2026 Dedication on February 1
My Dear Brothers and Sisters,
On Sunday, February 1, as we renew the blessings of our current Prayer Chaplains, we will also be installing three new Chaplains. This is a sacred ceremony as we honor the willingness of these volunteers to dedicate an enormous amount of time preparing their hearts and minds to serve you. Your 2026 Prayer Chaplains are Katherine DaCosta, Liz SantaMaria, Suzanne Broer, Carol Baumeister, John Frank, Julia Woehrlen, Jan Gawrys, Mary Beth St. Rose, and Idalia Romero.
Having personally attended most of their meetings this past year, I can attest to the rigor of their training. And, to the joy they bring to the tasks that lie before them.
I’m wondering if many of you can identify these selfless individuals. They present as unassuming and their singular task is to be at the ready to hold holy space for you to share your concerns. Once you approach them, the Prayer Chaplain will ask you if you’d like them to pray for you. With your consent and in the silence, they will attune to the Christ within. It is best if you do the same by shutting out noise, laughter of those still in the sanctuary, and invasive ego thoughts.
Upon completion of the prayer and “Amen” is uttered, the Prayer Chaplain will never again bring up the concern you brought to them. They will not follow up and they will never break confidentiality. However, for your part, you may ask them on another occasion to pray for that same concern or for another.
It is because all that I just shared with you that my earnest desire is for you to walk up to one or more of the “PCs” after the service and offer them your sincere congratulations and your heart-felt gratitude.
And so, it is. Amen
With love and gratitude for each of you,
Rev. Barb
