Lawrence Panetta

My name is Lawrence Panetta, and I am a candidate for Vestry at St. David’s church.

I currently reside in Ashburn with my wonderful family; including my wife Adell, to whom I have been married for 16 years, and our two children, Maggie 13 and Chris 11. I currently work for United Airlines as a pilot, flying as a Captain on the Boeing 737. Prior to my airline career, I was the Manager of Personal Computer development for a software firm near Philadelphia. I also served as an Officer in the United States Navy on both active duty and as a reservist. During my 13 year Naval career, I served as a pilot flying the P-3C aircraft throughout the world and as an instructor flying the T-34C.

My journey to the St. David’s family began almost 5 years ago when my wife and I were searching for a faith community. We knew we had found our new spiritual home after listening to Father Stephen preach and make us feel part of this community. Our family has been active in St. David’s ever since through Shepard groups, the Sunday morning children’s service, youth activities, and various other community events. Our journey started with Father Stephen making us feel at home here, Father Kevin teaching us how to build a covenant community, and the people of this parish making us feel welcome. To this day, St. David’s continues to draw my family into a closer relationship with God.

I am honored that I was asked to submit my name for consideration to serve St. David’s on the Vestry. I feel my current and past leadership positions have prepared me to work constructively for our church. The following are my thoughts on how we can proceed forward as a parish community:

• Promote our growth as a spiritual community by ensuring the right pastoral leadership and support staff is in place
• Ensure that our ministry staff has the proper tools, funds, and Vestry direction necessary to carry out the churches work
• Ensure that we are open and forthcoming on all church financial matters
• Work to ensure that our budgets are realistic and appropriate for these difficult economic times
• Empower people at all levels of our parish, e.g., Children, Youth, and Seniors, set the direction for their respective ministries
• Open and honest communication throughout the church ensures everyone feels involved and part of our community

I ask you to support me for Vestry of St. David’s church. I am eager to serve our parish in this new capacity and look forward to serving all of you for the next three years.

Yours in Christ,

Lawrence Panetta