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September 11, 2025
TRANSFORMING HEARTS AND COMMUNITY THROUGH JESUS' LOVE.
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FROM THE RECTOR WITH FATHER ANDREW
Dear Beloved Members of St. Gregory's,
Last night, St. Gregory's hosted an interfaith vigil on immigration. It was a powerful, meaningful and holy event. We gathered as the people of God—Jewish, Christian and Muslim and other faiths as well—to give witness to the dignity and worth of every human being created in God's image. Our faith traditions all give strong voice to the moral obligation to love our neighbor, care for the stranger among us and act with justice and mercy to our fellow human beings. This is a holy obligation from God.
Using words and teachings from our holy scriptures, whose messages were enhanced by music and poetry, we witnessed this holy obligation. And we listened to stories. A beloved member of our congregation and member of the vestry, Rachel Bruno, movingly told her story as an immigrant. Renata Bozzetto, who works with the Florida Immigration Coalition, spoke about practical ways to support immigrants. Prayers were offered, candles were lit, hearts were moved, and consciences were stirred. It was beautiful because it was and is of God.
Below is the link to the service, which was recorded. Attached also is the copy of Rachel Bruno's testimony. Finally, here is the Boca Raton Interfaith Clergy Association's statement on immigration that was written for this event which we are widely publishing.
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The BRICA Statement A Statement on the Plight of Immigrants and Refugees from the Boca Raton Interfaith Clergy Association.
As leaders of faith, we stand together in witness of the challenging, sometimes heart wrenching realities that immigrants and refugees in our communities are facing.
Each of our spiritual traditions teach the moral obligation that we have towards those whose lives have prompted them to sojourn from the land of their birth to seek out opportunities for safety, security, and prosperity.
The obligation to greet our neighbor, those who sojourn among us, the stranger and the foreigner with love and respect resonates throughout our Holy Teachings, amplified over the generations by the brightest minds of each tradition.
We come together to express our collective concern that those teachings are not being lived out in our time.
We note with disappointment increasing hostility in our nation and in our community towards those immigrants and refugees who live among us. We have heard them vilified, denigrated, and dehumanized as criminal threats to the safety and well-being of those around them, words that upbraid our sense of moral responsibility and demand our action.
Of particular concern are the abhorrent conditions faced by those who have been taken into custody by our immigration officials. Detention centers like the one in the Everglades with restrictions of access to adequate food, clean water, and humane shelter, the basic needs that each and every human being should expect, are cruel and morally repugnant. Preventing access to legal advice, the care and concern of family and friends, clergy and pastoral support, tramples on our American and our religious values of justice, family and community. Deporting people to countries with which they have no ties cruelly deprives them of what little they might have to rebuild their lives that a homeland could offer.
We appreciate each and every nation's responsibility to promulgate and enforce boundaries of who may enter and who may stay, and call upon our elected officials to enact the long overdue reform of our nation's immigration system to one that offers clarity, common sense, and respect.
At the same time, we call upon each and every law enforcement agency and law enforcement officer to fulfill their moral responsibility to recognize and respect the humanity of each and every human being. They ought to remind themselves of this responsibility while they carry out enforcement actions, interact with the public, and whenever they act in name of these United States.
O Merciful God, we pray for those who have been separated from their families and their communities. We ask for Your favor in granting them patience and comfort during these difficult moments in their lives.
We pray that all can come to appreciate the beauty of Your varied creation we call humanity, and that we should all merit Your blessings through the works of our hands.
Rabbi Ashira Boxman, Temple Beth El
The Rev. Dr. Andrew D. Hagen, Boca Helping Hands
Rabbi Amy Grossblatt Pessah, Temple Beth El
B.J. Saul Madrikha, Congregation Beth Adam
The Rev. Andrew J. Sherman, St Gregory’s Episcopal Church
Rabbi Greg Weisman, Temple Beth El
Rev. Dr. Robyn M. Neville, St Gregory’s Episcopal Church
Rev. Edith A. Love, United Universalist Fellowship of Boca Raton, Fl
Rabbi Dan Levin, Temple Beth El
Rabbi Laila Haas, Temple Beth El
Dr. Basem Alhalabi, Islamic Center of Boca Raton
Imam Ibrahim Khader, Islamic Center of Boca Raton
Rabbi Hector Epelbaum, B'nai Torah Congregation
The Reverend Juanita Bryant Goode, First United Methodist Church, Boca Raton
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Blessings and peace,
Andrew+
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Immigration Vigil Speech
Rachel Bruno
“You don’t belong. You’re a burden. You’re a thief. You’re a criminal.
