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Beloved,
The picture above was taken on the Feast of St. Francis a couple of Sundays ago. What you can't see in the picture are the three dogs that were in the chancel, the dog in the choir, the cats, rats, and bunnies in the first row on the right hand side, and the many dogs scattered throughout the congregation. It was pure joy from start to finish. And though there were many tears shed (not just a few by me!), the joy of celebrating God's gift of animal companionship was real.
God gives us so much. Much for which we constantly give thanks (family, friends, animals), much of which we may not pay too much attention (trees, clouds, wild asters in the fall, noisy birds), and much of which we, perhaps, take for granted (spiritual companions, excellent music, weekly worship, opportunities for prayer). These categories are not, of course, hard and fast, and you may have different things in yours, but I hope you take my point. Everything we have is a gift from God. Everything. And God gives us these gifts because God is merciful and loves us. No strings. Well, except the one string - that we love God back by loving each other.
God also asks us to tend the things that are of God. To tend one another, to tend nature, and to tend the Gospel message. In our modern times one of the ways we tend the Gospel message and each other is through church. And for most of us reading this message, it is through this church. This cathedral church. In this season of stewardship, we are asked to think about the value of that tending, and the cost of that tending, and to ask ourselves, how can I help with that? How can I tend the Gospel by tending the church? I pray that most of you will be able to make a financial commitment toward that work. A pledge. A statement of faith that you will be able to give a certain amount to the cathedral over the course of the next year. And I pray that most of you will also be able to make a personal commitment of time and talent in the tending of the church. Time to come to worship, to help at coffee hour, to move chairs, to pull weeds, to feed the hungry, to bring a canned good for the basket, to walk for COTS, to stay for lunch when lunch is offered, to hang out with our amazing children, to serve at the altar, to read the scripture, to cone a wreath, to pray for those on our prayer list, to join morning prayer or compline, to serve on the vestry, and more.
We are the Lord's people. We are transformed by our relationship with God. We are changed by this place we call church. This place we call home. Your gift of treasure, time, and talent can help ensure that our kids and their kids and their kids, and more who come across our threshold, will also find a home.
Beloved, you are beautiful. I love you, and God adores you.
Greta+
P.S. Every financial pledge matters, the small, the medium, and the large. Our expenses are large and real, and your pledge will help to defray them. If you would like to speak to us about making a one-time cash gift, or a gift of stock or other assets, please contact the office.
| This Week at the Cathedral | |
Redevelopment Project Q&A This Sunday
Join Dean Getlein and members of the Task Force and Vestry on Sunday, October 18 after worship in the Parish Hall for a discussion of recent developments regarding the proposed redevelopment project with Stewardship Realty.
Bring your questions, thoughts, and concerns and learn more about the next steps we're taking to achieve financial stability for the long term.
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St. Paul's 2027 Pledge Campaign: We, the Lord's People
Thank you to everyone who has submitted your pledge! October at the Cathedral is all about Annual Giving as we launch our 2027 Stewardship Campaign. Stewardship means the duty Christians have to responsibly manage and make use of the gifts that God has given them. As Christian stewards, we receive God's gifts gratefully, cultivate them responsibly, share them lovingly in justice with others, and propagate and return them to the Lord.
Consider what you can give - the dollars pledged to our 2027 campaign will be used to fund our operating budget - salaries, utilities, outreach programs, and much more. Donating to St. Paul's Annual Giving campaign enables us to accurately budget each year. Our ingathering date will be Sunday, November 1, 2026.
Pledge packets were mailed out a couple weeks ago. If you didn't receive one that means we may not have your address. Please reach out to the office if that is the care. There are extra pledge packets available on the Narthex table, or pledges can be made online using the link here. If you would like a pledge packet mailed to you, please reach out to Jennifer in the Cathedral office (admin@stpaulscathedralvt.org, or 802-864-0471).
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Coffee Hour Clean Up Help Needed
Clean-Up Volunteers after Coffee Hours NEEDED . Please fill in blank Sundays on the large sign-up sheet on the Narthex table for upcoming weeks so the coffee hour folks don't have to do set-up AND clean up. Thank you! Penny P
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Church School Update
This week at Church School we will finish decorating our UTO boxes. Don’t have one yet? No worries, we have plenty more! As we finish up this project to take home, we will talk about our word of the day: “Service." Not only will we talk about what it means to be of service, but we will also talk about and review the “Service Bulletin” and begin learning some of the meaning behind the pieces that make up the church service.
Special note to guardians: We know that schedules are busy, so please know that you are welcome to Church School ANYTIME, even if you can only pop in to say hello we want you to feel to do so. We would love to see you!
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Cathedral Office Closed Thursday, October 22
The Cathedral office will be closed Thursday, October 22 to accommodate staff schedules.
