To the editor: The Rev. H. Paul Brannock-Wanter to retire

At its annual retreat in May, the St. Luke’s Episcopal Church leadership accepted the resignation and retirement of the Rev. H. Paul Brannock-Wanter, who has served the congregation for just over 10 years. In May of 2010, Father Paul’s anniversary of 25 years of ordained ministry was celebrated under the tent on the church lawn.

The Rev. H. Paul Brannock-Wanter will be retiring on July 1, following 27 years as an ordained minister and more than the last 10 with St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Chester./Contributed photo

He has served St. Luke’s well with adult Bible studies, book studies, introducing the annual Passover Seder, incredible sermons, birth, love and death celebrations, pet blessings, excellent music selections, and helpful interventions and support for his parishioners. He was active in the Diocese of Vermont, serving on the Standing Committee.

In addition, his participation in the Chester Ministerium involved St. Luke’s in Vacation Bible School and Ecumenical Lenten Services. Paul is leaving Chester and selling his home in Hartland to join his wife, the Rev. Christina Brannock-Wanter and son Joseph in Paris, Kentucky, where she is rector of St. Peter’s Church. He will be sorely missed.

The St. Luke’s community is planning a Farewell Celebration for a joyful sendoff to Father Paul on Sunday, July 1, following the 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist.

The St. Luke’s community is planning a Farewell Celebration for a joyful sendoff to Father Paul on Sunday, July 1, following the 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist, which will be his last service.  His parishioners are preparing his favorite dishes from their kitchens and gifting him with thanksgivings again under a tent on the church lawn.  For details of the event and how to be a part of it, check the church website: www.stlukesepiscopalvt.org.

Bonnie and Lew Watters