These are the words that echo in the minds of many when they hear the word immigrant.
[Pause]
My name is Rachel Bruno. I am a medical doctor. I hold three master’s degrees. I am a mother, a mentor, and a visionary.
And yes—I am an immigrant.”
“I arrived in the U.S. ten years ago as an international student, with one master’s degree already earned—and I went on to earn two more. But none of that seemed to matter. The system didn’t ask what I knew or what I had built—it asked what I lacked. I was reduced to paperwork, waiting rooms, and silence.
I learned quickly that survival wasn’t just about navigating immigration, it was about translating pain.
Despite studying in the U.S. and following every legal path available, I live with constant stress about how to remain here lawfully. I know the immigration system by heart—from student visas to H-1B, from family petitions to Temporary Protected Status, R-visas, and EB-2. Not because I studied it in a textbook, but because I’ve walked its corridors, filled out its forms, and waited in its silence—with my future and my daughter’s stability hanging in the balance.
I hid my tears from my daughter, protecting her from the weight I carried. But when she overheard news about immigration—when fear crept into her questions—I had to open up. I had to reassure her that we were safe, that I was fighting, that our story wasn’t ending—it was evolving. Because I will find a way. God will show us the way.
When I came here, I didn’t just want a visa. I wanted a vision. One where wellness, culture, and care are not luxuries but birthrights. I built programs, led clubs, consulted for NGOs—while still wondering if I’d be allowed to stay.
And still, I remain. Not because it’s easy—but because I refuse to disappear.
I remain in the work, even when the system feels indifferent. I remain in the healing, even when the wounds are invisible. I remain in the legacy, because my presence is a declaration.
Being an immigrant isn’t just about crossing borders—it’s about holding space in a world that tries to erase you. And I’ve held that space with strategy, with sovereignty, and with fire.”
“I know I’m not the only one who’s had to build a life while wondering if it would be allowed to last.
But I also know this: immigrants are not just survivors—we are architects. We build families and futures. We carry wisdom across borders and plant it in new soil.
So let me say this clearly:
I am not a burden. I am not a thief. I am not a criminal
I am an immigrant who will continue to build bridges, even when the path is unclear—because my presence is not a problem to solve. It is a gift to honor.”
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A MULTIFAITH SERVICE AND VIGIL
SUPPORTING THE IMMIGRANTS AMONG US
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MAKING A DIFFERENCE
THE HEALING MASS AND TAKE IT TO THE SACRED
You may wonder what you will find at a Healing Mass. The Healing Mass is a gathering of people coming together to celebrate the Eucharist, with prayers and readings carefully chosen for the specific purpose of healing and calling God's attention to your personal needs. We will celebrate a Healing Mass this Tuesday, September 16, during the Noon Eucharist in the Chapel. In addition to the shared prayer and Eucharist, there is an opportunity to be anointed with Holy oils for healing.
All are welcome to join our much celebrated new ministry, The Senior Social at the conclusion of the service. This will be in Harris Hall where a delicious lunch prepared by Rose Vallee and the Meals With Meaning team. It is a fun relaxed time to be with members of our St. Gregory’s community. The topic for this month’s social is Take it to the Sacred. Everyone is invited to attend the Healing Mass for their own needs, or as a caregiver, for a family member who cannot attend or for any person in need of prayer. Basically, a Healing Mass, is for all who are hurting or searching and looking for comfort in their "journey" through life.
The program, Take it to the Sacred, is a program developed by Fr. Emilio. The program leads one through spiritual direction, exercises in contemplation, meditation and prayer.
