A Note from English Morris

Dear People of St. Martin’s,

Certain things are necessary in life whether we want to accept these things or not. Furthermore the Great Buddha’s teaching asserts that “nothing is forever.” Even the disciple Peter wanted to build a booth to prolong the experience of Jesus’ Transfiguration on Mt.Tabor. I, too, wish it were possible to prolong forever my serving this great church as minister of music and organist. However, after much soul-searching, prayer, and discussion, it is time for me to announce my retirement, effective Oct. 1.

In August 1987, I answered the call to the music ministry of this special place, and on the first Sunday in September, I began 36 years of an ever-enjoyable, creative, exciting, and in every way fulfilling ministry among you. Our youngest child, Margaret, was born three months into this new ministry and three months later she made what was to be many trips to Kanuga for the beloved Parish Weekend Retreat. My older daughter, Alycia, and Margaret participated in St. Martin’s very first Easter Vigil when Alycia was confirmed and Margaret baptized. Both were active in the various programs of the parish. They grew up here and my wife, Harriet, and I celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary last March. So, in addition to being a place of employment and a place to live into God’s call to continue in music ministry, St. Martin’s has indeed been a spiritual home for us.

I am deeply grateful to this parish for its support of a multi-faceted music program. From the expansion of beautiful Anglican sacred music to the inauguration of special liturgies such as our Jazz Mass, Caribbean Mass, Bluegrass Mass and Gospel Singing Sundays, as well as a Choral Evensong renowned throughout this city, our aim has been excellence, authenticity and integrity. Thank you for encouraging this to happen.

You and your wonderful rectors have supported students of music by sharing your facilities for graduate and doctoral performances by local colleges and universities, and you provided a positive and encouraging place for youth to study music on this campus. You have shared St. Martin’s beautiful instruments for high school music performances and outstanding regional choral groups. The community has become aware of your support of the Sacred Arts as they have poured in to witness and hear “Bach Around the Clock,” “Amahl and the Night Visitors” and “The Death of the Bishop of Brindisi,” the latter recounting the fate of the Childrens’ Crusades.

I recall from my youth a pastor who said: “The future is as bright as the promises of God.” I believe those promises, for my family and for me, and for you dear people of this great parish.  As long as I live, you shall remain in my heart and prayers.

Much love,

English