Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
I have appreciated the rhythm of writing to you each Tuesday and Thursday. At first it was hard, but over time, I have found a groove, if you will. Typically, on Monday night, I go to bed with several thoughts about what I will write on Tuesday. Exercise and writing are a lot alike. Repetition and consistency make you better.
The church is a lot like this as well. Many of us have gotten into a groove of watching the services online. If that is working for you, then great! Some of us, however, want to come and worship. We know the service times and feel comfortable with outside church protocols, but we haven't made it to a service yet. If you are this person, I want to personally encourage you and invite you to come back. Yes, it's outside worship; yes, it's not quite the same, and yes, squirrels and hawks can visit in real-time, but it's church and it's here to welcome you.
During COVID-19, the United States has seen an increase in people who describe themselves as lonely, anxious, and angry. The United States has also seen an increase in drug use, alcohol use, child abuse, and domestic violence. These problems cross all socioeconomic lines. They are real. They are all around us, and they are things that church, our community, and our common prayer are designed to address. You can see someone and pray with them while also being six feet apart. You can support your friend with a smile, a bow, and a wave. You can offer the peace of the Lord with a gesture and the light in your eyes. My friends, I believe we can safely gather and safely pray together, and I believe that we are healthier, both individually and corporately, when we do so. "The Point" is open. In the words of the earliest disciples, "Come and see."
In Christ,
Mitch+
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IN-PERSON WORSHIP SCHEDULE
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Following is the schedule for our in-person, weekday worship on the sidewalk in front of the church:
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Monday: 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
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Wednesday: 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesday services are adult-only.
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Friday: 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
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Sunday: 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Masks and social distancing are required at all services. In the event of heavy rain and/or lightning, services will be canceled. There is no indoor worship alternative.
You are encouraged to bring a lawn chair, Book of Common Prayer and Bible, though all will be available if needed.
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ADD A NAME TO THE PRAYER LIST
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If you would like to submit a name for our ongoing prayer list, please use this form. Names will be shared weekly prior to worship and will be removed after three weeks, as in the past.
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PLEASE PRAY FOR THESE TEACHERS, PROFESSORS AND INSTRUCTORS AMONG US
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Ann Abney
Angela Adams
Dottie Adams
Allison Askins
Frank Avignone
Bill Bacon
Ginger Barfield
Michael Bellon
Elizabeth Bentrup
Debbie Billings
Drew Bozard
Bill Canaday
Gwen Geidel
Pam Hair
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Christine Harding
Tayloe Harding
Amy Hayden
Elizabeth Hayden
Amanda Hines
Randy James
Elizabeth Jennings
Jody Lumpkin
David Jones
Kate Jones
Carol McGinnis-Kay
Martin McWilliams
Mike Meadows
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Caroline Nagel
Scotty Peek
Valerie Pruett
Allison Rashley
Kelly Renko-Clarkson
Kyle Sanders
Amy Shuler
Denise Smith
Amanda Stockard
Slayden Thomas
Sara Thornton
Jim Thrasher
Anne Vickers
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Our Harvest Hope wagons will be waiting for your contributions outside at our Sunday services, which are scheduled for 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. on the sidewalk in front of the church.
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“It is a Christian obligation to vote, and more than that, it is the church’s responsibility to help get souls to the polls.”
--Presiding Bishop Michael Curry
As Episcopalians, we commit to strive for justice and peace among all people and to respect the dignity of all. One of the many important ways we go about this is voting faithfully in our local and national elections. As you look toward the Nov. 3 election, be sure to check your voter registration information! If you qualify to vote absentee, you can go ahead and apply for your ballot today. Go to scvotes.gov. Absentee ballots will be mailed after Oct. 5. When you vote this November, be sure to stop by the office for your #votefaithfully sticker!
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While scrolling Instagram, be sure to follow @smifsc for the Three-Word Gospel on Tuesdays, a brief summary of the upcoming Gospel, and ComplinefromHome postings, short evening prayers or thoughts, Monday through Friday.
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Should you be in need of pastoral care, please use the dedicated extension,(Ext. 201) when you call the parish office, 803.787.0392.
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Thank you in advance for keeping your pledge current during this time of uncertainty. You may pay your pledge in these ways:
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Use this link to keep your pledge up-to-date by going online. You will need your bank routing number, which is the first set of numbers printed on the bottom of your checks, on the left side. You will also need your account number, which is the next set of numbers beside the routing number at the bottom of your check. This online link is safe and secure.
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You may also mail your checks to the Parish Office at 5220 Clemson Ave., Columbia, SC 29206.
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5220 Clemson Avenue
Columbia, SC 29206
803.787.0392 | www.stmartinsinthefields.com
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