Please think about joining Take it to the Sacred team. We would love volunteers to be greeters, readers, Altar servers and musicians willing to play soft music during our gatherings.
Blessings,
The Rev. Dr. Emilio Rosolen
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ALTAR FLOWERS
The flowers adorning the altar this Sunday are given in loving memory of Daniel Koshy, marking the one-year anniversary of his passing.
They are offered by his wife, Achamma; his son, George; and his grandchildren, Aanya and Alexander.
Additionally, Bob and Beth Gorman are sharing these beautiful flowers with us in celebration of their wedding anniversary.
Happy Anniversary, Bob and Beth!
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BROTHERS BREAKFAST
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 AFTER MORNNG SERVICES
St Gregory's Brothers are back and will be serving The Best Breakfast in Boca! Join us in Harris Hall following morning services!
CONGRATULATIONS TO BRIAN OUELLETTE! Congratulations and a heartfelt thank you to Brian Ouellette for taking on the role of the incoming President of The Brothers of St. Gregory's! Brian will assume the role in September.
THANK YOU, PHILIP HALL! A huge thank you to Philip Hall for his tireless work as the President of The Brothers. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for your dedication to St. Gregory's. We are truly grateful!
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THE ECW THRIFT STORE WILL BE OPEN ON SUNDAY
STOP IN TO SAY HELLO!
The Thrift Store has resumed regular hours and will now be open on Tuesdays and Thursdays (10 AM - 2 PM) and 2 Sundays per month
(9 AM - 12:30 PM).
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BAPTISM BLESSINGS
This Sunday at the 10:00 AM Service, we joyfully welcome into our family of God:
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Juan Sebastian Borrero Velasquez, son of Juan and Vanessa Borrero Velasquez
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Avery Ann Dwyer, daughter of Brian and Megan Dwyer
Through the Sacrament of Baptism, they become our brother and sister in Christ. Please pray that they will continue to grow in faith and love throughout their lives.
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REGISTERING FOR SUNDAY SCHOOL, UPPER ROOM TIME AND CONFIRMATION CLASS
Please visit our Welcome and Registration Table this Sunday (located just outside the Godly Play Classroom; 2nd floor of Harris Hall) ONLINE: Or, Register online anytime at: SUNDAY SCHOOL REGISTRATION FORM — St Gregory's Boca
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CONTRIBUTING TO COFFEE HOUR
To keep our Coffee Hour welcoming and stocked, we need contributions such as cheese and crackers, vegetable trays, salads, deviled eggs, and other refreshments. If you can bring something to share, please do so on a Sunday that corresponds to your last name, as outlined in the schedule below. Your contributions will help make our fellowship time even more enjoyable! Thank you for your support!
September 14 - Brothers Breakfast
September 21 - Families with the last name beginning A-H
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USHER AND GREETER VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
Can you help?
| We are looking for a few awesome volunteers to be ushers and or greeters on Sunday mornings. If this ministry speaks to you, please contact David Rogers (8 AM service, at daverog10@yahoo.com) or David Cominole (10 AM service, at David.cominole@att.net) | | | | | |
ST. GREGORY'S NURSERY
Opens for Drop off at 9:30 AM on Sunday
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On Sundays, the beautifully renovated nursery provides childcare for the 10:00 AM service. Dropoff for little ones begins at 9:30 AM.
There is no cost for this service.
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HEARING ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE - LISTEN WIFI
St. Gregory's has Listen WIFI, an innovative Wi-Fi streaming solution for those with hearing loss or those who would like to hear better during services. Listen WIFI allows parishioners to use their smartphones to access this technology. Listen with your own headphones, earbuds, or hearing aid device. If you are interested in this hearing-assisted service, please meet the ushers at the back of the church before the 8 AM service and at the back of the church before the 10 AM service.
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A MESSAGE FROM TIM
This Sunday we welcome back to the 10 AM worship the Choir of St. Gregory’s! I’m so excited to be starting a new season of beautiful choral music! If you’re interested in singing, please contact me! Our Choristers (Children’s Choir) also begins with rehearsals on Thursdays at 5:45-6:30. If your child is interested, please let me know! tbrumfield@st-gregorys.com.
