AN INVITATION FROM FATHER ANDREW

Advent and Anniversary Milestones

In today's video message from Fr. Andrew, he extends a warm invitation to all as we embark on a new church year and the sacred season of Advent. This period of thrilling, hopeful, peace-filled joy and anticipation prepares us for the coming of Christ. This year's Advent holds a special significance for St. Gregory’s—it marks a historic moment as we begin our journey in Harris Hall and transition into our newly renovated church space on December 17th, coinciding with our 70th Anniversary. This is indeed a time of joyous celebration and reflection. Fr. Andrew’s message, filled with warmth and anticipation, is a must-watch as we embrace this new chapter. Please click on the video to the left to view his message. We hope to see you on Sunday to commence the new church year together.

OPEN HOUSE AT THE RECTORY

December 3 - Advent I

On Sunday, December 3, the first Sunday of Advent, Fr. Andrew, Anita, and their family will be hosting their Annual Open House at the Rectory! The Open House will take place after both services and refreshments will be ser. Please come and enjoy the St. Gregory fellowship at the Rectory. Children are always welcome!

AN UPDATE FROM

FR. ANDREW AND THE VESTRY

On the 2023/24 Stewardship Campaign

Thank you to those members who have made their financial commitment to St. Gregory's. If you have not yet made your financial commitment, please visit our online pledge page at stgregorysepiscopal.org/pledge  or contact the church office at [email protected] to make your commitment. 

We invite your prayers for our stewardship campaign.

With Gratitude,

Father Andrew, Bill Lintz, Stewardship Chair, and the Vestry Team.

Here are some statistics about St. Gregory's

We have approximately 400 families who are members.

As of 11/29/23, we have received 103 pledges totaling $558,000 toward our goal of $1,100,000. 

The breakdown of pledges received is as follows:

Over $40,000 - 1

 $40,000 -- $25,000 - 8

 $25,000—$10,000 - 2

 $10,000 --$5,000 - 17

 $5,000 -- $1,000 - 53

 $0 --$1,000 - 22

THE REALITY OF BEING

The Work of the Way

“The first conscious shock - to awake to oneself - is for coming to a more collected state, a state that allows us to open to our being. When my energy is contained, it does not serve the same aims as when it is being eaten by all the outside influences. Because it has another quality, the energy can serve other aims, enter into other combinations. We are in front of the absolute necessity for a change in our inner state. As it is, our state does not allow us to remain free. There is no unity in us, so the energy is taken. As we come to understand this, we try to maintain a state that is more related, more collected. But we are still not transformed, and we easily lose this state. What makes us lose it?”

- Jeanne de Salzmann

This Week, our group work continues

within The Reality of Being.

Last Wednesday, we began with A Collected State, (sections 87-90), pp. 187-193. This chapter continued thematically with what we’ve been working with so far: self-remembering, self-forgetting, and three-centered awareness to prevent the thought from wandering. Allowing us to occupy “I am,” while we feel, sense, and watch the ephemera in our lives from our current state of being. Asking ourselves the question: “How do I listen?” What could a state of quietness reveal in ourselves when our thoughts, sensations, and feelings are turned in the same direction with the same intensity? Does our consciousness change?

We turned to A Pure Energy, (sections 106-109), pp. 225-231, paying particular attention to section 109 - To become a vessel. Realizing that when our attention is not free it has no conscious direction. But when we can stay in front of this tendency to scatter, we can see it in order to let it go. We talked about this two weeks ago in discussion around finding ourselves in between things with the ability to look from that place at both polarities while holding the ground beneath us.

“The sense of my life today is to be entirely available to the immaterial Presence in me through a state in which I will be completely passive and yet very awake. This requires a balance between the intensity of presence and a greater and greater relaxation. It is as though I felt another body living in me.”

- Jeanne de Salzmann

Join the group meeting

This will be an ongoing group meeting on Zoom every Wednesday morning at 10:00 am - 11:30 am ET.

Zoom link here. Your desire is your compass.

Meeting ID: 854 5001 9587

Passcode: 1+1=3

A MESSAGE FROM TIM

Music Ministry

This Sunday we begin a new church year with the beginning of Advent! This Advent season is going to be a very special one here at St. Gregory’s as we transition back into our beautiful sanctuary, beginning this week and continuing next week in Harris Hall and then, as if on a pilgrimage, processing into our newly renovated sanctuary on December 17! This will be a historic and memorable Advent for sure!

