Greetings beloved members of St. David's!
I am sorry to be out of touch. You are in my heart and prayers.
Julie (my friend from Florida), Hilary Monique, Nikita, Buffy, Cleopatra (my beta fish, who traveled in a hot and sour soup container) and I arrived safely in San Francisco on August 10th. The house I am renting is sweet, with an amazing view of the surrounding hills, the Golden Gate bridge and the Bay, from the back side of the house. Of course, that assumes that there isn't any fog...which in August is rare. In fact, it is cool and foggy most days. So much for all of those shorts and t-shirts!
I began work on August 15th, and had my first Sunday on the 21st. Sunday was an adventure, because the moving van had not arrived, and my clothing options were limited. More than that, I had no printer. My new Senior Warden was supposed to print my sermon out for me. However, I rec eived a call while I was driving to church on Sunday morning to find out that her computer wouldn't boot up. I knew enough to bring my laptop with me...so, for the first time in my ministry, I actually preached from my laptop. Because I use my hands a lot, there was one moment when I nearly flung the laptop out of the pulpit!
My stuff arrived on Tuesday. My house looks like a twister blew through! Ten minutes before the movers arrived, I learned that my Mother was being rushed to the hospital for what looked like a stroke. She is on her way home today, and seems to have leveled out. With all of these big changes, and worrying about Mom, I am pretty tired. Once my house begins to finally look like a home I think I'll be able to feel more centered. On the other hand, finally sleeping on a real mattress has done wonders for my sore back! Camping mats and air mattresses just don't cut the mustard.
The folks at St. Francis have been generous, kind, and so welcoming. They have a huge feeding program every Wednesday afternoon, which was a very moving thing for me to participate in this week. I am still learning my way around-the parish, the city, the neighborhood. My friend Julie was here until last Friday, so having a friend here for this huge period of transition was a boon. We got lost at least once every day. The streets are winding and hilly...and confusing! It is a glorious city, and very dog friendly. I think that I will be very happy here. However, that is not to say that I don't miss all of you, and the beautiful state of Rhode Island. By the way, I can't believe I move, and you have an earthquake, and a hurricane on the way!
Know that you are in my prayers, and that you are thought of often. My house is in such chaos, I haven't written any of you thank you notes. They will be on their way soon-I promise! You sent me off with such love and tenderness. Words will never describe how much that meant to me. Thank you. This comes with so much love.
Love and prayers,
Pastor Beth
P.S. My church email is: rector@stfrancis.org
Please write!