1895 Laurel, Saint Paul MN 55104

Saint Mary's Episcopal Church

1895 Laurel Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55104

Saint Mary’s Weekly – September 15, 2023

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The Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost

September 17, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, September 17, 2023 – The Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and the Rally Day Potluck for those in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – August 25, 2023

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The Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost

August 27, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, August 27, 2023 – The Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – August 18, 2023

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The Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost

August 20, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, August 20, 2023 – The Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Note: We had technical problems with the recording of this past Sunday’s sermon.
The sermon below is The Rev. Gretchen Roeck on August 6th.

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – August 4, 2023

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The Tenth Sunday after Pentecost

August 6, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, August 6, 2023 – The Tenth Sunday after Pentecost

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – June 23, 2023

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Pride Sunday

June 25, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, June 25, 2023 – Pride Sunday

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – June 16, 2023

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Juneteenth Sunday

June 18, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, June 18, 2023 – Juneteenth Sunday

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering those in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – June 9, 2023

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The Second Sunday after Pentecost

June 11, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, June 11, 2023 – The Second Sunday after Pentecost

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering those in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – June 2, 2023

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Trinity Sunday

June 4, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, June 4, 2023 – Trinity Sunday

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and the Start of Summer Picnic for those in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – May 26, 2023

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The Day of Pentecost

May 28, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, May 28, 2023 – The Day of Pentecost

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – May 19, 2023

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The Seventh Sunday of Easter

May 21, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, May 21, 2023 – The Seventh Sunday of Easter

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – May 12, 2023

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The Sixth Sunday of Easter

May 14, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, May 14, 2023 – The Sixth Sunday of Easter

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – May 5, 2023

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The Fifth Sunday of Easter

May 7, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, May 7, 2023 – The Fifth Sunday of Easter

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

The St. Mary’s Annual Meeting will be held right after church in the sanctuary. Zoom option will be available. We will elect new vestry members, including one new warden, and other church positions.

To join the 10am service and/or Annual Meeting  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – April 28, 2023

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The Fourth Sunday of Easter

April 30, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, April 30, 2023 – The Fourth Sunday of Easter

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – April 21, 2023

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The Third Sunday of Easter

April 23, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, April 23, 2023 – The Third Sunday of Easter

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – April 14, 2023

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The Second Sunday of Easter

April 16, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, April 16, 2023 – The Second Sunday of Easter

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – April 7, 2023

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Easter Sunday

April 9, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, April 9, 2023 – Easter Sunday

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – April 1, 2023

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Palm Sunday

April 2, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, April 2, 2023 – Palm Sunday

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – March 24, 2023

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The Fifth Sunday in Lent

March 26, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, March 26, 2023 – The Fifth Sunday in Lent

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – March 17, 2023

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The Fourth Sunday in Lent

March 19, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, March 19, 2023 – The Fourth Sunday in Lent

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – March 10, 2023

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The Third Sunday in Lent

March 12, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, March 12, 2023 – The Third Sunday in Lent

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Click Here to connect to Zoom

Click here to download the Service Bulletin

Click here to view last Sunday’s Sermon

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – March 3, 2023

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The Second Sunday in Lent

March 5, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, March 5, 2023 – The Second Sunday in Lent

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE

We invite you to view the sermon from February 26 – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – February 24, 2023

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The First Sunday in Lent

February 26, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, February 26, 2023 – The First Sunday in Lent

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE

We invite you to view the sermon from February 19 – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – February 17, 2023

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The Last Sunday after the Epiphany

February 19, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, February 19, 2023 – The Last Sunday after the Epiphany

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the Service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the sermon from February 12 – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – February 10, 2023

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The Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany

February 12, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, February 12, 2023 – The Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the Service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the sermon from February 5 – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – February 3, 2023

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The Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany

February 5, 2023

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, February 5, 2023 – The Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the Service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the sermon from January 29 – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – January 20, 2023

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The Third Sunday after the Epiphany

January 22, 2023

 

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, January 22, 2023 – The Third Sunday after the Epiphany

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the Service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the sermon from January 15 – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

To see what’s going on at St. Mary’s, Click HERE to see the Weekly E-mail.

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – January 6, 2023

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The Epiphany

January 8, 2023

 
Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, January 8, 2023 – The Holy Name

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and an Epiphany Party for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the Service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the sermon from Christmas Eve – Click HERE
We invite you to view the sermon from Christmas Day – Click HERE
We invite you to view the sermon from January 1 – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

AnchorWhat’s In the Weekly?

Epiphany Party
A Message from the Stewardship 2023 Leaders
Education
St. Mary’s Book Study
Outreach: Food Drive for Department of Indian Works Food Pantry
Outreach: Ronald McDonald House
Relaunching the Refugee Response Committee
Meet with Rev. Lindsey
Upcoming Events at St. Mary’s

Click on any of the above to go immediately to the article.

We’ve wrapped up our stewardship season and the Finance Committee has put together a draft budget for 2023. So, how did we do? There were two goals, both of which were “stretch” goals:
 
  1. We are excited to announce with 91% of St Mary’s parishioners pledging for 2023 we came so close to reaching our goal of 100% parishioner pledge participation. This shows how much folks are committed to the future of the St Mary’s community!
  2. We are proud to announce $155,000 of anticipated pledges! While we “stretched”, we are still around $30,000 short of our ambitious goal of $185,000. We’ve known for some time that our budgets for the next year or two would be challenging and would need to pivot and change to align with who we are today. Additional pledges are always welcome.

THANK YOU to all of you who have pledged for 2023!! We appreciate your commitment to St Mary’s and your pledge has given us a concrete amount to put in the 2023 budget.

If you haven’t pledged and wish to do so, pledges will be gladly accepted at any time.

Short summaries of the talks from Vestry members and co-chairs as to “Why I make a pledge to St Mary’s this year” are now posted on the office window just inside the entryway. Read them again, if you’d like.

Stewardship Co-Chairs:  Paulette Briese, Julie Thomas, and Bruce Briese

Education

Return to top

Food Drive for Department of Indian Works Food Pantry
in partnership with Interfaith Action of Greater Saint Paul

Housing insecurity, job loss, and inflation have folks reeling financially and leaning on food pantries for support. The Department of Indian Work’s has sent out a special request asking for donations of food and funds to meet the growing community need. Soups, side dishes, baking items, rice, pasta, and cereals are their greatest need.
 
How you can help
  • Drop off healthy, quality food to Saint Mary’s between Sunday, 11/20 to Sunday 12/11. 
  • Make a financial donation directly! The pantry’s skilled buyer will stretch every dollar to its limit!  
Please contact Tom Brown with any questions. email tomaso008 AT gmail.com or text 651-402-0495 
 

Ronald McDonald House

Hi my name is Miles Mann, I am the godson of Paulette Briese. 

I am doing a Scout project to benefit the Minneapolis Ronald McDonald House which provides housing for families when they have sick children.

We will be collecting items to help fill the pantry. There will be a donation collection box (with lists of the most needed items) at St Mary’s for the Month of January.

This project is for Summit Rank which is part of a rank advancement in Venture Scouts, which is comparable to Eagle rank. I appreciate any help the members of St. Mary’s are willing to do to make this project a success.

Thanks,
Miles Mann

 
 

Relaunching the Refugee Response Committee

If you didn’t read Rev. Lindsey’s email from last month Click HERE to find out more about the Refugee Response Committee.

 

Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey wants to get to know you! Our new priest is continuing to meet with everyone in the congregation. You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar through January for meetings. Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.  * If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, & Meet-Ups
for the week of 1/6 – 1/12

Sunday, January 8, 2023
Family Gathering
9:00-9:15am
Contact MiaLisa for more information – Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, January 8, 2023
In-person Sunday School
9:15-9:50am
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, January 8, 2023
The Epiphany In-person and Virtual Worship Service
10:00am
Link

Sunday, January 8, 2023
Confirmation at St. Anne’s
5:30pm
Contact Rev. Lindsey for more information –revlindseybriggs at gmail.com

Tuesday, January 10, 2023
The Art of Gathering Book Study
6:30pm
Contact Rev. Lindsey for more information – revlindseybriggs at gmail.com

Wednesday, January 11, 2023
NO Youth Group
6:30pm Zoom Pre-Tweeners
7:00pm Zoom Tweeners
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Thursday, January 12, 2023
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
6:00pm
Contact Julie Thomas for more information – julieandcats at comcast.net

Thursday, January 12, 2023
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link (The Contemplative Service is In-person and Virtual)

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – December 30, 2022

by

The Holy Name

January 1, 2023

 
Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, January 1, 2023 – The Holy Name

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the Service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the sermon from Christmas Eve – Click HERE
We invite you to view the sermon from Christmas Day – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

AnchorWhat’s In the Weekly?

Christmas Memorials and Thanksgivings for Altar Flowers and Greens
Christmas Pageant Thank You!
Epiphany Party
A Message from the Stewardship 2023 Leaders
Education
St. Mary’s Book Study
Outreach: Food Drive for Department of Indian Works Food Pantry
Relaunching the Refugee Response Committee
Meet with Rev. Lindsey
Upcoming Events at St. Mary’s

Click on any of the above to go immediately to the article.

Christmas Memorials and Thanksgivings for Altar Flowers and Greens

  • For the wonder and joy of Christmas. – Craig and Anne Hanson
  • In celebration of this wonderful community. – Brian Nerbonne
  • In loving memory of Sylvia Clark. – Anna Clark
  • In loving memory of my parents, Phyllis and Bob James, my grandparents, Christeen and Fred James and Lima Baker. – Cindy James
  • In loving memory of my husband Dick Mayer and grandchildren Michael and Victoria. In grateful thanksgiving for son Michael and family and daughter Kiki and family. – Lavonne Mayer
  • In memory of Stan, Terry, and Jesse Briggs; Barbara Mack, Ray Toney, and Levi Nies. – Lindsey Briggs
  • Bob and Mary O’Brien, Adolph Scherer. – Erika Scherer
  • In grateful thanksgiving for St Mary’s and all it’s clergy and musicians; for our family and friends and in loving memory of family and friends, especially our son David. – George and Anne Green
  • In loving memory of my grandparents, Mary Katherine Munger McFarland and Ray Lyle McFarland. In grateful thanksgiving for grandson, James Andrew (Jak) Kinsella and congratulations on his graduation from Purdue in Aerospace Engineering. – Kitty McFarland
  • In loving memory of Mary Andrews and John Andrews. In grateful thanksgiving for St. Mary’s congregation. – Steve Andrews
  • In loving memory of Barbara & Donald Briese, Donald & Delphine Steinmetz and Lillian Steinmetz. In grateful thanksgiving for our children & grandchildren, our new rector, Rev. Lindsey Briggs, and the St. Mary’s community. – Paulette and Bruce Briese

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Christmas Pageant Thank You!

Thank you to everyone who helped with the Christmas Pageant. To all of the children who played parts, shared musical gifts, or helped with technology, and to their parents who transported them to practices – thank you. A big thank you to Brian Nerbonne, who built a door for the Inn– that I am certain will be used in Christmas Pageants in the future too. For the Sunday school teachers and volunteers who came to help with practice! And, last but not least, a BIG THANK YOU to Chuck Watts, who helped SO much with the music for the kids. He practiced with families and always makes the kids sound great and gives them confidence! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

We’ve wrapped up our stewardship season and the Finance Committee has put together a draft budget for 2023. So, how did we do? There were two goals, both of which were “stretch” goals:
 
  1. We are excited to announce with 91% of St Mary’s parishioners pledging for 2023 we came so close to reaching our goal of 100% parishioner pledge participation. This shows how much folks are committed to the future of the St Mary’s community!
  2. We are proud to announce $155,000 of anticipated pledges! While we “stretched”, we are still around $30,000 short of our ambitious goal of $185,000. We’ve known for some time that our budgets for the next year or two would be challenging and would need to pivot and change to align with who we are today. Additional pledges are always welcome.

THANK YOU to all of you who have pledged for 2023!! We appreciate your commitment to St Mary’s and your pledge has given us a concrete amount to put in the 2023 budget.

If you haven’t pledged and wish to do so, pledges will be gladly accepted at any time.

Short summaries of the talks from Vestry members and co-chairs as to “Why I make a pledge to St Mary’s this year” are now posted on the office window just inside the entryway. Read them again, if you’d like.

Stewardship Co-Chairs:  Paulette Briese, Julie Thomas, and Bruce Briese

Education

Return to top

Food Drive for Department of Indian Works Food Pantry
in partnership with Interfaith Action of Greater Saint Paul

Housing insecurity, job loss, and inflation have folks reeling financially and leaning on food pantries for support. The Department of Indian Work’s has sent out a special request asking for donations of food and funds to meet the growing community need. Soups, side dishes, baking items, rice, pasta, and cereals are their greatest need.
 
How you can help
  • Drop off healthy, quality food to Saint Mary’s between Sunday, 11/20 to Sunday 12/11. 
  • Make a financial donation directly! The pantry’s skilled buyer will stretch every dollar to its limit!  
Please contact Tom Brown with any questions. email tomaso008 AT gmail.com or text 651-402-0495 
 
 

Relaunching the Refugee Response Committee

If you didn’t read Rev. Lindsey’s email on Wednesday Click HERE to find out more about the Refugee Response Committee.

 

Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey wants to get to know you! Our new priest is continuing to meet with everyone in the congregation. You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar through January for meetings. Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.  * If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, & Meet-Ups
for the week of 12/30 – 1/5

Sunday, January 1, 2023
The Holy Name In-person and Virtual Worship Service
10:00am
Link

Tuesday, January 3, 2023
Men’s Group
7:00pm
For more information email tomaso008 AT gmail.com

Wednesday, January 4, 2023
NO Youth Group
NO Zoom Pre-Tweeners
NO Zoom Tweeners

Thursday, January 5, 2023
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
6:00pm
Contact Julie Thomas for more information – julieandcats at comcast.net

Thursday, January 5, 2023
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link (The Contemplative Service is In-person and Virtual)

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – December 23, 2022

by

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

December 24 and December 25, 2022

 
Christmas Eve Worship Service

Saturday, December 24, 2022 – Christmas Eve

4:00pm – Christmas Eve Service and Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 4pm service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 682770
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 811 8120 2652

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 811 8120 2652
If asked for a passcode, use 682770

For the Christmas Eve Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the Service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the sermon from December 18 – Click HERE
We invite you to view the Lessons & Carols Service from December 11 – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

Christmas Day Worship Service

Sunday, December 25, 2022 – Christmas Day

10:00am – Christmas Day Service and Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Christmas Day Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the Service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the sermon from December 18 – Click HERE
We invite you to view the Lessons & Carols Service from December 11 – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

AnchorWhat’s In the Weekly?

Christmas Message from Presiding Bishop
Christmas Pageant Thank You!
Epiphany Party
A Message from the Stewardship 2023 Leaders
Education
St. Mary’s Book Study
Outreach: Food Drive for Department of Indian Works Food Pantry
Relaunching the Refugee Response Committee
Meet with Rev. Lindsey
Upcoming Events at St. Mary’s

Click on any of the above to go immediately to the article.

A Christmas Message from Presiding Bishop Michael Curry

Hear this Christmas message from our presiding bishop, in which he reads and reflects on the Christmas carol, “Love came down at Christmas”.

Click here or on the picture for the video

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Christmas Pageant Thank You!