We will also be joined by guest musicians Michael O’Gieblyn, violin, and Aziz Sapaev, cello. They will be playing for a Prelude a piece by the German composer and organist Wilhelm Rudnick (1850-1927) entitled “Leid ohne Worte, Op. 33”, and for the Communion Meditation they will play a piece by Camille Saint-Saens (1835-1921) entitled Sérénade.
The choir will sing “The Secret of Christ” by Richard Shepard (1949-) which is his choral setting of several texts including Isaiah 42, Revelation 22, and the Pilgrim Prayer by the Reverend Canon Derrick Walters (1932-2000). The text pairs beautifully with the Lectionary and with our service of Holy Baptism which takes place at the 10 AM service.
“For a long time I have held my peace, but now will I speak. I will lead the blind in a way they know not, in paths that they have not known, I will guide them. I will turn their darkness into light, and I will not forsake them. And He showed me a pure river of the Water of Life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God; and on either side of the river was a tree of life, and the leaves of the trees were for the healing of the nation. Help us, Lord, to persevere in prayer with minds awake and thankful hearts, that we may share the secret of Christ with those we meet on our earthly pilgrimage, following in the steps of Jesus, our Master and our friend. Amen.”
I’ll see you in church!
Blessings,
Tim
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MORNING PRAYER AND MUSICAL MEDITATIONS
WITH TIM BRUMFIELD
| | | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2025 | |  | WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2025 | | | |
ART CLASSES AT ST. GREGORY'S
MONDAY MORNINGS AT 9:30 AM
CALLING ALL ART LOVERS, ARTISTS, AND PAINTERS!
BEGINNERS ARE WELCOME!
Painting classes have resumed and are held on Monday mornings from 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM. The first class was held on Monday, September 8th and the last class will be held November 10. Come and have fun while learning. Learn the rules of color, composition, design, and much more. If you want to learnneed a materials list please contact Patricia Lusk at 786-218-0197. This class is free. Don’t miss out!
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LIVING WATER - RECTOR'S BIBLE STUDY
WITH FATHER ANDREW
RESUMES ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, AT 6 PM
(ZOOM AND IN PERSON)
Living Water - Rector's Bible Study with Fr. Andrew will resume on Wednesday, September 17, at 6 PM (via Zoom and In Person) Explore the Sunday readings before worship with Father Andrew. This weekly study offers fresh insight into scripture and prepares your heart to hear God’s Word more deeply. -Meeting Link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87313630103?pwd=cioOTPy7hNKtrUdfg4OijM5vcTl0Dl.1
Meeting ID: 873 1363 0103 Passcode: 537993
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NEW PROGRAM WITH REV. ROBYN
33 MINUTES ON EMPATHY
BEGINS ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21
WILL MEET IN THE PARISH LIBRARY
FROM 9:12 AM - 9:45 AM
St. Gregory’s is bringing back our popular “33 Minutes” program on Sunday mornings. Beginning Sunday, September 21, 2025, join Rev. Robyn in the parish Library from 9:12 to 9:45 AM (between the 8 AM and 10 AM services of Holy Eucharist) for thirty-three minutes of discussion, teaching, and discovery.
We will be reading the book, Don't Sing Songs to a Heavy Heart: How to Relate to Those Who Are Suffering, by Kenneth Haugk. The title is based on Proverbs 25: 20, which says that trying to offer cheer in misguided ways to someone who is suffering can actually increase their pain, discomfort, and feelings of isolation. As Christians, we often want to reach out to help those who are hurting—but the words or actions we use may unintentionally add to their burden instead of easing their pain. Forged from author Kenneth C. Haugk’s own experiences of suffering, the book draws on extensive research on empathy and compassion, offering key insights and suggestions of what to say and do—and what not to say or do—when people are hurting.
