Letter from Niall Barnard

Beloved Community,

 

I've been on retreat for the last while, reflecting on my time with you and discerning what's next on my journey toward the diaconate. 

 

I've realized that if I'm called to ministry and justice work with 2S/LGBTQ folks, I need to be in a congregation among other queer and trans people, where I can discover what's already happening with this ministry in our diocese and hear from folks directly about what might be missing that I might be able to support or provide. 

 

With the support of our Director of Deacons, I've decided that the best place for me to do this is at St John the Divine. 

 

Over the last three years, you have held me well, accompanied me through and blessed my transition, received my gifts and let me serve you at the altar, prayed with and for me, discerned with me, and laid hands of blessing upon me. I love this community and I'm so grateful for all your support. It's been hard to accept that it's time for me to move on, even though I knew that formation often involves a period of time at a new parish. I will miss you dearly.

 

I'll be coming back on February 1st to serve you one last time at the altar, and to ask for your blessings on this next step in my journey toward ordination. I look forward to many fond farewells and encourage you to reach out by email and stay in touch.

 

Blessings,

Niall