Terry DeForest PIC and VACEM

Those present at our worship services on August 28 will have heard that both sets of cryptic initials above will soon follow my name. Bishop Michael Bird has announced that, while continuing as Priest-in-charge (PIC) here (on a ½ time basis), I have been appointed (also on a ½ time basis) as "Vision Advocate and Coordinator for Excellence in Ministry" (VACEM) for the Diocese of Niagara, starting on November 1st. [Yes, it is an ungainly title!] The letter of appointment is part of this issue of Incarnation Acts!


I have been aware for a while that it is time for me to return to full-time employment (and not insignificantly, full-time pay & pension contributions!). One desirable outcome of this announcement is that when both of these positions are cobbled together, I do not need to seek full-time employment elsewhere at this time. Another is that my proactive involvement in the promotion of our diocesan vision and excellence in ministry may improve my/our awareness of and access to resources for ministry “best practices” for our parish. At the moment, I am planning to organize my work in both positions so that I will be working for both jobs most weekdays. This may result in my being in the office and parish itself more frequently than I am currently. (More details to follow later.)

I am looking forward to the range of responsibilities this new position requires of the incumbent: facilitator, consultant, teacher, administrator, policy-drafter, ombudsman, etc.. Furthermore, I feel quite honoured by the trust that the Bishop is placing in me to assist in promoting aspects of the diocesan vision and look forward to the chance to serve alongside some very talented diocesan colleagues!

Some not so desirable outcomes include needing to reduce (from 60% to 50%) my availability for our work here at Incarnation. The diocesan position will require my absence from the parish for some Sundays, although not more than once a month. Another more personal consequence is that I probably need to admit that a doctoral thesis won't be completed soon. [In any case, progress was, sadly, glacially slow on that project.]

In order to provide coverage for when I am away, the Wardens and I are working with the Bishop and Executive Officer to secure consistent clergy supply assistance sensitive to our parish’s worship culture and traditions. We will also be monitoring our need and resources for additional (part-time) staffing as ministry opportunities grow. One job I will probably need to give up is my current practice of furniture moving in preparation for and after our worship services. It is likely that we will need to recruit (volunteer or paid, depending on what is possible).

I very much appreciate the congratulations which so many have extended to me. Please know that the Wardens and I welcome expression of your concerns and suggestions as we seek to maintain the wonderful momentum we have established pursuing God’s mission together in this place.