Staying Connected: January 8, 2020

Rector's Corner

January 8, 2021

Dear Family,

2021 has gotten off to a bumpy start. Like many of you, I watched as the sanctity of our democracy was under attack on Wednesday afternoon. I found myself both angry and grieved; and when in such a way I feel overwhelmed, I reflect upon my Baptismal covenant. As we look toward this Sunday, The Baptism of Our Lord, I invite you to do the same.

The gospel story we will hear on Sunday, about the Baptism of Jesus is an invitation to check out our compass and to perhaps change the direction of our lives. As individuals, as a civil society, as a world of business, and even as a community of believers, we can all too easily veer off course. John the Baptist bids us to turn around. Such a turn, however, requires that we first admit that our present direction is off course. More than that it demands a willingness to set a new course. That course is given by Jesus. This is why it is so important for us to do as we are told today, to listen to him. But the brokenness of our world can never be healed by simply remembering what he said. Such healing will only come about by remembering ourselves with the direction he offers.

Today our Bishop is asking us to Fast and Pray. Let us participate and remember the covenant of our Baptism.

May the peace of God be with you+

Blessings,

Mo. Allison+

551-697-6133

MAKE YOUR PLEDGE DONATION HERE

2021 Annual Meeting

Notice is hereby given that according to the State Law governing the Episcopal Church, and the Constitution of the Parish, the Annual Meeting will be held on January 31, 2021, at 11:00 am via ZOOM. Election of new vestry members, convention and convocation delegates, and a review of the 2020 Annual Report will be presented.

To view the Supplemental Special Rules of Order for Virtual Attendance at a Parish Annual Meeting, authorized by our Diocese, click here.

Any parishioners may be nominated for an office via the online nomination form or by emailing the office; it must be submitted no later than Sunday, January 24, 2021.

Click HERE for the Nomination Form

Ministry and Committee Leaders: Upload any and all reports by clicking here or via email Saintmarysstoneharbor@gmail.com no later than January 20, 2021

Music with David

Dear Friends,

Most of you know that I have been quarantined for the last week or so, due to an exposure over the holiday. I’m pleased to say that my testing was negative and I have shown no symptoms and that I have been cleared to return to work this weekend.

I’m very grateful to be part of things here at Saint Mary’s, and I missed seeing you all this past weekend. I look forward to making music again with Cheryl and Dina and playing our beautiful pipe organ. I’m eager to resume our weekly concert series as well, so be sure to watch this Wednesday at 3:00 pm if you can.

Enjoy the music this weekend - and until we meet again, take care and stay well!

David

Day of Fasting and Prayer

Bishop Stokes calls the Diocese to observe a day of fasting and prayer following the riot in the Capitol on Wednesday. Join the Bishop tomorrow, January 8 on the Diocesan YouTube channel for the Daily Prayer Offices.

The Art of Living

Use laughter to set healing vibrations into motion — to fill a room with the sunshine of good cheer. We give of ourselves when we give gifts of the spirit: prayer, vision, beauty, aspiration, peace, faith … the best gift a person can give to their age and time is the gift of a constructive and creative life.

We should give of ourselves with the radiant warmth of sunshine and the glow of the open fire. We bring joy to others when we give the gift of time; when we are minute builders of more abundant living for others …

We give joy when we give the gift of words: encouragement, inspiration, guidance … And, remember, laughter is the best medicine for long and happy life. He who laughs … lasts!