With its biblical foundation, compassionate approach, and concrete, practical ideas that you can use in your own life, our study of Don’t Sing Songs to a Heavy Heart will help us to bring God’s loving presence to hurting people when they need it most. A limited number of copies are available for purchase in the parish office for $15, and the book is also available for purchase here: https://www.stephenministries.org/On_Line_Store/viewitem.cfm?ItemID=467
“33 Minutes” will begin on Sunday, September 21 and run through mid-December. One minute for each year of Christ’s life = 33 minutes to change your own. This program is co-sponsored by both the Center for Spiritual Formation and the Stephen Ministry program of Christ-centered caregiving at St. Gregory's.
Join us!
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SUNRISE BEACH EUCHARIST
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 AT 6:30 AM
Join us seaside for our September Beach Eucharist on Sunday, September 28 at 6:30 AM at South Beach Park in Boca Raton located at A1A and Palmetto Park Road. Everyone is warmly welcome!
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YOUTH GROUP FOOD DRIVE
SUNDAY, SEPT 21 - FRIDAY, OCT 3
(during office hours)
AND
SATURDAY, OCT 4
(during our Blessing of the Pets service)
As we did last year our Youth Group is sponsoring a pet food drive to help local rescue organizations feed hungry animals. Donations of canned or dry (unopened!) pet food is most appreciated.
Items can be dropped off at the church office from Sunday, Sept 21 through Friday, Oct 3 (during office hours Mon - Thurs 9am - 4pm and Friday 9am - 12pm) AND on Saturday, Oct 4 during our annual Blessing of the Pets service (10am). Cash contributions are also most welcome!
Please join us for our annual Blessing of the Pets service on Saturday, Oct 4 at 10:00 am at St. Gregory's! All are welcome and youth are invited to greet and usher.
For more information, please contact Anita Sherman at anitasherman561@gmail.com
| | You are invited for a very special evening... | | Please join us to give thanks, celebrate, and continue the Journey together! | | |
GALA AUCTION ITEMS ARE NEEDED
We're currently seeking auction items to make this event unforgettable. Vacation homes are always a hit—do you have a getaway spot you'd be willing to share? We're also on the lookout for luxury travel packages, unique experiences, artwork, home improvement services, jewelry, designer purses, and personal training sessions. Your generous contributions help us raise vital funds while offering guests one-of-a-kind treasures. Please email the church office if you can donate a special experience or auction item.
Stay tuned for more details, but for now, save the date and start thinking about how you can be part of this joyful tradition!
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HURRICANE PREPARATION RESOURCES
NOAA forecasts an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season (June 1–Nov 30) this year. To help you prepare, Florida Power & Light offers a general storm guide and a Storm Guide for Seniors, plus safety tips on their storm prep site. Please see the links below. Additionally, if you face an emergency, please call 911. After calling 911, please also keep St. Gregory's main phone number, 561-395-8285, and office@st-gregorys.com in your phone so you may contact the church in the event of an emergency.
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IMMIGRATION RESOURCES AND PROTOCOLS
If you were unable to attend the recent meeting on the immigration protocols for St. Gregory’s and the Diocese of Southeast Florida, please feel free to pick up a copy from the Welcome table on Sunday or to click the link below to learn more:
stgregorysepiscopal.org/immigrationresources
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Dear St. Gregory's Family,
It's time once again for us to host and support Family Promise during the week of September 28.
Family Promise kindly requests assistance in providing the following items:
- Nonperishable food items
- Grocery store gift cards
- Personal care items (travel-size body wash, shampoo, toothbrushes, etc.)
- Paper products
If you're interested in donating any of these items, please contact me, and I will arrange for pick-up or drop-off.
I'm happy to report that our recent School Supply Drive raised over $1,000 in funds and collected enough supplies to fill two SUVs—thank you for your incredible generosity!
Additionally, there are volunteer opportunities available with Family Promise, including:
- Office Assistant
- Outreach Session Assistant (helping clients complete paperwork, etc.)
Please feel free to email, call, or text me for more information.
