E-News: November 13, 2026 | | |
Saturday, November 14, 2026
Church by the Pond
2:00 p.m., Bushnell Park (near the carousel)
Celebrant:
The Rt. Rev. Andrew Smith
Meals:
Trinity Episcopal, Tariffville
Learn more about Church by the Pond
Sunday, November 15, 2026
Service Bulletin
Learn more about Connecticut’s Cathedral
8:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist (spoken)
Preacher:
The Ven. Bonnie Matthews
Celebrant:
The Rev. Canon Harlon Dalton
10:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist (sung)
Preacher:
The Ven. Bonnie Matthews
Celebrant:
The Rev. Canon Harlon Dalton
12:30 p.m. Holy Eucharist (Spanish)
Celebrant/Preacher:
The Rev. Canon Ramon Antonio Garcia
1:30 p.m. Formation in Spanish
Church Street Eats
12:00 p.m., Sundays
Cathedral House Dining Room
Learn more about Church Street Eats
Dwelling in the Word
5:00 p.m., Thursdays
Via Zoom:
Click here for meeting link
Meeting ID: 814 9796 1323
Passcode: 168379
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ENGAGING THE CONGREGATION | | On October 30, 2026 and November 3, 2026 the Bishop’s Dean Search Advisory Committee met with candidates for worship, dinner, and conversation. Afterwards, the Committee provided extensive feedback to Bishop Mello. On November 12, 2026, he will present his nomination for the 11th Dean of Christ Church Cathedral to the Chapter and call for a vote of ratification. | | | | |
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Dear Companions in Christ,
I write to you with mixed feelings of joy and sadness. As you may be aware, I have been contemplating moving closer to my daughter and her family in Pennsylvania. This past month I found a home that is perfect for me. I have made an offer, which was accepted, and hope to close on the property on November 17th with plans to move on November 30th.
You are my church family and I will miss you dearly. Since I began serving at our cathedral in 2019 you have embraced me and I have received many blessings through your kindness, hospitality, faithfulness, and love. Most importantly in serving with you, you have shown me what it means to be kind, have mercy and do justice.
Celebrate the gifts you have been given in feeding those who are food insecure, supporting CT State Community College Capital Food Pantry, kidney screenings, advocating for those who have no voice, visiting those who are homebound, faithfully praying for and with those in our community in need of prayer, and taking the time to celebrate one another’s accomplishments while eating cake.
I have praised God, laughed, cried, built relationships with you, and have been supported by you. Please know that while distance will hold me separated from you, you will always be in my thoughts and prayers.
Archdeacon Bonnie
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STEWARDSHIP FORMATION SERIES | | |
Plenty Good Room Formation Series
This Stewardship season, the Stewardship Team and the Formation Team are collaborating to offer a four-session Bible study around the 2026 stewardship theme, “Plenty Good Room”. The sessions take place Sunday mornings from 9:00–9:45 a.m. in the Childcare Room.
The series continues this Sunday, November 15. Session 4, “Beloved Community”, will be led by John Decker.
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A quick reminder that November 22 is Stewardship Commitment Day. After prayer and consultation with your family, please bring your pledge card to the service you attend, and you will have the opportunity to bring it forward and put it in the offering plate.
It is with sincere thanks from the Stewardship Committee for your time, talent, and treasure.
God Bless,
Anne Bartholomew
Stewardship Committee Chair
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STEWARDSHIP CAMPAIGN 2026:
WEEKLY REFLECTION
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On Being Invited
Growing up in Corpus Christi, Texas I spent more time fishing in the surf of Padre Island than in going to church. Our Latino family roots were in Roman Catholicism but our church was the Gulf of Mexico shoreline.
How, then, did I grow up to become an Episcopal priest?
Thinking back, I will say that my life today is the result of someone taking the time to invite me to Christ’s table. First invitation was to the local Canterbury group (college ministry). Next came an invitation to attend worship at Church of the Good Shepherd followed by an invitation to serve at the Diocesan camp, Camp Capers.
One after another, the invitations kept coming. Each one led me to a community which always made room for me. I found belonging in a spiritual family. They made plenty good room for me and for my family and friends. Over and over again, the graciousness of Christ was extended to me. I found fellow travelers on the spiritual journey. More importantly, I found the gifts of God within me.