Thank you to everyone who helped with the Christmas Pageant this week. To all of the children who played parts, shared musical gifts, or helped with technology, and to their parents who transported them to practices – thank you. A big thank you to Brian Nerbonne, who built a door for the Inn– that I am certain will be used in Christmas Pageants in the future too. For the Sunday school teachers and volunteers who came to help with practice! And, last but not least, a BIG THANK YOU to Chuck Watts, who helped SO much with the music for the kids. He practiced with families and always makes the kids sound great and gives them confidence! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

 

 

We’ve wrapped up our stewardship season and the Finance Committee has put together a draft budget for 2023. So, how did we do? There were two goals, both of which were “stretch” goals:
 
  1. We are excited to announce with 91% of St Mary’s parishioners pledging for 2023 we came so close to reaching our goal of 100% parishioner pledge participation. This shows how much folks are committed to the future of the St Mary’s community!
  2. We are proud to announce $155,000 of anticipated pledges! While we “stretched”, we are still around $30,000 short of our ambitious goal of $185,000. We’ve known for some time that our budgets for the next year or two would be challenging and would need to pivot and change to align with who we are today. Additional pledges are always welcome.

THANK YOU to all of you who have pledged for 2023!! We appreciate your commitment to St Mary’s and your pledge has given us a concrete amount to put in the 2023 budget.

If you haven’t pledged and wish to do so, pledges will be gladly accepted at any time.

Short summaries of the talks from Vestry members and co-chairs as to “Why I make a pledge to St Mary’s this year” are now posted on the office window just inside the entryway. Read them again, if you’d like.

Stewardship Co-Chairs:  Paulette Briese, Julie Thomas, and Bruce Briese

Education

Return to top

Food Drive for Department of Indian Works Food Pantry
in partnership with Interfaith Action of Greater Saint Paul

Housing insecurity, job loss, and inflation have folks reeling financially and leaning on food pantries for support. The Department of Indian Work’s has sent out a special request asking for donations of food and funds to meet the growing community need. Soups, side dishes, baking items, rice, pasta, and cereals are their greatest need.
 
How you can help
  • Drop off healthy, quality food to Saint Mary’s between Sunday, 11/20 to Sunday 12/11. 
  • Make a financial donation directly! The pantry’s skilled buyer will stretch every dollar to its limit!  
Please contact Tom Brown with any questions. email tomaso008 AT gmail.com or text 651-402-0495 
 
 

Relaunching the Refugee Response Committee

If you didn’t read Rev. Lindsey’s email on Wednesday Click HERE to find out more about the Refugee Response Committee.

 

Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey wants to get to know you! Our new priest is continuing to meet with everyone in the congregation. You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar through December for meetings. Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.  * If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

Return to top

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, & Meet-Ups
for the week of 12/23 – 12/29

Saturday, December 24, 2022
Christmas Eve In-person and Virtual Worship Service
4:00pm
Link

Sunday, December 25, 2022
Christmas Day In-person and Virtual Worship Service
10:00am
Link

Wednesday, December 28, 2022
Vestry Meeting
7:00pm
For more information email Wardens at SaintMarysEpiscopal.org

Wednesday, December 28, 2022
NO Youth Group

Wednesday, December 28, 2022
NO Zoom Pre-Tweeners

Wednesday, December 28, 2022
NO Zoom Tweeners 

Thursday, December 29, 2022
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
6:00pm
Contact Julie Thomas for more information – julieandcats at comcast.net

Thursday, December 29, 2022
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link (The Contemplative Service is In-person and Virtual)

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – December 16, 2022

by

Weekly Worship Service 

Sunday, December 18, 2022 – The Fourth Sunday of Advent

10:00am – Children’s Christmas Pageant and Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE

For the Advent/Epiphany service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the sermon from December 11 – Click HERE

We invite you to view the Lessons & Carols Service from December 11 – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

AnchorWhat’s In the Weekly?

Schedule of Services for Advent
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Services
Decorating After Church Today
The Angel Tree Thank You
A Message from the Stewardship 2023 Leaders
Education
St. Mary’s Book Study
Outreach: Food Drive for Department of Indian Works Food Pantry
Meet with Rev. Lindsey
Upcoming Events at St. Mary’s

Click on any of the above to go immediately to the article.

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Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Services

Christmas Eve: 4:00 PM Service
Christmas Day: 10:00 AM Service
 

Decorating After Church Today (12/18)

Today after the Fourth Sunday of Advent we turn the church from purple to Christmas and Red!! All hands on deck make shorter work for everyone.
 

The Angel Tree Thank You

Thanks to all for your generosity. We gifted 21 children with clothes and toys and sent 50 Target gift cards so that teachers, social workers, and principal can meet needs during the year as they arise. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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We’ve wrapped up our stewardship season and the Finance Committee has put together a draft budget for 2023. So, how did we do? There were two goals, both of which were “stretch” goals:
 
  1. We are excited to announce with 91% of St Mary’s parishioners pledging for 2023 we came so close to reaching our goal of 100% parishioner pledge participation. This shows how much folks are committed to the future of the St Mary’s community!
  2. We are proud to announce $155,000 of anticipated pledges! While we “stretched”, we are still around $30,000 short of our ambitious goal of $185,000. We’ve known for some time that our budgets for the next year or two would be challenging and would need to pivot and change to align with who we are today. Additional pledges are always welcome.

THANK YOU to all of you who have pledged for 2023!! We appreciate your commitment to St Mary’s and your pledge has given us a concrete amount to put in the 2023 budget.

If you haven’t pledged and wish to do so, pledges will be gladly accepted at any time.

Short summaries of the talks from Vestry members and co-chairs as to “Why I make a pledge to St Mary’s this year” are now posted on the office window just inside the entryway. Read them again, if you’d like.

Stewardship Co-Chairs:  Paulette Briese, Julie Thomas, and Bruce Briese

Education

Return to top

Food Drive for Department of Indian Works Food Pantry
in partnership with Interfaith Action of Greater Saint Paul

Housing insecurity, job loss, and inflation have folks reeling financially and leaning on food pantries for support. The Department of Indian Work’s has sent out a special request asking for donations of food and funds to meet the growing community need. Soups, side dishes, baking items, rice, pasta, and cereals are their greatest need.
 
How you can help
  • Drop off healthy, quality food to Saint Mary’s between Sunday, 11/20 to Sunday 12/11. 
  • Make a financial donation directly! The pantry’s skilled buyer will stretch every dollar to its limit!  
Please contact Tom Brown with any questions. email tomaso008 AT gmail.com or text 651-402-0495 
 

Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey wants to get to know you! Our new priest is continuing to meet with everyone in the congregation. You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar through December for meetings. Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.  * If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, & Meet-Ups
for the week of 12/16 – 12/22

Saturday, December 17, 2022
Pageant Rehearsal
10:30am-12:30pm
Contact MiaLisa for more information – Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, December 18, 2022
Family Gathering/Pageant Rehearsal
9:00-9:45am
Contact MiaLisa for more information – Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, December 18, 2022
Children’s Christmas Pageant and In-person and Virtual Worship Service
10:00am
Link

Tuesday, December 20, 2022
Finance Committee Meeting
6:30pm
Contact Finance for more information – finance at saintmarysepiscopal.org

Wednesday, December 21, 2022
Youth Group-Christmas Movie
6:30pm
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, December 21, 2022
NO Zoom Pre-Tweeners

Wednesday, December 21, 2022
NO Zoom Tweeners 

Wednesday, December 21, 2022
Choir Rehearsal
7:00pm
Contact Vonda for more information at musicdirector at saintmarysespiscopal.org

Thursday, December 22, 2022
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
6:00pm
Contact Julie Thomas for more information – julieandcats at comcast.net

Thursday, December 22, 2022
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link (The Contemplative Service is In-person and Virtual)

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – December 9, 2022

by

Weekly Worship Service 

Sunday, December 11, 2022 – The Third Sunday of Advent

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE

For the Fall service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the sermon from December 4 – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

4:00pm – Lessons and Carols

Carols will begin at 3:30pm followed by the Lessons and Carols service at 4pm with readers and musicians from the St. Mary’s community.

To join the Lessons and Carols service  – Click HERE (Updated Link as of 3:45PM)
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Lessons and Carols Bulletin – Click HERE

AnchorWhat’s In the Weekly?

Schedule of Services for Advent
Angel Tree
Christmas Pageant
Christmas Greens and Poinsettias
Education
St. Mary’s Book Study
Food Drive for Department of Indian Works Food Pantry
Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Click on any of the above to go immediately to the article.

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The Angel Tree is Back

We have the information for 20 children from Hamline Elementary school, the school to which our Galtier children were sent when their school closed. Each angel on our tree, which will be up in St. Mary’s room on November 27, will have a number (no names for privacy), gender, grade, clothing sizes, and the child’s teacher recommendation of a game/toy or book. We also would be happy to have contributions for gift certificates which the school social worker can give out during the year as she becomes aware of special needs. School is out for winter break early this year so we need all gifts returned by Sunday, December 11. Checks may be mailed to St. Mary’s or put in the offering plate at the back of the nave, noting Angel Tree in the memo line. Thanks to all in advance for your generosity and making Christmas morning special for a child who otherwise might have nothing.

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Christmas Pageant

I am trying to get a sense of how many kids I have to work with for the Christmas pageant. I need at least a quorum to make a play in person (which I would like to do). Please let me know if you plan to be in the Christmas Pageant…because the script I create will be based on the number of kids that I have to work with!

Christmas Pageant Practices  

  • We start practicing on Sundays during the Sunday School Time Slot 9:15-9:50 on 11/27, 12/4, 12/11 (3 and up welcome)
  • The main MANDATORY and most important practice is on Saturday, December 17, 9:00-12:00pm (Little kids will come at 10:30am.)
  • Christmas Pageant will be held on Sunday, December 18, 2022, either during or immediately after the service depending on what Reverend Lindsey would prefer. Stay tuned.
  • I will need parent help for this event – assuming we have enough kids to do this in person!

Sign Up Here

Let me know if you have any questions or concerns!

Thanks!
Mia

Christmas Greens and Poinsettias

Deck St. Mary’s Halls with Christmas Greens and Poinsettias! We rely on all of your generous contributions to buy poinsettias and greens for the Christmas season .

Please fill out the Google form in the weekly bulletin or hard copy in the back of the church and leave your donation in the church plate or send it to St. Mary’s by December 18, 2022.

Thank you.

Ginny

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Education

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Food Drive for Department of Indian Works Food Pantry
in partnership with Interfaith Action of Greater Saint Paul

Housing insecurity, job loss, and inflation have folks reeling financially and leaning on food pantries for support. The Department of Indian Work’s has sent out a special request asking for donations of food and funds to meet the growing community need. Soups, side dishes, baking items, rice, pasta, and cereals are their greatest need.
 
How you can help
  • Drop off healthy, quality food to Saint Mary’s between Sunday, 11/20 to Sunday 12/11. 
  • Make a financial donation directly! The pantry’s skilled buyer will stretch every dollar to its limit!  
Please contact Tom Brown with any questions. email tomaso008 AT gmail.com or text 651-402-0495 
 

Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey wants to get to know you! Our new priest is continuing to meet with everyone in the congregation. You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar through November for meetings. Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.  * If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – December 2, 2022

by

Weekly Worship Service 

Sunday, December 4, 2022 – The Second Sunday of Advent

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE

For the Fall service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view Bishop Loya’s address at the 2022 ECMN Convention – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

AnchorWhat’s In the Weekly?

Schedule of Services for Advent
A Message from the Stewardship 2023 Leaders
Stewardship 2023 Q & A
St. Mary’s Book Study
Gingerbread Houses
Christmas Pageant
Christmas Greens and Poinsettias
Education
Food Drive for Department of Indian Works Food Pantry
Angel Tree
Meet with Rev. Lindsey
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church Covid Health Policy

Click on any of the above to go immediately to the article.

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We’ve wrapped up our stewardship season and the Finance Committee has met to put together a draft 2023 budget. Even though that’s the case, it’s not too late to submit a pledge!! All pledges will be gladly accepted and added to the pledge income expected.

The percentage of parishioners pledging is hovering around 90% which is great, and this shows that a large number of folks feel a commitment to St. Mary’s. Our goal is still 100% and we’d love to get even closer to that 100%!! Remember, no pledge is too big or too small!!

Our financial goal is $185,000; current pledges total a little over $152,000. As you can see, we are about $33,000 below our goal. So, if you haven’t pledged yet, please do so as soon as possible. Each pledge makes a difference. Thank you for your prayerful consideration.

If you have already turned in a pledge, THANK YOU for doing so!! We appreciate your commitment to St. Mary’s and your pledge helps give us a concrete amount to put in the 2023 budget.

Short summaries of the talks from Vestry members and co-chairs as to “Why I make a pledge to St. Mary’s this year” are now posted on the office window just inside the entryway. Read them again, if you’d like.

Stewardship Co-Chairs:  Paulette Briese, Julie Thomas, and Bruce Briese

How can you pledge?
  • You can submit a pledge electronically through this link https://forms.gle/HVcrTHfVVrMhrkvF7
  • If you would like a paper form mailed to you, contact one of the stewardship chairs.
How can you pay your pledge?

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Sign Up for Gingerbread Houses and the Christmas Pageant!

Gingerbread Houses
Sunday, December 4, 2022 about 11:15am

We also have planned to do Gingerbread houses on December 4, 2022 right after church! Anne and George Green have always been instrumental in this incredible event. I will also be helping them to make it great! Please let us know if you plan to be there for Gingerbread houses and if you plan to make a house. It is a great event, and we want to make sure we are prepared for the right number of people.  Sign Up Here

Thanks!
Mia

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Christmas Pageant

I am trying to get a sense of how many kids I have to work with for the Christmas pageant. I need at least a quorum to make a play in person (which I would like to do). Please let me know if you plan to be in the Christmas Pageant…because the script I create will be based on the number of kids that I have to work with!

Christmas Pageant Practices  

  • We start practicing on Sundays during the Sunday School Time Slot 9:15-9:50 on 11/27, 12/4, 12/11 (3 and up welcome)
  • The main MANDATORY and most important practice is on Saturday, December 17, 9:00-12:00pm (Little kids will come at 10:30am.)
  • Christmas Pageant will be held on Sunday, December 18, 2022, either during or immediately after the service depending on what Reverend Lindsey would prefer. Stay tuned.
  • I will need parent help for this event – assuming we have enough kids to do this in person!

Sign Up Here

Let me know if you have any questions or concerns!

Thanks!
Mia

Christmas Greens and Poinsettias

Deck St. Mary’s Halls with Christmas Greens and Poinsettias! We rely on all of your generous contributions to buy poinsettias and greens for the Christmas season .

Please fill out the Google form in the weekly bulletin or hard copy in the back of the church and leave your donation in the church plate or send it to St. Mary’s by December 18, 2022.

Thank you.

Ginny

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Education

Food Drive for Department of Indian Works Food Pantry
in partnership with Interfaith Action of Greater Saint Paul

Housing insecurity, job loss, and inflation have folks reeling financially and leaning on food pantries for support. The Department of Indian Work’s has sent out a special request asking for donations of food and funds to meet the growing community need. Soups, side dishes, baking items, rice, pasta, and cereals are their greatest need.
 