Peace,
Paula Holgerson
954-325-6955
plholgerson@hotmail.com
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RESERVING ALTAR FLOWERS
TO HONOR A LOVED ONE
OR SPECIAL OCCASION
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Each Sunday, as we walk into the church, we are greeted by the beauty of our surroundings. In addition to our newly remodeled space, we now have stunning frontals for each church season, enhancing our worship environment. The flowers at the altar further enrich our worship experience. Sponsoring altar flowers on any given Sunday is a meaningful way to honor a loved one on their birthday, celebrate an anniversary, or pay tribute to someone special. The cost to sponsor flowers is $300. The flowers serve as a beautiful and lasting expression of love and remembrance.
To learn more or to get the process started, please email the church office at office@st-gregorys.com.
| | | CHILDREN, YOUTH, AND FAMILIES | | | |
THIS SUNDAY
Sunday, September 14
9:10 am: Confirmation Class (Conference Room)
9:30 am: Nursery open
9:45am: 3yrs - 5th grades -- Regular classes (designated classrooms)
9:45 am: Upper Room Time for Teens (Youth Room)
Next Sunday, Sept 21
9:10 am: Confirmation Class (Conference Room)
9:30 am: Nursery open
9:45am: 3yrs - 5th grades -- Regular classes (designated classrooms)
9:45 am: Upper Room Time for Teens (Youth Room)
Special program about mental well-being today!
PET FOOD DRIVE BEGINS!
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THESE UPCOMING EVENTS!
Our Annual Pet Food Drive - from Sunday, Sept 21
Saturday, Oct 4 - 10:00 AM - Blessing of the Pets at St. Gregory's
Soup Sale Fundraiser - date TBA soon! Stay tuned!
More to come about these and other events -- stay tuned!
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ST. GREGORY'S TEENS REPRESENT BRIYA
AT INTERFAITH VIGIL
Congratulations to Chloe Bruno and Sophia Bruno for an amazing job reading the Prayers of the People at the recent Interfaith Vigil sponsored by our Boca Raton Interfaith Clergy Association. The vigil brought together people of all faiths to call for mercy, justice, and humane treatment for immigrants and refugees. Chloe and Sophia represented the Boca Raton Interfaith Youth Association (BRIYA). Well done!
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MEALS WITH MEANING
SERVE DAY!
Sunday, Oct 5 at 1:30 PM
More details coming -- stay tuned!
Join us as we gather to serve food and distribute essential self-care items to our most vulnerable neighbors.
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Confirmation Class has resumed!
Confirmation Class:
LIFE IN CHRIST (Grades 6, 7, 8 and others)
Join us Sunday mornings at 9:10 am
Confirmation Class will now meet every Sunday
at 9:10 AM in the Conference Room (unless otherwise noted).
WHO TEACHES CONFIRMATION CLASS AT ST. GREGORY'S?
Fr. Andrew Sherman
Rector of St. Gregory's
Gena Vallee
Staff and Pastoral Liaison for Christian Formation for Children and Youth
Outreach Coordinator
WHAT IS CONFIRMATION IN THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH?
In Confirmation, a baptized Christian makes "a mature commitment to Christ, and receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the laying on of hands by a bishop." (The Book of Common Prayer, p. 857)
One can be confirmed whenever he or she is ready to accept the promises made on their behalf at their baptism. This usually happens during the teen years, but adults of any age may be confirmed in the church. One must be baptized before being confirmed.
Confirmation expresses not only a desire to live as an adult Christian, it also indicates a desire to do so in the Episcopal Church and the world-wide Anglican Communion.
The sacrament of Confirmation is something that only a bishop can perform, so our confirmations are scheduled around the times when the bishop will visit our parish. Typically, confirmation follows a period of preparation, examination, and exploration into all aspects of the Christian life. This period of time may last several months.
(The above is adapted from St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Emporia, KS)
WHAT DOES THE CONFIRMATION PROGRAM LOOK LIKE
AT ST. GREGORY’S?
Our journey to Confirmation for young people is a three-year program. Our program seeks to nurture the faith of our young people as they prepare for their high school years and beyond, giving them a solid foundation for a Christ-centered life. The Confirmation Class experience may also include retreats, service opportunities and other activities. All young people in grades 6, 7 and 8 can participate in and benefit from this class, regardless of whether or not they choose to be confirmed. Older teens, those transferring from other churches, or any others who are interested are most welcome to participate as well.
