst for the past three years, and to formally say good-bye as he changes roles.

Finally, I assure you of my continued prayers in this time of transition. You have weathered changes like this before and, with God’s help, will do so again. Remember Jesus promises to be with us as we carry out his mission of love to the world. Continue to love and care for each other and to reach out to those hurting in our wider communities right now. May God fill you with courage and confidence, strength and peace.

Yours in Christ,


+Lynne
Bishop of Kootenay