Dear Parish Family,

I am delighted to announce that Kevin Jones will be joining St. Paul’s Staff as Director of Music on September 1. Kevin is a remarkable talent, both as a choral conductor and organist.

For some time, the clergy have been filling many aspects of the Director of Music role. With our new hire, we can put the supervisory, planning, and administrative responsibilities of the music program in the proper place. Kevin will supervise our music staff: Karel Paukert, organist; Kelsey Ferguson, Director of Music for Children and Youth; Lois Bell, Hand Bell Choir Director; and David Osburn, Carillonneur.

I’ve recognized the need for this position for some time. However, I knew in filling this position that I would need to make the difficult decision of eliminating Steve’s position, Choirmaster. Steve has been conducting our Adult Choir for nearly 25 years. He is beloved – highly skilled, musically, academically, and administratively, faithful, personable, inclusive, and loving. It has been my great pleasure getting to know him and serving with him. I know we will all miss him greatly.

Please read my announcement about our new Director of Music here and Steve’s letter to the parish here.

I am happy to share the good news that Steve will be starting in September as the part-time Director of Music at Christ Church, Oberlin. I’m so glad Steve has found this new position, which accommodates his position at Oberlin College and Conservatory and is so close to his home in Oberlin.

We will celebrate Steve’s 25 years of devoted service at St. Paul’s with a special Evensong on Sunday, August 14, at 4 p.m. Please mark your calendars.

Peace,
Jeanne+