A Vision Fulfilled

Campaign Success and New Ministry Positions

June 2026

On Sunday, June 21, we concluded the public phase of our All In for St. John Campaign with remarkable enthusiasm and gratitude during the Feast of the Nativity of John the Baptist. Campaign Co-chairs, Eric Menzer and Allison Kierce, announced the receipt of 70 pledges totaling $1,177,000 — surpassing our goal of $1 million and affirming our prayerful commitment to invest in our future as the Body of Christ in York. The next day, we received more good news! On Monday, June 22, we received another substantial pledge bringing our new total to 73 pledges for $1,254,000!

At our celebratory Parish Luncheon, Senior Warden Carolyn Warman announced the Vestry's deliberate approach to addressing our remaining mortgage of approximately $1 million. While our current fixed-rate mortgage carries a favorable rate that encourages us to continue making monthly payments through the end of the year, the note converts to an adjustable rate in May 2027 when it will likely make sense to retire this debt completely, ensuring we move forward unencumbered. The Vestry will reassess options in the Spring and update the congregation.

Father Eric announced two new part-time staff positions made possible by our new Ministry Fund. Both positions will begin at the end of summer and represent the Spirit pillar of our campaign: investing in faithful leaders and strategic ministries that allow St. John to grow in depth and reach.

Gretchen Dekker will join us as Associate for Music and Community. This new staff position will support our existing music programs and also cultivate new opportunities. A central focus will include building partnerships in our community that grow out of Gretchen’s many years of service and leadership in York and strengthening St. John as a musical hub in our community. Gretchen’s work will deepen our musical vitality and our witness to the wider community.

Rev. Margery Kennelly will join us as Priest Associate. Margery will share in Sunday liturgies, sacramental leadership, and preaching. She will guide adult formation, participate in pastoral ministry, and work with Father Eric to explore new programming—ranging from possible newcomer ministry to theology and the arts initiatives.

Thank you to all you have contributed to this vision as we prayerfully step into an exciting new season of worship, witness, and service!

Casting a Vision: All In for St. John

April 2026

This year marks a special moment in the life of our church as we kick off the All In for St. John Campaign. This Campaign represents an opportunity to honor our faithful legacy, reflect on God's call to us now, and look ahead in prayerful anticipation. On April 19, we were thrilled to launch our Campaign with pledges of $875,000 toward our $1 million goal. Our early donors were so generous they allowed us to launch our public phase with an additional stretch goal of $100,000 for our new Ministry Fund.

The All In for St. John Campaign is not just about projects, but about how we continue to grow as a parish. From the ways we gather in worship and connect in parish life, to how we care for our space and plan responsibly for the future, this is about strengthening a faithful foundation to supports future generations.

Campaign materials have been mailed and are also available online HERE. Please take time to look through our brochure and to prayerfully consider what this Campaign means for St. John, and for you.

Campaign Co-Chairs, Eric Menzer and Allison Kierce, are available for personal meetings to learn more about the Campaign and answer any questions you may have. These conversations are meant to be helpful and informative as you consider your participation. It is also important to note that the All In Campaign is separate from the ongoing operations of the parish. It represents a separate investment in the future of St. John above and beyond our day-to-day operations.

This is a shared commitment, and every step forward matters. As you reflect, we invite you to consider how you might take part through prayer, financial support, and your continued presence in our community.

There is much to be grateful for at St. John, and even more ahead. We invite you to be All In with us.

Eric Menzer and Allison Kierce, Campaign Co-Chairs