Every once in a while, it’s important to highlight the incredibly generous work of St. John’s members and volunteers. Since this is stewardship season, it seems especially appropriate to thank two people who have shepherded St. John’s finances in extraordinary ways: Michael Morrow and Kathy Schweikart.
Michael Morrow was St. John’s Treasurer for years—much longer than the canonical limit of four years—because he was and is so knowledgeable and gifted about how nonprofits like our church should manage and account for their money. (I suppose that’s no surprise since he is the Vice President of Finance and Administration at Luther Seminary!) In addition to the normal duties of caring for our finances, Michael also handled the many requirements of our Keeping Faith capital campaign, managing our mortgage at Wells Fargo, and applying for our PPP loan during this pandemic. He did all this while also volunteering in Sunday School, going to the pilgrimage in Spain with teens in 2019, and being present in many other places in the church’s life. He is generous of spirit, thoughtful, and wise. We owe him a huge debt of gratitude. Please take time to acknowledge him when you get the chance!
Kathy Schweikart is another person who has served St. John’s above and beyond the call of duty. In addition to her role as Junior and Senior Warden during the Rector transition between Susan Barnes and Lisa Wiens Heinsohn, in which her wise advice and leadership were so invaluable to the people of St. John’s, she also accepted the role of Treasurer when Michael Morrow finished his term. When our gifted Parish Administrator Rachel Svihel went on her well-deserved three-month sabbatical this past spring and summer, Kathy selflessly offered to keep St. John’s books (another 5-10 hours per week on top of her Treasurer duties) the entire time!
It’s hard to overstate how much selfless work, dedication, and cheer happens behind the scenes at St. John’s. As Rector I thank you with all my heart and invite everyone else to do the same.
In Christ’s love,
Lisa