This Christmas Eve, our 7 p.m. Lessons and Carols service will not include a Eucharist but will instead become a full-fledged service of Lessons and Carols with beautiful readings and extended musical pieces sung by the Choir of St. Gregory’s. You will feel as if you’re at King’s College! At the 10:30 p.m. “midnight mass” we will have a string quartet augmenting the choir with musical selections to include John Rutter’s “What Sweeter Music” and Anthony “Piccolo’s Canterbury Mass.” The service begins with a musical prelude at 10:30 performed by the choir, strings, and organ with the processional beginning at 11 p.m. with the strains of “O Come all ye Faithful.”

This Sunday, for Advent I, the choir will be singing Bach’s Wachet Auf, “Sleepers Wake!” We will begin our service with the beautiful words of the Matins Responsory I look from afar: and lo, I see the power of God coming, and a cloud covering the whole earth… And our Prayers of the People will be the lovely setting composed by Fr. Ben based on the “O Antiphons.” In addition, we will include the Trisagion Holy God, Holy and Mighty, Holy Immortal One, have mercy upon us, and a beautiful poem by Jan Richardson will become our Post Communion Prayer, Blessed are you who bear the light in unbearable times…

This year as we enter into Advent, we as a congregation will be filled with even greater expectations and awakenings as we journey from the past to the present, from wandering to being home, from having little to having much, celebrating all that we have been, all that we are, and all we can still become. I hope you’ll join the journey!

With Blessings to All,

Tim

FINANCIAL MANAGER/BOOKKEEPER

For St. Gregory's Church Office

St. Gregory's is currently seeking a dedicated Financial Manager/Bookkeeper to join our team. Under the guidance of the Rector and Parish Administrator, this pivotal role offers administrative and financial support, aiding the staff, congregation, and volunteers in our church’s ministries and mission.

Key Details:

• Hours: The position requires 25-30 hours per week, with a flexible schedule to be arranged in collaboration with the Parish Administrator.
• Education: A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business with an emphasis on non-profit accounting is preferred. Alternatively, a combination of relevant education, training, and experience will be considered.
• Experience: Applicants should have a strong understanding of generally accepted accounting principles, practices, and methods, including payroll platforms.
• Skills: Proficiency in Advanced QuickBooks, Microsoft Office, and database management is essential.

Interested candidates are encouraged to reach out to Father Andrew or Kristen Chaney, our Parish Administrator, for further information. Click here for the detailed job description. Join us in our mission at St. Gregory's and contribute to our vibrant community.

THIS WEEK'S CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

Sanctuary Renovation

As we mark the 70th anniversary of our church, we are delighted to share the latest update on the transformative changes taking place within our sacred space. The past 7 months have been a journey of dedication, commitment, and collective effort, resulting in a renewed and vibrant environment that enhances our worship experience. A focal point of the renovation, the marble altar stands as a symbol of reverence and sanctity. The craftsmanship and elegance of the marble contribute to the sacredness of our worship space. The brand-new pews have been installed, and the chairs have been unpacked. These additions not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the church but also contribute to the overall sense of community and togetherness during our gatherings. We eagerly anticipate the continued growth and vibrancy of our church as we move forward together on our shared spiritual journey.

Note: The Sanctuary will reopen for one glorious service on Sunday, December 17th at 10:00 am. Please join us!

CHILDREN, YOUTH, AND FAMILIES

A Place to Belong

Notice: Due to ongoing AC repairs, please be prepared to meet in alternate locations. We will direct you once you arrive at church. Thank you for your continued patience. Grace for all!

THURSDAY, NOV. 30

5:45 PM - Choristers Rehearsal (Choir Room)

SUNDAY, DEC 3

Classes will meet today, even though it is the first Sunday of the month! (Since we will not meet after Dec 10, we added in this Sunday.)

9:10 am - Confirmation Class (Conference Room)

9:45 am - 3yrs - 5th grade (designated classrooms)

9:45am - YOUTH - Christmas Party at the Rectory during the Open House!