How you can help
  • Drop off healthy, quality food to Saint Mary’s between Sunday, 11/20 to Sunday 12/11. 
  • Make a financial donation directly! The pantry’s skilled buyer will stretch every dollar to its limit!  
Please contact Tom Brown with any questions. email tomaso008 AT gmail.com or text 651-402-0495 
 

The Angel Tree is Back

We have the information for 20 children from Hamline Elementary school, the school to which our Galtier children were sent when their school closed. Each angel on our tree, which will be up in St. Mary’s room on November 27, will have a number (no names for privacy), gender, grade, clothing sizes, and the child’s teacher recommendation of a game/toy or book. We also would be happy to have contributions for gift certificates which the school social worker can give out during the year as she becomes aware of special needs. School is out for winter break early this year so we need all gifts returned by Sunday, December 11. Checks may be mailed to St. Mary’s or put in the offering plate at the back of the nave, noting Angel Tree in the memo line. Thanks to all in advance for your generosity and making Christmas morning special for a child who otherwise might have nothing.

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Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey wants to get to know you! Our new priest is continuing to meet with everyone in the congregation. You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar through November for meetings. Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.  * If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

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St. Mary’s Episcopal Church Covid Health Policy

Updated November 22, 2022

  • Masks covering the nose and mouth are required indoors.
  • Anti-bacterial wipes will be available to wipe the mic in between speakers, for those who wish to do so.
  • We encourage the use of hand sanitizer before and after the Peace.
  • Passing the peace with respect for people’s different comfort levels. Please check each person’s color dot and/or ask their preference.
    • RED • dot – maintain social distance (peace sign, air hug)
    • YELLOW • dot – more comfortable coming closer (a wave, or a fist or elbow bump as a greeting)
    • GREEN • dot – willing to shake hands and potentially open to hugs
  • Wine will be served from the “pourable chalice”, so bring your small glasses or take a paper cup from an usher.
  • Following the service, during Social Hour please keep your mask on when not actively consuming food or beverages.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – November 25, 2022

by

Weekly Worship Service 

Sunday, November 27, 2022 – The First Sunday of Advent

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE

For the Fall service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the November 20 sermon video – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

AnchorWhat’s In the Weekly?

St. Mary’s Episcopal Church Covid Health Policy
A Message from the Stewardship 2023 Leaders
Stewardship 2023 Q & A
Gingerbread Houses
Christmas Pageant
Christmas Greens and Poinsettias
Education
Food Drive for Department of Indian Works Food Pantry
Angel Tree
Prayers
Meet with Rev. Lindsey
Little Food Pantry Donations

Click on any of the above to go immediately to the article.

St. Mary’s Episcopal Church Covid Health Policy

Updated November 22, 2022

  • Masks covering the nose and mouth are required indoors.
  • Anti-bacterial wipes will be available to wipe the mic in between speakers, for those who wish to do so.
  • We encourage the use of hand sanitizer before and after the Peace.
  • Passing the peace with respect for people’s different comfort levels. Please check each person’s color dot and/or ask their preference.
    • RED • dot – maintain social distance (peace sign, air hug)
    • YELLOW • dot – more comfortable coming closer (a wave, or a fist or elbow bump as a greeting)
    • GREEN • dot – willing to shake hands and potentially open to hugs
  • Wine will be served from the “pourable chalice”, so bring your small glasses or take a paper cup from an usher.
  • Following the service, during Social Hour please keep your mask on when not actively consuming food or beverages.

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As we begin to wrap up our stewardship season, we hope the talks from the Vestry members and co-chairs as to “Why they make a pledge to St. Mary’s this year” was inspirational and helpful to you when you considered making your own pledge decision. The short summaries of each talk are now posted on the bulletin board outside the nave. Read them again, if you’d like.

Here are our goals for this stewardship campaign and our current numbers as of Tuesday, November 22, 2022:

  • GOAL: 100% participation of current households…CURRENT TOTAL: 90% (66 households, 59 pledging)
  • GOAL: $185,000……………………………..……….CURRENT TOTAL: $150,111

As you can see, we are about $35,000 below our goal. So, if you haven’t pledged yet, please do so BEFORE the end of November. The Finance Committee will be meeting on December 1 to prepare a budget for 2023. It is so important for us to know what our financial picture looks like for 2023, and each pledge makes a difference. No pledge is too big or too small!!! Thank you for your prayerful consideration in this stewardship season.

If you have already turned in a pledge, THANK YOU for doing so!! We appreciate your commitment to St. Mary’s and your pledge helps give us a concrete amount to put in the 2023 budget.

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What are our goals?
  • We have set a target of pledges totaling $185,000. This will likely still put us in a deficit budget situation, but it is a decent increase over last year and we feel an obtainable goal. 
  • We are looking for 100% of active households to make a pledge. We feel that we have a strong community here, and hope that you all will show your commitment through a financial pledge.
  • We are asking that all pledges are received by November 14th. This will allow us to set our budget using true pledge information.
How can you pledge?
  • You can submit a pledge electronically through this link https://forms.gle/HVcrTHfVVrMhrkvF7
  • Paper forms are available in the pews at church
  • If you would like a paper form mailed to you, contact one of the stewardship chairs.
How can you pay your pledge?

Return to top

Sign Up for Gingerbread Houses and the Christmas Pageant!

Gingerbread Houses
Sunday, December 4, 2022 about 11:15am

We also have planned to do Gingerbread houses on December 4, 2022 right after church! Anne and George Green have always been instrumental in this incredible event. I will also be helping them to make it great! Please let us know if you plan to be there for Gingerbread houses and if you plan to make a house. It is a great event, and we want to make sure we are prepared for the right number of people.  Sign Up Here

Thanks!
Mia

Return to top

Christmas Pageant

I am trying to get a sense of how many kids I have to work with for the Christmas pageant. I need at least a quorum to make a play in person (which I would like to do). Please let me know if you plan to be in the Christmas Pageant…because the script I create will be based on the number of kids that I have to work with!

Christmas Pageant Practices  

  • We start practicing on Sundays during the Sunday School Time Slot 9:15-9:50 on 11/27, 12/4, 12/11 (3 and up welcome)
  • The main MANDATORY and most important practice is on Saturday, December 17, 9:00-12:00pm (Little kids will come at 10:30am.)
  • Christmas Pageant will be held on Sunday, December 18, 2022, either during or immediately after the service depending on what Reverend Lindsey would prefer. Stay tuned.
  • I will need parent help for this event – assuming we have enough kids to do this in person!

Sign Up Here

Let me know if you have any questions or concerns!

Thanks!
Mia

Christmas Greens and Poinsettias

Deck St. Mary’s Halls with Christmas Greens and Poinsettias! We rely on all of your generous contributions to buy poinsettias and greens for the Christmas season .

Please fill out the Google form in the weekly bulletin or hard copy in the back of the church and leave your donation in the church plate or send it to St. Mary’s by December 18, 2022.

Thank you.

Ginny

Return to top

Education

Food Drive for Department of Indian Works Food Pantry
in partnership with Interfaith Action of Greater Saint Paul

Housing insecurity, job loss, and inflation have folks reeling financially and leaning on food pantries for support. The Department of Indian Work’s has sent out a special request asking for donations of food and funds to meet the growing community need. Soups, side dishes, baking items, rice, pasta, and cereals are their greatest need.
 
How you can help
  • Drop off healthy, quality food to Saint Mary’s between Sunday, 11/20 to Sunday 12/11. 
  • Make a financial donation directly! The pantry’s skilled buyer will stretch every dollar to its limit!  
Please contact Tom Brown with any questions. email tomaso008 AT gmail.com or text 651-402-0495 
 

The Angel Tree is Back

We have the information for 20 children from Hamline Elementary school, the school to which our Galtier children were sent when their school closed. Each angel on our tree, which will be up in St. Mary’s room on November 27, will have a number (no names for privacy), gender, grade, clothing sizes, and the child’s teacher recommendation of a game/toy or book. We also would be happy to have contributions for gift certificates which the school social worker can give out during the year as she becomes aware of special needs. School is out for winter break early this year so we need all gifts returned by Sunday, December 11. Checks may be mailed to St. Mary’s or put in the offering plate at the back of the nave, noting Angel Tree in the memo line. Thanks to all in advance for your generosity and making Christmas morning special for a child who otherwise might have nothing.

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Prayer Requests & Pastoral Care

Please pray for those on Saint Mary’s prayer list: Bishop Craig Loya as he leads the ECMN; ECMN; all front-line workers; teachers and those who support children and youth in education; all who have had hardships because of Covid; all who are homeless, unemployed, or struggling financially; doctors, nurses, caregivers, and all who care for the sick or dying; all who work for new systems of justice and equity; all those who are in need of some extra love, grace, peace, and good energy; all who are in need of prayer.

If you would like a name to be added to Saint Mary’s public prayer list or special prayer shared, please email Claire at clairehorton97 AT gmail.com. The prayer list will be updated weekly, and all prayers will remain on the list for one month unless otherwise requested.

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Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey wants to get to know you! Our new priest is continuing to meet with everyone in the congregation. You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar through November for meetings. Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.  * If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

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Little Food Pantry Donations

Please help keep the pantry full! Food Insecurity and the threat of eviction are both on the rise in the Twin Cities. We are needing an increase in donations to match the need. Also, please take food if you need it. This is a project in the spirit of mutual aid. Fill the pantry when you can, receive from the pantry when you need it.

 

 

 

 

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – November 18, 2022

by

Weekly Worship Service 

Sunday, November 20, 2022 – The Last Sunday of Pentecost: Christ the King

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service. We will be meeting in the round for the Eucharist.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service  – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE

For the Fall service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the November 13 sermon video – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

It’s Week Six of our Stewardship Campaign!  We’ve now heard from Bruce Briese, Paulette Briese, Brian Nerbonne, Trevor Sannes , Julie Thomas, Anna Clark, Nina Johnson, Todd Reemtsma, Cathy McNaughton and Joe McManmon about why they’ll be making a pledge to support St. Mary’s this year. In a nutshell, here’s what Joe had to say:

Joe:  One of the big draws for us at St Mary’s is the strong youth programs. It is important for youth to build a strong religious core. This is what will guide them as adults. Also, our son added, “Saint Mary’s accepts everyone.” If you usually put off filling out the form like me due to anxiety or thoughts of judgement, put that aside. The response is between you, God and a finance team person. The anonymous combined info is used by the vestry to set budget and direction for 2023.
 
As of Sunday, November 13 h, 52 pledges have been turned in, totaling the dollar amount of $150,111 with our goal being $185,000. This accounts for 74% of our households…with our goal being 100% of our households. Remember, no pledge is too big or too small…we’re really hoping for 100% of member participation in pledging this year!

If you have already turned in a pledge, THANK YOU for doing so!! We appreciate your commitment to St Mary’s and your pledge helps give us a concrete amount to put in the 2023 budget.

If you are still considering your pledge to St Mary’s, we appreciate your thoughtfulness and consideration. We hope to have pledges “in” by November 20th (that’s a change from “in” by November 14th) so we can give the Finance Committee a reliable estimate of the total pledges for 2023. The Finance Committee put their meeting off to give people an extra week so they will have a reliable dollar amount to work with when preparing a budget proposal. Again, thank you for your prayerful consideration in the stewardship season.

What are our goals?
  • We have set a target of pledges totaling $185,000. This will likely still put us in a deficit budget situation, but it is a decent increase over last year and we feel an obtainable goal. 
  • We are looking for 100% of active households to make a pledge. We feel that we have a strong community here, and hope that you all will show your commitment through a financial pledge.
  • We are asking that all pledges are received by November 14th. This will allow us to set our budget using true pledge information.
How can you pledge?
  • You can submit a pledge electronically through this link https://forms.gle/HVcrTHfVVrMhrkvF7
  • Paper forms are available in the pews at church
  • If you would like a paper form mailed to you, contact one of the stewardship chairs.
How can you pay your pledge?

Sign Up for Gingerbread Houses and the Christmas Pageant!

Gingerbread Houses
Sunday, December 4, 2022 about 11:15am

We also have planned to do Gingerbread houses on December 4, 2022 right after church! Anne and George Green have always been instrumental in this incredible event. I will also be helping them to make it great! Please let us know if you plan to be there for Gingerbread houses and if you plan to make a house. It is a great event, and we want to make sure we are prepared for the right number of people.  Sign Up Here

Thanks!
Mia

Christmas Pageant

I am trying to get a sense of how many kids I have to work with for the Christmas pageant. I need at least a quorum to make a play in person (which I would like to do). Please let me know if you plan to be in the Christmas Pageant…because the script I create will be based on the number of kids that I have to work with!

Christmas Pageant Practices  

  • We start practicing on Sundays during the Sunday School Time Slot 9:15-9:50 on 11/27, 12/4, 12/11 (3 and up welcome)
  • The main MANDATORY and most important practice is on Saturday, December 17, 9:00-12:00pm (Little kids will come at 10:30am.)
  • Christmas Pageant will be held on Sunday, December 18, 2022, either during or immediately after the service depending on what Reverend Lindsey would prefer. Stay tuned.
  • I will need parent help for this event – assuming we have enough kids to do this in person!

Sign Up Here

Let me know if you have any questions or concerns!

Thanks!
Mia

Education

Faith Formation for Children, Youth, and Families

Youth Group & Activities for 2022-23
Families with kids 0 through 6th grade

Food Drive for Department of Indian Works Food Pantry
in partnership with Interfaith Action of Greater Saint Paul

Housing insecurity, job loss, and inflation have folks reeling financially and leaning on food pantries for support. The Department of Indian Work’s has sent out a special request asking for donations of food and funds to meet the growing community need. Soups, side dishes, baking items, rice, pasta, and cereals are their greatest need.
 
How you can help
  • Drop off healthy, quality food to Saint Mary’s between Sunday, 11/20 to Sunday 12/11. 
  • Make a financial donation directly! The pantry’s skilled buyer will stretch every dollar to its limit!  
Please contact Tom Brown with any questions. email tomaso008 AT gmail.com or text 651-402-0495 

The Angel Tree is Back

We have the information for 20 children from Hamline Elementary school, the school to which our Galtier children were sent when their school closed. Each angel on our tree, which will be up in St. Mary’s room on November 27, will have a number (no names for privacy), gender, grade, clothing sizes, and the child’s teacher recommendation of a game/toy or book. We also would be happy to have contributions for gift certificates which the school social worker can give out during the year as she becomes aware of special needs. School is out for winter break early this year so we need all gifts returned by Sunday, December 11. Checks may be mailed to St. Mary’s or put in the offering plate at the back of the nave, noting Angel Tree in the memo line. Thanks to all in advance for your generosity and making Christmas morning special for a child who otherwise might have nothing.

 

Prayer Requests & Pastoral Care

Please pray for those on Saint Mary’s prayer list: Bishop Craig Loya as he leads the ECMN; ECMN; all front-line workers; teachers and those who support children and youth in education; all who have had hardships because of Covid; all who are homeless, unemployed, or struggling financially; doctors, nurses, caregivers, and all who care for the sick or dying; all who work for new systems of justice and equity; all those who are in need of some extra love, grace, peace, and good energy; all who are in need of prayer.

If you would like a name to be added to Saint Mary’s public prayer list or special prayer shared, please email Claire at clairehorton97 AT gmail.com. The prayer list will be updated weekly, and all prayers will remain on the list for one month unless otherwise requested.

Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey wants to get to know you! Our new priest is continuing to meet with everyone in the congregation. You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar through November for meetings. Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.  * If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

Little Food Pantry Donations

Please help keep the pantry full! Food Insecurity and the threat of eviction are both on the rise in the Twin Cities. We are needing an increase in donations to match the need. Also, please take food if you need it. This is a project in the spirit of mutual aid. Fill the pantry when you can, receive from the pantry when you need it.

