Saint John the Baptist Episcopal Church in West Seattle has a new spiritual leader, the Reverend Jerry D. (JD) Godwin.

Rev. Godwin will serve as Priest-in-Charge beginning April 30, 2013 and deliver his first sermon in that capacity on Sunday, May 5, 2013 during services at 8 and 10:15 am.

The appointment was made by the Right Reverend Gregory Rickel, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia (Province VIII) following selection by the vestry of Saint John the Baptist.

Rev. Godwin has been Rector of the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration in Dallas, Texas since 2000, where he led a parish of nearly 2,000 members. As Priest-in-Charge, he will provide spiritual leadership for the congregation and prepare the parish for the process of calling a permanent Rector in three to five years. “What an exciting time we have ahead of us as we join hands in ministry – to discover, more and more, how God is calling us, in the power of the Spirit, to carry on the mission of his Son in our world,” says Rev. Godwin.

The community is invited to meet Rev. Godwin at two special welcoming events:

· Sunday May 5, 2013 - Eucharist at 8 and 10:15 am with luncheon reception following 10:15 service
· Sunday May 19, 2013 - Bishop’s visitation at 8 and 10:15 am with luncheon reception following the 10:15 service.

Saint John the Baptist is an Episcopal parish located in West Seattle, and is a member of the Olympic Diocese of the National Episcopal Church.