Julie Denman: Thank You, but not Goodbye

Julie Denman has been an integral part of this Diocese and of the Grace-St. Luke's parish family for many years.  As a parishioner with a love for GSL, she started on staff as the Mothers' Day Out Director in 1977 until coming on board as the Director of Christian Education in 1982. From 1991-2003 Julie was called to work for the Diocese of WTN as Director of Congregational Support and editor of the Church News. Julie was a first-time deputy to the 75th General Convention in 2006.  At the diocesan level, she has served as chairman of the Department of Education and coordinator of the Division of Leadership Training, and as nominations chair for the Diocesan Episcopal Church Women. At the provincial level, Julie served as coordinator of Province IV Christian Education Network for four years.  Julie returned to GSL as Director of Congregational Life in 2004.

On Sunday, May 15, during the Rector's Forum, Julie was honored for her many faithful years of work and service to Grace-St. Luke's and our Diocese. The Rector’s Forum in Julie’s honor was a wonderful tribute, at times humorous and somewhat of a roast and at times more serious. The Rev. Lawson said, “If you looked up “many hats” in the dictionary, you would see Julie’s picture. She has served many priests, rectors, interims and associates, at times the clergy being in need of help and at others completely helpless. Can I get an Amen?”  He also said, “One of Julie’s qualities is her clarity of speech. You might say she is blunt at times.”  When Richard gave Julie the information about this past Diocesan Convention, Julie replied, “Why in God’s name do they send anything to the Rectors?” And, of course, we all got a good chuckle out of that one!  Richard also spoke of Julie’s graciousness at the door and for making GSL a very welcoming place. 

Brenda Medling and Hal Morse, representing the Welcoming Committee, gave Richard some suggestions when looking for Julie’s replacement, one being “tattooed bag lady.” Julie does not hesitate to use the flesh to make a note when carrying around the visitor bags on Sunday mornings.  Also, a church chronicler is a must: Julie knows names, including children’s and parents’ names, where and when baptized, confirmed, and married; and more.

Thad Cockrill spoke of Julie’s role as EfM mentor.  He first came to GSL as a choir member and thought of Julie as a college sorority president. Julie has charm, leadership, and crucial recruitment ability, along with the ability to organize wine and cheese affairs.  He remembers early in his first year of EfM, Julie asked the question, “Would you rather be right or be good?” Thad said that before the end of his four years, he had changed his answer.

Carolyn Gardiner, altar guild chair, talked of Julie’s time at GSL in the 80’s as Director of Christian Education, especially Wednesday nights—of DOC (Disciples in Christ), potlucks, and the beautiful Eucharists and music in Trezevant Hall.  Julie cooked, making sure there was enough food for potluck; cleaned, even cleaning bathrooms; set up chairs; and led the DOC program. Julie knew what needed doing and she did it, giving labor-intensive, care-giving service to us all.  Carolyn ended with, “She loved us.  We love you back, Julie.” By this time there was probably not a dry eye in Trezevant.

Barney Rolfes, GSL’s Senior Warden, spoke of Julie’s skill at preparing for Vestry meetings and gatherings.  Her efforts in making sure everyone had the paperwork they needed and her skill at keeping the minutes was outstanding.  Barney presented Julie with a brand spanking new laptop from the Vestry at the celebration!

To top off the morning, the choir appeared, in nun-like habits and red bandanas and sang to Julie –

"Hail Holy Queen" from Sister Act and "Happy Trails to You."

When asked what she loved most about her job at GSL, Julie first replied, “Jesus!” On a more serious note, Julie said “Grace-St. Luke's has been my spiritual home since 1967. This job is never dull because of the varying responsibilities—I think I might have even done windows! My greatest pleasure is helping others come to love this church as much as I do. I have enjoyed meeting newcomers and helping them connect with the people and ministries here and then become a major part of the vitality of GSL. It has been a real pleasure to work alongside Richard Lawson for the past nine months and see the energy level rise here. Also, for the past 23 years, EfM (Education for Ministry) has been the spiritual center of my life. I love the wonderful bonds formed in that small study group.”

When asked about her retirement, Julie said, “I am not rushing into any major plans because I want to enjoy a little time with no alarm clock ringing and no place I have to be. I know I will have time to read more British mysteries and enjoy time with Billy, her husband. The archives at GSL need a little work and I look forward to volunteering to help with that project.”

So Julie, thank you for all you’ve done over the years for the Diocese and Grace-St. Luke’s, but we are not saying goodbye.  We will see you in the pew Sunday morning!

                                                                                    Lucy Owens

View pictures here