Comings and Goings
There have been many comings and goings here at St. Cross. This week and next we will be introducing you to a few new people and saying thank you to some who have been with us for a while.
First is our Communications Coordinator, Merrill Whatley has been with us since the spring of 2020. Merrill brought many wonderful platforms and programs to our staff and parish. He has built our website. He eased the staff into using Slack. He helped us pivot immediately in the early days of COVID. He helped us install better equipment so we could continue filming in the church, and then outside, and then again back in the church. He is a sought after tech guru in the Episcopal Church and I always felt extremely fortunate to have him working with us. Occasionally we were a guinea pig for new ideas that were coming onto the church scene. We always were the better for what Merrill brought to our attention. Thank you Merrill for your years of helping us push our communication to our congregation and wider community. Thank you for putting up with those of us who are late on our deadlines. Thank you for making sure we always looked our best. You will be missed.
Second is our AMAZING new Communications Coordinator, Britt Swain. Britt has been working with Merrill since 2020 to assist with our livestream for services. You may have seen Britt coming in and out of the video room, where she makes sure our service streams seamlessly. Seriously, we are equally lucky to have Britt working for us. I was thrilled when she said yes to the position. She comes with a wealth of knowledge and excitement for the job. I will let her Five Questions fill you in on a bit more of her background. Be sure to say hi to Britt when you see her on campus on Sundays or in the office during the week. She will continue to use the same communications email connect@stcross.org. Welcome Britt!
Rev. Rachel+
What excites you about coming to St. Cross to work? Britt: I first met Merrill and Rev. Rachel at the Rooted in Jesus Conference in ATL 2020 while I was working for an Episcopal Church in KY. I thought they were both awesome and amazing. When I moved to CA and was brought into working at St. Cross through Merrill, I felt so welcomed. The staff, clergy and parishioners at St. Cross are so kind and caring. St. Cross is a special place and community and I look forward to playing a part in the growth and future of St. Cross and it's mission.
What is one hobby that you love doing in your free time? Britt: Weightlifting and training. I started a fitness journey in October of 2021 and haven't looked back since!
What interests you about working for a church? Britt: I have worked for a church for the last 5 years. I previously worked for an Episcopal Church in my hometown, Louisville, KY. I started as a member of the church and was recruited to join the staff as an adult. That led me to connecting with Merrill and Rev. Rachel at St. Cross. Working for a church makes me feel like my work and efforts transcend beyond self, and I'm able to have a positive impact in a community that spreads love and light and acceptance to others.
What is one thing you want us to know about you? Britt: I love live music and going to beach!
St. Cross loves a good meal. What is your favorite food? Britt: Seafood Pasta. Without a doubt. And give me all of the bread to go with it.
