Good-bye Sofie Fashana; Welcome, Isaiah Leatherwood!

In addition to Pastor Laura’s leaving and Pastor Dean coming on board as our bridge pastor, Western staff is undergoing two additional changes.

Sofie Fashana’s last day with Western will be December 10. Several months ago – before knowing about the opportunity as communications coordinator – Sofie applied to be a fellow with the Next 100, a think tank through the Century Foundation focusing on next generation policy leaders for a “more inclusive, equal, democratic, and just America.” A few weeks ago she discovered that she was accepted. While this is good news for her and for those who will benefit from her work, the sad news for us is that she will be based in NYC.

We are grateful for her enthusiastic work in support of the church’s ministry; we’ll miss her! Personnel team members Kathy Hawk and Ray Kim will continue work on next steps for filling this part-time position, most likely on a temporary basis. Please be in touch with them with your thoughts and ideas.

Isaiah Leatherwood begins this week as our Sunday Building Manager, serving three weeks a month. Isaiah has served Miriam’s Kitchen as a full-time security presence for the last six years and brings both an innate gift for welcoming others and a respect-filled familiarity with MK guests. He will be responsible for opening and closing the building and supporting greeters in ensuring that Western is a safe space for all who come on Sundays.

Bob Glennon, clinical director at Miriam’s Kitchen, remarked, “Isaiah treats people with respect and gets respect in return. He does a good job at a job that can be difficult.” A resident of Hyattsville, Isaiah is an active member of First Baptist Church, Glen Arden. When asked about his work, he replied, “ God put me here for something… I love helping people.” Please share a warm Western welcome the next Sunday you are here!

Laura