A NEW RECTOR
There was, of course, some adjusting to do on my part - and on yours. You quickly learned that the Aussie Rector had an enthusiasm for the cathoIic faith - and a bigger understanding of what it is about. Many have commented favorably that I am teaching you things you never heard before - or not in a long time. And I have had to learn some American ways....and I thank you for your patience with me!

The past 2 years I have tried to get on with the job of being your pastor and priest, as well as giving direction and leadership. It has been time of observing, learning and making mistakes on my part. There has been growth in many areas of our parish life, not least in new people attending. There have also been worries. Obviously the biggest frustration and worry is the school.

There have also been frustrations that one should expect in a parish with a long tradition - It often generates an atmosphere that "we have always done things this way"! One of the 1st criticisms I received, that makes me smile now, was that I changed the bulletin!

PARISH GROWTH
The buzz words in most Episcopal parishes these days are growth and programs. Tonight I want to present my vision for our life as a parish and its growth.

1. PROGRAMS. I have none!
    I could spend a lot of money organizing programs and seminars. And there is a lot of literature on church growth.
BUT - Jesus did not establish programs - He established relationships and sacraments.

This parish is firmly based on these 2 foundations, and that is what people are looking for. Church growth materials will tell you otherwise - but from my own experience, what people are looking for in a church is an encounter with God and his peo