A Message from the Rector: Staff Transitions

Dear ones,

For the past seven years, I have had the privilege of working with Jill Bednas. Jill first joined the staff as our youth minister, and she and I worked closely together to plan and lead a mission trip to the Dominican Republic. Soon after, Jill took on additional duties in hospitality, and over time this evolved into a new position, Minister of Welcome and Engagement. In this capacity, Jill was instrumental in helping us create events that celebrated our 90th anniversary as a parish as well as our successful capital campaign. When the pandemic hit, and a staff opening as my Executive Assistant developed, Jill stepped up and stepped in, as she has throughout her time at Christ Church Cranbrook. In addition to helping me administer the work of my office, she helped coordinate our move to our temporary offices at Temple Beth El. She has also played a key role in our construction project, particularly with regard to interiors.

Late last month, Jill let me know that she intended to transition from our staff so that she can focus on her family and on being the faithful parishioner she has always been. I cannot thank Jill enough for her service. She will be missed from the staff, and we are all grateful for her willingness to do whatever is needed when it is needed to further our mission. Her last day will be at a beloved event, Advent by Candlelight, on November 29th. I will be making a special presentation then. Please feel free to send Jill a note of thanks for her work at jbednas@christchurchcranbrook.org.

After reviewing a large pool of excellent applicants, a search committee comprised of Coco Siewert, Pastor Manisha Dostert, Father Chris Harris, and Gina Morgan recommended that I hire Jill Andree as my next Executive Assistant. Jill Andree comes to us after a successful career as an Executive Assistant at UHY and Young and Associates. She has an extensive background and a significant skill set in the many details and deadlines associated with her new position. In addition, Jill is a singer-songwriter and performer (www.jilljack.com) with additional expertise in arts management, which will be incredibly useful to us as we develop our new and generously funded nonprofit, The Cranbrook Project. Please take a moment to welcome Jill Andree at jandree@christchurchcranbrook.org.

The fact that Jill Andree and Jill Bednas are both named “Jill” has already fueled a few laughs at our offices. However, let me say that each Jill is uniquely gifted. At a church like ours, no one ever “replaces” another, but each of us gives what we have to serve the whole. I am grateful to God for each, and I remain humbled to be your Rector.

Faithfully,

Bill

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