I am now a deacon at Christ
Church, Austin and at Christ Church, Albert Lea. This did not come as a shock
to me. I had been wondering about it for months if not for the past year. I
love Christ Church, Austin having spent the last ten years significantly
involved in all aspects of parish life here… and discerning my call here as
well, but Albert Lea has been in my prayers for some time. Albert Lea and
Austin are similar in size and culture. Both towns grew up through the early
part of the last century, both became packing towns, both went through decline
and both have seen a significant change in demographics over the last 30 years.
Albert Lea and Austin have enjoyed a healthy rivalry in the past but not a
healthy kinship. They are sister towns that avoided any real or meaningful friendly
connection. I’m guessing that it was the fact that rival companies drove the
economies of the two towns.
I was excited when I heard the
news. Others were not. I consider this assignment a charge of trust by my
Bishop but others see it as a slap in the face. I am not feeling real good
about that and have been on the receiving end of some vitriol, as if somehow I politicked
to make this happen. Albert Lea has made it very clear that they are excited to
have me serve as deacon in any capacity that I can. The Priest-in-Charge and
senior warden were very gracious at our initial meeting. My assignment to
Christ Church, Austin is a cause for celebration and joy as well but I’m afraid
that will be overshadowed by the thought that they’ll have to share me. It’ll
take time for the dust to settle.
