Dear friends,
 
The Lord be with you!

This morning, the time has come for me to make an important announcement.
 
The reading today from the book of Ecclesiastes, reminds us that:
 
For everything there is a season, 
and a time for every matter under heaven: 


A few weeks ago, I wrote a letter to the Bishop of Huron.
This morning I need to read it to you…
 
Dear Bishop Todd

Since November 30th, 2003, I have had the honour and privilege of serving as Rector of St. James Church, Stratford. For 18 years it has been a delight to work with the talented and faithful Christians here in this parish. As you know they are an inspiring group of people who live the gospel in both word and action. Together we have continued to be a community that shares God’s love and reaches out to the needs of this city of Stratford and beyond. 

After much prayer and reflection with those close to me, I have decided that it is time for me to retire. I believe it is time for St. James to choose its new Rector. 

With your permission, I would like to retire on July 1st, 2022.
 
Yours in Christ,
Lorne Mitchell
 
The Bishop has accepted my request.
 
As I said to the bishop, being Rector of St. James has been a tremendous honour, and I cherish the ministry and fellowship that we’ve shared.
 
But as the scriptures say:
 
For everything there is a season, 
and a time for every matter under heaven: 
 
Indeed, there is a time to lead, and a time to let others lead.
 
Over the next few months, I will be doing what I can to help this process flow smoothly. Please pray for and support the wardens who will be doing some very important work soon. I will not be retiring until the end of June so we will all have plenty of time to have good conversations.
 
I want to thank all of you for your love and support over the years. In my retirement, I know that God will be showing me new ways to live out my faith and ministry.
 
This is a wonderful Christian community filled with faithful people.
And there are many good and exciting things that will be happening in this parish just over the horizon. 
 
May God continue to bless us all on the journey that lies ahead.

The Rev. Canon Dr. Lorne Mitchell