Tag: Clergy

Introducing the Rev. Mary L. Staley

December 1, 2025

On behalf of the Vestry, I am thrilled to introduce the Rev. Mary L. Staley as our Interim Priest-in-Charge. Mary will be starting in her role this week and will preside over the 10:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. services beginning this Sunday, December 7.

The Rev. Staley comes to us with extensive training and experience as an Interim Priest. This valuable training and experience will serve our congregation well in this time of transition.

I personally find Mary demonstrating a wonderful balance of understanding the role of an Interim Priest along with showing compassion for a congregation moving forward after a 17-year wonderful relationship with Connie.

One of the important roles of the Interim Priest-in-Charge is helping the Vestry address the workings of the church so that when a new Priest-in-Charge is called by the Discernment Committee, the transition is smooth.

As I stated on Sunday, the Vestry appreciated and felt your prayer and support with this process. Now, we, and the Rev. Mary will continue to pray and support the Discernment Committee in their important work.

—Rob Michel

Greetings from the Rev. Mary L. Staley

December 1, 2025

Hello Buck Mountain,

I am trying to learn about your congregation, but I have lots of questions, so I am looking forward to meeting with you and hearing your stories. Each person here is a part of the fabric of this parish, together you have woven wonderful memories. The design on the fabric will continue to reflect your commitment to share your faith through all you do, in worship, in outreach and in your Christian presence in this place.

The interim’s role is to help the process of discovery, discovering where adjustments might be appropriate. The process we use allows time for reflection and preparation. I am looking forward to being a part of this congregation during the transition between priests. We will explore the things you will want to consider as you prepare for the next priest.

Transitions feel like unfamiliar territory—like walking after roller skating. Instead of skating. It takes time to adjust. The transition period is intended to allow everyone time to adapt and move forward together.

While you are preparing, the person who will be your next priest may be in their own period of discernment, listening for the Spirit’s leading. In time, their path and yours will intersect. In the meantime, we will work together to prepare for the future.

As we journey through this time together, let’s remember that each step forward is part of the unfolding story of Buck Mountain. With patience and openness, we will discover new opportunities for growth and renewal, trusting that the Spirit will guide us in new directions we may not yet imagine. It will all fall into place in God’s time.

This season of transition is not just about waiting, but about actively shaping the future with hope and faith, knowing that as we move ahead, we do so as a community—supporting one another, honoring the past, and embracing the possibilities that lie ahead. Together, we will create new memories and strengthen the fabric of our parish for all who come after us.

In Christ’s love,
Mary+
Interim Priest in Charge