At Holy Covenant, vocation isn’t just a job title—it’s the steady pulse of calling, gifts, and service that shapes how we show up for God and for one another. This month, as we lean into Live with Purpose, we’re lifting up voices in our community whose daily work and ministry witness to love, excellence, and welcome.

Meet Ed Vickery, a flight attendant and the team lead of our Worship & Music Ministry. Ed’s vocation takes him from 30,000 feet in the air to the heart of our worship life, where hospitality, calm presence, and joyful service are essential—on the plane and in the pews.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.”

— Colossians 3:23

“What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God.”

— Micah 6:8

Why “Live with Purpose” matters at Holy Covenant

• Worship as formation: Our liturgy and music don’t just express faith—they form it…
• Gifts in motion: Every person carries gifts the Body needs…
• Wellness with depth: Vocation aligns energy with meaning…
• Hospitality as justice: Purpose looks like creating spaces that are inclusive…

The Interview

🌱 Personal & Professional Journey

What originally brought you to Holy Covenant, and what called you into becoming a flight attendant?

I moved to Charlotte with my husband Eric due to his accepting a new job in this city. We found Holy Covenant by searching for a UCC church online. On our first visit we felt at home and knew we didn’t need to look any further. I had simi retired from Verizon Business as an implementation engineer before moving here, then met Bob Salor at church who was a flight attendant for Mesa Airlines and he told me they were hiring and I should apply. The thought of being a flight attendant had never crossed my mind, but I thought why not, I like to travel and I like to entertain so why not do it in the air. I didn’t really think it would go any further, but they contacted me, set up an interview, and now I’ve been a flight attendant for over 13 years flying under contract for United Airlines. I’m also a part time ground school instructor for flight attendants.

How has your understanding of “vocation” evolved over your life?

I’ve had several different jobs over the course of my life, and at times multiple jobs at the same time. We don’t always get the job of our choice but rather take what becomes available in order to have an income until we can find a better fit. With that said I have to say I’ve learned an occupation should be challenging, a place to grow, give you satisfaction, and a place where you feel you can have an impact and a sense of accomplishment.

🕊️ Vocation with Purpose

What does “Live with Purpose” mean to you—especially in a church setting?

To have goals and to feel I have contributed to myself, others, our community and the world.

How do your day-to-day tasks function as ministry?

 I start each day asking God to cleans me and allow others to see Christ in everything I say and do (word and deed). I know it’s easier said than done, so I also ask God to help me remember to think before I speak, react or respond to anything or anyone. If my smile or kind word can change someone’s day then I’ve made a small difference in our world. I meet all kinds of people on a daily basis, and I take it as a challenge when I have someone on a flight who just doesn’t seem to be happy about anything in life. I’ve had many individuals through the years give me notes thanking me for my kindness, or even apologizing as they exit the aircraft for their behavior due to the impact I had on them.

Which parts of your work feel most aligned with your values?

While my job has many roles from being a first responder, medic, security, mediator, babysitter, bar tender, janitor and information center, a big part of it is customer service with a smile. I know what I like and expect when I’m a customer so I strive to give the same to my customers. I must be doing something right because my company has set me as a role model for customers service and has me teaching the customer service courses. It’s service with a smile, showing respect, having empathy and doing the right thing because it’s the right thing to do.

❤️‍🩹 Mission & Justice Connection

How does your role support Mission & Justice at Holy Covenant?

As chair of the Worship Team, I help craft services that are inclusive, accessible, and reflective of our Open and Affirming identity—creating meaningful, purposeful experiences for all.

🧘‍♀️ Wellness & Wholeness

What keeps you grounded when life gets busy?

Life gets busy in all areas, and sometimes we have to reevaluate things. I know I was created by God to bring honor and glory to my creator. My life has to include ministry and service to God, however with that said I’ve had to learned it’s ok to say no when life is too busy, and this includes church life as well. If we are overstretched we are unable to give our best and our heart will not be in the task at hand. There should be joy in serving Jesus.

How can churches better support wellness?

Be aware when we see those who may be taking on too much. Some will volunteer to do everything, and while that’s a good intention, it doesn’t work out well for the individual or the church. We need to encourage all to be involved in some way or another and allow folks to use their talents. We say many hands makes the workload lighter.

💬 Reflections & Invitation

What future dream do you hold for HC?

It’s hard for me to pinpoint a particular ministry or project as we live in such a changing world who knows what the need or needs will be in the future. I would love to see the day as we grow when we are not struggling to have enough people to take on the volunteer post we have needing to be filled. There are so many opportunities here at Holy Covenant UCC. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if folks had to be on a waiting list to volunteer? Will that ever happen?

Any final thoughts this month?

Life is short so it’s important to have a vocation that brings you joy or at least a sense of satisfaction. I would suggest before making any drastic changes to take a look at yourself and see if maybe it’s your outlook that could use a tuning to make things run smoother. Either way ask God to either provide an opening or to bring that sense of joy.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
— 1 Peter 4:10

Reflect & Respond

1. Where do you most naturally offer hospitality, calm, or encouragement? How might that be part of your calling?
2. Which ministry at HC might be a next faithful step for your gifts this season?
3. What boundary (“holy no”) would help you serve with more joy and sustainability?
4. Who helped you feel welcome recently? Consider writing them a note of thanks.