David Dennehy
David Dennehy is the Senior Warden and one-half of the awesome team of "David and Linda Dennehy". They are always on hand to help with whatever is needed, and St. John's is blessed to have them in the congregation.
David and Linda were married by Fr. Jerry Graves on April 1, 1977. Their three sons were baptized here. David and Linda drifted away from St. John's but returned when Fr. George Keith became Rector.
How long have you been on Vestry?
This term since November 18, 2018 when I was appointed to serve a vacated term. This is my fourth time on Vestry, my first being in 1977 or 1978.
How did you become interested in Vestry?
My first term I was approached by Church leaders and asked to serve. I've been hooked ever since!
What aspects of Vestry do you like best?
I believe one of the gifts God blessed me with is the gift of leadership, and I believe the number one responsibility of the Vestry is to lead.
Is there anything you'd like to change?
I have to give that a "Good News/Bad News Approach", the bad news being that St. John's has suffered a lot of setbacks over the last decade and which requires a lot of change, change in how we are organized and solid change in how we manage our property. The good news is your Vestry is a solid visionary close-knit team truly dedicated to developing sound action plans to move us forward in a very positive direction. This Vestry truly understands that patience is vital as all things happen in God's time, not ours. He will show us the way.
How much time does Vestry take per month?
Presently serving as your People's Warden I do spend a lot of time, on and off, at church taking care of property issues. But that's ok, I'm retired and have the time and what better way to spend it than doing God's work?
Do you have any advice for anyone considering Vestry?
First, know that it is a very rewarding service. Come to Vestry meetings and check us out. Grab us after church and let's talk. Of course, don't forget to pray about it, that prayer might just surprise you!
David Dennehy is the Senior Warden and one-half of the awesome team of "David and Linda Dennehy". They are always on hand to help with whatever is needed, and St. John's is blessed to have them in the congregation.
David and Linda were married by Fr. Jerry Graves on April 1, 1977. Their three sons were baptized here. David and Linda drifted away from St. John's but returned when Fr. George Keith became Rector.
How long have you been on Vestry?
This term since November 18, 2018 when I was appointed to serve a vacated term. This is my fourth time on Vestry, my first being in 1977 or 1978.
How did you become interested in Vestry?
My first term I was approached by Church leaders and asked to serve. I've been hooked ever since!
What aspects of Vestry do you like best?
I believe one of the gifts God blessed me with is the gift of leadership, and I believe the number one responsibility of the Vestry is to lead.
Is there anything you'd like to change?
I have to give that a "Good News/Bad News Approach", the bad news being that St. John's has suffered a lot of setbacks over the last decade and which requires a lot of change, change in how we are organized and solid change in how we manage our property. The good news is your Vestry is a solid visionary close-knit team truly dedicated to developing sound action plans to move us forward in a very positive direction. This Vestry truly understands that patience is vital as all things happen in God's time, not ours. He will show us the way.
How much time does Vestry take per month?
Presently serving as your People's Warden I do spend a lot of time, on and off, at church taking care of property issues. But that's ok, I'm retired and have the time and what better way to spend it than doing God's work?
Do you have any advice for anyone considering Vestry?
First, know that it is a very rewarding service. Come to Vestry meetings and check us out. Grab us after church and let's talk. Of course, don't forget to pray about it, that prayer might just surprise you!
Diane Gustafson
Diane is a retired college (Southwestern) librarian and professor of research skills. She and Bill were members of St. John's from 1980 to 1983, went away for awhile, and came back in 2005. Besides Vestry, Diane is active in the Women of St. John's and is a lector at Sunday services.
How long have you been on the Vestry?
Two years of someone's unexpired term, during which time I served as Clerk. I couldn't immediately run again for Vestry so I stayed on as Clerk for another year, and in January 2019 began my own three-year term.
How did you become interested in Vestry?
Bill was on the Vestry in the early 1980s, and I always intended to apply once I retired. I liked the idea of helping to guide the church.
What aspect(s) do you like best about serving on the Vestry?
I like being Clerk. It gives me a chance to use the shorthand I learned in high school sixty years ago. I like learning how decisions are made. And I love working with this great group of people.
Has anything surprised you about being on the Vestry?
Yes. If you look at the spiritual gifts of the members, you will see that God has brought us together so that every spiritual gift is represented by one or more members. The other thing that surprises me is that our votes are almost always unanimous, but that doesn't mean there isn't disagreement. When there is, we discuss the issues, the pros and cons, and often amend the motion so that everyone is satisfied.
How much time does Vestry take?
We usually meet once, on the fourth Wednesday of the month, from 6 to 8 p.m. As leaders of the parish, we all volunteer to help when needed. My position as Clerk takes longer because of transcribing my notes, posting minutes, and keeping the Vestry Binder in the Church Office up-to-date.
