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Kay Lark announces June 30 retirement

Kay Lark at a recent "Outlander" convention with one of the show's stars, Sam Heughan.
Kay Lark at a recent "Outlander" convention with one of the show's stars, Sam Heughan.

It is ironic that the day after Administrative Professionals’ Day, we are announcing the retirement of someone who is the epitome of an outstanding administrative professional. After 14 years serving as Executive Assistant to two bishops, Kay Lark has announced she will retire effective June 30, coinciding with the end of the program year.

Hired by Bishop Mark Beckwith on May 1, 2008, Kay served as his Executive Assistant for the next decade, then continued in the same role when Bishop Carlye Hughes followed as the 11th Bishop of Newark in 2018.

Among Kay’s fondest memories are relationships formed with Bishop Beckwith, Bishop Carlye Hughes, all “her clergy” and congregations, and most especially with diocesan staff, past and present. Clergy Conference has been the source of many happy memories of former and current clergy of the diocese.

“Kay has been a blessing to so many people in our diocese,” says Bishop Hughes. “Her title is Executive Assistant to the Bishop, but her actual reach has been far wider than the Bishop’s Office. She has been the voice of calm reassurance in emergencies, cheerleader for new ministries, efficient organizer of countless meetings, and a trusted support to two bishops. While I am grateful for every facet of her ministry, I am especially thankful for her steadfast and devoted assistance in my first few years as Bishop of our diocese.”

Kay’s immediate plans are to relocate to Virginia and devote more time to family, fun and travel, seasoned with generous amounts of crocheting and “Outlander” episodes.

We will celebrate Kay’s service to the diocese at Diocesan Convention on May 7.