John Koza
EDITOR’S NOTE: A church community is created when people gather together for the love of God. At the same time, Saint Philip’s is comprised of many people who represent different ages, life experiences, and world views.
The “In conversation…” series is one attempt to create possibilities for connection between the different people in our community. As varied as we all are, there are also similarities and mutual interests waiting to be discovered. And there is one thing we all share: a desire to know God and be in relationship with him.
This week’s conversation is with Saint Philip’s parishioner and volunteer, John Koza.
How long have you worshiped at Saint Philip’s?
Since 2020. My wife, Susan, and I discovered Saint Philip’s during COVID. We were grateful to be able to worship via livestream but I remember that when we had the chance to attend in person we both had tears in our eyes.
What about Saint Philip’s appeals to you?
First and foremost, the music. The preaching is a close second. I also appreciate the theology. All three of those things are necessary for me.
And Saint Philip’s is one heck of a fine community. Susan and I thank God every day for our home and for this church.
What makes you feel like you belong to this community?
My involvement. I participate in the Tuesday morning Bible study and sing in three different choirs.
I also volunteer for the Pastoral Care Commission. Specifically, I oversee volunteers who connect with the over 100 people in our parish who are 80 years old or older.
A phone call or email on a regular basis goes a long way to let parishioners who can’t attend church physically know that they are remembered and cared about. I hope some people reading this will be in touch with me about that.
What three choirs do you sing in?
Schola Cantorum which sings at Evensong, the Finzi Singers which sings as requested for special events, and the Choir of Saint Philip’s which sings on Sundays.
Was singing part of your professional life before retiring?
It was—but only as a second career.
I first spent 15 years in the hotel industry all over the United States, three of which were as Financial Controller at the Doubletree here on Alvernon. When I was offered a transfer to Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, California, I accepted even though I sensed a call to something different: a degree in music.
Susan offered her support so I studied at night, borrowed money, and worked four part-time jobs to stay afloat. It took me seven years to earn my Bachelor’s degree and then two more years to earn my Master’s—at age 39.
What roles did you fill with your music degrees?
I was Director of Music for two different Presbyterian churches over 25 years, and Assistant Chorus Master and Youth Chorus Director for the Carmel Bach Festival over 24 seasons.
Were you raised in a faith tradition?
I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio as a Roman Catholic. But in January, 2023, I was received into the Episcopal church at Saint Philip’s.
What difference does that make in your life?
Finding my faith has removed a lot of worry from my every day existence. I feel comforted trying to serve God’s purpose here on earth.
What’s something you’re passionate about?
Respecting confidences. I don’t share stories that aren’t mine to tell.
What’s one of your guiding principles?
Be patient and kind. I can be very impatient—and don’t like that about myself—but I keep trying.
Do you volunteer outside of Saint Philip’s?
I do.
I volunteer for Casa Alitas to help asylum seekers. I make sure that boarding passes and other documents are in order so everyone can get through the security checkpoints.
Talk about putting yourself in God’s hands. That’s it right there. Those little children make my heart swell. A six year old with big brown eyes looked at me the other day and, in English said, “Thank you.” He made my heart melt; I teared up.
I also volunteer at the Southern Arizona Heritage and Visitor Center as a docent.
What’s something you’re grateful for?
My life with Susan in Tucson, our darling little home, and being a part of Saint Philip’s.
What’s one of your super powers?
I don’t back down from hard things. If I say I’m going to do something, I commit myself to that even if it’s hard.
What’s something new that you’ve tried recently?
I started learning Spanish about a year ago. I’m told that my accent is spot on—which I think is a result of my aural training as a musician—but it makes me sound more proficient than I am.
Learning a language as an adult is very hard but I embrace the power of “yet,” and say, “They haven’t closed the lid on my coffin yet so I’m going to try!”
What’s one of your core values?
Integrity. Say what you mean and mean what you say and don’t play games.
If you couldn’t fail, what’s something you’d like to do?
Become a really good organist. I studied the organ for two semesters in college but didn’t continue. I regret that.
What might people be surprised to learn about you?
I’m an insane gardener. I’ve put a crazy number of plants in our garden.
Susan thinks the garden is pretty full now but I see opportunities for even more plants. I’ve been choosing pollinators to attract butterflies and hummingbirds to the yard.
How do you relax and replenish yourself?
In addition to gardening, I also love to cook and make music.
What have I not asked that you would like people to know?
I’m an avid bicyclist. Before my knee surgery earlier this year I would ride 21 miles in a morning ride. Today I’m down to 12.7 because I’m still healing.
What’s something you love to do?
I love to lunch and shop in big cities. Some people like to hike Yosemite but I want to lunch and shop in San Francisco.
What’s a fun fact about you?
For several years I played the harmonium in an ashram.
Missed an interview? All previous interviews can be found on Saint Philip’s website under the “About Us” tab. Click here to visit that page.