As Canon for Lay-led Parishes and Parishes-in-Transition, Jenny helps to empower, train, and equip ministry in parishes that do not have permanent clergy, to help them be more faithful, healthy, and effective in their particular contexts. She also works with parishes who are in a transition of clergy leadership and clergy interested in serving parishes in our diocese. Jenny serves as a trainer for the new Provincial School for Congregational Development and the diocesan liaison to the program.
Jenny brings extensive training and background in congregational development to the work of enabling people to live fully into who God created them to be. She is passionate about working with individuals and communities as they discern how God is calling them in their own unique ministries, bringing the processes and work of our Church in line with the faith and values we profess, keeping our baptismal vows to seek and serve Christ in all persons, and holding the dignity of every human being at the centre of our work.
Prior to joining Synod staff, Jenny served parishes in the Dioceses of New Jersey and Chicago in The Episcopal Church, though she is originally from outside New Orleans. She and her husband, the Rev. Jonathan Thomas, moved to Victoria with two small children and one large dog. They are thrilled to be in the Diocese of Islands and Inlets and excited to explore their new home.
Passions: Traveling and learning about new places and people, hiking, skiing
Favourite food: Sushi and warm chocolate chip cookies
Least favourite food: Cauliflower
Favourite book: My Name is Asher Lev by Chaim Potok
Favourite movie: A League of Their Own
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