During Confirmation, we explore:
-- The Bible and the stories that shape our life and faith
-- A life of prayer and worship led by and replenished by the Holy Spirit
-- A life of ministry and service as disciples of Jesus
-- The Anglican/Episcopal tradition in all its breadth and depth
Fr. Andrew and Gena Vallee teach the class, using our “Life in Christ” curriculum, which explores following Jesus as Lord through Scripture, church history, our ways of worship, and serving. This is all guided by our St. Gregory’s mission statement: Transforming hearts and community through Jesus’ love.
Our class meets every Sunday morning at 9:10am in the Conference Room (2nd floor, Harris Hall). All participants are welcome to join the Upper Room Time for youth immediately following Confirmation class (9:45am in the Youth Room; across from the Conference Room). Alternatively, students can join their families for the 10am worship service after Confirmation Class.
At the end of the program period, those who have made the decision to be confirmed can participate in a special Confirmation service during the annual visit of our diocesan bishop, The Right Rev. Peter Eaton.
ANY QUESTIONS? NEED MORE INFORMATION
ABOUT CONFIRMATION AT ST GREGORY'S?
Please contact Confirmation teachers
Fr. Andrew Sherman - asherman@at-gregorys.com
Gena Vallee - gvallee@st-gregorys.com
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UPPER ROOM TIME
Conversation, Reflection, and Prayer -- with lots of Fun and Fellowship!
Upper Room Time meets at 9:45am in the Youth Room during the program year and is open to all teens 6th - 12th grade.
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WHAT DO WE DO DURING UPPER ROOM TIME?
Following our pattern of Pause, Listen, Reflect, Pray and Go,
we will build on our previous themes of
What will you do with your one wild and precious life?
(based on Mary Oliver's poem The Summer Day) and
"What makes you come alive?"
(from a quote by theologian and civil rights leader Howard Thurman)
OUR THEME FOR 2025-2026: Building Beloved Community
In conjunction with St. Gregory's church-wide Beloved Community initiative we will work on how our lives and gifts reflect God's love in the world.
As we have in the past, we will continue to use some Benedictine practices to bring more balance, proportion and harmony into our lives.
SCENES FROM THE UPPER ROOM...
On Sunday, Aug 31 we experimented with "Praying in Color", a free-form, creative way for non-verbal prayer, as we had conversation around empathy and humility.
We wondered what it might be like if we actually had to walk in another person's shoes for a whole day -- what would we learn about them, what assumptions might be challenged, how we might be more compassionate toward them? We discussed how empathy and humility go hand in hand, helping us to build Beloved Community (our theme for this year).
| We also watched a great Youtube video entitled "Under the Surface" about empathy which encouraged us to see beyond first impressions. Click the link to view the video. | | |
Our closing prayer, an alternate version of The Prayer of St. Francis:
Jesus, make me a channel of your peace and of your action.
Where there is apathy, let me bring real caring,
Where there is silence that shuts out others, let me be a kind voice.
Where there is too much entitlement, let me bring true thankfulness.
Where doors are closed and hearts are hard, let me bring the gentleness,
Where there is too much noise, help me to be calm, listen respectfully, and speak quietly.
Where there is fear, let me bring courage.
Where pain is overlooked and no one seems to care, help me to bring kindness.
Jesus, help me to take part in doing justice, not just talk about it;
Help me to see those who are struggling and do what I can, understanding that I cannot do everything, but I can always do something.
Help me to love those that seem unlovable, not just the socially accepted ones;
Help me tear down what needs to be torn down and build up what needs to be built up.
Help me to see your face in every one I meet.
Lord, make me a channel of your peace and your action.
(Author unknown; paraphrased/rewritten by Anita Sherman)
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BOCA RATON INTERFAITH YOUTH ASSOCIATION (BRIYA)
Kicking Off Another Great Year!
BRIYA is an intentional interfaith community for teens (grades 6-12) to explore common life and to build relationships in the context of various faith traditions. Gatherings take place at various locations depending on the program and activities include faith-centered conversations, visits to various houses of worship, participation in community events, and field trips to significant sites -- and, of course, lots of fun and fellowship!
