by Richard Gray
This summer (from June 2–September 2) I will be stepping away from my duties as Music Director at St. John’s for a time of intentional rest, reflection, and renewal. I am deeply grateful to the leadership and congregation for supporting this sabbatical, and I’d like to share a bit about what I’ll be doing during this time.
This sabbatical will provide me with space to rest in God’s presence—to step back, breathe, and listen more closely to the Spirit. I plan to engage in activities that nourish both my vocation and my spirit. I love to travel, and this summer I’ll be visiting a country I’ve never been to before: Costa Rica. I’ll be traveling solo with a small group organized by a travel company, and I’m looking forward to rainforest hikes, zip-lining, cultural immersion, great cuisine and meeting new friends along the way! I’ll also spend some time resting and reflecting in one of my favorite places, Minnesota’s beautiful North Shore.
In addition to rest, I will be devoting time to further study of organ and choral music. This November, I’ll perform a solo organ recital at St. Mark’s Cathedral in Minneapolis, with the intention of featuring a new program of all French repertoire. My recent study in Bordeaux rekindled my love of French Baroque music, and I’m excited to prepare more music from that period. I’m especially grateful to St. Mark’s Cathedral and the Church of the Transfiguration in Oakdale for the space and instruments to practice on this summer.
Looking ahead to the fall, our choir will present John Rutters’ Requiem with soloists and chamber orchestra. I’ll be spending part of the summer preparing for that offering, along with another rich and joyful season of choral music at St. John’s.
While I am away, I am thankful for the many people stepping in to ensure that the music ministry continues smoothly. Special thanks to Ed Stieve and Dean Billmeyer for leading music and liturgies; to Jaena Smith, Priya Schulze, and the Music Commission for handling communications; and to Susan Creel for her faithful care of our music library, choir room, and organization.
I will miss everyone during this time, but I look forward to returning with a full heart, renewed energy, and deep gratitude for the chance to continue serving at St. John the Evangelist.