NEXT THURSDAY, DEC 7

5:45 pm - Choristers rehearsal (Choir Room)

6:30 pm - Boca Raton Interfaith Youth Association (BRIYA) December meeting at the Islamic Center of Boca Raton (ICBR)

+ + +

NEXT SUNDAY, DEC 10

9:10 am - Confirmation Class (Conference Room)

9:45 am - 3yrs - 5th grade (designated classrooms)

9:45 am - Upper Room Time for middle/high school (Youth Room) - Special program for peace and healing with Fr. Craig Burlington

SCENES FROM

ADVENT WREATH-MAKING

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

Classes will not meet on the following Sundays:

Dec 17, 24, 31; Jan 7

Sunday, Jan 7 - Beach Eucharist

6:30 am

South Beach Park (Palmetto Park Rd and A1A in Boca)

UPPER ROOM TIME

FOR MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL TEENS

Meets Sundays at 9:45 AM

St. Gregory's Upper Room Time meets each Sunday (except the first Sunday of the month or other specially designated Sundays) for snacks, downtime, conversation, reflection, and prayer.

YOUTH GROUP

CHRISTMAS PARTY

Sunday, December 3 at 9:45 AM

At the Rectory

Youth Christmas Party During Upper Room Time at 9:45 am on Sunday, Dec 3 at the Rectory

Come for great food, fun, and fellowship! AND...

A GIFT EXCHANGE

(bring a wrapped gift - $10 or less value)

PLUS

RECEIVE A COOL SURPRISE GIFT! 

DON'T MISS IT!!!

KANUGA WINTERLIGHT

December 28 - January 1 at Kanuga Conference Center in Hendersonville, NC

A gathering inspiring youth through faith, fun, and friendship. Now welcoming both middle AND high school students! The rate is $510, which includes lodging, meals, and the program. Payment plans and financial assistance, are available.

PLEASE CONTACT ANITA ASAP

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ATTEND!

Scholarships are available!

[email protected]

DECEMBER BRIYA EVENT

December 28 - January 1 at Kanuga Conference Center in Hendersonville, NC

On Thursday, December 7th BRIYA will visit the Islamic Center of Boca Raton (ICBR) where we will learn more about the Islamic culture, tour the center, make new friends, build relationships, and enjoy a delightful dinner together. This event is open to BRIYA members, their parents, friends, and anyone interested in interfaith connections and learning. Please see the flyer for more details.

PLEASE CONTACT GENA OR CATHY FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO RSVP:

Gena Vallee: [email protected]

Cathy Berkowitz: [email protected]

ADULT FORMATION

Classes and Formation at St. Gregory's

Wednesdays

8:00 AM - Men's Spirituality Hour (Zoom) 

Meeting Link

10:00 AM - The Reality of Being with Fr. Ben (Zoom)

The Reality of Being will be an ongoing group, initially composed of the fruit that has fallen out of a three-year Gospel of Thomas circle, and will meet via Zoom every Wednesday from 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM EST. If interested, contact Fr. Ben here.

6:00 PM - Rector's Bible Study with Fr. Andrew will resume in early 2024.

Thursdays

1:00 PM - Women's Bible Study (Youth Room) - For information, contact Evelyn Anderson at [email protected]  or Susan D’Ambrosio, [email protected]

ADVENT I - HOPE

An Advent Message from Father Andrew

The First Sunday of Advent:

We light the candle of Hope.

There is something so primal, so heartening in the deep places of our souls about the power and clarity of light.  Advent begins with the lighting of candles—this stubborn sign of hope that there is no darkness God's light cannot pierce. And so, on the first Sunday of Advent, with resolute faith, we light the candle of hope. Click to view the full Advent message.

COME TO THE MANGER

An Interactive AEvent

COME TO THE MANGER - An interactive Advent experience for everyone! Featuring elements of prayer, meditation, and hands-on creative engagement, this offering is designed to draw you more deeply into the contemplative spirit of the Advent season. Stop by the table in the courtyard this Sunday to experience and enjoy!

SUPPORTING CHRISTMAS MUSIC

AND CHRISTMAS FLOWERS

Contributions to St. Gregory's Christmas Music Fund and Christmas Flower Fund are invited. Envelopes for Christmas flowers and music will be in Sunday's bulletin. You may use the envelope for music and flowers using one check or cash. Please complete and sign the envelope and place it in the offering plate no later than Sunday, December 17.

Donating online: To submit the names being honored, your message, and to donate online, please visit www.stgregorysepiscopal.org/christmas-music-and-flowers  and follow the instructions. If you have any questions, please email the church office at [email protected].

SURVIVING & THRIVING

THE HOLIDAYS

PRESENTED BY DAVID POTTER

Tuesday, December 5 (Zoom)

So much we read about this time of year is like encouragement to have a “Martha Stewart”-type holiday. Nothing wrong with that unless it stresses you out and actually gets in the way of you enjoying the holiday. There also seem to be all kinds of memories that can haunt the holiday rather than enhance them. Hence, all the articles on surviving the Holidays. But what if we could actually thrive through the Holidays.

