We seek God's healing love and share that love with all
by growing in relationship with God, each other, and our neighbors.
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No Simple Question: Who Am I?
A message from Fr. John Spicer, Rector
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This Sunday, we’ll mark the beginning of Lent with an element of worship we use only once a year—the Great Litany, offered in procession through the nave (spoken at the 8:00 service and chanted at 10:15). It’s a responsive prayer that serves both as confession and Prayers of the People, naming our shortcomings, the needs of the world, and our need for God’s guidance.
The Great Litany was the first piece of our liturgy translated from Latin to English in the 1500s, and we can still hear remnants of that archaic Elizabethan language. Among the long list of petitions and intercessions, we’ll ask God to protect us from “the deceits of the world, the flesh, and the devil” and from “dying suddenly and unprepared.” Those two prayers pick up themes that we’ll hear later in our worship, too, as we listen to the Gospel story of Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness (Luke 4:1-13) and as I preach for the first time since Ann’s death.
The sermon will be the first in a preaching series this Lent asking one of the deepest questions we face: Who am I? It’s not explicitly a Christian question (I think all people confront it at some point), but it has an explicitly Christian answer … or, rather, a range of answers. Of course, the deep truth of our identity is multifaceted, evading quick and easy description. As is true about our faith generally, our Christian identity blossoms in paradox: We’re made in the image and likeness of God, and our brokenness constantly pulls us away from the divinity at our core. So, through the Sundays of Lent, we’ll explore these six facets of our Christian identity:
· This Sunday: I am powerless to defeat sin and evil.
· March 16: I am God’s own.
· March 23: I am precious and worthy of redemption.
· March 30: I am a reconciled reconciler.
· April 6: I am ready for resurrection.
· Palm Sunday, April 13: I am a pilgrim on the way of the cross. (Instead of a sermon that day, we’ll bless palms at HJ’s, walk in procession to the church, and offer “In His Steps,” our readers’-theater style Stations of the Cross.)
Our Lenten daily devotional guide also follows these six aspects of “Who am I?” This booklet of Scripture and reflections, along with an overview of Lent at St. Andrew’s, should be in your mailbox by now. You can also find all this on the Lent page of our website.
Even if you aren’t a fan of long Elizabethan prayers, I hope you’ll join us on the journey that the Great Litany symbolizes: walking faithfully, in community, through the hardest realities of life as we make our way toward the redemption God offers even to broken folks like us.
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This Sunday at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, we celebrate Woman Composer Sunday! Our worship will be enriched with hymns, anthems, and service music composed by talented women throughout history. Join us as we lift our voices in praise, honoring the creativity and contributions of women in sacred music. All are welcome! | |
Call our toll-free number 800-808-1625 to listen to worship on your phone! | |
Celebrating the ministry of Bishop Diane Jardine Bruce, Bishop Provisional, Diocese of West Missouri | |
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Bishop Diane’s Northwest Metro Deanery Farewell Party
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Date: Friday, March 14
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Time: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
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Location: Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral | Founders’ Hall
RSVP online at Bishop’s Farewell Deanery Parties - The Diocese of West Missouri or email Mtr. Jean Long at jean@standrewkc.org.
The Northwest Metro deanery of The Diocese of West Missouri is inviting you to the Bishop’s Farewell Party to commemorate Bishop Diane’s service and ministry to our diocese. The evening will include a Eucharist and potluck-style dinner. The Diocese of West Missouri will provide the main dish, vegetable trays, and mac and cheese, and we are all invited and encouraged to bring a side dish and/or dessert to share.
If you need ideas on what to bring, here is a list made with different dish ideas you can bring based on your last name. Keep in mind this is not a requirement, but a suggestion.
o A-G: Salads (Potato, green, pasta, cole slaw, deviled eggs, etc.
o H-L: Fruit (Salad, tray, jello, etc.)
o M-P: Baked Beans or Potato Casserole
o Q-R: Rolls and Butter
o S-W: Desserts
o X-Z: Chips and Dip
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What is the season of Lent?
Lent is a 40-day journey of reflection and renewal—a time to ask big questions: Who am I? Who is God calling me to be? Rooted in Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness, Lent invites us to step away from distractions and look inward with honesty and openness.