Do you have any advice for someone considering Vestry?
Yes. Come to one or more of our meetings and see for yourself. Pray about it. And if God calls you to serve, be assured that it will be one of the most gratifying experiences you will ever have.
Diane is a retired college (Southwestern) librarian and professor of research skills. She and Bill were members of St. John's from 1980 to 1983, went away for awhile, and came back in 2005. Besides Vestry, Diane is active in the Women of St. John's and is a lector at Sunday services.
How long have you been on the Vestry?
Two years of someone's unexpired term, during which time I served as Clerk. I couldn't immediately run again for Vestry so I stayed on as Clerk for another year, and in January 2019 began my own three-year term.
How did you become interested in Vestry?
Bill was on the Vestry in the early 1980s, and I always intended to apply once I retired. I liked the idea of helping to guide the church.
What aspect(s) do you like best about serving on the Vestry?
I like being Clerk. It gives me a chance to use the shorthand I learned in high school sixty years ago. I like learning how decisions are made. And I love working with this great group of people.
Has anything surprised you about being on the Vestry?
Yes. If you look at the spiritual gifts of the members, you will see that God has brought us together so that every spiritual gift is represented by one or more members. The other thing that surprises me is that our votes are almost always unanimous, but that doesn't mean there isn't disagreement. When there is, we discuss the issues, the pros and cons, and often amend the motion so that everyone is satisfied.
How much time does Vestry take?
We usually meet once, on the fourth Wednesday of the month, from 6 to 8 p.m. As leaders of the parish, we all volunteer to help when needed. My position as Clerk takes longer because of transcribing my notes, posting minutes, and keeping the Vestry Binder in the Church Office up-to-date.
Do you have any advice for someone considering Vestry?
Yes. Come to one or more of our meetings and see for yourself. Pray about it. And if God calls you to serve, be assured that it will be one of the most gratifying experiences you will ever have.
Judy McKay
Judy McKay has been at St. John's for ten years. Judy is a retired elementary school teacher who has two sons, two grandchildren, and an adorable nine-month-old Golden Retriever named Bailey. Her hobbies are quilting and travel, and one of her favorite travel memories is a cruise from St. Petersburg to Moscow.
How long have you been on Vestry?
One year
How did you become interested in Vestry?
I was asked by a person in the congregation to fill out an application.
What aspects of being on Vestry do you like best?
Learning about all that is being done to keep St. John's functioning.
Has anything surprised you about being on Vestry?
Yes! All of the volunteer work that takes place behind the scenes, our "unsung and unpaid heroes".
How much time does Vestry take per month?
Usually 2+ hours for the monthly meeting and other time as needed.
Judy McKay has been at St. John's for ten years. Judy is a retired elementary school teacher who has two sons, two grandchildren, and an adorable nine-month-old Golden Retriever named Bailey. Her hobbies are quilting and travel, and one of her favorite travel memories is a cruise from St. Petersburg to Moscow.
How long have you been on Vestry?
One year
How did you become interested in Vestry?
I was asked by a person in the congregation to fill out an application.
What aspects of being on Vestry do you like best?
Learning about all that is being done to keep St. John's functioning.
Has anything surprised you about being on Vestry?
Yes! All of the volunteer work that takes place behind the scenes, our "unsung and unpaid heroes".
How much time does Vestry take per month?
Usually 2+ hours for the monthly meeting and other time as needed.
Pamela Brittain
Pamela Brittain, a teacher, has been attending St. John's since her daughter was preparing for confirmation eight years ago. In the 1990s she attended Christ Church in Coronado and served on the Vestry there. This is her first year of a three-year term on St. John's Vestry.
What aspects of serving on Vestry do you like best?
I enjoy the fellowship, working with other members at church toward a common goal.
Has anything surprised you about being on Vestry?
I was surprised by the focus on financial matters. I expected that we would also work toward attracting new members and finding ways to meet the needs of the congregation.
How much time does Vestry take per month?
Outside of my prayers for our parish, I spend about five or six hours a month. Although meetings are about two hours, I spend time reading to learn so I will be able to make good decisions. I have also attended a few all-day seminars/meetings.
Do you have any advice for anyone considering Vestry?
Come sit in on a meeting; ask questions; seek God's will.
Pamela Brittain, a teacher, has been attending St. John's since her daughter was preparing for confirmation eight years ago. In the 1990s she attended Christ Church in Coronado and served on the Vestry there. This is her first year of a three-year term on St. John's Vestry.
What aspects of serving on Vestry do you like best?
I enjoy the fellowship, working with other members at church toward a common goal.
Has anything surprised you about being on Vestry?
I was surprised by the focus on financial matters. I expected that we would also work toward attracting new members and finding ways to meet the needs of the congregation.
