May 29, 2026
Dear Grace,
This week, I wanted to send you an update regarding the next staffing hire we plan to make this summer. The position is titled “Music Ministry Co-Director.” The primary responsibility of this position will be to direct our two standing ensembles – the Vocal Choir and the Bell Choir. In addition to this, the person in this position will also work alongside Sheryl Vande Kamp to expand and strengthen the music-making within our congregation. This will look like investing in the many musicians in our community and creating more opportunities for musicians of all kinds and ages to contribute to our worship services. We have so many musical gifts in our congregation, and we are excited to grow this area of our life together with the addition of this staff member.
In terms of timeline, we posted the position this week. I am in the process of convening a search team. We will begin reviewing applications in mid-June, and hope to have first interviews in late June and early July. Our hope is that this person will begin work at Grace in mid-late August. Please feel free to share the job posting this with your connections and networks!
The other change I’m delighted to share with you is that Sheryl Vande Kamp’s position title will be changing from “Organist” to “Music Ministry Co-Director.” For the past year, Sheryl has done so much more than play the organ, as I’m sure you’ve experienced! She has been instrumental in supporting our ensembles through this time of transition, and she has worked with all kinds of musicians to involve them more fully in worship. Sheryl is eager to continue in this more expansive role; hence, she will serve as “Co-Director” along with the new hire. Thanks be to God!
In the past few weeks, as I’ve been putting together the job description, I’ve met with both of the ensembles to receive their input and ideas. I’ve also gathered input from the Church Council. If you would like to share your hopes, concerns, or ideas around music ministry at Grace, I would love to hear from you. You can simply send me an email or fill out this online feedback form. Thank you!
I’m so grateful for the central role that music plays in our church, and am looking forward to growing that even more in the coming year.
Pastor Sarah
Every Friday, we send an email to the congregation and any others who would like to learn more about the Grace community. The last four Friday emails are posted below.