In the Episcopal Church, we mark this season with purple, a color that symbolizes reflection, transformation, and the deep work of the soul. It’s not just about giving something up—it’s about making space for something deeper: prayer, self-examination, and acts of love.
Wherever you are on your spiritual path, Lent isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about showing up, asking the questions, and letting God meet you on your journey.
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Lenten Sermon Series: Who Am I?
Lent is an invitation to examine the core of our identity—not just who we are, but who we are becoming. This series, “Who Am I?”, considers the tension between our deepest longings and our created purpose, the ways we define ourselves, and the ways God reshapes us. As we journey through this season, we confront the paradox of human frailty and divine love, seeking clarity in the wilderness of self-understanding.
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March 9: I am powerless to defeat sin and evil.
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March 16: I am God’s own.
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March 23: I am precious and worthy of redemption.
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March 30: I am a reconciled reconciler.
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April 6: I am ready for resurrection.
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April 13: I am a pilgrim on the way of the cross.
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Who Am I? Lenten Conversations with Clergy: Lent is a season of reflection, and sometimes, talking through the big questions can bring clarity and insight. This Lent, you’re invited to meet one-on-one with clergy for a conversation about your own journey of exploring Who Am I?—your faith, your doubts, your hopes, and where God may be leading you. Whether you’re deep in the Lenten journey or just beginning to reflect, this is a space to pause, talk, and listen. Sign up for a time to meet with clergy and explore the questions on your heart by emailing Mtr. Jean Long at jean@standrewkc.org | |
Connections & Study Offerings | |
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Who am I? A Lenten Journey of Light and Shadow
Thursdays March 13 – April 10 at HJ’s.
Dinner: 5:30 –6:00, Exploration & Discussion: 6pm-7pm
In this five-week series, we will explore the complexities of identity through the lens of archetypes & identity, scripture, art, theology, and personal reflection. Together, we will examine depictions of angels and the devil— both in scripture and artistic tradition—wrestle with the nature of sin & goodness and engage in the spiritual practices of journaling and Visio Divina to deepen our understanding. This Lenten journey is not about finding simple answers but embracing discovery—seeing ourselves more fully in both our struggles and our capacity for grace. Join us for meaningful conversation, prayerful.
Who Are We? Tracing Our Episcopal Roots
Fridays, 10:30am -11:30am beginning March 7 in the church library
This class explores the history of Anglicanism as a lens for understanding our own spiritual identity. From the English Reformation to the development of the Episcopal Church, we will trace the traditions, theology, and key moments that have shaped our faith. As we journey through Lent—a season of reflection and renewal—we will ask: How does our Anglican heritage inform who we are as individuals and as a church today? RSVP to Mtr. Jean.
Rooted & Growing: A Lenten Journey for Families
Sunday mornings, 9:15am-10am, beginning March 9 at HJ’s.
Who are we? Who are we becoming? This Lent let’s explore these questions as families—together. Parents will dive into meaningful conversations about faith, identity, and community, guided by the St. Andrew’s Lenten devotional. Meanwhile, preschool and elementary-aged kids will bring the theme to life through hands-on activities like art, storytelling, and creative play. This is more than a class—it’s a chance to pause, connect, and grow in faith as a family. Come be part of the journey!
The Open Door: Explore, Ask, and Connect
Wednesday, March 19, 5:30–6:30 PM, in the Jewell Room
RSVP by Sun. March 16 to Mtr. Jean Long.
Finding your place in a church— whether you’re new, considering membership, or looking for fresh ways to engage —can feel like a big step. Where do you start? Who do you talk to? The Open Door is an invitation to step in, ask questions, and explore how St. Andrew’s can support you in deepening your faith, serving others, and building meaningful connections. Join clergy, ministry leaders, and fellow parishioners for a relaxed evening of conversation. Bring your questions, hear about different ministries, and let’s explore together where your gifts and interests align with opportunities to grow, serve, and connect.
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Who am I? - A Lenten Devotional
The clergy of St. Andrew’s have created a Lenten devotional booklet to guide your reflection throughout the season. This devotional invites you to engage Lent as more than a season of tradition—it is a time to examine identity, purpose, and the forces that shape us. Each day offers scripture, prayer, and reflection to help you consider questions like: What defines me? How do my actions reflect my faith? Where is God at work in my life?
