WORSHIP, LEARNING, FAITH IN ACTION, COMMUNITY

A Pastoral Word

Yesterday, after months and months of campaigning, Donald Trump was declared the next President of the United States. For some in our congregation, this will be joyful; for others, it will be disappointing; for most, we are relieved campaign season is over. 

As people of faith and good will, we are called to be agents of God’s transformative love. I have heard it remarked regularly that many are tired of the partisan rancor, bitterness, cynicism, vile speech, hateful remarks, and deceit. Now is the time, as followers in the Way of Love, to be the change we wish to see. And, as a mark of that beginning, let us join in prayer for President-elect Trump. 

O Lord our Governor, whose glory is in all the world: We commend this nation to thy merciful care, that, being guided by thy Providence, we may dwell secure in thy peace. Grant to the President-elect of the United States, and to all in authority, wisdom, and strength to know and to do thy will. Fill them with the love of truth and righteousness, and make them ever mindful of their calling to serve this people in thy fear; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen. [BCP, p. 820]

Dear Friends in Christ, 

Thank you for your celebration of my ten years at St. Paul’s! I was overwhelmed by your show of love and support — in the many notes and gifts received and by your generosity in donating to Rural and Migrant Ministry in my honor. I treasure it all more than words can express.  

As we enter this next chapter, I pray that we will continue to build bridges: to God, to one another, to the city and beyond — and towards the future of St. Paul’s with a hope-filled investment in mission and ministry. Our parish can do anything we set our collective heart and mind to and I pray that will be big things for the glory of God. 

Once again, thank you! 

With gratitude and in Christ’s love, 

Rob

Sunday Parking - A Friendly Reminder

The 5 spots along the fence in the parking lot behind the church are reserved for FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN. The purpose of the reserved spots is to make it safer for families to get to Sunday School and worship without having to cross East Avenue. Thank you for helping with this act of hospitality. 

St. Paul's Child Care Center

The Annual Wreath Sale Fundraiser is underway. Please click here to download an order form. Orders are due this Friday, November 8th.

Thank you to all who have turned in your pledge cards for 2025!

We are pleased that we are 77% of our way to our pledge goal

with 47% of the stewards increasing their pledge for 2025.

Please click on the button above to make your pledge today.

We entrust into your unfailing care, Merciful God...

Those for whom our prayers have been requested: Scott, Carol, Bertha Simpkins, Jeff, Tom, Bob Potter, Sr., Joyce Crofton, John, Hank Couch, Ned Atwater, Donna Bayley, Paula Zanhizer, Amelia Smith, Ella Richard-Dyson, Dean Arvan, and Bill Dewart.                    

Our nation and the world: the President, Congress, and Supreme Court; our Governor, Mayor, and the leaders of the communities from which we come; members of our military at home and abroad; for all those elected or appointed to positions of public trust, and, for peace throughout our world.

The Church throughout the world, especially for Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury; for Sean Rowe, the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church; Kara Wagner Sherer, Bishop of Rochester; for the clergy and staff of St. Paul's and for our partners in ministry.

With thanksgiving: our health care professionals, first responders, essential workers, and farmworkers.

Those who have died, especially those whom we love but see no longer.

Almighty and eternal God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth: Mercifully accept the prayers of your people, and strengthen us to do your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

O God, our heavenly Father, make the door of St. Paul's Church wide enough to receive all who need love and fellowship and loving care, and narrow enough to shut out all envy, pride and uncharitableness. Make its threshold smooth enough to be no stumbling block to children, but strong enough to turn back the tempter's power. 

O heavenly Father, make the door of St. Paul's a gateway to your eternal kingdom; bless every member and worker; may all that we do and say be done and said to your honor and glory and the spreading of your kingdom. May we continue to be forever yours and daily increase through the Holy Spirit in love and service to others; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

The two buttons below have links to our Parish Committees and ministries and who to contact if you'd like more information.