 

 

 

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – November 11, 2022

by

Weekly Worship Service 

Sunday, November 13, 2022 – Twenty-third Sunday of Pentecost

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service. 

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am service on November 13, 2022 – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE

For the Fall service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the November 6 sermon video – Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

It’s Week Five of our Stewardship Campaign! We’ve now heard from Bruce Briese, Paulette Briese, Brian Nerbonne, Trevor Sannes, Julie Thomas, Anna Clark, Nina Johnson, Todd Reemtsma and Cathy McNaughton about why they’ll be making a pledge to support St. Mary’s this year. In a nutshell, here’s what Anna, Nina, Todd and Cathy had to say: 
  • Anna: St Mary’s has been my spiritual home for eleven years; drawn by the creativity and innovation of its services, I stay for the close community I have found here. We have all gone through great ups and downs in our personal lives, our community lives, and as a church. But we have come together, contributing our love, time, and support, and now we are rebuilding and regrowing with our wonderful new rector Rev. Lindsey Briggs.
  • Nina: We’ve been through earthquakes together that have shaken our foundations, personally and collectively. Through all this we continue to show up for each other!! I am so proud of how we show love to each other- this is the foundation on which we are rebuilding and re-energizing. There is so much potential here among us!
  • Todd: Why do I pledge? To be invested in something special. Years ago I would roll my eyes and gnash my teeth every time Minnesota Public Radio would have one of their periodic, multi-day fundraising events. “Why doesn’t someone just write them a big check?”, I would think to myself. But in listening to the hosts and their explanation, it became clear that participation and pride in membership was so much more important than a handful of people contributing to keep the radio station on the air. Whether it’s $1, $100, $1,000 or more it’s an indication of a commitment in supporting something you believe in. And just like public radio, Saint Mary’s is available to everyone regardless of their contribution. After all, this is God’s table, not our table, and all are welcome here.
  • Cathy: Stewardship is about more than money. It is about giving of yourself in new and varied ways.

As of Sunday, November 6th, 38 pledges have been turned in, totaling the dollar amount of $110,375 with our goal being $185,000. This accounts for 50% of our households…with our goal being 100% of our households. 

If you have already turned in a pledge, THANK YOU for doing so!! We appreciate your commitment to St Mary’s and your pledge helps give us a concrete amount to put in the 2023 budget.

If you are still considering your pledge to St Mary’s, we appreciate your thoughtfulness and consideration. We hope to have pledges “in” by November 14th so we can give the Finance Committee a reliable estimate of the total pledges for 2023. Those we haven’t heard from by Wednesday, November 9th, will be contacted personally by a Vestry member or a Stewardship Co-Chair. Again, thank you for your prayerful consideration in the stewardship season.

What are our goals?
  • We have set a target of pledges totaling $185,000. This will likely still put us in a deficit budget situation, but it is a decent increase over last year and we feel an obtainable goal. 
  • We are looking for 100% of active households to make a pledge. We feel that we have a strong community here, and hope that you all will show your commitment through a financial pledge.
  • We are asking that all pledges are received by November 14th. This will allow us to set our budget using true pledge information.
How can you pledge?
  • You can submit a pledge electronically through this link https://forms.gle/HVcrTHfVVrMhrkvF7
  • Paper forms are available in the pews at church
  • If you would like a paper form mailed to you, contact one of the stewardship chairs.
How can you pay your pledge?

Sign Up for Gingerbread Houses and the Christmas Pageant!

Gingerbread Houses
Sunday, December 4, 2022 about 11:15am

We also have planned to do Gingerbread houses on December 4, 2022 right after church! Anne and George Green have always been instrumental in this incredible event. I will also be helping them to make it great! Please let us know if you plan to be there for Gingerbread houses and if you plan to make a house. It is a great event, and we want to make sure we are prepared for the right number of people.  Sign Up Here

Thanks!
Mia

Christmas Pageant

I am trying to get a sense of how many kids I have to work with for the Christmas pageant. I need at least a quorum to make a play in person (which I would like to do). Please let me know if you plan to be in the Christmas Pageant…because the script I create will be based on the number of kids that I have to work with!

Christmas Pageant Practices  

  • We start practicing on Sundays during the Sunday School Time Slot 9:15-9:50 on 11/27, 12/4, 12/11 (3 and up welcome)
  • The main MANDATORY and most important practice is on Saturday, December 17, 9:00-12:00pm (Little kids will come at 10:30am.)
  • Christmas Pageant will be held on Sunday, December 18, 2022, either during or immediately after the service depending on what Reverend Lindsey would prefer. Stay tuned.
  • I will need parent help for this event – assuming we have enough kids to do this in person!

Sign Up Here

Let me know if you have any questions or concerns!

Thanks!
Mia

Education

Faith Formation for Children, Youth, and Families

Youth Group & Activities for 2022-23
Families with kids 0 through 6th grade

Adult Education – The Gospel of Mary
(Tuesdays 6:30pm – 7:30pm)

  • November 15th – “Art, Interpretation, Transformation”

If you’ve never heard of the Gospel of Mary, there’s a good reason. No one knew about this early Christian wisdom text until 1896, when it was discovered in a fifth-century papyrus codex in Egypt. Join Rev. Lindsey for a four-week series making meaning with this ancient text, where Mary Magdalen will be the guide on the path of discipleship.

Please sign up by email, revlindseybriggs@gmail.com, or text/call 612-444-1090.

St. Mary’s makes a difference in the world……yes, loans made by St Mary’s to people throughout the world, through the KIVA program, do make a difference in the world!! Because of donations by St Mary’s parishioners, we have been making loans through KIVA for about 15 years. As loans are being re-paid, we’re able to re-loan that money to other folks. Each time approximately $1000 has been re-paid, we re-loan those dollars. This happens four or five times each year…in 2022, over $1000 worth of loans were made in January, April, August and again on November 1st. 

Eleven loans were made to people in nine different countries…Nicaragua, Ruwanda, Samoa, Jordan, Paraguay, Vietnam, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova and El Salvador. These loans were for people on farms and in small businesses: an oven to roast beef and chicken for a growing restaurant business; clay, wood & stones to make African crafts; material and fabric paint to make traditional elei printed fabric; materials for wood painting and mosaics; materials to make ju lace, a traditional Paraguaian fabric; sand, cement and bricks to make a hygenic toilet; water and sewage pipes to bring clean water into the house and dirty water out of the house; materials needed to improve bathroom sanitary conditions; a heater for baby chicks; a calf to raise and ultimately get milk from for the children; and chickens and feed.

Prayer Requests & Pastoral Care

Please pray for those on Saint Mary’s prayer list: Bishop Craig Loya as he leads the ECMN; ECMN; all front-line workers; teachers and those who support children and youth in education; all who have had hardships because of Covid; all who are homeless, unemployed, or struggling financially; doctors, nurses, caregivers, and all who care for the sick or dying; all who work for new systems of justice and equity; all those who are in need of some extra love, grace, peace, and good energy; all who are in need of prayer.

If you would like a name to be added to Saint Mary’s public prayer list or special prayer shared, please email Claire at clairehorton97@gmail.com. The prayer list will be updated weekly, and all prayers will remain on the list for one month unless otherwise requested.

Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey wants to get to know you! Our new priest is continuing to meet with everyone in the congregation. You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar through November for meetings. Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.  * If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

Little Food Pantry Donations

Please help keep the pantry full! Food Insecurity and the threat of eviction are both on the rise in the Twin Cities. We are needing an increase in donations to match the need. Also, please take food if you need it. This is a project in the spirit of mutual aid. Fill the pantry when you can, receive from the pantry when you need it.

 

 

 

 

Saint Mary’s Weekly – November 4, 2022

by

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, November 6, 2022  –  Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost

For All Saints’ & All Souls’ Day Sunday take time to remember loved ones who’ve died by adding a name, photo, candle, or memento to our altar found on our first floor by the garth.
10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service.  We will be meeting in the round for the Eucharist.

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am worship on November 6, 2022 – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the November 6 Service Bulletin – Click HERE

For the Fall service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the October 30 sermon video –  Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

What’s in this Weekly?

Announcements

Stewardship 2023

Education

Outreach

Prayers & Pastoral Care in the Weekly

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

For the latest on COVID-19 and Worship at St. Mary’s – Click HERE

Announcements

Bishop Loya’s 2022 ECMN Convention Address – Watch & Talk

Let’s watch and talk about Bishop Loya’s inspiring convention address together. Some of the questions we’ll discuss: What are our metaphorical bricks at St. Mary’s? How can we lean deeper into the role Bishop Loya refers to as gardening? What do we need to let go of?
 
In person: Sunday, November 6th 11:15-12:15pm in the St. Mary’s Room
On Zoom: Sunday, November 6th, 8-9pm.* Click HERE. 
*Time chosen in hopes that parents with small children may be able to attend.
 
If you would like to watch, listen, or read the address in advance please follow the links provided:
 
 

A Message from the St. Mary’s Communications Team

In the next couple of weeks we will be making a transition of services for our email messages for the Weekly, Saint Mary’s Mornings, and other announcements. The new service will help us integrate more photos and images and will be part of creating a new look for our messages. We are going to do our best to make this transition as seamless as possible. Watch your inbox for changes in early November and email the Communications Team with any questions or comments.

Sign Up for Gingerbread Houses and the Christmas Pageant!

Gingerbread Houses
Sunday, December 4, 2022 about 11:15am
We also have planned to do Gingerbread houses on December 4, 2022 right after church! Anne and George Greene have always been instrumental in this incredible event. I will also be helping them to make it great! Please let us know if you plan to be there for Gingerbread houses and if you plan to make a house. It is a great event, and we want to make sure we are prepared for the right number of people.  
Christmas Pageant

I am trying to get a sense of how many kids I have to work with for the Christmas pageant. I need at least a quorum to make a play in person (which I would like to do). Please let me know if you plan to be in the Christmas Pageant…because the script I create will be based on the number of kids that I have to work with! 🙂

Christmas Pageant Practices  

  • We start practicing on Sundays during the Sunday School Time Slot 9:15-9:50 on 11/27, 12/4, 12/11 (3 and up welcome)
  • The main MANDATORY and most important practice is on Saturday, December 17, 9:00-12:00pm (Little kids will come at 10:30am.)
  • Christmas Pageant will be held on Sunday, December 18, 2022, either during or immediately after the service depending on what Reverend Lindsey would prefer. Stay tuned.
  • I will need parent help for this event– assuming we have enough kids to do this in person! 🙂

Sign Up Here

Let me know if you have any questions or concerns!

Thanks!
 
Mia

 

Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey wants to get to know you!  Our new priest is continuing to meet with everyone in the congregation.  You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar through November for meetings.  Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.

* If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

Little Food Pantry Donations

Please help keep the pantry full! Food Insecurity and the threat of eviction are both on the rise in the Twin Cities. We are needing an increase in donations to match the need. Also, please take food if you need it. This is a project in the spirit of mutual aid. Fill the pantry when you can, receive from the pantry when you need it.

Return to Top

A Message from the Stewardship 2023 Leaders

Stewardship: The careful and responsible managements of something entrusted to one’s care

It’s Week Four of our Stewardship Campaign! We’ve now heard from Bruce Briese, Paulette Briese, Brian Nerbonne, Trevor Sannes , Julie Thomas, Anna Clark and Nina Johnson about why they’ll be making a pledge to support St. Mary’s this year.

If you haven’t yet made your pledge, we hope you’ve been thinking about why you would make a pledge this year? How much can you give to support our community and ministry in this place?

Thank you all for your prayerful consideration in this season.

Your Stewardship Co-Chairs: Paulette Briese, Bruce Briese and Julie Thomas
 
STEWARDSHIP UP-DATE

As of Sunday, October 30th , 24 pledges have been turned in, totaling the dollar amount of $85,860 with our goal being $185,000. This accounts for 33% of our households…with our goal being 100% of our households.

If you have already turned in a pledge, THANK YOU for doing so!! We appreciate your commitment to St. Mary’s and your pledge helps give us a concrete amount to put in the 2023 budget.

If you are still considering your pledge to St Mary’s, we appreciate your thoughtfulness and consideration. We hope to have pledges “in” by November 14th so we can give the Finance Committee a reliable estimate of the total pledges for 2023. Those we haven’t heard from by
Wednesday, November 9th , will be contacted personally by a Vestry member or a Stewardship Co-Chair. Again, thank you for your prayerful consideration in the stewardship season

STEWARDSHIP Q & A

What are our goals?

  • We have set a target of pledges totaling $185,000. This will likely still put us in a deficit budget situation, but it is a decent increase over last year and we feel an attainable goal.
  • We are looking for 100% of active households to make a pledge. We feel that we have a strong community here, and hope that you all will show your commitment through a financial pledge.
  • We are asking that all pledges are received by November 14th. This will allow us to set our budget using true pledge information.

How can you pledge?

  • You can submit a pledge electronically through this link https://forms.gle/HVcrTHfVVrMhrkvF7
  • Paper forms are available in the pews at church
  • If you would like a paper form mailed to you, contact one of the stewardship chairs.

How can you pay your pledge?

  • You can pay by check, via automatic payments through your bank, electronically through Vanco on the website, even cash in an envelope!
  • You can pay on a schedule that best fits you – from weekly to once a year.
  • Check the website for all the information on how to give. How to give – Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church (saintmarysepiscopal.org)

Spending At St. Mary’s – What Your Stewardship Giving Pays For

St. Mary’s budgeted spending for 2022 is approximately $290,000. Adjusted for a full-time rector, this would have been a little over $300,000 (not including expenditures for our Interim Priest and Moving Expenses for our full-time priest). Currently stewardship accounts for about 74% of total revenue for St. Mary’s.
 
This spending occurs in several broad categories. The largest expenditure is for our full-time rector, which (adjusted for a full year) would be about $110,000. This is obviously more than just her salary and housing allowance. It also includes items such as medical and dental insurance, pension contributions, social security contributions and several smaller items.
 
The next largest expenditure category is for staff that St. Mary’s employs. This includes our Youth Christian Education Director, our Youth Mentor, our Music Leader, our Bookkeeper, and our Bulletin Editor. In total St. Mary’s spends a little over $60,000 for these staff persons.
 
The next largest category of expenditures is for our building. This includes items such as fuel for our furnace and other furnace related items, property insurance and several other categories. We spend about $60,000 in this category.
 
A fourth category of expenditures is Administration; we spend approximately $30,000. 
 
A fifth category is the diocesan pledge; the budget for this item is approximately $24,000.
 
The last category is outreach. We budget about $6,000 for this category.
 
We hope you find this information helpful as you prayerfully consider your pledge to St. Mary’s for 2023.
 
Your Stewardship Co-Chairs: Paulette Briese, Bruce Briese and Julie Thomas
 

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Education

Faith Formation for Children, Youth, and Families

Please click on one of the links under the “What’s In the Weekly?” section above for complete information on details and schedule for Children, Youth, and Families.

Adult Education – The Gospel of Mary (Tuesdays 6:30pm – 7:30pm)

November 8th – “Looking into the Heart of the Matter”

November 15th – “Art, Interpretation, Transformation”

If you’ve never heard of the Gospel of Mary, there’s a good reason. No one knew about this early Christian wisdom text until 1896, when it was discovered in a fifth-century papyrus codex in Egypt. Join Rev. Lindsey for a four-week series making meaning with this ancient text, where Mary Magdalen will be the guide on the path of discipleship.