Lent challenges us to strip away distractions and confront what truly matters. Use this devotional as a daily guide for that work. Devotional booklets will be available the first week of Lent and on our website.
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- Find more info about our Lenten offerings, including Outreach opportunities and Holy Week services on our website at standrewkc.org/lent. | |
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Come Hang Out With St. Andrew’s Back Porch Alliance!
Looking to meet more people at St. Andrew’s? Wanting an easy night out to savor the upcoming beautiful Spring weather? Come join us every Wednesday night from 6-8pm around the HJ’s fire pit(or inside in case of inclement weather). Want to learn more? Contact Brian Gloe at (913) 515-3572 or Mtr. Anne. We look forward to seeing you!
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Journey Through Luke With the Good Book Club
Through April 23, the Good Book Club will take up the Gospel of Luke. Most scholars say Luke was written after the Roman destruction of Jerusalem in 70, perhaps around 80, using the Gospel of Mark as its main source. Following this hypothesis, Luke (like Matthew) edits Mark and adds new material—for example, the Christmas story from Mary’s perspective. Luke emphasizes Jesus’ compassion for the marginalized and downtrodden, portraying him as a friend to sinners and poor people. Luke also highlights the role of women in the disciple community and uses female characters in the narrative more often than Mark or Matthew. The Gospel of Luke includes numerous parables, including favorites not found elsewhere, such as the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son. Themes of forgiveness, repentance, and salvation are prominent in this Gospel. Overall, Luke presents a comprehensive and compassionate portrait of Jesus, highlighting his ministry and mission to bring salvation to all. You can get the readings in daily texts or emails—just contact Fr. John to sign up.
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Can't make it to church this Sunday? Remember that St. Andrew's broadcasts each worship service to our website, our YouTube Channel, and our Facebook page. You can also catch the sermon the following day on our social media channels. Check out our Linktree for your preferred way to connect with worship: http://linktr.ee/standrewskc. | |
Hearing-Assist Devices
You may have noticed a stand of headphones as you come in from the porte-cochere on Sundays. These are hearing-assist devices that amplify the sound system during worship. If you would like to use one, just pick it up as you come in!
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St. Andrew’s Nursery
St. Andrew’s Nursery is now open for both the 8:00 AM and 10:15 AM services, providing a safe and welcoming space for your little ones while you enjoy the service. Whether you’re attending early or later, you can rest easy knowing your child is in good hands!
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Jesus With You . . . at Home
If you're worshipping at home, you can pick up consecrated wafers to use during our celebrations of Holy Eucharist. They're available in a basket in the narthex, or from the office, anytime the church is open. If getting out is a challenge, we'll be happy to deliver wafers to you. Just contact Mary Sanders (by email or at 816-523-602, ext. 110) about arranging delivery.
If you need help connecting to St. Andrew’s Online to participate in worship opportunities, but your computer is giving you trouble, just contact Deacon Adam James or 816-352-2742 for assistance.
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Faith & Grief Gathering
Wednesday March 12, 2025, 12 p.m., Visitation Catholic Church
Speaker: Ryan Speed – Remembering a Beloved Uncle
Grief is a complex journey, one that I began to understand deeply after losing my uncle to substance use when I was 18. His life was marked by struggles with mental health but also by profound kindness and love that shaped who I am today. Saying goodbye wasn’t something my family was prepared for, and his death left us searching for meaning in the midst of pain. I’ve come to understand that the stages of grief are far from linear; waves of sadness, anger, and acceptance often overlapped in my journey. Through this I believe my faith was strengthened, helping me see his impact in my life and carry that forward. That understanding continues to guide me, both personally and in my work with others facing challenges with mental health, substance use, and loss.
Visit faithandgrief.org to RSVP for a gathering and learn more about all our grief programs online and In-person.
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Gordon Parks School: INSPIRE!
The Gordon Parks School’s INSPIRE! program encourages the students to use their imagination and creativity to produce an annual themed project. In 2023, the theme was photography and through the lens of every student’s camera images were captured of their community. In 2024, the students’ imagination was in full swing as they created extremely unique creatures (click here to see the video!). In both 2023 and 2024 the school held an INSPIRE! exhibit at the KC Art Institute to display that year’s projects.