How much time does Vestry take per month?
Outside of my prayers for our parish, I spend about five or six hours a month. Although meetings are about two hours, I spend time reading to learn so I will be able to make good decisions. I have also attended a few all-day seminars/meetings.
Do you have any advice for anyone considering Vestry?
Come sit in on a meeting; ask questions; seek God's will.
Ray Contreras
Ray Contreras has attended St. John's for approximately fourteen years. He is a very valuable member of the Vestry because, as an attorney, he offers a unique perspective.
How long have you been on Vestry?
(Ray) Just since elected in January.
How did you become interested in Vestry?
I was drafted.
What aspects of being on Vestry do you like best?
Being able to give service to St. John's.
Has anything surprised you about being on Vestry?
Things are much more organized this year.
How much time does Vestry take per month?
For me, 4-8 hours, plus meeting time.
Do you have any advice for anyone considering Vestry?
It's a commitment.
Ray Contreras has attended St. John's for approximately fourteen years. He is a very valuable member of the Vestry because, as an attorney, he offers a unique perspective.
How long have you been on Vestry?
(Ray) Just since elected in January.
How did you become interested in Vestry?
I was drafted.
What aspects of being on Vestry do you like best?
Being able to give service to St. John's.
Has anything surprised you about being on Vestry?
Things are much more organized this year.
How much time does Vestry take per month?
For me, 4-8 hours, plus meeting time.
Do you have any advice for anyone considering Vestry?
It's a commitment.
Jim McDevitt
Jim McDevitt has been on Vestry for almost two years. His wife Lynn Boster had always suggested that he look into becoming a Vestry member, and when his good friend Judy McKay told him about open positions, he and Judy decided to go into it together.
What aspects of being on Vestry do you like best?
(Jim) The relationships that you build with the other Vestry members and with fellow parishioners.
Is there anything you would like to change?
No, but I would like to see more opportunities for others to join. Let folks know that we encourage them to join and learn more about St. John's.
Has anything surprised you?
Yes. I never realized how hard the Senior Warden and People's Warden work to help our church. Truly amazing!
How much time does Vestry take?
About 3-5 hours per month, with meetings, committees, and other functions.
Any advice for someone thinking about Vestry?
I highly recommend you come to a meeting and see if it's for you. It's such an eye opener to experience how many ways you can be of service here. Do yourself a favor, and show your commitment and enthusiasm for St. John's.
Jim McDevitt has been on Vestry for almost two years. His wife Lynn Boster had always suggested that he look into becoming a Vestry member, and when his good friend Judy McKay told him about open positions, he and Judy decided to go into it together.
What aspects of being on Vestry do you like best?
(Jim) The relationships that you build with the other Vestry members and with fellow parishioners.
Is there anything you would like to change?
No, but I would like to see more opportunities for others to join. Let folks know that we encourage them to join and learn more about St. John's.
Has anything surprised you?
Yes. I never realized how hard the Senior Warden and People's Warden work to help our church. Truly amazing!
How much time does Vestry take?
About 3-5 hours per month, with meetings, committees, and other functions.
Any advice for someone thinking about Vestry?
I highly recommend you come to a meeting and see if it's for you. It's such an eye opener to experience how many ways you can be of service here. Do yourself a favor, and show your commitment and enthusiasm for St. John's.
Lynn Young
How many years have you been at St. John's?
(Lynn) At different times, about 10 years total.
How long have you been on Vestry?
6 months.
How did you become interested in Vestry?
Two parishioners talked to me about serving on the Vestry. I had been involved in the lay leadership of another church and enjoyed it, so I decided to apply to be on the Vestry.
What aspects of being on Vestry do you like best? Is there anything you'd like to change?
I like working with others for the good of the church and I really enjoy and admire my fellow Vestry members.
Has anything surprised you about being on Vestry?
The many different issues we review and/or work on for St. John's. I was also surprised by the many, many hours the Wardens spend serving St. John's. We owe an immense amount of gratitude to them.
How much time does Vestry take per month?
Some months, only 3-4 hours- others with more projects/reading, it might be 6-10 hours.
Do you have any advice for someone considering Vestry?
Try it! You'll learn about the business side of the church and you'll be making a wonderful contribution.
How many years have you been at St. John's?
(Lynn) At different times, about 10 years total.
How long have you been on Vestry?
6 months.
How did you become interested in Vestry?
Two parishioners talked to me about serving on the Vestry. I had been involved in the lay leadership of another church and enjoyed it, so I decided to apply to be on the Vestry.
What aspects of being on Vestry do you like best? Is there anything you'd like to change?
I like working with others for the good of the church and I really enjoy and admire my fellow Vestry members.
Has anything surprised you about being on Vestry?
