Report from the Vestry & Search Committee
A Personal Message to the Parish from Father Brad
Sermons by Father Brad

Our Senior Warden, Gerald Ardito, explained our choice of Brad in a report written in the spring of 2006, following the hiring of our rector. From that report:

We chose Brad for primarily three reasons. First, we all felt he was warm, personable, and related -- all qualities we knew were essential to this congregation. Second, he has done really good work with all levels of Christian Education -- from the Sunday School to their Youth Groups to adults. Third, he has a strong call for Outreach.

Return to Top

But speaking of odd names and titles, I have been lately wondering what exactly is the meaning of the title “rector”? Sure, I know that it is closely related to the title “director”, but I wanted to know more. This is what I have found: according to the Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church, the word "Rector" comes from a combination of two things. First, it is derived from the Latin word for "ruler". Interesting, I must confess. And second, “rector” refers to the person, "entitled to the whole tithes of the parish." In other words, I am supposed to be the person who rules the parish and gets to spend your money? Can you see me clasping my hands and cackling? Perhaps, not!

Let's begin again! I have accepted the call as Rector, but in my vision, it is a shared ministry. We are all the ministers of the congregation of St. Augustine's. In some cases, I do get to be the “buck” where an issue “stops,” but when I do, I do so as a leader amongst leaders. This is a mutual endeavor.

And the rest, about me and about you, I will leave for us to find out naturally as we grow together in the love of God.

God’s Peace,
Bradley C. Dyche

Return to Top