This is solidly broad church parish with a fantastic, organic music program. The parish has a history of experimental preaching style, appreciation of art and literature in liturgy, a wide variety of musical expressions, and an enthusiasm for children in liturgy.

St. John's is a vibrant, loving community deeply invested in their neighborhood. They are a small, relatively informal and very progressive parish. They take on virtually any project or ministry opportunity with vigor.  This parish has no conflict, and where disagreements do occur, they are steeped in deep discussion and careful listening. They are financially healthy and excited for their future.  They have had two rounds of candidates, and they are willing to wait for the right fit, rather than accepting a warm body in a collar. They like good preaching, bible study, and evening prayer, and book studies.

This is one of the fastest growing and most expensive real estate markets in the region, with a superb school district.

In the past, their large campus of 5 buildings was an albatross around their neck. Just prior to the COVID shutdown, they completed an 18 month process to sell their rectory, rezone their property, and reroute their utility lines. They also tore down an ancient barn and replaced it with an attractive shed that is appropriate to their storage needs.

The remaining 3 buildings pose challenges--no ADA compliant restrooms, or a good space for Sunday School. The church itself is lovely, historic, and not very child-friendly.  Still, they work around it.

This is a gem of a parish for a priest who is willing to be elbow deep in the community, the ministries, and the relationships with the parishioners.  It helps if the person is a reader, and if they have a love of good music, as these are rich traditions in the parish.

The Rev. Virginia Tyler Smith

585-315-6604

transitions@episcopaldioceseofrochester.org