Join St. Gregory member David Potter on Tuesday, December 5^th for a Zoom group on “Surviving and Thriving the Holidays” 5-7pm EST.

Everybody and anybody is welcome. You can participate anonymously if you like and ask questions directly or ask David privately in chat. We will navigate issues with eating, alcohol, drugs, grief and loss, etc. as well as re-creating a healthier, happier holiday.

ECW POP-UP AND BAKE SALE

Sunday, December 10

On Sunday, December 10th after both morning services, The ECW will have delicious baked goods for sale. Additionally, many beautiful Christmas items will be displayed for sale. This is a great opportunity to purchase hostess gifts and gifts for family and friends. all proceeds are used for the many ministries of St. Gregory's, including our annual scholarship for one of our female members. Please stop by to pick up a treasure or a sweet treat!

ST. GREGORY'S 70TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION AND HOMECOMING

Sunday, December 17 at 10:00 AM

Join us at 10:00 AM on December 17, Advent III - Joy!, for a joyous service of worship as we reopen the doors of our beloved, newly renovated sanctuary!

This special service will be the only service of the day and is a heartfelt invitation to each member of our congregation to join us and extend invitations to friends, neighbors, and loved ones.

The service will be followed by

a homecoming potluck in Harris Hall.

Please plan now to bring your favorite dish!

Let's gather together in celebration, marking this momentous occasion in the spirit of unity, joy, and faith that defines our church family.

CHRISTMAS SERVICES

Come Home to St. Gregory's This Christmas

St. Gregory's Christmas services will be offered both in person in our beautifully renovated Sanctuary and online. If you are unable to join us in person, we invite you to be part of the magic by joining us online.

Christmas Eve Services - Sunday, December 24

4 PM - Children’s Pageant

7 PM - Lessons and Carols

led by the Choir of St. Gregory’s (no Eucharist)

10:30 PM - Musical Prelude

11 PM - The Christ Mass

A Festal Choral Eucharist with Sermon

featuring music for choir, strings, and organ.

Don’t miss this majestic and time-honored traditional service.

Christmas Day - Monday, December 25

10:00 AM - Christmas Service

The church office will be closed December 25 through January 1, 2024.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

For These Important Dates

Sunday, December 3rd - Advent I (Hope) - Open House at the Rectory with the Sherman Family(after each morning Service).

Homecoming Sunday, December 17th - Advent III (Joy), The Church Sanctuary reopens!!! Join us for a joyous 10:00 AM service in our newly renovated Sanctuary on St. Gregory's 70th Anniversary Celebration and Homecoming.

ST. GREGORY'S IS NOW LIVESTREAMING

TO THE HOMEPAGE OF OUR WEBSITE

stgregorysepiscopal.org

If you are unable to join us in person for services on Sunday, please join us online! In addition to livestreaming each Sunday's 10:00 AM Holy Eucharist to our Facebook page, St. Gregory's is now livestreaming the service to our homepage for your convenience. Click here to view the service on our hompage (it is located in the middle of the page) or click here to view it on Facebook.

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 [email protected]. Learn more.

PRAYER

Daily Prayer and Prayer Requests

Join us in prayer. Click here to submit your prayer request. To pray for others, click here to view this week's prayer requests. If you'd prefer to receive a daily written prayer, click here to receive each day's word from Daily Prayer (a resource of Forward Movement).

SFHP NOVEMBER PRAYER CALENDAR

Prayers for Haiti

Please join us in prayer for the people of Haiti. Click here for the November Prayer Calendar.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Volunteers are needed for various ministries.

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 [email protected] for more information.

GIVING ST. GREGORY'S

Your Support Makes An Impact

Your support of St. Gregory's and our ministries makes our mission of Transforming Hearts and Community Through Jesus' Love a reality. Please click here to give online now. For more information, please email the Church Office or click on these links: Altar Flower Dedications, Capital Campaign, Meals with Meaning, Stewardship, and South Florida Haiti Project.

CONNECT WITH US

Engaging With St. Gregory's

We're grateful that you're part of St. Gregory's growing community! Visit our website at www.stgregorysepiscopal.org for more information or click the links and social media buttons below:

Contact Information

Volunteer Information

Download the St. Gregory's App - iOS, Google Play