St. Mary's Episcopal Church

Stone Harbor, New Jersey

All are welcome. Please join us!

WELCOME HOME!

Worship with us:

Sunday Service Time: 10:00 am

in person and Live on Facebook

Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost: Proper 13

We are now accepting donations via Venmo!

@StMarysStoneHarbor

http://www.venmo.com/u/StMarysStoneHarbor

Wrapping up July and Looking Ahead

As we bring July to a close, we reflect on a month filled with activity, community engagement, and significant transitions here at St. Mary's. Our service attendance has seen a wonderful increase, bringing new faces and energy to our gatherings. The major news media presence on our front lawn highlighted our generous welcome and hospitality, showcasing the warmth and inclusivity that define our church community.

This month also saw essential work on our buildings and grounds, from trimming trees to leveling concrete, ensuring that our physical space remains safe and welcoming for all. One of the most significant changes was the bittersweet closure of our Thrift Shop. We bid farewell to our dedicated staff, who have served with heart and commitment, and we thank them for their invaluable contributions.

Looking ahead to August, we have a host of exciting events lined up. On Thursday, Three and One will grace us with their music, followed by a performance from Curtis the following week. These events promise to be uplifting and enjoyable for all who attend.

We are also honored to be recognized for our work, service, hospitality, and commitment to Recovery Services. St. Mary's has been nominated for an award for our efforts, which will be celebrated on Overdose Awareness Day. I encourage all who can attend this important event and stand in solidarity with those affected by overdose and addiction.

While we are still looking for a mason to replace our stairs, the anticipation for the Kitchen Remodel this fall is palpable. This project holds great promise for our outreach ministries, enhancing our ability to serve and support our community in new and meaningful ways.

Please join me this Sunday for a very special Eucharist as we honor the ministry of the Thrift Shop and offer the laying on of hands and anointing. This marks the beginning of a new and exciting chapter in our ministry here in Stone Harbor. After the service, we invite you to join us for Coffee and Conversation in the fellowship hall, where we can share our hopes and plans for the future.

Blessings to all as we embrace the days ahead with faith, hope, and love.

In Christ’s service,

Mo. Allison+

Read, Reflect, Respond, Pray - Forward Day by Day is an inspiring daily devotional to begin your day with. The August, September, October issue is now available in the church narthex. Please help yourself to a copy and feel free to take one for a friend who may enjoy having it. If you would like us to mail a copy to you, please let the church office know and we will be glad to send it.

To All of our members and friends

What is Stewardship?

Stewardship is the responsible management and care of the resources that God has entrusted to us. It encompasses our time, talents, and treasures, recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God. As stewards, we are called to use these gifts wisely, generously, and joyfully to further God's work in the world.

Why is Stewardship Important?

Deepening Our Faith: Stewardship is a spiritual practice that helps us grow in faith. By giving back a portion of what we have received, we acknowledge God's sovereignty and express our gratitude for His blessings. This act of giving strengthens our relationship with God and deepens our trust in His provision.

Supporting Our Mission: At St. Mary's, our mission is to share the love of Christ, serve our community, and nurture spiritual growth. Your contributions enable us to offer meaningful worship services, provide pastoral care, support outreach programs, and maintain our beautiful church facilities. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a significant impact on our ability to fulfill this mission.

Building Community: Stewardship fosters a sense of belonging and partnership within our congregation. When we come together to share our resources, we create a vibrant and supportive community. Your generosity allows us to host fellowship events, educational programs, and other activities that strengthen our bonds and enrich our spiritual lives.

Extending Our Reach: Through your stewardship, St. Mary's can extend its reach beyond our church walls. We support local, national, and international initiatives that address critical needs, such as hunger relief, disaster response, and educational support. By giving to St. Mary's, you are part of a larger effort to make a positive difference in the world.

How You Can Get Involved

• Pray: Begin with prayer, asking God to guide you in your stewardship journey. Seek God's wisdom in how you can best use your gifts to serve God's kingdom.

• Give: Consider making a financial contribution to St. Mary's. Your regular tithes and offerings provide the foundation for our ministry. You can give online, or by mail or by collection plate.

• Serve: Offer your time and talents by volunteering for one of our many ministries. Whether it's assisting with worship services, participating in outreach projects, or joining a committee, your involvement is invaluable.

• Invite: Encourage others to join our church family. Share the good work that St. Mary's is doing and invite friends, family, and neighbors to experience our community and worship with us.

Thank you for your ongoing generosity and commitment to St. Mary's. Together, we can continue to grow in faith, serve our community, and make a lasting impact for Christ.

Some ways to support St. Mary's

• Become a member
• Volunteer
• The Sunday collection plate
• Send a check payable to St. Mary's to:

St. Mary's Episcopal Church,

9425 Third Ave., Stone Harbor, NJ 08247

(Your envelope and number is not necessary, only your name.)

• Setting up a personal online banking "bill pay" option. The bank will mail the check for you to the church office.
• Online giving through our website at https://www.stmarysstoneharbor.org/

We have now joined Venmo! If you have Venmo, you can donate to the church - @StMarysStoneHarbor

http://www.venmo.com/u/StMarysStoneHarbor

Are you seeking a deeper connection with our worship and community? Have you felt the call to serve in a meaningful way? We invite you to consider becoming an Acolyte and Eucharistic Minister.

Why Serve?

Spiritual Enrichment: As an Acolyte or Eucharistic Minister, you'll play a vital role in our worship services, helping to create a sacred and reverent atmosphere. This ministry offers a profound way to experience God's presence and grace.

Community Connection: Serving in these roles strengthens your bond with fellow parishioners and enhances your sense of belonging within our church family.

Personal Growth: Engaging in this ministry allows you to grow in faith, humility, and service. It's an opportunity to develop leadership skills and deepen your understanding of our liturgical traditions.

What Does the Role Involve?

Acolytes assist in the preparation and conduct of our worship services, lighting candles, carrying the cross, and helping with the altar.

Eucharistic Ministers assist in distributing the Holy Communion, sharing the body and blood of Christ with our congregation.

No prior experience is needed—just a heart willing to serve and a commitment to our church’s mission. Training will be provided to ensure you feel confident and supported in your new role.

How to Get Involved

If you are interested in joining this fulfilling ministry, please contact Mo. Allison. You can also sign up after Sunday services at the welcome table in the narthex.

We are excited to welcome new members to our team and to witness the many ways you will enrich our worship and community life.

Together, let us continue to serve God and one another with joy and devotion.

Coffee Hour is held after service every Sunday in the parish hall. It is an opportunity to get together for relaxed conversation and fellowship over a cup of coffee. If you would like to provide a snack for coffee hour, please pick a Sunday and sign up. Nothing elaborate, just a small snack to enjoy with coffee. You can find the sign up sheet on the door to the kitchen. Thank you!

• August 8th - Three and One performs at our Thursdays on the Lawn concert - 7:30 - 9 pm
• August 15th - Lectionary Study 10:30 AM - St. Mary's Chapel

CHECK OUT OUR CALENDAR on our website for all activities taking place throughout the week.

Exodus 16:2-4,9-15

Psalm 78:23-29

Ephesians 4:1-16

John 6:24-35

Tuesday - Friday 8:30 am Morning Prayer via Zoom

Sunday Service Time: 10:00 am

and Live on Facebook

Saturday Worship Service, 101st St. Beach Pavilion, 5:30 pm