I suppose that I am an Episcopal priest because of all the people along the spiritual way who invited me into communities in which there was plenty good room. Plenty good room to discover myself. Plenty good room to discover God. Plenty good room to discover and discern how God was calling me to serve and lead.
I cannot imagine any other life than the one I have now — serving as an Episcopal parish priest! I am ever grateful for all the wonderful, lifelong friendships I have made. I cannot imagine any other job that would be so wonderful, so exciting and energizing as the ministry I have today.
I am so grateful for all the invitations and all those who made plenty good room for me!
Questions for Reflection:
Take a moment to thank God for all those who made plenty good room for you in the Church. How has that shaped who you are today?
The Rev. Ramiro (Ram) Lopez serves as rector of St. George’s Church in San Antonio and serves on the board of TENS.
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Sobre ser invitado
Crecí en Corpus Christi, Texas, y pasaba más tiempo pescando en la costa de Padre Island que yendo a la iglesia. Nuestras raíces familiares latinas estaban en la religión católica romana, pero nuestra iglesia era la orilla del Golfo de México.
Entonces, ¿cómo fue que llegué a ser sacerdote episcopal?
Si miro hacia atrás, diría que mi vida hoy es así porque alguien se tomó el tiempo para invitarme a la mesa de Cristo. La primera invitación fue al grupo local de Canterbury (ministerio universitario). Luego vino una invitación para asistir al culto en la Iglesia del Buen Pastor, y seguida de una invitación para servir en el campamento diocesano, Camp Capers.
Una tras otra, las invitaciones siguieron llegando. Cada una me llevó a una comunidad que siempre me dio un lugar. Sentí que pertenecía a una familia espiritual. Me ofrecieron una invitación para mí, para mi familia y para mis amigos. Una y otra vez, la gracia de Cristo me fue extendida. Encontré compañeros en el camino hacia la vida espiritual. Y lo que es aún más importante, descubrí los dones de Dios dentro de mí.
Supongo que soy sacerdote episcopal gracias a todas las personas que, a lo largo del camino espiritual, me invitaron a comunidades en las que había siempre lugar para uno más. Me invitaron a descubrirme a mí mismo, me invitaron a descubrir a Dios, me invitaron a descubrir y discernir cómo Dios me estaba llamando a servir y liderar.
No puedo imaginar una vida distinta de la que tengo ahora: ¡la de servir como sacerdote parroquial episcopal! Estoy profundamente agradecido por todas las maravillosas amistades que he cultivado durante toda la vida. No puedo imaginar otro trabajo que sea más hermoso, más emocionante y más lleno de energía que el ministerio que tengo hoy.
¡Estoy muy agradecido por todas las invitaciones y por todos aquellos que siempre me ofrecieron un lugar!
Para reflexionar:
Tómate un momento para agradecer a Dios por todas las personas que te invitaron a hacer cosas en la Iglesia. ¿Cómo te han moldeado a ser quién eres hoy?
El Rev. Ramiro (Ram) López se desempeña como rector de la Iglesia de San Jorge en San Antonio y forma parte de la junta de TENS.
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Continuing a CCC tradition, we will host a Christmas wreath-making workshop in the Cathedral House from 1:00–4:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 29. The $45 registration fee includes all materials needed. To register, or for more information about the workshop, please call or text 978-902-0597.
You can pay by scanning either of the QR codes shown above, or you can give a check or cash to Gilbeean Scott.
Children’s activities will be offered at 2:00 p.m.
Please note that registration closes on Wednesday, November 25.
Live music will be provided by Irish to the Last Drop.
This performance is part of Christ Church Cathedral’s
Engaging the Arts initiative.
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Would you like to support the CCC Children’s Choir?
Our children's choir meets on Wednesdays at 5:00 p.m. Please contact directorofmusic@cccathedral.org for more information, or if you would like to volunteer to help! You can also call 860-527-7231, ext. 108.
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A New Arrival!
Welcome, Caspian Ezra Lillard, to the world! Caspian was born on Monday, November 9; he is 7 lbs. 7 oz., and 21“ long! His mother, Kat, had her first two children (Evee and Zeke) while a section leader (2021–2025) in the Cathedral Choir. We hope to have the whole family visit us soon!
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November 7, 2026
Today’s Gospel from Matthew began “Jesus said, ‘Then the kingdom of heaven will be like this…’ ”
As Father George Roberts from Saint James Episcopal Church in Farmington reminded the twenty-five congregants present, Jesus begins many of his parables this way.
