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We Love Our Risen Lord!
After Easter, Jesus appeared to His followers several times before ascending into heaven. In this Sunday’s Gospel (John 21:1-19), we hear how He revealed Himself to the disciples, who had returned to fishing. Following Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection, they went back to their ordinary routines. Yet even there, Jesus called them forward, guiding them and granting abundance when they obeyed His word.
We have just come through one of the most crucial liturgical seasons in the Church calendar, a time filled with deep sorrow and painful guilt, intertwined with overwhelming joy and the reconfirmation of faith. Both St. Martin’s adult and handbell choir members poured their hearts into numerous extra rehearsals and long, intense services, offering meaningful and powerful music. I am deeply grateful for the way we shared the story of Christ’s passion and resurrection with such care, faithfulness, and devotion. Preparing so much music was a great challenge, yet we believed that God would be with us, and indeed, He was present and led us throughout each service. As Rev. Nathan preached last Sunday, Jesus remains with us, even in moments of doubt or fear.
Now that we have entered the season of Easter, we continue praising God unceasingly. He still calls us: “Feed my sheep.” Every hymn and anthem we offer is our way of saying, “Lord, you know that I love you.” Therefore, I invite you to serve God with joyful noise as an expression of our love! Let us follow Him without doubt or fear, knowing that He lives and walks among us, always!
| | | | Join us for Worship every Sunday at 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. | | |
Guest Preacher and Teacher
The Rev. Canon Dina van Klaveren will be preaching and teaching at St. Martin's this Sunday. Canon Dina is the Canon for Development and Stewardship on the Bishop's staff. Recently, Canon Dina has been a great conversation partner as we work to ensure St. Martin's in-the-Field is still sharing the good news of Jesus and the love of God with folks in and around Severna Park 25-years from now. Did you know that in just 4 years we will be celebrating our 75th anniversary as a church? I am so very grateful for the people whose shoulders we stand on, and I want to be sure our legacy of love is still making a difference in the world when St. Martin's turns 100. Please come to church on Sunday, for worship at 8am or 10am, and for spiritual formation at 9am. I am eager for you to hear from Canon Dina, and for her to get to know all of you.
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This Sunday's altar flowers are given in memory of Eleanor Wells and David Herron. | | | | |
2025 Frederick Sacred Music Festival
Members of St. Martin's Choir will participate in the 2025 Frederick Sacred Music Festival: Psalms & Soul this Sunday, May 4 at 5PM at Coffman Chapel on the Hood College campus in downtown Frederick MD. Click here for more information.
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EYC: Cinco de Mayo and Ultimate Frisbee
Sunday, May 4, 5:30 p.m.
Bring your appetite for some great Mexican themed food. After we eat we’ll play ultimate frisbee. For all youth grades 6th-12th. Friends are welcome. Newcomers always welcome. Contact Sam Burdette or Amy Miller.
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Vestry Report – April Update
As we look ahead to the joy of Easter, we are reminded once again of the beauty of this sacred time—an opportunity for reflection, renewal, and a deepened connection with God and one another. As a member of the SMITF vestry, I have had the opportunity to reflect and deepen my connection with God and fellow members of the vestry. I consider serving on the vestry a blessing in my life.
We’re pleased to share that school enrollment at SMES continues to go well! The community’s support and enthusiasm remain strong, and we are excited about the continued growth and energy surrounding the school. We look forward to seeing you a the SMES School Gala this Saturday, May 3rd! It will be a wonderful evening of celebration and support for our school.
The school has also undergone a recent review of its IT security. We are grateful for the valuable recommendations received and they will be implementing the necessary steps to ensure our systems remain secure and up to date.
Financially, the treasurer reported that we are right on track at 25% through the year. Thank you to everyone who is keeping current on their pledging—your faithfulness and generosity are deeply appreciated.
The vestry also reviewed and voted to approve the amendment and restatement of the SMITF Endowment Fund. More detailed information will be shared in the coming months.
Rev. Lauren brought to the vestry the idea of having a Deacon assigned to our church to support our outreach efforts and help coordinate related events. The vestry agreed this would be a wonderful addition and Rev. Lauren has been encouraged to approach the Diocese with our interest.
