Message from President Leslie

 

Our Special Congregational Meeting, held on October 5th was well attended with a unanimous vote to Call the Rev. Telos Whitfield as the Settled Minister for All Souls Church.  We are now poised for joyful new developments in our shared ministry. We anticipate holding her special installation service on Saturday, June 13, 2026.  Please hold this date with details to be firmed up in the coming months.

Our next step is to identify members for a Covenant/Installation Task Force to work with Rev. Telos to create a covenant together and plan for the installation service. A covenant will describe our joint ministry and deepen the relationship between the congregation and Rev. Telos. The Board hopes to affirm the members of the Task Force in November.  Please be assured that the task force will solicit the input of others in the congregation as they create a covenant document so your voice will be heard even if you do not serve on the task force. 

The Board has also been attending to a number of other projects, most of which involve many members of the congregation.

• Thanks to all who have been involved with social justice activities.  We know that many All Souls members and friends turned out on October 18th for the NO Kings 2.0 Rally and March for Democracy. We were delighted to host the October 25th concert with Emma’s Revolution, benefitting SoVT4 Palestine and All Souls Church. Appreciation to George for his coordination and to all who provided logistical support, refreshments and/or attended the concert. And thank you all who voted for our 2026 Share the Plate organizations – we wish we could support every group. 
• Thanks to those who have been paying attention to our building needs. Carla and Janis have been preparing for our November 1st Fall Clean Up Day.  Steve, Jamie and Ron have been working on electrical issues, drainage in the basement, and miscellaneous repairs.  We will soon have improved lighting on our exterior ramps and the entry to the West Wing with many thanks to a donor who has made this improvement possible. 
• The Bylaws Revision Task Force continues to meet and we will keep you updated on our progress.
• The Board has discussed engagement of newcomers, who come to church on a Sunday when Rev. Telos is not available, and are seeking financial, resource or ministerial support typically provided by the minister.  Kay Curtis and members of the Committee on Ministry will be point persons.
• The Board has also discussed engagement with ICE personnel, should they arrive at All Souls.  Rev. Telos, Leslie and/or Ian are initial point persons to speak to ICE representatives and we may be identifying a few others in the congregation. 
• The Board has affirmed placement of the sign “Immigrants Welcome Here.”  We ask that those wishing to place a sign on church property get approval from the Board in advance. 
• Looking ahead we know that there is a tremendous amount of energy going into preparation for the Holiday Bazaar, a joyous event and our largest fundraiser.  As always so much to do!

May we act together in faith, Leslie