Please sign up by email, revlindseybriggs@gmail.com, or text/call 612-444-1090.

Return to Top

Outreach

St. Mary’s Makes a Difference in the World…

…yes, loans made by St. Mary’s to people throughout the world, through the KIVA program, do make a difference in the world!! Because of donations by St. Mary’s parishioners, we have been making loans through KIVA for about 15 years. As loans are being re-paid, we’re able to re-loan that money to other folks. Each time approximately $1000 has been re-paid, we re-loan those dollars. This happens four or five times each year. In 2022, over $1000 worth of loans were made in January, April, August and again on November 1st .

Eleven loans were made to people in nine different countries: Nicaragua, Rwanda, Samoa, Jordan, Paraguay, Vietnam, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova and El Salvador. These loans were for people on farms and in small businesses: an oven to roast beef and chicken for a growing restaurant business; clay, wood & stones to make African crafts; material and fabric paint to make traditional Elei printed fabric; materials for wood painting and mosaics; materials to make Encaje Ju lace, a traditional Paraguayan fabric; sand, cement and bricks to make a hygienic toilet; water and sewage pipes to bring clean water into the house and dirty water out of the house; materials needed to improve bathroom sanitary conditions; a heater for baby chicks; a calf to raise and ultimately get milk from for the children; and chickens and feed.

Return to Top

Prayer Requests & Pastoral Care

Please pray for those on Saint Mary’s prayer list:  Bishop Craig Loya as he leads the ECMN; ECMN; all front-line workers; teachers and those who support children and youth in education; all who have had hardships because of Covid; all who are homeless, unemployed, or struggling financially; doctors, nurses, caregivers, and all who care for the sick or dying; all who work for new systems of justice and equity; all those who are in need of some extra love, grace, peace, and good energy; all who are in need of prayer.

If you would like a name to be added to Saint Mary’s public prayer list or special prayer shared, please email Claire at clairehorton97 at gmail.com. The prayer list will be updated weekly, and all prayers will remain on the list for one month unless otherwise requested.

Return to Top

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, & Meet-Ups
for the week of 11/4 – 11/10

Sunday, November 6, 2022
Family Gathering/ In-person Sunday School
9:00-9:15am
Contact MiaLisa for more information – Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, November 6, 2022
In-person Sunday School
9:15-9:50am
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, November 6, 2022
In-person and Virtual Worship Service
10:00am
Link

Sunday, November 6, 2022
Bishop’s Address from the 2022 ECMN Convention
11:15am – In-person in the Saint Mary’s Room
8:00pm – Virtual via Zoom at the Link below
Link

Tuesday, November 8, 2022
Adult Education – The Gospel of Mary
6:30pm
Contact Rev. Lindsey for more information – revlindseybriggs at gmail.com

Wednesday, November 9, 2022
Youth Group
6:30pm
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, November 9, 2022
NO Zoom Pre-Tweeners Tonight
6:30pm
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, November 9, 2022
NO Zoom Tweeners Tonight
7:00pm
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, November 9, 2022
Choir Rehearsal
7:00pm
Contact Vonda for more information at travelminstrel1 at gmail.com

Thursday, November 10, 2022
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
6:00pm
Contact Julie Thomas for more information – julieandcats at comcast.net

Thursday, November 10, 2022
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link (The Contemplative Service is In-person and Virtual)

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – October 28, 2022

by

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, October 30, 2022  –  Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am worship on October 30, 2022 – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the October 30 Service Bulletin – Click HERE

For the Fall service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the October 23 sermon video –  Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

What’s in this Weekly?

Announcements

Stewardship 2023

Education

Prayers & Pastoral Care in the Weekly

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

For the latest on COVID-19 and Worship at St. Mary’s – Click HERE

Announcements

A Message from the St. Mary’s Communications Team

In the next couple of weeks we will be making a transition of services for our email messages for the Weekly, Saint Mary’s Mornings, and other announcements. The new service will help us integrate more photos and images and will be part of creating a new look for our messages. We are going to do our best to make this transition as seamless as possible. Watch your inbox for changes in early November and email the Communications Team with any questions or comments.

Sign Up for Gingerbread Houses and the Christmas Pageant!

Gingerbread Houses
Sunday, December 4, 2022 about 11:15am
We also have planned to do Gingerbread houses on December 4, 2022 right after church! Anne and George Greene have always been instrumental in this incredible event. I will also be helping them to make it great! Please let us know if you plan to be there for Gingerbread houses and if you plan to make a house. It is a great event, and we want to make sure we are prepared for the right number of people.  
Christmas Pageant

I am trying to get a sense of how many kids I have to work with for the Christmas pageant. I need at least a quorum to make a play in person (which I would like to do). Please let me know if you plan to be in the Christmas Pageant…because the script I create will be based on the number of kids that I have to work with! 🙂

Christmas Pageant Practices  

  • We start practicing on Sundays during the Sunday School Time Slot 9:15-9:50 on 11/27, 12/4, 12/11 (3 and up welcome)
  • The main MANDATORY and most important practice is on Saturday, December 17, 9:00-12:00pm (Little kids will come at 10:30am.)
  • Christmas Pageant will be held on Sunday, December 18, 2022, either during or immediately after the service depending on what Reverend Lindsey would prefer. Stay tuned.
  • I will need parent help for this event– assuming we have enough kids to do this in person! 🙂

Sign Up Here

Let me know if you have any questions or concerns!

Thanks!
 
Mia
 

Installation Ceremony for Reverend Lindsey

Did you miss the Installation Ceremony for Reverend Lindsey?

To watch highlights from this wonderful event Click HERE.

Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey wants to get to know you!  Our new priest is continuing to meet with everyone in the congregation.  You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar through November for meetings.  Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.

* If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

Little Food Pantry Donations

Please help keep the pantry full! Food Insecurity and the threat of eviction are both on the rise in the Twin Cities. We are needing an increase in donations to match the need. Also, please take food if you need it. This is a project in the spirit of mutual aid. Fill the pantry when you can, receive from the pantry when you need it.

Volunteers Needed

Tuesday, November 1st at 10:30am
2-4 people needed to move 3 beds in Cathy McNaughton’s house.
If you are available, please call Cathy at 651-647-1609 or talk to her in church on Sunday.
Thank you!

Return to Top

A Message from the Stewardship 2023 Leaders

Stewardship: The careful and responsible managements of something entrusted to one’s care

Welcome to Week Four of our Stewardship Campaign! We’ve now heard from Bruce Briese, Paulette Briese, Brian Nerbonne, Trevor Sannes and Julie Thomas about why they’ll be making a pledge to support St. Mary’s this year.  In a nutshell, here’s what Trevor and Julie had to say: 

  • Trevor: I once was not a pledger but still gave and then I realized I wanted to do more to help make the St Mary’s community stronger. To do this I needed to pledge, providing data/numbers, to help our St Mary’s family make plans for our new chapter, a place where all are welcomed.
  • Julie: I believe in St. Mary’s – it’s strong community and potential. I ask all here to join me in making a tangible commitment to what we have together and what we can build going forward.

Have you been thinking about why you would make a pledge? How much you can give to support our community and ministry in this place?

Thank you all for your prayerful consideration in this season.

Your Stewardship Co-Chairs: Paulette Briese, Bruce Briese and Julie Thomas
 
STEWARDSHIP UP-DATE

Pledge numbers have not been updated this week. Tune in next week… and let’s hope for a big jump in both number of households pledging and total dollars pledged!!
Packets (including a letter, pledge form and self-addressed envelope) were mailed to all parishioners early this week inviting pledges by November 14th. If you didn’t receive a packet, please let one of the co-chairs (names above) know and we’ll get one out to you.  

STEWARDSHIP Q & A

What are our goals?

  • We have set a target of pledges totaling $185,000. This will likely still put us in a deficit budget situation, but it is a decent increase over last year and we feel an attainable goal.
  • We are looking for 100% of active households to make a pledge. We feel that we have a strong community here, and hope that you all will show your commitment through a financial pledge.
  • We are asking that all pledges are received by November 14th. This will allow us to set our budget using true pledge information.

How can you pledge?

  • You can submit a pledge electronically through this link https://forms.gle/HVcrTHfVVrMhrkvF7
  • Paper forms are available in the pews at church
  • If you would like a paper form mailed to you, contact one of the stewardship chairs.

How can you pay your pledge?

  • You can pay by check, via automatic payments through your bank, electronically through Vanco on the website, even cash in an envelope!
  • You can pay on a schedule that best fits you – from weekly to once a year.
  • Check the website for all the information on how to give. How to give – Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church (saintmarysepiscopal.org)

Spending At St. Mary’s – What Your Stewardship Giving Pays For

St. Mary’s budgeted spending for 2022 is approximately $290,000. Adjusted for a full-time rector, this would have been a little over $300,000 (not including expenditures for our Interim Priest and Moving Expenses for our full-time priest). Currently stewardship accounts for about 74% of total revenue for St. Mary’s.
 
This spending occurs in several broad categories. The largest expenditure is for our full-time rector, which (adjusted for a full year) would be about $110,000. This is obviously more than just her salary and housing allowance. It also includes items such as medical and dental insurance, pension contributions, social security contributions and several smaller items.
 
The next largest expenditure category is for staff that St. Mary’s employs. This includes our Youth Christian Education Director, our Youth Mentor, our Music Leader, our Bookkeeper, and our Bulletin Editor. In total St. Mary’s spends a little over $60,000 for these staff persons.
 
The next largest category of expenditures is for our building. This includes items such as fuel for our furnace and other furnace related items, property insurance and several other categories. We spend about $60,000 in this category.
 
A fourth category of expenditures is Administration; we spend approximately $30,000. 
 
A fifth category is the diocesan pledge; the budget for this item is approximately $24,000.
 
The last category is outreach. We budget about $6,000 for this category.
 
We hope you find this information helpful as you prayerfully consider your pledge to St. Mary’s for 2023.
 
Your Stewardship Co-Chairs: Paulette Briese, Bruce Briese and Julie Thomas
 

Return to Top

Education

Faith Formation for Children, Youth, and Families

Please click on one of the links under the “What’s In the Weekly?” section above for complete information on details and schedule for Children, Youth, and Families.

Adult Education – The Gospel of Mary (Tuesdays 6:30pm – 7:30pm)

November 1st – Altar Building for All Saints & All Souls

November 8th – “Looking into the Heart of the Matter”

November 15th – “Art, Interpretation, Transformation”

If you’ve never heard of the Gospel of Mary, there’s a good reason. No one knew about this early Christian wisdom text until 1896, when it was discovered in a fifth-century papyrus codex in Egypt. Join Rev. Lindsey for a four-week series making meaning with this ancient text, where Mary Magdalen will be the guide on the path of discipleship.

Please sign up by email, revlindseybriggs@gmail.com, or text/call 612-444-1090.

Return to Top

Prayer Requests & Pastoral Care

Please pray for those on Saint Mary’s prayer list:  Bishop Craig Loya as he leads the ECMN; ECMN; all front-line workers; teachers and those who support children and youth in education; all who have had hardships because of Covid; all who are homeless, unemployed, or struggling financially; doctors, nurses, caregivers, and all who care for the sick or dying; all who work for new systems of justice and equity; all those who are in need of some extra love, grace, peace, and good energy; all who are in need of prayer.

If you would like a name to be added to Saint Mary’s public prayer list or special prayer shared, please email Claire at clairehorton97 at gmail.com. The prayer list will be updated weekly, and all prayers will remain on the list for one month unless otherwise requested.

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, & Meet-Ups
for the week of 10/28 – 11/3

Sunday, October 30, 2022
Family Gathering/ In-person Sunday School
9:00-9:15am
Contact MiaLisa for more information – Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, October 30, 2022
In-person Sunday School
9:15-9:50am
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, October 30, 2022
In-person and Virtual Worship Service
10:00am
Link

Tuesday, November 1, 2022
Adult Education – Altar Building for All Saints & All Souls
6:30pm
Contact Rev. Lindsey for more information – revlindseybriggs at gmail.com

Wednesday, November 2, 2022
Youth Group
6:30pm
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, November 2, 2022
Zoom Pre-Tweeners
6:30pm
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, November 2, 2022
Zoom Tweeners 
7:00pm
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, November 2, 2022
Choir Rehearsal
7:00pm
Contact Vonda for more information at musicdirector at saintmaryespiscopal.org

Thursday, November 3, 2022
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
6:00pm
Contact Julie Thomas for more information – julieandcats at comcast.net

Thursday, November 3, 2022
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link (The Contemplative Service is In-person and Virtual)

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – October 21, 2022

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Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, October 23, 2022  –  Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am worship on October 23, 2022 – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the October 23 Service Bulletin – Click HERE

For the Fall service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the October 16 sermon video –  Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

What’s in this Weekly?

Announcements

Stewardship 2023

Education

Prayers & Pastoral Care in the Weekly

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

For the latest on COVID-19 and Worship at St. Mary’s – Click HERE

Announcements

A Message from the St. Mary’s Communications Team

In the next couple of weeks we will be making a transition of services for our email messages for the Weekly, Saint Mary’s Mornings, and other announcements. The new service will help us integrate more photos and images and will be part of creating a new look for our messages. We are going to do our best to make this transition as seamless as possible. Watch your inbox for changes in early November and email the Communications Team with any questions or comments.

Sign Up for Gingerbread Houses and the Christmas Pageant!

Gingerbread Houses
Sunday, December 4, 2022 about 11:15am
We also have planned to do Gingerbread houses on December 4, 2022 right after church! Anne and George Greene have always been instrumental in this incredible event. I will also be helping them to make it great! Please let us know if you plan to be there for Gingerbread houses and if you plan to make a house. It is a great event, and we want to make sure we are prepared for the right number of people.  
Christmas Pageant

I am trying to get a sense of how many kids I have to work with for the Christmas pageant. I need at least a quorum to make a play in person (which I would like to do). Please let me know if you plan to be in the Christmas Pageant…because the script I create will be based on the number of kids that I have to work with! 🙂

Christmas Pageant Practices  

  • We start practicing on Sundays during the Sunday School Time Slot 9:15-9:50 on 11/27, 12/4, 12/11 (3 and up welcome)

  • The main MANDATORY and most important practice is on Saturday, December 17, 9:00-12:00pm (Little kids will come at 10:30am.)

  • Christmas Pageant will be held on Sunday, December 18, 2022, either during or immediately after the service depending on what Reverend Lindsey would prefer. Stay tuned.

    I will need parent help for this event– assuming we have enough kids to do this in person! 🙂

    Sign Up Here

Let me know if you have any questions or concerns!

Thanks!
 
Mia
 

Installation Ceremony for Reverend Lindsey

Did you miss the Installation Ceremony for Reverend Lindsey?

To watch highlights from this wonderful event Click HERE.

To see the wonderful book that the children of St. Mary’s made and gifted to Rev. Lindsey at the Installation Ceremony Click HERE.

Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey wants to get to know you!  Our new priest is continuing to meet with everyone in the congregation.  You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar through November for meetings.  Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.

* If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

Little Food Pantry Donations

Food Insecurity and the threat of eviction are both on the rise in the Twin Cities. We are needing an increase in donations to match the need. Also, please take food if you need it. This is a project in the spirit of mutual aid. Fill the pantry when you can, receive from the pantry when you need it.