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Justice Speaks: About Proposal 4
Proposal 4 is an item on the ballot in November's election that, if passed, would amend Vermont's Constitution. It would add language saying that the state cannot discriminate against people based on race, sex, gender identity, national origin, disability, religion, or sexual orientation. There are arguments about whether or not this is needed; or if it protects some people more than others; or does it make certain protections more permanent.
In Vermont, changing the Constitution requires two steps: the Legislature must pass it in two consecutive sessions, and then voters must approve it at the polls. The Legislature has passed this language in two consecutive sessions. Now the decision is up to the voters.
The text of Prop 4 can be found here: Proposal 4 Vermont
Please be sure and get out and vote on November 3!
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Diocesan Conventions: What are they? What happens during them? Who attends?
Volunteer at Convention for Behind-the-Scenes Access!
A diocesan convention is a time for the people of the diocese to gather. While it is a business meeting with important work to be done, the convention is, first and foremost, a time to be together in prayer and community.
Diocesan leaders, including the bishop, staff, and committees, work hard for months before the convention to organize logistics, gather reports, develop a proposed budget, and solicit nominations for leadership.
The primary components of our diocesan convention are: Worship, the bishop's address, and multiple business sessions, including resolutions, appointments, and elections for leadership positions.
Who attends: The bishop, all canonically residents priests and deacons, and lay delegates, who are selected to vote on the behalf of their congregations. Youth and visitors are also welcome to attend!
The Cathedral is hosting a portion of convention this year on Saturday, November 7. We are seeking a few volunteers willing to welcome attendees, facilitate coffee and meals, and act as Cathedral representatives to our guests from around Vermont. If you are interested in learning more about volunteering at this event, please reach out to the Cathedral office.
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Sixth through 12th Graders Invited to Diocesan Convention Youth Presence
Registration is open for youth and youth chaperones to participate in the 2026 Diocesan Convention Youth Presence. This event is free and open to youth in 6th grade through 12th grade.
All Youth Presence activities will take place on November 7 at the Cathedral with a special program led by diocesan youth missioner, the Rev. Sarah Ginolfi. Members of the Youth Presence will have the opportunity to participate in their own programming, lead a youth ministry-oriented activity, and join clergy and delegates for shared programming.
Breakfast and registration will open at 9 with program beginning at 10. Lunch will be provided. All participants will join our annual Diocesan Convention Eucharist, and those interested may have the opportunity to serve as acolytes.
Youth are additionally invited to watch the online portions of diocesan convention on YouTube. The convention will be broadcast live and recorded for later viewing.
Chaperones are additionally needed. You must be up to date on your Safe Church training to participate as a chaperone. If you or an adult is interested in youth ministry but has not yet completed Safe Church training or cannot attend the event, please contact the Rev. Ginolfi to learn about other ways to support the program.
To learn more, contact the Rev. Sarah Ginofli.
Register for the Youth Presence. The deadline for registration is Friday, October 23.
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All Souls Day at St. Paul's
Each year on All Souls Day, it is our tradition at St. Paul's to remember those who have died in the past year or two.
All Souls Day is traditionally celebrated on the day after All Saints Day - November 2 - and is the commemoration of All Faithful Departed. It is a day when faithful Christians who have died are remembered.
This year we are transferring our All Souls celebration to Sunday, November 8. If you have lost someone dear to you in the past year or two, we would like to honor them by reading their name during worship. Please send these names along to the Cathedral office: admin@stpaulscathedralvt.org, or fill out a form located on the Narthex table and drop in the offering plate.
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Support the Wreath Project
One more Wreath Project lunch needed to feed the elves on Tuesday, December 1 to serve about 12 people. Can be homemade or store bought. The elves will bless you!
Let me know via email ppills949@gmail.com
Thank you some more! Penny P
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Last Sunday Lunch Paused Until 2027
Due to staff travel and scheduling conflicts, the next installment of our Last Sunday Lunch will take place at the annual meeting - Sunday, January 31, 2027.
We'll miss seeing you all in October, November, and December, but look forward to gathering again next year.
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In Search of Missing Kitchen Towels
We're hoping to recover some of the kitchen towels from the Parish Hall kitchen that have walked away over the past few months.
Did you bring one home intending to wash it and forget to bring it back? Did it wind up on a platter you brought home from coffee hour?
We'd love to have them back - no questions asked. Please return them to the Parish Hall kitchen next time you're here at church. Thanks!
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Help a Community Member in Need
Do you have a car just sitting in your driveway? There is a member of the St. Paul's community who is facing significant car repair expense and could be in the market for a used car in decent working condition.
They are willing to pay, especially if an installment plan could be worked out.
