What’s New at All Saints
What a dark, gloomy day. Perfect for Good Friday really … It does feel a bit odd when you leave the solemnity of Good Friday at Church and go out into bright, cheery sunshine. It’s like the feeling of coming out of a movie theatre to find it’s still broad daylight outside. It’s discombobulating, but it does help draw a firm line under the experience and help with moving back to reality. But to attempt that on Good Friday and to leave behind the pain, suffering and sacrifice of Jesus would NOT work. I know it’s fashionable to focus entirely on the glory of the Resurrection in some denominations, but Jesus suffered - and that wasn’t just chance or just an incidental detail. Redemption isn’t free even if it’s not us paying the price.
Tomorrow (Saturday 16 April) we meet at 7 pm at All Saints for the Easter Vigil. I hope you can make it or at least watch it on YouTube.
Sunday is the big kahuna - Easter Day - we meet at 8:30 am and 10 am to celebrate with with all appropriate praise, singing and joyful noise! Rod Asher has thankfully stepped in to take the place of Jen who is unfortunately stuck at home with Covid. Please remember Jen and her family in your prayers, especially her father who has been hit pretty hard.
Speaking of music and musicians - there follows some news about the amazing Rob Gloor which I know you will want to hear.
Wednesday, March 30, 2022 - West Vancouver, B.C. -- The board of directors of the Kay Meek Arts Society announced today that executive director Rob Gloor will be leaving his position at the end of this season to take on another leadership role in our community, as CEO of the West Vancouver Foundation.
Gloor arrived at the Kay Meek in June of 2016. Since that time, the organization has undergone a transformation through its expanded programming and facility enhancements. The evolution of the Kay Meek under Gloor’s leadership is exemplified by the successful $4 million capital campaign and improvement project.
Shortly after Gloor’s arrival, plans began for a major renovation to improve accessibility and equipment in the 18-year-old facility. Now completed, the major improvements include upgraded lighting and sound systems for both theatres in the complex, new seating in the McEwen Theatre, new universal washrooms, and a full-sized elevator serving all three levels of the PARC Retirement Living Atrium. The project added two new programming spaces - a purpose-built dance studio and a large multi-purpose BMO Salon. A re-imagined outdoor space became the Faris Family Courtyard, featuring a commissioned work of public art by sculptor Marie Khouri. The comprehensive enhancements ensure the Kay Meek remains one of BC’s leading performing arts centre for many years to come.
Commenting on his six years as executive director, Gloor said, “I have appreciated every moment for all the wonderful opportunities we’ve had to stretch the capabilities of our team and grow the organization’s impact in the community.”
In the last two years, audience growth and construction progress were interrupted by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Reflecting on these challenges, Gloor said, “I am so grateful for the talents and persistent dedication of the people who make up our team - the board, staff, volunteers, and many steadfast supporters. Our efforts were galvanized by the common goal of ensuring a resilient future for the Kay Meek Arts Centre.”
Board chair Betsy Gibbons added, “The Kay Meek blossomed during Rob's time, and although we will miss his visionary leadership, Rob leaves the Kay Meek well positioned for a strong re-emergence from pandemic uncertainty. We are bolstered by our outstanding professional team, renewed infrastructure and the loyal community support that Rob stewarded throughout his tenure. The centre’s high profile will attract the finest candidates to lead our team as we begin the next chapter.”
Amazing eh? And to think we knew him when he was “just” our organist. I know you’ll all join me in wishing Rob all good things with this new post.
Reverend Robin is taking a break next week (18-24 April) so please pray for rest and rejuvenation for him after this most busy time of year. The office will be open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.