This fall, we celebrate two significant staff anniversaries. Thirty-five years ago, Nancy Morrow and Merodee Grannis, with the support of the Session and congregation, started Jacob’s Learning Ladder (JLL). Thirty years ago, Dr. Martin Burch joined the Grace staff as the Director of Christian Education.
A lot has changed since Nancy and Martin joined the staff.
JLL transitioned from mom’s morning out, to morning pre-school, to full-time daycare and pre-school. Then three and a half years ago, when Merodee retired to farm life in Minnesota (which we’re glad she got the chance to do), Nancy steadied the ship, assuring that families remained confident in the care and education their children received during that major change. Nancy is steadfast in her commitment to serving families.
As the needs of the congregation changed, Martin shifted from Christian Education to Administration and poured himself into learning new skills. Thirteen years ago, when the proverbial bottom fell out of things at Grace, Martin remained constant and faithful to the mission of the church. His passion for the gospel and sharing that in many ways (drama, teaching, preaching, technology) is a conduit for God’s grace.
A lot has changed since Nancy and Martin joined the staff, and some things have not.
What remains true is that Martin and Nancy are two of the most principled, hardworking, and dedicated people I’ve ever met. Also, neither wants any recognition or spotlight. They both want to do what is right and do it well, and they can’t understand why anyone wants to make a fuss about it.
So, we aren’t making a fuss. This anniversary season is marked in small ways, and I encourage you to offer your thanks and appreciation through a call, a hallway conversation, or a note, and I invite you to join me in thanking God for Nancy Morrow and Martin Burch.
In Christ,
Catherine
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