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A Message from the Stewardship 2023 Leaders

Stewardship: The careful and responsible managements of something entrusted to one’s care

Welcome to Week Three of our Stewardship Campaign! We’ve now heard from Bruce Briese, Paulette Briese and Brian Nerbonne about why they’ll be making a pledge to support St. Mary’s this year. In a nutshell, here’s what each had to say: 

  • Bruce:  “Pledging is a way of making a commitment beyond just giving money when you think you can. Pledging provides a baseline for monitoring what you have committed to give and a
    benchmark for thinking about pledging in future years.”
  • Paulette:  “For me, it’s all about relationships and community. I want this safe, caring place to not only be here for us, but to be here for anyone looking for a Christian community who finds their way to this building. I want people to feel God’s love, expressed through all of us, no matter who they are or where they are on their faith journey. I invite you to join me in making a pledge to St. Mary’s simply because we value this community and because, as one person said, ‘We’re here.'”
  • Brian: “A practical reason to pledge: The Vestry needs to know how much money will be available in the coming year to plan around. And a personal reason: St. Mary’s provides a place for me to learn how to be closer to my best self.”

Have you been thinking about why you would make a pledge? How much you can give to support our community and ministry in this place?

Thank you all for your prayerful consideration in this season.

Your Stewardship Co-Chairs: Paulette Briese, Bruce Briese and Julie Thomas
 
STEWARDSHIP UP-DATE

As of Sunday, October 16, 2022, 11 households have made a pledge to St. Mary’s totaling $40,100.  

STEWARDSHIP Q & A

What are our goals?

  • We have set a target of pledges totaling $185,000. This will likely still put us in a deficit budget situation, but it is a decent increase over last year and we feel an attainable goal.
  • We are looking for 100% of active households to make a pledge. We feel that we have a strong community here, and hope that you all will show your commitment through a financial pledge.
  • We are asking that all pledges are received by November 14th. This will allow us to set our budget using true pledge information.

How can you pledge?

  • You can submit a pledge electronically through this link https://forms.gle/HVcrTHfVVrMhrkvF7
  • Paper forms are available in the pews at church
  • If you would like a paper form mailed to you, contact one of the stewardship chairs.

How can you pay your pledge?

  • You can pay by check, via automatic payments through your bank, electronically through Vanco on the website, even cash in an envelope!
  • You can pay on a schedule that best fits you – from weekly to once a year.
  • Check the website for all the information on how to give. How to give – Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church (saintmarysepiscopal.org)

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Education

The St. Mary’s Tweeners – “Let’s Learn About the Episcopal Church”

Faith Formation for Children, Youth, and Families

Please click on one of the links under the “What’s In the Weekly?” section above for complete information on details and schedule for Children, Youth, and Families.

Adult Education – The Gospel of Mary (Tuesdays 6:30pm – 7:30pm)

October 25th – “Transformation in the Text”

November 8th -“Looking into the Heart of the Matter”

November 15th -“Art, Interpretation, Transformation”

If you’ve never heard of the Gospel of Mary, there’s a good reason. No one knew about this early Christian wisdom text until 1896, when it was discovered in a fifth-century papyrus codex in Egypt. Rev. Lindsey for a four-week series making meaning with this ancient text, where Mary Magdalen will be the guide on the path of discipleship.

Please sign up by email, revlindseybriggs@gmail.com, or text/call 612-444-1090.

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Prayer Requests & Pastoral Care

Please pray for those on Saint Mary’s prayer list:  Bishop Craig Loya as he leads the ECMN; ECMN; all front-line workers; teachers and those who support children and youth in education; all who have had hardships because of Covid; all who are homeless, unemployed, or struggling financially; doctors, nurses, caregivers, and all who care for the sick or dying; all who work for new systems of justice and equity; all those who are in need of some extra love, grace, peace, and good energy; all who are in need of prayer.

If you would like a name to be added to Saint Mary’s public prayer list or special prayer shared, please email Claire at clairehorton97 at gmail.com. The prayer list will be updated weekly, and all prayers will remain on the list for one month unless otherwise requested.

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, & Meet-Ups
for the week of 10/21 – 10/27

Sunday, October 23, 2022
Family Gathering/ In-person Sunday School
No Family Gathering/In-person Sunday School this week
Contact MiaLisa for more information – Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, October 23, 2022
In-person and Virtual Worship Service
10:00am
Link

Sunday, October 23, 2022
Vestry Meeting
7:00pm
Contact the Wardens for more information at wardens at saintmaryespiscopal.org

Tuesday, October 25, 2022
Adult Education – The Gospel of Mary
6:30pm
Contact Rev. Lindsey for more information – revlindseybriggs at gmail.com

Wednesday, October 26, 2022
Youth Group – Halloween Party!
6:30pm
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, October 26, 2022
Zoom Pre-Tweeners – Wear a costume!
6:30pm
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, October 26, 2022
Zoom Tweeners – Wear a costume!
7:00pm
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, October 26, 2022
Choir Rehearsal
7:00pm
Contact Vonda for more information at musicdirector at saintmaryespiscopal.org

Thursday, October 27, 2022
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
6:00pm
Contact Julie Thomas for more information – julieandcats at comcast.net

Thursday, October 27, 2022
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link (The Contemplative Service is In-person and Virtual)

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – October 14, 2022

by

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, October 16, 2022  –  Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am worship on October 16, 2022 – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the October 16 Service Bulletin – Click HERE

For the Fall service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the October 9 sermon video –  Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

What’s in this Weekly?

Announcements

Stewardship 2023

Education

Prayers & Pastoral Care in the Weekly

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

For the latest on COVID-19 and Worship at St. Mary’s – Click HERE

Announcements

Installation Ceremony for Reverend Lindsey

Did you miss the Installation Ceremony for Reverend Lindsey?

To watch highlights from this wonderful event Click HERE.

To see the wonderful book that the children of St. Mary’s made and gifted to Rev. Lindsey at the Installation Ceremony Click HERE.

All Parish Event at Big Stone Mini Golf **POSTPONED**

Please note that our Parish Fun Day at Big Stone Mini Golf is postponed. A number of kids who were interested in going are sadly home sick and with predictions of 40 degree weather. Spring might be a better time to spend the day together outdoors! (Did you see the snow Friday morning?!?)

 

Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey wants to get to know you!  Our new priest is continuing to meet with everyone in the congregation.  You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar through November for meetings.  Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.

* If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

Little Food Pantry Donations

Food Insecurity and the threat of eviction are both on the rise in the Twin Cities. We are needing an increase in donations to match the need. Also, please take food if you need it. This is a project in the spirit of mutual aid. Fill the pantry when you can, receive from the pantry when you need it.

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A Message from the Stewardship 2023 Leaders

Stewardship: The careful and responsible managements of something entrusted to one’s care

Welcome to Week Two of our Stewardship Campaign! During last Sunday’s service we heard from Bruce Briese about why he first made a pledge to support St. Mary’s, you will hear from others in the upcoming weeks. Have you been thinking about why you would make a pledge? How much you can give to support our community and ministry in this place?

This week I’d like to answer some questions.

What are our goals?

  • We have set a target of pledges totaling $185,000. This will likely still put us in a deficit budget situation, but it is a decent increase over last year and we feel an attainable goal.
  • We are looking for 100% of active households to make a pledge. We feel that we have a strong community here, and hope that you all will show your commitment through a financial pledge.
  • We are asking that all pledges are received by November 14th. This will allow us to set our budget using true pledge information.

How can you pledge?

  • You can submit a pledge electronically through this link https://forms.gle/HVcrTHfVVrMhrkvF7
  • Paper forms are available in the pews at church
  • If you would like a paper form mailed to you, contact one of the stewardship chairs.

How can you pay your pledge?

  • You can pay by check, via automatic payments through your bank, electronically through Vanco on the website, even cash in an envelope!
  • You can pay on a schedule that best fits you – from weekly to once a year.
  • Check the website for all the information on how to give. How to give – Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church (saintmarysepiscopal.org)

Thank you all for your prayerful consideration in this season.

Your Stewardship Co-Chairs: Paulette Briese, Bruce Briese and Julie Thomas

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Education

The St. Mary’s Tweeners – “Let’s Learn About the Episcopal Church”

Faith Formation for Children, Youth, and Families

Please click on one of the links under the “What’s In the Weekly?” section above for complete information on details and schedule for Children, Youth, and Families.

Adult Education – Sacred Space/Sacred Study (Tuesdays 6:30pm – 7:30pm)

Our adult education takes new shape, inviting us to dive deeper into each theme. In person and online opportunities will be available. Please contact Rev. Lindsey at 612-444-1090 or
revlindseybriggs at gmail.com to sign up for any of our Sacred Space/Sacred Study groups.

Ordinary Time: Discipleship
  • Gospel of Mary (10/18, 10/25, 11/8, 11/15) 
  • Altar Building for All Saints & All Souls (11/1)

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Prayer Requests & Pastoral Care

Please pray for those on Saint Mary’s prayer list:  Bishop Craig Loya as he leads the ECMN; ECMN; all front-line workers; teachers and those who support children and youth in education; all who have had hardships because of Covid; all who are homeless, unemployed, or struggling financially; doctors, nurses, caregivers, and all who care for the sick or dying; all who work for new systems of justice and equity; all those who are in need of some extra love, grace, peace, and good energy; all who are in need of prayer.

If you would like a name to be added to Saint Mary’s public prayer list or special prayer shared, please email Claire at clairehorton97 at gmail.com. The prayer list will be updated weekly, and all prayers will remain on the list for one month unless otherwise requested.

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, & Meet-Ups
for the week of 10/14 – 10/20

Sunday, October 16, 2022
Family Gathering/ In-person Sunday School
9:00-9:15am
Contact MiaLisa for more information – Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, October 16, 2022
In-person Sunday School
9:15-9:50am
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, October 16, 2022
In-person and Virtual Worship Service
10:00am
Link

Sunday, October 16, 2022
Parish Event at Big Stone Mini Golf
**POSTPONED**

Tuesday, October 18, 2022
Adult Education – Sacred Space Sacred Study
6:30pm
Contact Rev. Lindsey for more information – revlindseybriggs at gmail.com

Tuesday, October 18, 2022
Finance Committee Meeting
6:30pm
Contact Finance for more information

Wednesday, October 19, 2022
Youth Group
No Youth Group this week.
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, October 19, 2022
Zoom Pre-Tweeners
No Pre-Tweeners this week.
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, October 19, 2022
Zoom Tweeners
No Tweeners this week.
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Tuesday, October 20, 2022
Communications Team Meeting
5:30pm
Contact Communications for more information

Thursday, October 20, 2022
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
6:00pm
Contact Julie Thomas for more information – julieandcats at comcast.net

Thursday, October 20, 2022
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link (The Contemplative Service is In-person and Virtual)

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – October 7, 2022

by

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, October 9, 2022  –  Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service – Recognition of Deacon Jane Wells for her many years of service to St. Mary’s

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person. Pie and cake will be served to celebrate Deacon Jane.

To join the 10am worship on October 9, 2022 – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the October 9 Service Bulletin – Click HERE

For the Fall service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the October 2 sermon video –  Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

What’s in this Weekly?

Announcements

Stewardship 2023

Education

Prayers & Pastoral Care in the Weekly

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

For the latest on COVID-19 and Worship at St. Mary’s – Click HERE

Announcements

Installation Ceremony for Reverend Lindsey on October 12th!

St. Marians come together with clergy from the Episcopal Church of Minnesota in celebrating the installation of The Rev. Lindsey Briggs as our new Rector. The Rt. Rev. Craig Loya will be leading the service at 6:30pm followed by a joyous reception. This event will also be shared via Zoom/Live Stream for those unable to attend in person.

To join the 6:30pm Installation Ceremony on October 12, 2022 – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 056537
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 850 1099 6608

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 850 1099 6608
If asked for a passcode, use 056537

For the October 12 Installation Service Bulletin – Click HERE

Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey wants to get to know you!  Our new priest is continuing to meet with everyone in the congregation.  You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar for September through November for meetings.  Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.

* If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

Little Food Pantry Donations

Food Insecurity and the threat of eviction are both on the rise in the Twin Cities. We are needing an increase in donations to match the need. Also, please take food if you need it. This is a project in the spirit of mutual aid. Fill the pantry when you can, receive from the pantry when you need it.

Return to Top

A Message from the Stewardship 2023 Leaders

Stewardship: The careful and responsible managements of something entrusted to one’s care

Yes –St. Mary’s Stewardship Campaign is underway! During Announcement time on Sundays, starting October 9, you’ll be hearing from Vestry members and Stewardship Co-Chairs about “Why we pledge to St. Mary’s this year.” And yes, we’re inviting you to join us in discerning how we can best be stewards of our mission, community and facilities here at St. Mary’s. Please start thinking of how you can best step up to support St. Mary’s to be all we want for ourselves, each other, the surrounding community and the world. And yes, there are several ways to make your pledge:

  1. Paper copies of the pledge form will be in the pews starting this Sunday so you can fill out a form and place it in the offering plate at the back of the sanctuary.
  2. Stewardship information and pledge card on the website have been updated so you can make your pledge on line.
  3. You can request that a paper pledge form be sent to you by contacting any of the three co-chairs shown below.

And yes, we thank you for prayerfully considering your financial pledge to St. Mary’s and you’ll be hearing more from us over the next several weeks.

For the online version of the 2023 St. Mary’s Annual Pledge Form – Click HERE

Stewardship Co-chairs: Paulette Briese, Bruce Briese and Julie Thomas

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Education

The St. Mary’s Tweeners – “Let’s Learn About the Episcopal Church”

Faith Formation for Children, Youth, and Families

Please click on one of the links under the “What’s In the Weekly?” section above for complete information on details and schedule for Children, Youth, and Families.

Adult Education – Sacred Space/Sacred Study (Tuesdays 6:30pm – 7:30pm)

Our adult education takes new shape, inviting us to dive deeper into each theme. In person and online opportunities will be available. Please contact Rev. Lindsey at 612-444-1090 or
revlindseybriggs at gmail.com to sign up for any of our Sacred Space/Sacred Study groups.

Ordinary Time: Discipleship
  • Gospel of Mary (10/18, 10/25, 11/8, 11/15) 
  • Altar Building for All Saints & All Souls (11/1)

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Prayer Requests & Pastoral Care

Please pray for those on Saint Mary’s prayer list:  Bishop Craig Loya as he leads the ECMN; ECMN; all front-line workers; teachers and those who support children and youth in education; all who have had hardships because of Covid; all who are homeless, unemployed, or struggling financially; doctors, nurses, caregivers, and all who care for the sick or dying; all who work for new systems of justice and equity; all those who are in need of some extra love, grace, peace, and good energy; all who are in need of prayer.

If you would like a name to be added to Saint Mary’s public prayer list or special prayer shared, please email Claire at clairehorton97 at gmail.com. The prayer list will be updated weekly, and all prayers will remain on the list for one month unless otherwise requested.

