It brings me great joy to welcome children and families as our 18th school year gets underway at CCEP. I’ve been here for 17 of those years, and our Interim Head of School, Denise Gilliam, has seen all 18, welcoming children and helping them find their safety and joy in our community.

Your children will meet me in chapel each week, along with Michelle Galdames, the parish minister for children and youth, and the Rev. Michael Kurth, our associate rector. We love telling the Bible stories, singing songs, and helping your young ones learn the practice of prayer.

As the rector (a CEO priest), it’s my responsibility to provide oversight for all the ministries of Christ Church, including CCEP. I support the Board of Trustees and the Interim Head of School in their administration. You will meet me at preschool events and family chapel, which we hold once a month so that you might share the experience of worship with our community alongside your child. As a pastor, I serve both congregation and preschool – I’m here for you should you need a listening heart and a prayer partner.

The start of school can be an anxious time for the whole household. Here is a blessing as you send them off—

Child of my heart, may the blessing of God go with you today to keep you safe, and make you glad and good as you learn and play.

Remember who you are and whose you are, and let the light of Christ guide you and bring you home. Amen.