This year’s INSPIRE! project will have the students bringing their creativity to life through still life paintings on canvas. And yes, there is a need for volunteers. Please know that one does not need to be an artist to volunteer! As you will see in the video, all one really needs is a smile and encouraging words! If you have questions and /or are interested in signing up, please contact Karen Lundgren.
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Seed Packing at Kansas City Community Gardens
Thank you to all who attended the annual seed packing project at Kansas City Community Gardens! With a team of 15 volunteers, we packaged 3,757 seed packets and made 3,810 labels for garden stakes. These supplies will be offered at an affordable price for families in Kansas City, making gardening accessible for people of all economic backgrounds.
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A Prayer for our Outreach Ministries: Almighty and everliving God, we thank you for the individuals you have brought together on the OutReach Commission. We are grateful for the gifts, talents, and dedicated hearts and hands that are putting Love in Action. Guide us to be good stewards of the resources we have been entrusted with; inspire us to be the salt of God’s kingdom to serve others, live life fully and bring others to Christ; and support us as we grow in dedication to each other. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Outreach Commission thanks you for your continual support of our 16 partnerships, and we ask that you please pray for those we serve:
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St. Augustin's School in Haiti
Andie’s Pantry
Banneker Emergency Fund
Banneker Schoolyard Garden
Fabric of Life
Free Store
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Gordon Parks Elementary School
Jewish Vocational Service (JVS)
Kansas City Community Garden
NourishKC
Pet Ministry
Rose Brooks
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Sr. Berta’s Friendship Circles
St. James Church
St. Paul’s Pantry
Welcome House
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Children, Youth & Young Adult Ministry | |
Contact Veronica Wiebold for questions about children, youth, or young adult ministries. | |
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Sunday Mornings at St. Andrew’s for Kids
Sunday school takes place during the 10:15 service and join their families in to have communion together.
Look for the colorful doors in the children’s ministry wing to find your child’s classroom. Veronica and our youth members will greet families and help guide you to your child’s classroom.
Nursery (8 wks – 3yrs): Orange doors; PreK – 1st grade: Green doors; 2nd – 4th grade: Red doors.
Rooted & Growing: A Lenten Journey for Families
Begins March 9th - Sundays during Lent, 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM at HJ’s
Join us for a special Lenten series designed for families to explore faith, identity, and community together. Parents will engage in meaningful discussions based on the St. Andrew’s Lenten devotional, while preschool and elementary-aged kids participate in hands-on activities, crafts, and storytelling in the Sunday School classrooms.
Childcare for all ages is available in the nursery at St. Andrew’s, where kids will learn about Lent through fun, themed crafts.
Come, grow in faith as a family this Lent!
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Youth Group Schedule
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March 9 – Womans Basketball Game-Meet at Hj’s at 2:45, Leave by 3:00pm, Game starts at 4:00pm at T-Mobile Center
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Brunch Meetup: March 16 @ Hempa Hempa, meet in Veronica’s Office at 11:30 following the 10:15 service and we ‘ll travel together.
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March 16 – Museum Trip (Meet at HJ’s @ 3 PM, Pickup @ 5 PM)-Faith in Art
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March 23 – Worship Night + Lawn Games (Kickball/Basketball), Meet at Hj’s at 3:30-5:00pm
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March 29 – KC Womans Glory Football Game Outing, Address: The Pembroke Hill School - Ward Parkway Campus, Tickets: range 15-20 dollars per person: purchase tickets at the gate.
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March 30 – Student Leader & Verger Interviews, 1:00pm-5:00pm, Meeting for Current Verger and Student leaders at 3:30pm
Lenten Youth Ministry Program – St. Andrew’s Youth Group
Sundays at 9:15 AM in the Acolyte Room
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March 9 – Reset & Recharge: Starting Lent with intention.
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March 16 – Unplug to Connect: Disconnecting from distractions to hear God.
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March 23 – Faith in Action: Serving others like Jesus.
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March 30 – Forgiveness & Letting Go: Releasing burdens and embracing grace.
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April 6 – Jesus, the Ultimate Influencer: Following Jesus in a social media world.
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April 13 – The Power of Sacrifice: Understanding Jesus’ sacrifice.
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April 20 – Easter Celebration: “Rise Up!”