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, & Meet-Ups
for the week of 10/7 – 10/13

Saturday, October 8, 2022
Volunteer at Feed My Starving Children (Chanhassen) with MiaLisa
2:00pm
Contact MiaLisa for more information – Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, October 9, 2022
Family Gathering/ In-person Sunday School
9:00-9:15am
Contact MiaLisa for more information – Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, October 9, 2022
In-person Sunday School
9:15-9:50am
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, October 9, 2022
In-person and Virtual Worship Service
10:00am
Link

Sunday, October 9, 2022
Confirmation at St. Anne’s
5:30pm
Contact Rev. Lindsey for more information –revlindseybriggs at gmail.com

Wednesday, October 12, 2022
Installation ceremony for Reverend Lindsey – In-person and Virtual
6:30pm
Link

Wednesday, October 12, 2022
Youth Group – Attending the Installation Ceremony
6:30pm
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, October 12, 2022
Zoom Pre-Tweeners
No Pre-Tweeners this week. Pre-Tweeners are invited to attend the Installation Ceremony.
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, October 12, 2022
Zoom Tweeners
No Tweeners this week. Tweeners are invited to attend the Installation Ceremony.
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Thursday, October 13, 2022
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
6:00pm
Contact Julie Thomas for more information – julieandcats at comcast.net

Thursday, October 13, 2022
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link (The Contemplative Service is In-person and Virtual)

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – September 30, 2022

by

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, October 2, 2022  –  Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service – St. Francis Day (Blessing of the Animals)

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

*A friendly reminder that the Twin Cities Marathon is on Sunday and folks crossing Summit from the South may need to adjust their travel plans.

To join the 10am worship on October 2, 2022 – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

For the October 2 Service Bulletin – Click HERE

For the Fall service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the September 25 sermon video –  Click HERE

NOTE: There will be a printed version of the Weekly at church on Sundays if you would like to pick one up for someone who is not receiving it electronically or see someone new who is not yet on our mailing list.

What’s in this Weekly?

Announcements

Stewardship 2023

Prayers & Pastoral Care in the Weekly

Education

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

Announcements

Installation Ceremony for Reverend Lindsey on October 12th!

St. Marians come together along with clergy from the Episcopal Church of Minnesota in celebrating the installation of The Rev. Lindsey Briggs as our new Rector. The Rt. Rev. Craig Loya will be leading the service at 6:30 pm followed by a joyous reception. This event will also be shared via Zoom/Live Stream for those unable to attend in person.

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Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey wants to get to know you!  Our new priest is continuing to meet with everyone in the congregation.  You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar for September through November for meetings.  Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.

* If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

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Saint Mary’s COVID Protocols (updated 6/30/2022)

  • Masks covering the nose and mouth are still required indoors.
  • 6’ physical (also known as “social”) distancing will not continue.
  • Lay Leader or Officiant will continue to read important announcements from lectern, including those from the Weekly Email, from the basket at the back of sanctuary and from the chat. Individual parishioners go to floor mic to request prayers. Anti-bacterial wipes will be available to wipe the mic for those who wish to do so.
  • Bread and wine will be distributed for communion. Wine will be served from the “pourable chalice”, so bring your small glasses or take a paper cup from an usher.
  • Communion will take place at the center aisle, either standing or kneeling.
  • Small processions are back.
  • Use Acolytes again (with parental permission)
  • Singing with masks in place!
  • Passing the peace with handshakes – yes, can do this. We need to respect that people have different comfort levels. Please check each person’s color dot and/or ask re their preference.
    • RED • dot – maintain social distance (peace sign, air hug)
    • YELLOW • dot – more comfortable coming closer (a wave, or a fist or elbow bump as a greeting)
    • GREEN • dot – willing to be close and are potentially open to hugs

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A Message from the Stewardship 2023 Leaders

Stewardship: The careful and responsible managements of something entrusted to one’s care

Yes – it’s that time of year again. Time for each of us to discern how we can best be stewards of our mission, community and facilities here at St. Mary’s. You can expect to hear more from your Stewardship Chairs in the upcoming weeks, but please start thinking of how you can best step up to support St. Mary’s to be all we want for ourselves, each other and the surrounding community.

Paulette Briese, Bruce Briese and Julie Thomas

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Prayer Requests & Pastoral Care

Please pray for those on Saint Mary’s prayer list:  Bishop Craig Loya as he leads the ECMN; ECMN; all front-line workers; teachers and those who support children and youth in education; all who have had hardships because of Covid; all who are homeless, unemployed, or struggling financially; doctors, nurses, caregivers, and all who care for the sick or dying; all who work for new systems of justice and equity; all those who are in need of some extra love, grace, peace, and good energy; all who are in need of prayer.

If you would like a name to be added to Saint Mary’s public prayer list or special prayer shared, please email Claire at clairehorton97 at gmail.com. The prayer list will be updated weekly, and all prayers will remain on the list for one month unless otherwise requested.

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, & Meet-Ups
for the week of 9/30 – 10/7

Sunday, October 2, 2022
Family Gathering/ In-person Sunday School
9:00-9:15am
Contact MiaLisa for more information – Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, October 2, 2022
In-person Sunday School
9:15-9:50am
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Sunday, October 2, 2022
In-person and Virtual Worship Service
10:00am
Link

Tuesday, October 4, 2022
Men’s Group
7:00pm
For more information email smmg at saintmaryespiscopal.org

Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Youth Group
6:30pm
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Zoom Pre-Tweeners
6:30pm
Contact MiaLisa for more information –Mialisamillares at gmail.com

Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Choir Rehearsal
7:00pm
Contact Vonda for more information –musicdirector at saintmarysepiscopal.org

Thursday, October 6, 2022
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
6:00pm
Contact Julie Thomas for more information – julieandcats at comcast.net

Thursday, October 6, 2022
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link (please note that the Contemplative Service returns to In-person and Virtual!)

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – September 9, 2022

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Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, September 11, 2022  –  Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am worship on September 11, 2022 – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

The September 11 Service Bulletin – Click HERE

For the Fall service song sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the September 4 sermon video –  Click HERE

What’s in this Weekly?

Announcements

Prayers & Pastoral Care in the Weekly

Education

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

Announcements

Rally Day September 18th!

Let’s kick off our program year with a bang!  Following the 10am worship service we will gather on the front lawn for a picnic extravaganza. Hot dogs, hamburgers, veggie burgers and beverages will be provided. Bring your favorite side dish, salad or dessert to share. If you are willing/able to help with set up, grilling or clean up please contact Julie Thomas (julieandcats at comcast.net). Remember- many hands make short work!

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Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey want to get to know you!  Our new priest is hoping to have met with everyone in the congregation.  You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar for September through November for meetings.  Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.

* If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

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Saint Mary’s COVID Protocols (updated 6/30/2022)

  • Masks covering the nose and mouth are still required indoors.
  • 6’ physical (also known as “social”) distancing will not continue.
  • Lay Leader or Officiant will continue to read important announcements from lectern, including those from the Weekly Email, from the basket at the back of sanctuary and from the chat. Individual parishioners go to floor mic to request prayers. Anti-bacterial wipes will be available to wipe the mic for those who wish to do so.
  • Bread and wine will be distributed for communion. Wine will be served from the “pourable chalice”, so bring your small glasses or take a paper cup from an usher.
  • Communion will take place at the center aisle, either standing or kneeling.
  • Small processions are back.
  • Use Acolytes again (with parental permission)
  • Singing with masks in place!
  • Passing the peace with handshakes – yes, can do this. We need to respect that people have different comfort levels. Please check each person’s color dot and/or ask re their preference.
    • RED • dot – maintain social distance (peace sign, air hug)
    • YELLOW • dot – more comfortable coming closer (a wave, or a fist or elbow bump as a greeting)
    • GREEN • dot – willing to be close and are potentially open to hugs

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Saint Mary’s Making a Difference in the World

About every 3 months, a few Saint Marians gather via zoom to make loans around the
world through the KIVA organization. Saint Mary’s has been making KIVA loans for over 10 years.
As previous loans are re-paid, those re-payments are put in a KIVA account for Saint Mary’s to re-
loan. When the KIVA account has grown to over $1000, it’s time to turn those dollars into
new loans. Recently, Saint Mary’s made 11 new loans to 9 different countries: Honduras, Kenya,
Ecuador, Philippines, Togo, Dominican Republican Tajikistan, El Salvador and Kyrgyzstan. What
do the people who receive these loans do with the money? These 11 loans provide hay for
livestock, cows, a new oven to do baking, a sewing machine to sew women’s clothing, spare
parts to repair vehicles, grocery store stock and vegetables to sell, fertilizer to increase growth
of fruits and veggies, fishing items to catch fish and farm supplies to increase food production.
All of these loans make it possible for people to earn money and provide a better quality of life
for their families and their communities. An exciting aspect of this loaning period is that 9 of
these loans were matched—If we loaned $100 it was matched with another $100!! Yes, Saint
Mary’s is making a difference in the world!

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“Welcome home, Wanderer. We’ve been saving a place for you at the campfire!”

This is the tag line for a live virtual conference called “Evolving Faith”. The conference
comes to us from Atlanta, GA, on Friday and Saturday, October 14 and 15. The cost is
$129/person. There will be wonderful, wise speakers, interactive Q&A in real time, breakout
sessions and robust spiritual care.
Three of us have already signed up for this conference and we’d love to have other Saint
Marians join us at one of our homes or at Saint Mary’s, depending on how many sign up. So in
addition to the breakout sessions and Q&A times for all conference attendees, we’ll be able
to discuss the presentations amongst ourselves as well. Contact any one of us if you’d like
more info about this conference or if you’d like to sign up or if you’d like a list of speakers.
Paulette Briese, Nina Johnson and Julie Thomas

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Prayer Requests & Pastoral Care

Please pray for those on Saint Mary’s prayer list:  Bishop Craig Loya as he leads the ECMN; ECMN; all front-line workers; teachers and those who support children and youth in education; all who have had hardships because of Covid; all who are homeless, unemployed, or struggling financially; doctors, nurses, caregivers, and all who care for the sick or dying; all who work for new systems of justice and equity; all those who are in need of some extra love, grace, peace, and good energy; all who are in need of prayer.

If you would like a name to be added to Saint Mary’s public prayer list or special prayer shared, please email Claire at clairehorton97 at gmail.com. The prayer list will be updated weekly, and all prayers will remain on the list for one month unless otherwise requested.

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Education

Youth Group & Activities for 2022-23

Hello everyone!
 
I can’t believe it is September! 
The last couple of years of the pandemic – we have moved away from our typical programming and centered our meetings on connection because that seemed to be the most important ministry we could offer. 
 
As we return to greater normalcy, we are releasing a youth group plan with a more typical schedule. We try to create a schedule that intertwines Spirituality, Discussion, Service learning, Connection, and Outings. And, this year, we have a great schedule! As always, this is our tentative schedule. Please note that changes can and do arise. As they arise, we change our Saint Mary’s Calendar, where all of this information lives. We are grateful to have a team that prioritizes and understands the importance of youth voice, spirituality, and the importance of fun, and connection. If, after reading this email, you still have a question or concern, please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly at mialisamcfarland at gmail.com or text me at 570-269-9688. 
 
What do I need to do?
Funny you should ask – I do actually need your help with something. Please fill out this Youth Group form – Click HERE. Yes, it is long. Yes, I need all of it filled out for each child. No, you do not need to fill it out more than once. It counts for all the activities. We do need it filled out before the first youth group. Although I am sending you an electronic form and most places recognize electronic signatures, I am asking for a handwritten signature (as there have been some instances in healthcare providers requiring them). Please return these signed forms via EMAIL to mialisamcfarland at gmail.com 
 
Who is eligible for Youth Group?
Any young person in 7th through 12th grade. You do not have to belong to Saint Mary’s to attend. Friends are always welcome and encouraged to attend.
 
When does the Youth Group meet?
Youth Group meets on Wednesday evenings from September 21, 2022 through May 31, 2023 from 6:30-8:00 pm. The group takes breaks noted on the main calendar. 
 
Where does the Youth Group meet?
Youth Group meets in the Youth Room (end of the hallway next to the old sacristy).
 
Who are the Youth Group leaders?
This year our Youth Group leader is Kat Lewis accompanied by Trevor Sannes and occasionally helped by Reverend Lindsey Briggs and Julie Phillips. 
 
What does a youth group session look like?
Youth Group has a loose structure (so it isn’t too much like school). It involves a Question of the Day, a Main Topic for the day (which might be a service project, an activity, or a discussion), and ends with a prayer/ meditation and some quiet time. 
 
Can you tell me the topics Youth Group will be covering?
 
September 21: Discussion – Group Covenant and Getting to Know One Another
September 28: Connection – Youth Group BBQ and Giant “Get to Know You” Jenga
October 5: Discussion – Enneagram
October 12: Spirituality – Installation of Reverend Lindsey
October 19: No Youth Group 
October 26: Connection –Halloween Party
November 2: Spirituality – All Souls/ All Saint Movie and Discussion (Coco)
November 9: Spirituality – Movie Continued and Discussion led by Lindsey on Death and Making Meaning
November 16: Outing – Can Can Wonderland Trip
November 23: No Youth Group
November 30: Spirituality – Artistic ways to engage with spirituality – music, art, journal reflection time, discipleship
December 7: Service Project – Angel tree 
December 14: Connection – Christmas Bonfire and Games
December 21: Connection – Hot cocoa and Christmas movie – Elf or Rudolph 
December 28: No Youth Group
January 4: No Youth Group
January 11: No Youth Group
January 18: Discussion – Faithful Innovation, What gifts do you have to help serve as the hands and feet of God?
January 25: Outing – Go to a Movie (TBD) 
February 1: Service Project – Souper Bowl of Caring Preparation
February 8: Connection – Game Night
February 15: Discussion Series on Justice – Biblical characters and intersectionality
February 22: Spirituality – Ash Wednesday Service
March 1: Discussion – Series on Justice
March 8: Connection – Murder mystery game party
March 15: Discussion – Series on Justice
March 22: Connection – Skit night
March 29: Discussion – Series on Justice
April 5:No Youth Group 
April 12: Discussion – Movie and Discussion (TBD)
April 19: Discussion – Movie and Discussion Continued (TBD) 
April 26: Discussion – Guest speaker on mental health, healthy relationships
May 3: Spirituality – Art and journaling spirituality night
May 10: Service Project – Feed my starving children (or another service project)
May 17: Connection – Karaoke
May 24: Outing – Bowling Trip
May 31: Outing/ Discussion – Walk for Ice Cream/ Make a plan for next year
June: Potential Lock In (TBD)
 
 
Additional Activities for Youth Groupers
 
Confirmation 2022-2023 
St. Anne’s Episcopal Church
September 25, 2022-April 29, 2023
5-7pm on 1 Sunday a month
St. Mary’s is joining forces with St. Anne’s and Christ Church for this year’s confirmation program. We’ll meet 1x monthly from September 25 – April 29th, Confirmation Day! The group will be led by the church’s three priests. Dinner will be served weekly as part of our time together. Email Rev. Lindsey if you’re interested in joining. Revlindseybriggs at gmail.com
 
Big Stone Mini Golf Meet Up
Saturday, October 16, 2022
Time TBD
After church, we will meet at Big Stone Mini Gold. It is a bit of a hike – but completely worth it. This family adventure is an ALL PARISH EVENT. You can choose to golf (you must pay cash – adults are $12 and kids are $10), or you can choose to just walk around the sculpture garden (free but suggested donation of $2). If you haven’t been there – it is a must-see for Minnesota.  
 