If you think you may be able to help, please reach out to the Dean: ggetlein@stpaulscathedralvt.org, or 802-864-0471. Thank you for considering
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COTS October Winter Boot Drive
The COTS October Winter Boot Drive is here!
COTS would love donations of NEW winter boots or funds to purchase what will be needed. We will start accepting new winter boot donations October 1.
Winter boots are pivotal for those experiencing homelessness, and every pair makes a meaningful difference for someone.
People experiencing homelessness walk an average of 10 miles per day, regardless of weather or conditions. Foot problems are the third most common health concern among people experiencing homelessness.
Many foot conditions worsen due to wet, worn-out, or ill-fitting shoes, which can lead to long-term complications like hospitalization or even amputation.
Ideal boots are:
1. Above the ankle
2. Waterproof
3. Insulated (the warmer the better)
4. Men’s size: 8 - 12
5. Women’s size: 7 - 10
Your winter boot donations can be dropped off at the Cathedral and left at the reception desk in the office area. Thank you for your generosity!
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United Thank Offering Collection Boxes Available
It is an annual tradition in the Episcopal Church to keep a United Thank Offering (UTO) Blue Box at home, and sometimes at work. The box is made so that the user can drop their change into it each day. On the Sunday before Thanksgiving we all make a joyful noise to the Lord by bringing those boxes to church so that we can empty them into the red metal sap buckets as part of our offering. Hearing the coins pour into the buckets reminds us all of the importance and joy of generosity. UTO funds many Episcopal Church outreach initiatives, including one here at our Cathedral some years ago when we needed a new sound system.
UTO encourages people to notice the good things that happen each day, give thanks to God for those blessings and make an offering for each blessing using a UTO Blue Box. UTO is entrusted to receive the offerings, and to distribute 100% of what is collected to support innovative mission and ministry throughout The Episcopal Church and Provinces of the Anglican Communion.
Take a UTO Blue Box today, fill it with your spare change, and bring it back to church on Sunday, November 22 and join the chorus of givers. Alternatively, you can donate to UTO via the Cathedral's website using the link here and entering your contribution on the UTO line.
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Cathedral Redevelopment Corner
The Redevelopment Task Force wants to answer your questions! Join us on Sunday, October 18 after worship for a Q&A session with Greta and members of the Task Force to learn more about the new direction the Task Force is taking after their recent discussion with consultants Brian Pine and Al Shehadi.
Task Force Members: Dean Greta Getlein, Senior Warden Marley Skiff, Junior Warden Karl Fandrich, David McKay, Lisa Schnell (trustee), Caroline Henne, Shannon Williamson (vestry), Jen Sisk (vestry), Peter Anderson, Sarah van Ryckvorsel, Bert Cicchetti (trustee), Frank Guillot, Jennifer Sumner (staff)
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All children ages four through 14 are welcome to join us for Church School downstairs after worship.
You can view or download the Sunday Paper for this Sunday by clicking here.
Please reach out to Children's Formation Coordinator Holly Rees with any questions.
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Join us for our Worship, in person or via our Live Stream on YouTube.
Holy Eucharist, 10 a.m.
You can view or download the order of worship on our website.
Other Regular Services
All are welcome to join us for our weekday services:
Morning Prayer, Monday - Friday at 8:30 a.m. on Zoom, Tuesday - Friday in person and on Zoom.
Compline, Sundays and Wednesdays at 9:00 p.m. on Zoom.
| | For Our Prayers This Week | |
We pray for blessings and joy for those who have birthdays this week: Emma Comeau, Peter Harrigan, Gerry Viens, Joanna Henne, Robert Wright.
Let us name before God those for whom we offer our prayers: The Sullivan Family; The Pleiss Family, The Felthousen Family; Kevin; Andrea Hutnak; Andy; Olive Getlein; Carolyn Dickinson; Don Maynard; Bob Ryder; The Bower Family, Dick, Nancy, Jenny and Amy; Libby; Bob; Gordie; Matt & Peggy; Nancy Johnson; Griffin and Lyle; Jonathan & Chelsea Ross; Cilla & David Menzies; Brother David; Al Carpenter; Jake and Kelly; Jay and Lori Richardson; John Montross; Laura Efford; Tanya Shreve; Roberto and Lisette; The Gonyaw Family; Eileen and Tara; Thomas Cencer; Tom Allen and those who love him; Thora Chadwick; Teaghan; Christine; Ella Baskett; Jennifer; Lindsay; Charles Lewis; Susan Simmons; Patrick Getlein; Judith Roberts; Anthony Maulden; Aimee Viens (Deal); Sharan Williamson Nosal; Eden; Tracey; Keith Pillsbury; Lynne Dapice; Laurie Donaldson; Barbie Kimberly; Alice Van Buren; Jim and Linda Larson; Ben; Barbara; Genevieve; Jaya and Abby Kelly; Fran Carlson, Devin Starlanyl; Karin Davis; Thomas McGrade; Ashton Christy; Randy and Ruth Booze; Henry Maciejewski; P.J.; John; Kim Martin; Nancy Johnson; Jackie; Lillian Robinson; Peter Adams; Elizabeth Webster; Debbie Altemus; Vaughn Altemus; Helen McGrath; and Mary Carter.
