Welcome Fr. John Lawrence Print

johnThe Reverend John Lawrence has agreed to become Good Shepherd’s Interim Rector. Fr John will begin his duties the week of January 2nd.


Fr John’s objective is to serve God as an Interim Rector in a parish that will make use of his skills in leadership, communication, and pastoral ministry. Fr John sees his duties and responsibilities in pastoral care as both a privilege and a honor, and where he receives much joy and satisfaction.


Father John and his wife Jeramy (she goes by Jerri), have recently moved to Venice from Washington DC. Fr John and Jerry have seven grown children. His hobbies include travel, reading, power walking, swimming, and other outdoor activities.

In Washington, he was the Interim Rector of St Alban’s Church, which is located on the grounds of the Washington National Cathedral and has 1400 communicants. Fr John has had three stints at being Interim Rector since retiring from the priesthood. During his time as a parish priest, he served a number of churches in the North with large and small congregations. He also spent time as Canon of the Ordinary in the Diocese of Southern Ohio.

Please welcome Fr John and Jerri to the warm, friendly, and caring family of Good Shepherd.