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St. Mary's Episcopal Church
Stone Harbor, New Jersey
All are welcome. Please join us!
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WELCOME HOME!
Worship with us:
Sunday Service Time: 10:00 am
in person and Live on Facebook
Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost: Proper 20
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The Importance of Service as Stewardship
Dear St. Mary’s Family and Friends,
As we embrace the arrival of fall, the beginning of Stewardship Season, and reflect on the beauty of our being together, it’s a good time to pause and consider the ways we can give back to both our church and our community. One of the most meaningful ways we can live out our faith is through service, an essential part of our calling as stewards of God’s blessings.
Stewardship is often thought of in terms of financial giving, which is important, but it is so much more. At its heart, stewardship is about caring for all that God has entrusted to us, including our time, talents, and the opportunities we have to serve others. Through service, we embody the love of Christ and become instruments of God’s grace to those around us.
This weekend, Lisa and I are excited to represent St. Mary’s at Savour September. We are so grateful for the tremendous support the Chamber of Commerce has given to us throughout the years, and we want to give back in the most meaningful way possible. After the Chamber reached out in need of volunteers, Lisa and I were happy to respond. We will be donating our time to the Chamber of Commerce this weekend, helping with the setup and serving in a tent for Savour September. While my back and feet are apprehensive, this is a wonderful opportunity for us to not only support our local community but also to serve in a way that reflects the heart of our church - loving and assisting our neighbors. I encourage each of you to consider how you might give of your time and talents, whether within our church, in a ministry, or out in the community.
Service is integral to the life of our parish. Whether you serve on the Vestry, as a greeter, as a Eucharistic minister, or in another ministry, you are participating in an act of stewardship that honors God's glory. These roles are not just duties but sacred opportunities to be part of something larger than ourselves—caring for the spiritual and communal life of our church and showing God's love in tangible ways.
Just as we are called to nurture our faith, we are also called to care for one another and the world around us. Through service, we build deeper connections, strengthen our community, and witness to the love of Christ. Each act of service, whether big or small, reflects the stewardship we are entrusted with as members of the body of Christ.
As we continue to walk together in faith, I invite you to prayerfully consider how you might serve, whether within our church walls or in our broader town. Will you consider one of the following ministries:
Vestry
Prayer Group Ministry
Eucharistic Ministry
Usher/Greeter
Altar Guild
Music Ministry
Hospitality
Kitchen Committee
Buildings and Grounds
Strawberry Fest
Outreach Ministry
Formation Liaisons
Recovery Ministry
By offering your time, energy, and heart, you are participating in God’s mission here at St. Mary’s and beyond.
With gratitude for all you do in the name of Christ,
Mo.Allison+
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Pet Blessing and Collection for Cape May County Animal Shelter | |
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This year our Annual Blessing of the Pets will include a collection for the Cape May County Animal Shelter. All donations may be dropped off prior to service in the St. Mary's Chapel or bring them directly to service on the 29th.
Your support is greatly appreciated.
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Join us for a Pizza and Purge Party | |
Please plan to join us for a "Pizza and Purge the kitchen" night on Friday, September 27th at 5:30 pm. We need to empty the kitchen cabinets in preparation for construction of our new kitchen starting soon!
Let Dina Ziemba know if you can make it so we can order enough pizzas. Dessert or appetizers are welcome! email ziels@comcast.net or 609-465-0078.
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Good News in the Garden State: September 13, 2024 | I am writing to share some exciting news about two staff appointments that will enhance our capacity to serve and support the congregations and people of the Diocese of New Jersey: | | | |
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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!
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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
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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.
Our first one is at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in South River, held on Sunday, September 29th at 2 pm. We’re also in the scheduling process for Monmouth, Watchung, and Woodbury Convocations for dates later in the fall. If you’re interested, let your lay or clergy leadership know, or you can email the Reverend Canon Susanna Cates directly: scates@dioceseofnj.org.
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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.
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Live-video link unites Virginia churches with a Haiti school they support but haven't visited in four years | Episcopal News Service] COVID-pandemic restrictions that began in early 2020 and worsening political unrest and violence in Haiti have made it impossible for members of seven churches in the Episc... | | | |
Forward Day by Day - August, September, October issue
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.)
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Setting up a personal online banking "bill pay" option. The bank will mail the check for you to the church office.
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Online giving through our website at https://www.stmarysstoneharbor.org/
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Become an Acolyte and Eucharistic Minister! | |
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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.
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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!
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- September 29th - Blessing of the Animals
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Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost: Proper 20 | |
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Tuesday - Friday 8:45 am Morning Prayer via Zoom
Sunday Service Time: 10:00 am
and Live on Facebook
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