We pray for peace in all areas of armed conflict and unrest: Iran; Jordan; Ukraine; Russia; Sudan; Israel; Palestine; Venezuela; Cuba; the Middle East.
We pray for our seminarian: Henry Kellogg.
For those in discernment: Emiry Potter, Judy Contompasis.
We pray for all immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers; for all who have been deported; for all families being forcefully separated; for all who are standing witness; for all who have died in the custody of ICE/CBP.
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"This is the Lord's day, day of God's own making,
day of creation, day of resurrection, day of the Spirit,
sign of heaven's banquet, day for rejoicing."
-- John E. Bowers
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Lessons for October 18: The Season After Pentecost:
Proper 22, Track 1
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Sunday Collect
Almighty and everlasting God, in Christ you have revealed your glory among the nations: Preserve the works of your mercy, that your Church throughout the world may persevere with steadfast faith in the confession of your Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
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Vermont Philharmonic Presents Dual Delights
Vermont Philharmonic, the resident orchestra of the Barre Opera House, presents Dual Delights, conducted by Lou Kosma, and including St. Paul's parishioner the Rev. Kim Hardy on cello.
The program includes Carl Czerny's Concerto for Piano Four-Hands, featuring Alison Cerutti and Sylvia Parker on piano, and Jean Sibelius' Symphony No. 1.
Saturday, October 17, 4 p.m. at the Highland Center for the Arts, Greensboro, and
Sunday, October 18, 2 p.m. at the Barre Opera House in Barre.
Tickets cost $25, $20 for seniors, and $5 for students, and are available at the door or online at www.vermontphilharmonic.com.
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Vermont ACLU Hosts Know Your Rights
What to do if ICE Shows Up at your House of Worship
The Vermont American Civil Liberties Union and the Vermont Conference of the United Church of Christ invite faith groups to participate in this upcoming webinar on Know Your Rights and the newly passed Vt Legislation Act 150 addressing immigrant rights at many VT locations, including houses of worship.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Join ACLU-VT for a virtual Know Your Rights presentation covering the rights of places of worship in Vermont. This session will cover immigration rights, recent Vermont laws regarding ICE presence (including Act 150), and how to support immigrant families in your congregations. There will be time for questions!
Register online now.
The webinar will be recorded for later viewing, but if you join live you can ask questions directly of our ACLU presenters.
Email to Emmy Auld with questions: eauld@acluvt.org
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Help Fill the Family Room's Shelves This Fall
Located in Burlington’s Old North End, the Janet S. Munt Family Room is a welcoming parent-child center for all Chittenden County families with children from prenatal to age 5. Each year, they support over 1,600 individuals with 29+ free programs, services, and resources designed to nurture both children and caregivers.
Families come to the Family Room every week for food, diapers, and other essentials. You can help keep the shelves stocked with familiar, nourishing foods and everyday necessities families need.
How you can help:
- Fill a reusable grocery bag with items like rice, cooking oil, apples, black tea, flour, and canned tuna.
- Donate diapers and wipes: With the Vermont Diaper Bank now closed, families have fewer reliable resources for these essentials. Sizes 4-6 are needed most.
Please bring donated items on or before Friday, October 23 to the Cathedral and leave them behind the reception desk in the office space. Questions? Contact Marti Churchill or Annegret Schmitt-Johnson, who will coordinate bringing items to the Family Room.
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2026 Diocesan Convention
The 2026 Diocesan Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Vermont will be held in three parts: the Pre-Convention Meeting on November 5, the Program Day at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul on November 7, and the Business Meeting on Zoom on November 14.
Registration for the 2026 Diocesan Convention is open until October 16.
Registration is open for clergy, delegates, alternates, and non-delegates. The registration fee is $35 per person.
Nominations for positions to be elected at the 2026 Diocesan Convention are also now open and may be submitted through JotForm. The deadline for submission is October 23.
Elections will take place for the following bodies:
To learn more about each of these bodies visit the diocesan website.
Nominate yourself or another now online.
A separate registration process will be available for youth participants and their chaperones. There is no cost for youth participants. Questions regarding the youth program should be directed to the Rev. Sarah Ginolfi, youth missioner.
| | Submission Deadline for St. Paul's eNews | This weekly e-newsletter is circulated on Fridays. Please send your submissions to Jennifer Sumner at admin@stpaulscathedralvt.org by noon on Wednesday. Thank you. | | | | |