In my opinion, the Kingdom of heaven will be like our weekly service in Bushnell Park where people of ALL races, creeds, color, economic strata, and faith traditions meet to (and again quoting from Father Roberts’ sermon), “gladden our hearts and lift our spirits.”
Afterwards, Father George’s flock from Saint James, Farmington, generously provided plentiful lunches to twenty hungry and appreciative folks.
Submitted by Lay Leader Andrew May
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November 8, 2026,
Twenty-fourth Sunday after Pentecost/
Harvest Sunday
At our 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., and 12:30 p.m. Holy Eucharist celebrations, we welcomed The Rt. Rev. Laura J. Ahrens, Bishop Suffragan, as celebrant and preacher.
Drawing on 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 and the Gospel of Matthew, Bishop Ahrens reminded us that we are a people of the Resurrection, sons and daughters of God’s promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ. Through the example of the wise virgins, she encouraged us to remain faithful, keep our lamps burning, and patiently prepare for our ultimate encounter with the Lord.
She also invited us to maintain hope and move forward without fear or anxiety during this time of transition as our Cathedral seeks a new Dean. Being people of the Resurrection means embracing life in God, recognizing His wonders in creation, nourishing our spirits, and sharing love and hope with others.
Her message challenged us to live each day with faith, courage, and renewed hope, becoming truly “a people who practice the Resurrection.”
At 9:00 a.m., we held our formation session, followed by our time of fellowship and hospitality at 11:30 a.m.
May we continue walking together in faith, hope, and love!
Photos courtesy of: Samuel Hernandez
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The Hospitality Team invites you to enhance our time together after the 10:00 a.m. service by bringing a food/refreshment offering to share.
A sign-up sheet will be available every Sunday in the Cathedral House Auditorium on which you may sign up for a specific Sunday and goody offering.
Thank you for your past and on-going support; it is very much appreciated and enjoyed by all!
Lilibeth Warner - Co-Convener
John Decker - Co-Convener
Hospitality Ministry Team
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What makes a great season?
Hartford Stage has been a fixture of downtown Hartford since 1963, and for Connecticut theater buffs, few places are better to catch a show. But what does it take to put a season together?
Bobby Sherwood of the 169 Podcast sat down with Managing Director Cynthia Rider to discuss the new rendition of Dracula, this season's new slate of shows, what it takes to build a robust season.
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Holiday Magic for Everyone
Join us for special performances designed to make your holiday experience even more magical:
Pajama Night
November 29 at 6:30 p.m.
Sensory Friendly
December 5 at 2 p.m.
Open Captioned
December 6 at 2 p.m.
Audio Described
December 12 at 2 p.m.
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Concert, Saturday, November 21
On Saturday, November 21st at 1:00 p.m., the Greater Hartford Chapter of the American Guild of Organists will present a hymn festival at St. Patrick/St. Anthony Church (285 Church Street), directed by composer, church musician, conductor, and organist Richard Webster, and accompanied by organ, brass, and timpani. Some of our Cathedral choir members will be singing in the choir! Please come and enjoy the concert at 1:00 p.m. There is free parking directly across the street from the church.
If you are interested in singing with the choir for the hymn festival, and are available for a 10:00 a.m. rehearsal the same day (lunch provided afterwards) please contact directorofmusic@cccathedral.org.
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Our next two Church Street Lounge sessions, in the Reception Room from 10:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m. will take place this coming Tuesday, November 17, and also Tuesday, December 1. All are welcome! | | | | | |
WINTERFEST HARTFORD COMING SOON | |
The Countdown to Winterfest Hartford Is On!
The rink is going up, temperatures are dropping, and we’re getting ready for another season of Hartford holiday magic! The magic of Winterfest Hartford returns to Bushnell Park on Friday, November 27, bringing free ice skating, free skate rentals, free skating lessons, visits with Santa, and more to the heart of Hartford. We’re especially excited to celebrate this beloved Hartford tradition in our 16th season! Whether you’ve been skating with us since the beginning or you’re planning your first visit, we can’t wait to welcome you!
