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

We accept donations via Venmo!

@StMarysStoneHarbor

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

Embrace One Another in Christ

Beloved in Christ,

In the wake of this presidential election, we find ourselves standing in a moment of great division and emotion. For some, there is celebration and a renewed sense of hope for the future. For others, there is deep fear, vulnerability, and a sense of betrayal. Women, immigrants, the marginalized, people of color, and LGBTQ individuals are particularly worried about their rights, freedoms, and safety, left feeling that the ground beneath them has shifted. As followers of Christ, we are called to bear witness to these emotions, to celebrate with those who celebrate, and to weep with those who weep.

Together, we turn to our Baptismal Covenant as a compass in these uncertain times. We promise to "seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving our neighbor as ourselves." This means acknowledging the pain of those who feel unseen, unheard, and afraid. It means standing beside those who fear for their future and listening deeply without judgment. We also vow to "strive for justice and peace among all people and respect the dignity of every human being." These promises do not shift with political tides; they are the bedrock of our faith, guiding us when the way forward seems unclear.

As we journey together, let us remember the words of Paul to the church in Rome: "Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer" (Romans 12:12). Now, more than ever, we are called to be a people of hope, anchored in the knowledge that Christ walks with us, especially in times of trial. Our unity does not come from political alignment but from our shared identity as children of God. The cross teaches us that God is with the suffering, the marginalized, and those who are most vulnerable.

To those who are feeling anxious and fearful, know that you are not alone. Lisa and I are very concerned, terrified as a matter of fact, about the threats President-elect Donald Trump has made against our marriage, family, and those we love. To our LGBTQ+ siblings, especially our Transgendered community, know your church is here, I am here, we are here, and Christ is with you, always. Your fears are valid, and you are always worthy of God's abiding love. To those who feel hopeful: may your hope inspire action that builds bridges and lifts others up, especially those who are struggling and in need. Call out hurtful words, bullying, racism, and other forms of discrimination, and turn your hope into kindness and action.

Together, we can hold space for one another—a space that is gentle, kind, and brave. Together, we can be the light of Christ in a world that desperately needs it.

May we recommit ourselves to the work of reconciliation, justice, and compassion. May we be instruments of peace, holding each other close as we continue to live out our faith in uncertain times.

In Christ's Love,

Mo. Allison+



Janice A. Haines, age 89, of Cape May Court House, NJ, formerly of Philadelphia, PA, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on April 27, 1935, to the late Thomas and Lily Hardy Anderson, Janice lived a life marked by faith, love, and a spirit of generosity that profoundly touched all who knew her.

Janice was the beloved wife of William W. Haines for an extraordinary 71 years, a testament to their unwavering commitment and enduring love. She was a devoted mother to her children William Haines (Leigh), Stephen Haines (Leslie), and Janice Connor (Thomas). Her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother was one of her greatest joys, cherishing every moment with her six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her dear sister, Nancy Riley (Mike), with whom she shared a lifetime of memories.

After moving to Cape May Court House in 2000, Janice found a warm and welcoming community where she continued her lifelong dedication to church and service. As an active member of St. Mary's Episcopal Church, she embraced numerous volunteer roles, embodying the church’s principles of love and charity. Her unwavering faith was an inspiration to many and a source of comfort and guidance throughout her life.

Janice’s interests and hobbies brought much joy to her life and to those around her. She was an avid participant in her local book club, where she not only devoured literature but also cultivated lasting friendships. Her passion for gardening was evident in the beautiful plants that thrived under her attentive care, bringing beauty to her home and the gardens she tended. Moreover, Janice’s love for cooking allowed her to express her care for others, as she was known for her delicious meals that would bring family and friends together around the table.

Those who had the pleasure of knowing Janice will remember her as a faith-filled, loving, and friendly individual who radiated warmth and kindness. Her smile and gentle nature will be deeply missed, but her legacy will continue to live on in the many lives she touched.

