We are happy to announce that, after a unanimous vote on Thursday, January 9, the Vestry of St. John’s Church asked the Rev. Charles Connelly to serve as the parish’s Priest-in-Charge and he has accepted.

Senior Warden Gregory Gaar said of the appointment: “The Vestry is very excited to have Father Connelly lead our Parish during this important time in the life of St. John’s. We appreciate the support we have received from the Parish and, with Fr. Connelly, look forward to a bright future.”

The Rt. Rev. Dabney Smith, Bishop of Southwest Florida, has approved the appointment and there is no plan to conduct a search for a Rector in the foreseeable future. We hope that this decision will provide some welcome continuity and stability for our parish community.

According to the canons, the Priest-in-Charge has all of the rights and responsibilities of a Rector, the simple difference being that he serves by letter of agreement from the Vestry, rather than under a long-term contract. In other words, he does not receive “tenure,” but otherwise functions just as a Rector would.

“When Bishop Smith called me after the Vestry meeting to ask if I would agree to serve as Priest-in-Charge, I was humbled, grateful, and excited. It is a true honor to be asked to serve as your spiritual leader during this formative time in the history of St. John’s Church and School.” said Fr. Chip Connelly of his new position.