Free Ice Skating
Begins November 27, 2026, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
The rink is open Tuesdays through Sundays, 11 a.m. through 8 p.m., with special hours for holidays. Entry to the rink closes at 7:30 p.m. You must fill out a waiver before entering Winterfest Hartford. Please show the confirmation email upon entering. Weather-related closures and schedule changes will be posted on the Winterfest Hartford website and social media.
Learn to Skate
Saturdays, December 5, 12, 19 & January 2, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Never skated before? No problem! Our free skating lessons are open to future skaters of all ages and abilities. Skate rentals are free, too! Please arrive early to get your skates and complete the required waiver.
Santa’s Workshop at the Pump House
Saturdays & Sundays, December 12, 13, 19 & 20, 12 noon – 3 p.m.
Santa is coming to Bushnell Park! Stop by the Pump House to visit with Santa and take home a free printed family photo. Digital photos will also be available to download from our website. And don’t forget to bring your letter to Santa! Be sure to include a return address so Santa can write back.
Rink address: For GPS, use 60 Elm Street, Hartford.
More Winterfest Fun Is on the Way!
Live Elf on the Shelf will be back, along with more activities and special events throughout the season, so stay tuned! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and visit the Winterfest Hartford website for the latest announcements, schedules, and weather updates.
| | Don’t forget that Hartford offers a great variety of activities! To learn about upcoming events in our city, please visit Hartford.com. | | Finally, please note that Friday, November 13 (TODAY) is your last chance to get a First Night Hartford button for 30% off. The button (designed by UHa alumna Rachel Tarinelli) gives you access to all of the wonderful programming for this year’s New Year’s Eve festival in downtown Hartford. All proceeds from button sales to toward keeping the First Night Hartford tradition going strong in its 38th year! | | | | |
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Practicing Spirituality
From the ECCT website:
Living deeply into our faith takes time, practice, patience, and the willingness to try on new things and new ways of being. It is a journey with Christ in which we are invited to live out our faith each day.
Among the many excellent and helpful resources found on the ECCT website are some brief, wonderful lessons to help, educate, and encourage you on your spiritual journey:
PAUSE
LEARN
BLESS
REST
PRAY
JJMA (Joining Jesus in a New Missional Age) Spiritual Practices
BAPTISM
MARRIAGE
HOLY EUCHARIST
DEATH
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Camp Washington Community Dinner
Next Saturday, November 14, CW will host a community dinner from 5 to 7:30 p.m.
Please join us at 5 p.m. for a service of beautiful music, inspiring words, and Holy Communion in the language of the Celtic Christian tradition, led by the Rev. Tuesday Rupp, and accompanied by Pete Miserendino on guitar, our friends from St Paul’s, Woodbury. Contemporary and contemplative, a beautiful offering to God.
Following worship, join us at 6:15 p.m. for dinner — a time of community, conversation, and wonderful food!
Come for worship and stay for dinner, or just come for dinner; your choice. All are welcome!
In lieu of a ticket price for dinner, we welcome your generous donation at the table. All proceeds will go the CW Campership Fund, offering need-based financial assistance to our campers and retreatants.
Gather your family, organize a parish carpool, or extend an invitation to a neighbor and make plans to join us at camp.
Registration is required; please click here to register.
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Bexley Seabury Seminary launches climate justice and spiritual resilience program
Earlier this year, Bexley Seabury Seminary launched a virtual Climate Justice & Spiritual Resilience certification program, with the goal of helping Christians develop practical and theologically grounded knowledge and skills to carry out eco-spiritual and justice ministries effectively…
For the full text of this article, click here.
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Public Policy and witness Weekly Prayers - The Episcopal Church
We invite you to join us as we share new prayers each week for the vulnerable among us facing challenges, fears, and threats. We will name many of the harms unfolding around us and acknowledge what is being erased, lost, and threatened.
Please join us in prayer and share these prayers with your dioceses and parishes.
click for weekly prayer
Únanse a nosotros en estas oraciones semanales mientras buscamos la orientación de Dios para fundamentarnós y discernir cómo cada uno de nosotros puede responder. Somos una sola Iglesia unida en óración; enunciamos La verdad en presencia de las mentiras; creamos un espacio para la aflicción frente al rechazo; y hacemos lugar en nuestras almas para la esperanza.
Únanse en oración y compartan estas plegarias con sus diócesis y parroquias.
Haga clic aquí para acceder a la oración semanal
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Christ Church Cathedral, Hartford, CT | cccathedral.org | | | | | |
