A Word from Laura: Farewell to Patrick

With a heavy heart, I share with you the news that our interim music director Patrick Merrill shared officially with me, the Personnel chair, clerk of session and choir this past week: that he is leaving Western to pursue an opportunity to work at St. Stephen Martyr Catholic Church, where his wife Grace has served as a cantor for over a decade. As Patrick and I talked, he shared with me that while this had not been his original intention, the unexpected opportunity to serve with his spouse was too good to pass up. His last Sunday with us will be February 26. 

Many of you have expressed your hope that Patrick might continue with us. I know that you have seen, as I have, Patrick’s giftedness as a musician and worship leader and maturity in faith and social grace. We will miss him deeply and send him on with blessings and best wishes. 

In the meantime, we have assembled a search committee for our next church musician, to be approved by the session when they meet this Saturday. The plan is to meet on the first and third Mondays of the month and to begin as soon as we have a “go.” As you can imagine, we hope to tap the many gifted singers and musicians who are members and friends of the choir and congregation as we put together a position description and invite applicants. 

I’ll add that Patrick has approached Ariel Nathanson, who has previously served as a substitute accompanist for Sunday worship. We plan on her serving with us most Sundays. We will also be leaning more on Alec in our work with technology during worship. 

We look forward to talking more in our congregational conversation on Sunday and give thanks for your prayers and support for Patrick and our worship ministry in this process. 

Grace and peace be with you, dear friends,

Laura