The Rev. Candy Snively, the voice of our Gospel and our vibrant, compassionate companion for more than two decades, is retiring from active ministry as a deacon at St. Paul’s in November. You are invited to celebrate the depth and breadth of what she has meant to us as we gather on Sunday, November 8 for one main service at 10 a.m., followed by a reception in the parish hall.
Candy and Craig joined St. Paul’s as members in 1995 and soon found a deep connection to the people here. Not long afterward, Candy embarked on a new journey, discerning a call to the diaconate, and was ordained a deacon by Bishop Curry in 2005. Candy’s life became the embodiment of the words spoken at her ordination:
“You are to make Christ and his redemptive love known, by your word and example, to those among whom you live, and work, and worship. You are to interpret to the Church the needs, concerns, and hopes of the world. You are to assist the bishop and priests in public worship and in the ministration of God’s Word and Sacraments, and you are to carry out other duties assigned to you from time to time. At all times, your life and teaching are to show Christ’s people that in serving the helpless they are serving Christ himself” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 543).
Candy’s pastoral presence has been gracefully and gently woven into countless lives, not just at St. Paul’s, but in those she encountered as chaplain while working in UNC Rex Healthcare settings. She has been tireless in making sure those separated from loved ones during times of crisis feel less isolated, meeting them wherever they are with her loving care and kindness. She has been a calm presence with so many in that liminal space at the end of life, willing to sit and breathe through fear and pain as long as comfort is needed.
A social justice warrior for decades, she has not been shy about advocating for the poor and preaching against injustice. She has taken her role as a diocesan representative to heart, joining fellow clergy at annual conventions and networking with other deacons to support the work of our bishops. As she has grown and deepened her understanding of ministry, we have been formed by her teaching and example to be visible representatives of God’s love beyond our doors.
We hope you will join us in celebration and gratitude for Candy’s mission and faithful witness as our deacon. There are many ways you can contribute:
- Send a message and add photos to her Memory Book here.
- Contribute funds toward retirement gifts. Donate online here, selecting “Candy’s retirement gift” from the dropdown. You may also donate by cash or check; please designate “Candy’s retirement” in the memo.
- Help with the celebration by adding your food or talents here.
- Sign the large card for her, available in the narthex, or bring your own cards for the celebration.
Let’s join together to send Candy forth with a resounding chorus on November 8,
Alleluia, Alleluia!
The Celebrating Candy Committee