Additionally, several members of the vestry have volunteered to serve on two newly formed service groups:
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Friendly Freezer – This ministry invites volunteers to bake breads or treats to keep in our church freezer. These will be used as welcome gifts for newcomers or shared with those who are homebound and might appreciate a home-baked good and a reminder of the love from their church family.
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Partners in Transition – This group is forming to support those in our congregation who are experiencing job loss. It will serve as a source of encouragement, connection, and practical resources within the community and county to help navigate difficult employment transitions.
Thank you to everyone who continues to serve, give, and dream alongside us. We are a blessed and growing community and we’re excited about all that lies ahead. May this season fill you with peace and anticipation and may Easter morning bring with it a renewed sense of joy and purpose as we celebrate the Risen Christ together.
In gratitude, Wendy Gatanas, SMITF Vestry Member
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Register for St. Martin’s VBS Today
St. Martin’s is offering Vacation Bible School, the week of July 28- August 1, for kids ages four to 12 years old. For $50 you can register your child for half-day VBS, which would be from 8am to 12pm, or for $75 we will have a full-day of VBS, from 8am to 3pm. To register click here or contact Tabitha Carman.
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Walkin’ Loves
Every Tuesday & Thursday, 8:00 a.m. (Kinder Farm Park)
Lace up your shoes and join our new Walkin’ Loves group for fresh air and fellowship. Meet us for a walk on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 8:00 a.m. at Kinder Park, off of Kinder Rd, near the small playground. The loop is 2.4 miles, mostly level, and takes about 45 minutes to complete. All ages and fitness levels welcome. Contact Julie Reiter, 443-875-1457.
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Partners in Transition (PIT) Group Kick-Off Meeting
Saturday, May 10, 9:00 a.m.
Join us as we come together to support those affected by the Federal Government reduction in forces. You’re invited to the Partners in Transition (PIT) Group Kick-Off meeting on Saturday, May 10, from 9:00-10:00 a.m. in the St. Martin’s House meeting room (2nd floor). This gathering will provide a space for discussions on how St. Martin’s PIT group can offer resources, support, and fellowship during this time. Refreshments will be provided, so come connect with others and explore ways we can uplift one another. If you are unable to attend in person and would like to join us virtually - click here for link. For any questions, feel free to reach out to: Dan Tootle, Susan Gibbons, Chris Werth, Ann Platoff, or Wendy Gatanas. We look forward to seeing you there!
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We’re Moving to Realm Connect!
Tuesday, May 27
We’re making the transition to Realm Connect, a new online platform and mobile app that will help us all stay more connected to St. Martin’s—anytime, anywhere.
With Realm Connect, you’ll be able to:
- View our online directory
- Access your giving history
- Update your personal profile
- And much more!
What to Expect: On Tuesday, May 27, you’ll receive an email invitation from St. Martin’s to join our online community. This email will include a secure link to create your Realm account—either through the website or the Realm Connect app (available on iOS and Android).
We’re excited to launch this new way to stay engaged and grow together as a community! Details to come. Contact Katrina Schultz.
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Youth Sunday and Teacher Appreciation
Sunday, June 1, during the 10:00 a.m. service
During our annual Youth Sunday service, youth will participate in all aspects of Sunday worship. We will also celebrate the ministry of our many teachers and mentors who have kept our youth and children’s ministries thriving. Join us for a special treat following the service. For details contact the church office.
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Feast of Ascension Evensong
Sunday, June 1, 5:00 p.m. (the Cathedral of the Incarnation)
St. Martin’s Choir is collaborating with choirs from the Cathedral of the Incarnation, Baltimore and All Saints, Frederick on Sunday, June 1 at 5:00 p.m. You are invited to the Cathedral of the Incarnation to celebrate the Feast of Ascension with an Evensong program featuring: O Clap Your Hands by Orlando Gibbons and Magnificat and Nunc Dimities in C by Charles Villiers Stanford. For more information contact HyeSung Hwang.
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Need Gift Cards?
