St. Mary's Episcopal Church

Stone Harbor, New Jersey


All are welcome. Please join us!

Sunday Service - 10:00 am


Morning Prayer: Tuesday-Friday 8:45 am


******* Morning prayer will resume on October 22nd ******


Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/322861579

Meeting ID: 322 861 579

Staying Connected

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

Rector's Corner


Finding Strength and Unity in Troubled Times


In moments when our nation faces the aftermath of a natural disaster or the uncertainties that life brings, we are often left feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and searching for hope. These events can shake the very foundation of our lives, and it's natural to experience fear and grief as we grapple with the damage and loss that surrounds us.


Yet, even in these moments, we are reminded that God is present with us, holding us together with divine love and care. One of the most comforting scriptures during times like these is found in Psalm 46:1-3, 10-11:


"God is our refuge and strength,

a very present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth gives way,

though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,

though its waters roar and foam,

though the mountains tremble at its swelling...

'Be still, and know that I am God.

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth!'

The Lord of hosts is with us;

the God of Jacob is our fortress."


This passage reminds us that, despite the chaos around us, God is our refuge—our constant source of strength. Even when the ground beneath us seems unstable, we can find stability in God’s presence. And in that stillness, we find hope, courage, and the ability to move forward, united as one people.


As communities come together to rebuild homes, heal hearts, and restore what has been broken, I invite you to hold on to this promise: God is in the midst of our struggles, bringing peace and unity where it is needed most. It is in our togetherness, as neighbors and as a nation, that we can overcome the most difficult of challenges. Whether we are supporting each other through physical labor, offering a kind word, or simply praying for healing, every act of love strengthens the fabric of our community.


Let us also remember that God's love transcends all divisions and anxieties. In this truth, we can find not only personal comfort but also a collective sense of unity, knowing that we are bound together by something far greater than ourselves.


As we lean on each other and trust in God’s unwavering presence, I offer this prayer for our nation, trusting that God will continue to guide us through:


A Prayer for Unity


Loving and Compassionate God,

In these times of uncertainty, when we face destruction and loss, we turn to You as our refuge and strength. Unite us as one people, bound by love and service to one another.

Help us to set aside division and fear, and instead to come together in compassion, healing, and support for those in need. May we be still and know that You are with us, guiding our steps as we rebuild.

Grant peace to those who are anxious, comfort to those who mourn, and strength to all who labor in love. May Your presence be felt in every act of kindness, and may Your Spirit inspire us to continue the work of unity and restoration.

We ask this in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who is our hope and our peace.

Amen.


Faithfully,

Mo. Allison+



From Bishop French - Urgent Response to Hurricane Helene Devestation

Dear Members of the Diocese of New Jersey, I am saddened to hear about the damage caused by Hurricane Helene in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia, and the Carolinas. The full extent of the loss of life and property is still unknown and it is significant.

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Pet Blessing and Collection for Cape May County Animal Shelter

Thank you to everyone who attended Sunday’s Blessing of the Animals! It was such a joy to see all the beloved pets receive blessings, and we are so grateful for your generous donations to The Cape May County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center. A special thank you to Mayor Judy for the wonderful tour and for introducing us to three incredible pups in search of their forever home...


Your support is greatly appreciated.



Episcopal News

Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic damage in Southeast, particularly in Western North Carolina

Editor's note: This has been edited to include additional information about Kanuga that was received after initial publication. [Episcopal News Service] As Hurricane Helene, a powerful Catego...

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Formation/ Education

What We Believe

As Episcopalians, we believe in and follow the teachings of Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection saved the world. We believe that God loves you - no exceptions. The [...]

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Timeline

History: Timeline For more information, visit or contact The Archives of The Episcopal Church. This page is available in: Español

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Music & Liturgy

Music & Liturgy Liturgy is the term for the church's sacramental rites and texts used in public worship. In An Episcopal Dictionary of the Church (Church Publishing, 2000), Don S. Armentrout and [...]

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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!


Diocesan Adult Confirmation and Faith Discovery Groups 


Beginning September 25th: Sign Up Now!


The Diocese of New Jersey is excited to present our program for Adult Confirmation! Whether you’re new to the Episcopal Church and are seeking Confirmation, or a long-time member who wants to share and renew their faith, you are invited to join folks from around the diocese as we discover and re-discover our love for Christ, our joy in the Church, and the gifts that God has given each of us. This series of 10 1- hour Zoom classes will begin on Wednesday, September 25th at 7 pm. This puts us in a perfect position to be ready for our Diocesan Confirmation Service shortly after the new year. For more information and to register, please contact the Reverend Canon Susanna Cates: scates@dioceseofnj.org



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.

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

Thursday, October 10th:

Bridging the Political Divide:

A Conversation on Faith and Politics


Join us on Zoom for a special pre-election conversation with Bishop French and guest speakers. Clergy and lay leaders are particularly encouraged to attend as we prayerfully prepare for the upcoming election season with compassion, understanding, and God’s grace. This program will run from 7 pm until 8:30 pm.


To register, please contact the Reverend Canon Susanna Cates: scates@dioceseofnj.org.

Forward Day by Day - August, September, October issue

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.

Stewardship Minute

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/
Visit our Website

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


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

Coffee Hour


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!

Upcoming Community Events

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

The Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost: Proper 22

Genesis 2:18-24

Psalm 8

Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12

Mark 10:2-16

Worship Services

******* Morning prayer will resume on October 22nd******

( Tuesday - Friday 8:45 am Morning Prayer via Zoom )

Sunday Service Time: 10:00 am

and Live on Facebook

Services, studies, and service bulletins may be accessed on our website: www.stmarysstoneharbor.org
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