Tom and Michele Johnson are at the heart and center of the life and ministry of St. Stephen’s, Oak Harbor. Tom was originally ordained in the Presbyterian Church, eventually obtaining master’s and doctoral degrees. Michele is a CPA and has taught accounting at the college level. Later in life, Tom and Michele and their children moved to Newberg, OR, where they both taught in the undergraduate program at George Fox University. It was during this time that Tom and Michele were confirmed in the Episcopal Church.

Michele has won multiple awards for her teaching and her work as an advisor. Michele is the Treasurer for St. Stephen’s, a role she does quietly and with great care. And she does whatever else needs tending. If St. Stephen’s has children in the liturgy who need tending elsewhere, Michele sees to that. She invariably makes the coffee and sets out provisions before and after church. She is gracious, dependable, forthright and gentle in a very strong sort of way. Not to mention the volunteer work she does in the Oak Harbor community and beyond!

Tom has created a remarkably strong Adult Formation Program at St. Stephen’s. He organizes and teaches in the adult education offerings. As a Biblical scholar who is comfortable speaking to lay audiences about the complexities of the Bible, Tom has elevated the Biblical understanding of Scripture within the congregation and shares a deeper appreciation for the lectionary texts within the context of worship. Tom is also a Licensed Eucharistic Minister and even preaches sometimes. He also has been known to help lead a cappella singing when that is the order of the day.

All this is to say, their respective and mutual ministry serves St. Stephen’s and north Whidbey Island very, very well.

It is with great pleasure that I present the Bishop’s Cross award to Tom and Michele Johnson.