May 18, 2011

Today will be cause for joy in my church, Mt. Calvary Episcopal Church, in Camp Hill, PA . Our Diocesan Bishop, Bishop Nathan Baxter will officiate this evening at 7:00 pm to install our new pastor The Rev. Duncan Johnson. They are expecting about 250 people, installation/Eucharist and reception in the undercroft afterwards. I was asked to participate in the service and I was asked to read the Gospel. I have met with a few times and I feel the spirituality of this man. He is a blessing to my church and to me as my spiritual director.

Here is bio for those that interested:

CLERGY
The Rev. Duncan H. Johnston


The Rev. Duncan H. Johnston became the rector of Mt. Calvary on January 3, 2011. He formerly served as Rector at St. John the Evangelist Episcopal Church in Fremont, Michigan. Rev. Johnston was ordained as a Deacon in 1993 and as a Priest in 1994.

Reverend Johnston has a strong academic background. He graduated from the University of Hull in 1985 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theology. He then received his Masters of Arts degree in Theology and Mission and Ministry from St. John's Theological College in Nottingham. He is currently pursuing his Doctorate in Ministry Development from the Virginia Theological Seminary.

Reverend Johnston also has a strong employment history. He spend a year between university and graduate school as a British Youth for Christ team leader, working as a volunteer with inner-city young people in London. He then worked for the UK government as an Executive Officer in the Department of Social Security. Following ordination, Duncan served as Assistant Curate at a large suburban parish, a Vicar in 2 rural parishes. At this time he was also appointed as the Diocesan Evangelism Officer by his Bishop, and charged with helping parishes communicate the Christian Faith in their surrounding communities. He then served as Diocesan Missioner in the Diocese of Durham, UK, before moving to Western Michigan to serve as Rector at St. John the Evangelist. During this time, Duncan served as chaplain at four nearby medical facilities.

Reverend Johnston has made numerous contributions throughout his career on a Diocesan level, chairing and serving on various committees and commissions. He has also pursued continuing education opportunities throughout his career, focusing on growth in the areas of preaching, pastoral care and church leadership and management.

Reverend Johnston and his wife Cindy visited Mount Calvary from October 28th-31st, and met with the Vestry on the evening of October 30th. He was introduced to parishioners at both services on October 31st, and was our guest at Coffee Hour.