An article for the Cathedral Times
Below is a dear letter from one of the best priests in the Episcopal Church, the Reverend Canon Wallace Marsh. The letter speaks for itself. I deeply understand and accept Wallace’s decision, with great thanks for his ongoing ministry and service with us; but I will not look forward to trying to find another priest of his skill and caliber. He is one of the best. I do look forward to celebrating his and Margaret Ann’s time with us in the next two months! They are worth celebrating!
The Very Reverend Samuel G. Candler
Dean of the Cathedral of St. Philip
Dear Cathedral of St. Philip:
It is with mixed emotions I submit my resignation effective June 1.
I came to the Cathedral because it is an amazing parish, with a wonderful staff, and a dean who strives to create a strong community. The Cathedral has been a place of growth for me, both professionally and spiritually. The clergy and staff have become dear friends and wise mentors. Accepting the call to this parish is easily one of the best decisions of my life.
Recently, Margaret Ann was presented with a call of her own. Flowers Foods asked her to take on additional responsibilities as Vice President for Environmental and Sustainability. After much consideration, we have decided to move to Thomasville, Georgia, where she will be able to work more closely with the corporate team.
Another benefit of this transition is that our new home in Thomasville will be within walking distance from grandparents, and our children will be surrounded by a multitude of cousins. Though many of you have embraced us as family, with the gift of children, we have felt a call to be closer to family.
Finally, I am going to use this transition to explore a call I have been discerning for many years. I began ministry serving as a college chaplain (2001-2004) and have felt a calling to return to a school setting at some point in my career. I am thrilled to have been offered a position at Brookwood School teaching English, World History, and, eventually, Bible as Literature. I will also be an assistant football coach and head tennis coach. After a little sabbatical, I will find a way to serve in parishes on Sunday mornings.
It has been a great gift and honor to serve this parish, and leaving this community will be difficult. I cannot begin to express my gratitude for Dean Candler calling me to be a part of this wonderful staff. This parish has blessed our lives in so many ways!
As we make this transition, I ask that you keep my family in your prayers, and know that the Cathedral will always have a special place in our hearts.
Faithfully,
The Reverend C. Wallace Marsh IV
Canon for Pastoral Care and Worship