Monthly Holy Eucharist at Heatherwood
Building dreams from his home workshop
Blessing of the Animals Russ with his beloved Arlo
Farewell Pastor Russ Russ has been a steadfast pastoral presence among us, faithful, wise, steady, and full of grace. His ministry has shaped this community in ways that will bless us for years to come. -Fr. Michael Horvath
Sharing fellow MIT grad, Alexander Theroux’s new book
“For me, Pastor Russ in his six years as our associate has exemplified the essence of St. Mary’s as a community in which faith, love, and action come alive. Russ has shown decisive leadership in Pastoral Care, the men’s group, and our commitment to environmental advocacy, among other activities. His sermons have led us to laugh, but also to think – deeply. And he has brought us a Lutheran viewpoint that is slightly different from but completely congruent with our Episcopalian beliefs, thus allowing all of us to expand our Christian understanding. Like many in our congregation, I’ll miss his presence, his spirituality, and his friendship.”- Peter Gwynne “Father Russ cares, gives and goes the extra mile for our Church Family. He is so approachable and kind! For years he has been there, steadfast in his beliefs and helping so many along the way. He will be missed!” - Carolyn Thomas We have been richly blessed by Pastor Russ’s gifts during this chapter of his ministry. As he now prepares to step back and enjoy a new season of retirement with his wife, Dixie, his daughter and grandchildren, we give thanks to God for the grace we have known through him. To honor Pastor Russ and express our appreciation, we will host a festive coffee hour in his honor after the 10 a.m. service on Sunday, Dec. 21. Additionally, we are gathering a purse collection as a token of our thanks. If you would like to contribute, you may drop off cash or checks made out to Russ Norris at the Parish Office.
After five retirements, six parishes, three interim positions, ministry leadership, professorships, and a 20-year model train avocation that spans the Pennsylvania countryside (and an entire room of his house), Pastor Russ bids farewell to St. Mary’s Church, leaving a legacy of commitment, compassion, ministry and faith. It is with heartfelt gratitude that we celebrate Pastor Russ in his fifth and final (maybe) retirement. Over the past several years, Pastor Russ has been a faithful presence in our parish life, giving generously of his wisdom, experience, and deep compassion. He has been instrumental in shaping and leading our Creation Care and Pastoral Care ministries, helping us grow into a community more attuned to God’s presence in creation and more attentive to the needs of one another. His gifts of deep listening, encouragement, and gentle guidance have touched countless lives in our congregation.
“I really enjoyed Pastor Russ’ Lunch and Learn series on Creation Care, particularly his understanding and emphasis on the biblical goodness of creation. He is a wonderful teacher!” - Sarah Nixon
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