Our J2A Youth Group is selling gift cards in support of their pilgrimage. For every card purchased, they receive a percentage back. These cards make great graduation gifts, but most importantly can be used for everyday purchases. Give a card to yourself to buy your everyday groceries. It’s a easy way to support the youth at St. Martin’s without costing you extra. To place an order or set up an account contact Amber Kaltz.
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SPAN Opportunities for MAY
SPAN (Serving People Across Neighborhoods) serves our neighbors by helping them through a critical or emergency situation. St. Martin’s supports SPAN’s mission this month by asking for donations for May’s theme: “Flowers.”
Please donate: any type of flour for baking as well as other shelf stable foods that are plant based. Such foods would include nuts, seeds, beans, rice, pasta, corn, salsa, canned vegetables and fruits. Of course we’re also happy to collect anything else you’re willing to share. Donations can be dropped in the bins marked “SPAN” in the Narthex. For details about SPAN click here.
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Faith and Family Group
Sundays, 9:00 a.m. (Parish Hall)
You are invited to this inclusive community dedicated to nurturing faith and service in our families. Grab a cup of coffee or a donut, and join us. Open to all. Contact Chris and Liz Lucas.
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Children and Youth Programs
Sundays, 9:00 a.m.
- Sunday School (K-Grade 5): SMES Art and Science Rooms
- Rite-13 (Grade 6-8): SMES History Room
- J2A (Grade 9-10): Lower St. Martin’s House
- YAC (Grade 11-12): St. Martin’s House
Register your student today, just click the link: Sunday School (PK-Grade 5) and Youth Ministry (Grades 6-12).
For questions contact Rev. Nathan.
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Children’s Chapel
During the 10:00 a.m. service, from before the reading of the Gospel to the Peace, children 4 and up are invited to experience an age-appropriate Liturgy of the Word led by Children’s Chapel adult leaders. Contact Rev. Nathan for details.
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Nursery Care
Care is available from 8:45 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. on Sundays for infants and children ages 4 and under. Located in Parish Hall, see an usher for directions.
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Tuesday Night Group
Tuesdays, 7:00 p.m. (Virtual)
Our goal is to help to deepen our understanding of our theological beliefs and how they may impact our everyday lives. Readings are based on Christian Theology from a variety of authors. Join us on Tuesday evenings via Zoom from 7:00-8:30 p.m. Contact Charlie Fitzgerald, 410-353-4719.
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Bible Challenge Book Study
Tuesdays, 7:00 p.m. (St. Martin’s House)
Join us for a 16 week study of the Acts of the Apostles. We will be using the LifeChange Study Guide on Acts which can be ordered on Amazon: click here. Contact Cindy Neseth.
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Shepherd Group
Thursdays, 4:00 p.m.
Join us for a group discussion of the readings for the upcoming Sunday. All adults welcome. This group meets via zoom every Thursday afternoon. All are welcome. For zoom link and details contact Susan Griesmyer.
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Midday Bible Study
Thursdays, 12:00 noon (St. Martin’s House)
Join us for a weekly, midday Bible study and connect with God’s word. Meetings are held in the conference room of St. Martins house. Bring a Bible. Contact Julie Reiter, 443-875-1457.
| | Your Prayers are Invited... | Prayer is the universal way people of faith stay connected, both with one another and with God. You are invited to pray daily for our parish family, for your own needs, and in thanksgiving for all that God has blessed you with this day. | |
PRAYERS FOR OUR PARISH FAMILY: Joey, the Smith family, Joey, Michele, Kerry, Eliana, Carter, Matthew, Julia, Sarah, Amalia, Edmund, Joey, Kip, Wilma, Merla, Lisa, Mike, the Carman family, Kevin, Sarah, Melanie, Jared, Bill, Jax, Brody, Matt, and Kyle.
FOR THOSE CELEBRATING A BIRTHDAY: Kathleen, Natalie, Charlie, Trevor, Bob, Veronica, James, and Nicholas.
FOR THOSE CELEBRATING A WEDDING ANNIVERSARY: Scott and Anna Fava and Justin and Amber Kaltz.
| Let us know if you have a specific prayer request so we can hold you in our daily prayers. | | |
ST. MARTIN'S-IN-THE-FIELD EPISCOPAL CHURCH
375 Benfield Road, Severna Park, MD 21146
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