The family of Janice A. Haines will gather to honor and celebrate her life on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, commending her spirit to the same God whom she served so faithfully. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 9425 Third Avenue, Stone Harbor, NJ 08247, with her memorial beginning at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment will be in the Cape May County Veterans Cemetery, Cape May Court House. Janice's memory will forever be cherished and preserved within the hearts of her beloved husband, children, sister, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and the countless friends she made throughout her rewarding life. The love she shared, the guidance she offered, and the wisdom she imparted will remain as guiding lights to those she has left behind.

In her passing, Janice leaves behind not just a void in the lives of her loved ones, but also a rich tapestry of memories that paint a portrait of a life well-lived and a person well-loved — a true matriarch whose influence will continue through the generations. As we bid farewell to Janice A. Haines, we do so with deep gratitude for the blessing of having known her and with the certainty that her legacy will endure.

Donations in Janice’s memory may be made to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 9425 Third Avenue, Stone Harbor, NJ 08247.

Share your vision of the words "Walk in Love." 

As we enter stewardship season at St. Mary's, we are embracing the theme "Walk in Love" by sharing photographs of what that means to us. Whether pets, families, places, or things, share an image and explain what it means to you. We'll have some elves working behind the scenes to create ornaments featuring the photos to hang on our Tree of Love Christmas Tree in the parish hall. The picture holders are round and images will be trimmed down to 2.8 inch circles, and there can be one on each side of the ornament. You can bring your photographs to church and we will trim them down, or make a scan of the photograph and return it to you. If you prefer to submit a digital photograph, please send it to Mother Allison.

You will receive this year's stewardship appeal in the mail next week, and we ask that all pledges be turned in by Friday, December 6th. On Sunday, December 8th, we will have a festive coffee hour to celebrate the success of our stewardship campaign, and maybe, just maybe, Mother Allison will put together one of her wonderful video storybooks. 

We hope for 100% participation both in pledging and in sharing your photographs! 

Lillian B. Armstrong, Sr. Warden



We are planning to make St. Mary's "first annual" Cookie Stroll the best possible cookie stroll and fundraiser! Your help will make it possible.

We need:

Bakers - sign up on the sheet in the parish hall or let Dina Ziemba know you plan to bake.

Decorators - Currently the parish hall kitchen is under construction and not looking its best. People to "decorate" and make it cheery would be very welcome.

Volunteers - to help the day of the sale.

Thank you!!

Convocational Lay Ministry Training

If you’re serving as a Lay Eucharistic Minister or Visitor, remember that your license must be renewed every 3 years. And if you’d like to serve, you must be trained in accordance with our diocesan guidelines. Need some help? Our diocesan staff is ready for you! In conversation with our clergy and lay leaders, we’re holding convocational lay ministry training throughout the diocese.

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Ocean City,

Saturday, Nov. 9th at 10:00 am

If you’re interested, let your lay or clergy leadership know, or you can email the Reverend Canon Susanna Cates directly: scates@dioceseofnj.org.

The November, December, January issue of Forward Day by Day is now available in both large and small size booklets, 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.

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

Stay Connected through Bible Study

We offer two convenient times to fit your schedule:

10-11:30 AM or 7-8:30 PM.

This Bible study is more than just a class; it’s an opportunity to build deeper relationships with God and with each other. As we explore the Gospel of Luke together, we’ll strengthen our faith, grow in our understanding, and stay connected as a community, no matter where we are.

If you’re interested or have any questions, feel free to reach out to Tracy Rubin at tgrubin3@gmail.com or 781-856-2125.

To sign up, please contact Ali at office@ccneedham.org

or call 781-444-1469.

Let’s stay connected and continue our spiritual journey together!

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!

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

1 Kings 17:8-16

Psalm 146

Hebrews 9:24-28

Mark 12:38-44

Tuesday - Friday 8:45 am Morning Prayer via Zoom

Sunday Service Time: 10:00 am

and Live on Facebook