High School Senior Sunday: May 4 - We will celebrate our high school seniors on Sunday, May 4th at the 10:15am service. If you have a high school senior, please submit the following to Veronica Wiebold by April 13.
- Senior Picture
- High School
- Post High School Plans
- Favorite memory of St. Andrew’s
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20s30s Ministry
You’re invited to gather with us every Sunday after the 10:15 service for our monthly meet-up! It’s a space to connect, share, and dive into meaningful conversations about faith and life. We’ll meet at HJ’s Community Center right after the 10:15 AM service.
Come grab a coffee, bring your thoughts, and be part of a great community. We’d love to see you there!
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Adult Christian Formation | |
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Café 9:15
Sunday morning, 9:15-10 a.m.
Christian Journey
Sunday, 8:45-10 a.m.
Men's Lectionary Group
Thursday, 7:30-8:30 a.m.
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Sacred Spaces
Tuesday, 6 p.m.
Tai Chi for Beginners
Monday, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Good Book Club
Daily
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Brown Baggin’ & Books Reading Group
Looking for a fun and engaging way to read and discuss great books? St. Andrew’s Brown Baggin’ & Books is a lively, welcoming group that meets once a month to share a love of reading! We meet the second Wednesday of each month, September to May, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM via Zoom. Our members select the books, and we dive into thoughtful discussions with guiding questions to deepen our understanding.
Contact Kathryn Holtze for more information or call 303-579-0124.
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You can mail your gifts to the church, give online, or text STANDREWKC to 73256.
Send a Venmo gift to @StAndrews-EpiscopalChurch. Be sure to notate your intention for the gift.
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St. Andrew's is here for you. | |
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Please remember that St. Andrew's is here for you. If you are in need or you are aware of another parishioner in need of assistance, please email Mtr. Rita Kendagor, assistant rector. You can also submit a request online or call the church office at 816-523-1602.
Send us your prayer requests through a form, our Facebook page,
or by texting PRAYER to 816-312-5152.
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Gilles
Bertrand
Phyllis Anne
Vesper
Eric
Paulette
Mikeala
Pat M.
Angela
Grayson
Wyatt
Brittany
Penny
Romo
David P.
Jamie P.
Rose
Destiny
Bill
Bev
Paul
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Bryan
Alan
James
Julie B.
Bill
Torni
Mary S.
Carolyn H.
Tom G.
Rozzie
Matt
Jen
Rod
Sharon
Janessa
Avery
Bob
Gail
Beverly
Christine
Patrick
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Gretchen
Scout
Allee
Scudder Family
July
Peter
Corny
Eric S.
Taylor M.
Mason & family
Jim
Grant
Carrie
Jerold & Isaac
Laura (Lolly)
Frank
Peggy
DeVette
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If you wish to add or remove a name, please notify Erin Lemanski no later than Sunday at noon for the Prayer List to be updated each week. Names will be listed for six months, unless otherwise stated. Thank you! | |
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Worship is in person and livestreamed each Sunday. Daily prayer is available in the Pray at 8 Facebook group at 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
Friday at 12 p.m. – Noon Eucharist – Watch here
Sunday at 8 a.m. – Rite I Holy Eucharist – Watch here
For those who find spiritual comfort and strength in the rich Elizabethan language of centuries-old worship, our early-morning service of prayer, Scripture, a sermon, a musical solo, and time-honored hymns, is the perfect way to start your Sabbath.
Sunday at 10:15 a.m. – Rite II Holy Eucharist – Watch here
Worship the Lord in the beauty of Scripture, a sermon, and prayers for ourselves and our world. Glorious hymns, organ, and choral music intertwine with the spoken parts of our celebration. We offer online Children’s Chapel via Zoom before 10 a.m.; and in-person Sunday school during the 10 a.m. service.
Daily at 8 a.m. and 8 p.m – Pray at 8
Join us in the Pray at 8 Facebook group. In just 10 to 15 minutes, you can stop, breathe, and find God’s refreshment to support you through your day or carry you on to bed. It’s a beautiful way to remember that God is our constant helper and strength.
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Bulletin & Messenger Deadline
The publication deadline for the Saturday Messenger and Sunday bulletin is on Sunday at noon one week before publication.
Material received after Sunday at noon will be added to the next week's publications.
Please submit material to Erin Lemanski (erin@standrewkc.org)
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