The many different issues we review and/or work on for St. John's. I was also surprised by the many, many hours the Wardens spend serving St. John's. We owe an immense amount of gratitude to them.
How much time does Vestry take per month?
Some months, only 3-4 hours- others with more projects/reading, it might be 6-10 hours.
Do you have any advice for someone considering Vestry?
Try it! You'll learn about the business side of the church and you'll be making a wonderful contribution.
Terry Farrelly
Terry Farrelly was asked by former Bishop Jim Mathes to be part of the Mission Action Parish team (MAP) that was tasked to help the leaders of St. John's through the challenges associated with the school. Although many of these challenges are now behind us, Terry finds it a blessing to be among the parishioners at St. John's. She says, "My heart tells me to stick around." She has now been at St. John's for about three years. Serving as Treasurer, she has a voice but no vote on the Vestry.
Have you been on Vestry in the past?
(Terry) I have been on Vestry before, but not at St. John's.
What aspects of being on Vestry do you like best?
I am an analytical type, so I enjoy finance and budgets. I have been blessed with the opportunity to work with Sally Elliott, our bookkeeper (among other roles). At Vestry meetings, I appreciate problem solving in a collaborative manner where everyone feels open to express ideas.
Is there anything you'd like to change?
Not solely with Vestry, but I would like to see a more robust expression of stewardship beyond pledging season. St. John's is filled with loving, prayerful people who give so much of their time and talent. Let's recognize the year round stewardship in that -- sharing our bountiful gifts! Of course, as Treasurer, I greatly appreciate timely pledges, which help me and the finance committee prepare a realistic budget.
Has anything surprised you about being on Vestry?
Although I wouldn't say "surprised," I appreciate the diversity of talent on the Vestry and the willingness of members to step up and "grab an oar" whenever needed. The mutual respect is very evident and it is clear that the Holy Spirit is in the room.
How much time does Vestry take per month?
Generally, I look over the monthly financials that Sally emails to me. Then, I meet with Sally to review. After that, I chair the Finance Committee meeting where the reports are reviewed. Then, the Finance Committee submits the reports to Vestry for review. Additionally, I attend the weekly meetings with Fr. Tom and the wardens. I spend about 10-12 hours a month, perhaps a little more during budget or audit times.
Do you have any advice for someone considering Vestry?
I would suggest that people considering Vestry take the Spiritual Gifts Assessment to get a feel for what they may be able to prayerfully offer to the parish. When we can bring together each others' unique gifts and offer them in combination, the results can be glorious. Vestry needs everyone's gifts! And, it can be very rewarding in many aspects.
Terry Farrelly was asked by former Bishop Jim Mathes to be part of the Mission Action Parish team (MAP) that was tasked to help the leaders of St. John's through the challenges associated with the school. Although many of these challenges are now behind us, Terry finds it a blessing to be among the parishioners at St. John's. She says, "My heart tells me to stick around." She has now been at St. John's for about three years. Serving as Treasurer, she has a voice but no vote on the Vestry.
Have you been on Vestry in the past?
(Terry) I have been on Vestry before, but not at St. John's.
What aspects of being on Vestry do you like best?
I am an analytical type, so I enjoy finance and budgets. I have been blessed with the opportunity to work with Sally Elliott, our bookkeeper (among other roles). At Vestry meetings, I appreciate problem solving in a collaborative manner where everyone feels open to express ideas.
Is there anything you'd like to change?
Not solely with Vestry, but I would like to see a more robust expression of stewardship beyond pledging season. St. John's is filled with loving, prayerful people who give so much of their time and talent. Let's recognize the year round stewardship in that -- sharing our bountiful gifts! Of course, as Treasurer, I greatly appreciate timely pledges, which help me and the finance committee prepare a realistic budget.
Has anything surprised you about being on Vestry?
Although I wouldn't say "surprised," I appreciate the diversity of talent on the Vestry and the willingness of members to step up and "grab an oar" whenever needed. The mutual respect is very evident and it is clear that the Holy Spirit is in the room.
How much time does Vestry take per month?
Generally, I look over the monthly financials that Sally emails to me. Then, I meet with Sally to review. After that, I chair the Finance Committee meeting where the reports are reviewed. Then, the Finance Committee submits the reports to Vestry for review. Additionally, I attend the weekly meetings with Fr. Tom and the wardens. I spend about 10-12 hours a month, perhaps a little more during budget or audit times.
Do you have any advice for someone considering Vestry?
I would suggest that people considering Vestry take the Spiritual Gifts Assessment to get a feel for what they may be able to prayerfully offer to the parish. When we can bring together each others' unique gifts and offer them in combination, the results can be glorious. Vestry needs everyone's gifts! And, it can be very rewarding in many aspects.