Our BRIYA coordinators are Gena Vallee from St. Gregory's and Cathy Berkowitz from B'nai Torah Congregation. Contact them any time with questions.
Gena Vallee gvallee@st-gregorys.com
Cathy Berkowitz CathyB@bnai-torah.org
Join us for an uplifting and amazing year ahead!
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WHAT ELSE IS ON DECK?
PLENTY -- SO STAY TUNED!
2025-2026 PROGRAMS IN THE WORKS!
STAY TUNED!
Here's a small sampling of things being planned
and/or considered for our 2025-2026 program year:
— Mental health program(s)
— Pet food drive
— Cyber safety program
— Emergency response program
— Meals with Meaning serve day
— YAYA Pop Up sales
— Soup Sale
— Rock the Universe trip
— BRIYA events
— Misc fun activities!
Got a great idea? Please share!
Contact Anita to share your thoughts and ideas!
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YAYA BOUTIQUE UPDATE
Where does YAYA come from?
Reminder -- Where does the name "YAYA" come from? Easy -- it stands for Youth and Young Adult! All our proceeds benefit our ministry with youth and young adults. The boutique will be on hiatus during the summer months but will return this Fall. Stay tuned for future pop up dates!
Restore the Earth ~ Refresh Your Style ~ Renew Your Wardrobe!
| | | | A note about YAYA donations: Please speak with Anita Sherman directly if you have any items to donate. We are very grateful for those who would like to contribute, but due to extremely limited storage space, we cannot accept drop off donations without prior notice and agreement. We appreciate your patience and understanding! Thank you! | | |
How have you served our community?
Share your stories and photos!
Send to anitasherman561@gmail.com
Service Ideas
Though school has started, there are still opportunities to do community service and earn hours! Try one of these ideas or come up with some of your own!
❤️ Write notes or make cards of encouragement
for seniors in local nursing homes.
Deliver them yourself (Boca Rehab is a great choice; 755 Meadows Rd, Boca) OR drop them off at church and Anita will deliver them!
❤️ Send a note of thanks or encouragement
to someone serving in the military.
Visit Operation Gratitude's website for great info and guidelines.
https://www.operationgratitude.com/volunteer/anywhere/letters/
❤️ DIY Beach Clean Up
Grab a bag, gloves and/or grabber and hit the sand to pick up trash to keep our beaches clean, beautiful and hospitable for wildlife.
You'll be amazed at how much debris you can collect in even a few minutes of clean-up.
GOT A GREAT SERVICE IDEA OF YOUR OWN?
SHARE IT WITH US!
| Check out these fantastic cards made by Shreya and Sanjana Thomas! | | If you are interested in giving of your time to helping others and making a difference, St. Gregory's and its ministries have many volunteer opportunities available There is truly something for everyone. Learn more. | |
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VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Volunteers are needed for various ministries.
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Our Lay Eucharistic Visitor volunteer group is looking for members of our St. Gregory’s family to join them as they:
1. Deliver communion and enrich the religious experience of those unable to attend church due to illness or incapacity.
2. Visit and spiritually support those in need of the comfort and companionship of St. Gregory’s
3. Maintain contact with those parishioners with whom they are assigned to assure them that they are still a part of our St. Gregory’s community.
If this type of ministry appeals to you, please contact David Cominole 561-376-9056 or email him at david.cominole@att.net for more information.
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PASTORAL CARE
St. Gregory's Is Here For You.
| St. Gregory's provides a variety of support ministries that are here to support you. Our clergy, staff, and Stephen Ministers are here to answer your questions, pray with you, and for your pastoral needs. Contact the church office at 561-395-8285 or by email at office@st-gregorys.com. Learn more. | | | | | |
SEPTEMBER PRAYER CALENDAR FOR HAITI
Please keep Haiti in your prayers.
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Join us in prayer for the people of Haiti. Now, more than ever, they need our prayers and support. Click the link below to view this month's prayer calendar.
https://conta.cc/4mBMVek
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