Youth Recognition Dinner and Service
Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church
May, 2023 (TBD when we get closer)
This is a special dinner for youth in the 7th through 10th-grade range where we acknowledge entering adulthood. The young person presents a toast to the family that is there to support them, and the family members toast the young person. A lovely dinner follows. On the next Sunday, the youth is honored and reminded of their baptismal covenant in this lovely ceremony. This year this dinner will be in May 2023
 
 
Interested in Helping Out At Church?
Are you interested in helping out with some of the roles at church? Would you like to be a lay leader? A Sunday School teacher or assistant? Someone who helps with music? If you are trying to find a way to connect with the church and need help– check in with MiaLisa on Sundays to learn more about opportunities that might interest you!
 
Senior Quilts
Date TBD as we get closer to the end of the school year
We honor seniors with quilts at the end of the year. If you are a senior and you are interested in receiving a quilt, please let MiaLisa know as soon as possible.

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Families with kids 0 through 6th grade

Hello everyone!

It is going to be an amazing fall and winter.  Hold onto your hats! We have a wild ride in store for you with so many fun adventures! This email is only for families with kids 0 through 6th grade.  If you have a youth grouper, a separate email will be forthcoming.

As summer comes to a close, we have been working hard here at Saint Mary’s to create new relevant plans for the 2022-2023 Faith Formation year!  We have a mix of programming this year. Most of our programming for kids has shifted to an in-person format (with masks) however, we do have some zoom programming (by the kids request).  For those of you that may not be familiar with the names of our groups and programs– I endeavor to explain them all below. In that way, you can get a good understanding of what might be a good fit for your young person. I hope this email helps to explain all the details for fall. However, if you have a question or concern, please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly at mialisamcfarland at gmail.com or text me at 570 – 269 – 9688. 

What do I need to do?

Funny you should ask– I do actually need your help with something. Please fill out this VERY SHORT registration form and media release.  It registers kids for all activities at church (Sunday School, Pre-Tweeners and Tweeners). Register here.

How will Sunday mornings work for families?

Families will show up for Family Gathering with their children. They wil stay for the short 15 minutes and then the children will depart until 9:50.  At that time, we will bring them out to the Saint Marys room so they can connect with you. 

What programming is available?

Parent Meeting for Sunday School

Sunday, September 18, 2022

9:00am in the Chapel

For Families with school aged children

  • I am holding a parent meeting to answer questions about how we are handling Sunday School classrooms in the midst of COVID and to answer any questions you may have about our curricula.

 

Family Gathering 

Sundays,  September 25, 2022- May 31, 2023

9:00-9:15am in the Chapel

For Families with young children

Led by MiaLisa Millares

  • Last year we tried a mini family worship service online.  It worked pretty well for online with kids.  We are doing the same format in- person for families. All are welcome– but the service is geared toward preschool and elementary aged kids. This is for families– not just for kids.  Please stay with your kids during this part. This Family Gathering will be in the Chapel. The format includes short intros, breathing, prayer, a story, a question, a song, blessings and a closing. 

 

Sunday School

Sunday, September 25, 2022 through May 31, 2023

9:15-9:50am in the Youth Room

For Kindergarten through sixth grade

Led by MiaLisa Millares, Brian Nerbonne, Trevor Sannes, Billy Lackey (There are two teaching teams.  Team 1- MiaLisa, Trevor and Billy  and Team 2-  MiaLisa and Brian

    • After Family gathering parents will leave and children will stay.  The Sunday School teachers will take the children through the old sacristy down the steps to the Youth Room. We are using the Whirl K-5 All Kids Curricula.  This is the same curricula we used for zoom Sunday school.  The kids liked it a lot. We will have an opening, watch a short (1 minute video from Whirl Kids), answer questions about the video, read a Bible story, discuss the story and do a craft or service project. In the month of December, Sunday School time is used to prepare for the Christmas Pageant. 
    • The lessons are as follows:
      • 9/25: In the Beginning
      • 10/2: Noah and the Flood
      • 10/9: Abraham and Sarah
      • 10/16: Joseph and His Brothers
  • 10/23: No Sunday School MEA Weekend
      • 10/30: Joseph in Egypt
      • 11/ 6: Deborah
      • 11/13: Elijah and Elisha
      • 11/20: Esther
      • 11/27: Daniel
      • 12/4:  Annunciation and Christmas Practice
      • 12/11:Mary Visits Elizabeth and Christmas Practice
      • 12/18: Jesus is Born and Christmas Practice
  • 12/25: No Sunday School, Christmas Day
  • 1/1: No Sunday School, New Years Day
    • 1/8: Sunday School resumes

 

Activities for Elementary Aged Kids

 

Zoom Programming: I was just as surprised as you are that the kids asked for this zoom programming to continue.  But, in short a quote from Penelope sums it up best. “I got to know kids in a way I somehow failed to do during Sundays at church.” And there you have it folks.  We will continue this part of the programming by kid request.

 

PreTweeners

Kindergarten through Fourth Grade

Led by MiaLisa Millares and Carmen Patterson

September 21- May 31 (there will be some weeks off for holidays)

Wednesday Evenings 6:30-7:00pm

  • The format is simple.  We do introductions and a question of the day.  We share the highs and lows of our week. Then we do a show and tell or short game.  We close with a prayer. This is all about connection with one another and getting to know each other better.

 

Tweeners

Third Grade through Sixth Grade

Led by MiaLisa Millares and Emily Topinka

September 21- May 31 (there will be some weeks off for holidays)

Wednesday Evenings 7:00-7:45pm

  • This year we are exploring a slightly different format for Tweeners.  We will still do introductions, question of the day and highs and lows. Then we will alternate in weeks. We will be using some of the Classroom curricula from Doing Good Together which focuses on gratitude, giving back and social justice.  Other weeks we will simply play games! We always end with a prayer. 

 

In-Person Fall/ Winter Activities for Pre Tweeners/ Tweeners –Click HERE

 

Feed My Starving Children

Saturday, October 8, 2022

2:00-3:45pm

This will be a parent/ child activity as we need a large number of parent chaperones to meet the quota for FMSC. 

 

Big Stone Mini Golf Meet Up

Saturday, October 16, 2022

Time TBD

After church we will meet at Big Stone Mini Gold.  It is a bit of a hike– but completely worth it.  This family adventure is an ALL PARISH EVENT.  You can choose to golf (you must pay cash adults are $12 and kids are $10) or you can choose to just walk around the sculpture garden (free but suggested donation $2). If you haven’t been there– it is a must see for Minnesota.  

 

Hopkins Stages Theater

November, Date TBD

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer 

We will be going as a group to see this play.  Again, this is a parent/ child activity (not a drop off activity).  

 

Gingerbread Houses

Sunday, December 4, 2022

11:15am

This family event led by Anne and George Green and supported by MiaLisa is a crowd pleaser. Just bring yourself and we will provide the graham crackers, frosting and candy to decorate the most charming Gingerbread House. 

 

Christmas Practive and Pageant 

Practice, Saturday, December 17, 2022

10:30am-12:30pm

Pageant, Sunday December 18, 2022

Time TBD

 

This year the Christmas Pageant will be in person.  As we have done in other “in-person” years, we will practice the script and learn the songs during Sunday School.  Our songs for the play this year will be Go Tell it On the Mountain, Angels We Have Heard on High and Joy to the World. Our pageant practice is scheduled for December 17, 2022 10:30-12:30pm. The pageant will be on December 18, 2022– the time is TBD. The snow day for the pageant will be January 8, 2023.

 

Epiphany Party with Pinata

Sunday, January 8, 2022

11:15am

 

We will rekindle our Epiphany party pinata tradition. As with tradition, we will have a pinate party for Epiphany. The kids always enjoy having a fun party and trying to knock the pinata 

 

Faith Formation at Home

There are 168 hours in a week and church is only one hour of that time. How are you and your family infusing spirituality and faith at home in the little things you do. Are you doing family service, saying prayers in the evening or at meals, practicing gratitude, doing an inspirational reading?  There are so many ways to infuse faith into your daily life.  I want to inspire families to do more faith formation at home (along with what we offer here at church too!)  But, our lives are SO busy– so I am going to make it easy for you! I put out a table in the Saint Mary’s room with some nice Sparkhouse resources for including Faith formation in your family life.  There are packets for different seasons.  I left out the Fall and Winter packets.  Each page is a very short way to have a faithful reflection around your dinner table.  I encourage you to give it a try!  

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, & Meet-Ups
for the week of 9/9 – 9/15

Sunday, September 11, 2022
In-person and Virtual Worship Service
10:00am
Link

Thursday, September 15, 2022
Saint Mary’s Communications Team Meeting
5:30 – 7:00pm
For more information email the Communications Team at – communications at saintmarysepiscopal.org

Thursday, September 15, 2022
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
6:00pm
Contact Julie Thomas for more information – julieandcats at comcast.net

Thursday, September 15, 2022
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link (please note that the Contemplative Service returns to In-person and Virtual!)

 

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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2022-2023 St. Mary’s Youth Group & Activities

by

Hello everyone!
I can’t believe it is September!
The last couple of years of the pandemic – we have moved away from our typical programming and centered our meetings on connection because that seemed to be the most important ministry we could offer.
As we return to greater normalcy, we are releasing a youth group plan with a more typical schedule. We try to create a schedule that intertwines Spirituality, Discussion, Service learning, Connection, and Outings. And, this year, we have a great schedule! As always, this is our tentative schedule. Please note that changes can and do arise. As they arise, we change our Saint Mary’s Calendar, where all of this information lives. We are grateful to have a team that prioritizes and understands the importance of youth voice, spirituality, and the importance of fun, and connection.
What do I need to do?
Funny you should ask – I do actually need your help with something. Please fill out this Youth Group form – Click HERE. Yes, it is long. Yes, I need all of it filled out for each child. No, you do not need to fill it out more than once. It counts for all the activities. We do need it filled out before the first youth group. Although I am sending you an electronic form and most places recognize electronic signatures, I am asking for a handwritten signature (as there have been some instances in healthcare providers requiring them). Please return these signed forms via EMAIL 
Who is eligible for Youth Group?
Any young person in 7th through 12th grade. You do not have to belong to Saint Mary’s to attend. Friends are always welcome and encouraged to attend.
When does the Youth Group meet?
Youth Group meets on Wednesday evenings from September 21, 2022 through May 31, 2023 from 6:30-8:00 pm. The group takes breaks noted on the main calendar.
Where does the Youth Group meet?
Youth Group meets in the Youth Room (end of the hallway next to the old sacristy).
Who are the Youth Group leaders?
This year our Youth Group leader is Kat Lewis accompanied by Trevor Sannes and occasionally helped by Reverend Lindsey Briggs and Julie Phillips.
What does a youth group session look like?
Youth Group has a loose structure (so it isn’t too much like school). It involves a Question of the Day, a Main Topic for the day (which might be a service project, an activity, or a discussion), and ends with a prayer/ meditation and some quiet time.
Can you tell me the topics Youth Group will be covering?
September 21: Discussion – Group Covenant and Getting to Know One Another
September 28: Connection – Youth Group BBQ and Giant “Get to Know You” Jenga
October 5: Discussion – Enneagram
October 12: Spirituality – Installation of Reverend Lindsey
October 19: No Youth Group
October 26: Connection –Halloween Party
November 2: Spirituality – All Souls/ All Saint Movie and Discussion (Coco)
November 9: Spirituality – Movie Continued and Discussion led by Lindsey on Death and Making Meaning
November 16: Outing – Can Can Wonderland Trip
November 23: No Youth Group
November 30: Spirituality – Artistic ways to engage with spirituality – music, art, journal reflection time, discipleship
December 7: Service Project – Angel tree
December 14: Connection – Christmas Bonfire and Games
December 21: Connection – Hot cocoa and Christmas movie – Elf or Rudolph
December 28: No Youth Group
January 4: No Youth Group
January 11: No Youth Group
January 18: Discussion – Faithful Innovation, What gifts do you have to help serve as the hands and feet of God?
January 25: Outing – Go to a Movie (TBD)
February 1: Service Project – Souper Bowl of Caring Preparation
February 8: Connection – Game Night
February 15: Discussion Series on Justice – Biblical characters and intersectionality
February 22: Spirituality – Ash Wednesday Service
March 1: Discussion – Series on Justice
March 8: Connection – Murder mystery game party
March 15: Discussion – Series on Justice
March 22: Connection – Skit night
March 29: Discussion – Series on Justice
April 5:No Youth Group
April 12: Discussion – Movie and Discussion (TBD)
April 19: Discussion – Movie and Discussion Continued (TBD)
April 26: Discussion – Guest speaker on mental health, healthy relationships
May 3: Spirituality – Art and journaling spirituality night
May 10: Service Project – Feed my starving children (or another service project)
May 17: Connection – Karaoke
May 24: Outing – Bowling Trip
May 31: Outing/ Discussion – Walk for Ice Cream/ Make a plan for next year
June: Potential Lock In (TBD)
Additional Activities for Youth Groupers
Confirmation 2022-2023 
St. Anne’s Episcopal Church
September 25, 2022-April 29, 2023
5-7pm on 1 Sunday a month
St. Mary’s is joining forces with St. Anne’s and Christ Church for this year’s confirmation program. We’ll meet 1x monthly from September 25 – April 29th, Confirmation Day! The group will be led by the church’s three priests. Dinner will be served weekly as part of our time together. Email Rev. Lindsey if you’re interested in joining. Revlindseybriggs at gmail.com
Big Stone Mini Golf Meet Up
Saturday, October 16, 2022
Time TBD
After church, we will meet at Big Stone Mini Gold. It is a bit of a hike – but completely worth it. This family adventure is an ALL PARISH EVENT. You can choose to golf (you must pay cash – adults are $12 and kids are $10), or you can choose to just walk around the sculpture garden (free but suggested donation of $2). If you haven’t been there – it is a must-see for Minnesota.
Youth Recognition Dinner and Service
Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church
May, 2023 (TBD when we get closer)
This is a special dinner for youth in the 7th through 10th-grade range where we acknowledge entering adulthood. The young person presents a toast to the family that is there to support them, and the family members toast the young person. A lovely dinner follows. On the next Sunday, the youth is honored and reminded of their baptismal covenant in this lovely ceremony. This year this dinner will be in May 2023
Interested in Helping Out At Church?
Are you interested in helping out with some of the roles at church? Would you like to be a lay leader? A Sunday School teacher or assistant? Someone who helps with music? If you are trying to find a way to connect with the church and need help– check in with MiaLisa on Sundays to learn more about opportunities that might interest you!
Senior Quilts
Date TBD as we get closer to the end of the school year
We honor seniors with quilts at the end of the year. If you are a senior and you are interested in receiving a quilt, please let us know as soon as possible.

Saint Mary’s Weekly – September 2, 2022

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Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, September 4, 2022  –  Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost

10:00am – Hybrid (In-Person and Zoom) Eucharist Service

After the service, a Zoom social gathering will be held for those worshiping virtually, and a social gathering outside (in the entryway in inclement weather) for those worshiping in-person.

To join the 10am worship on September 4, 2022 – Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625

The September 4 Service Bulletin – Click HERE

For the Fall service song sheet – Click HERE

For a supplemental music lyric sheet – Click HERE

We invite you to view the August 28 sermon video –  Click HERE

What’s in this Weekly?

Announcements

Prayers & Pastoral Care in the Weekly

Education

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

Announcements

Meet with Rev. Lindsey

Rev. Lindsey want to get to know you!  Our new priest is hoping to have met with everyone in the congregation.  You can meet with her as an individual* or family; at church, on Zoom, or for a home visit. Rev. Lindsey has updated her calendar for September through November for meetings.  Click HERE to find a time that works for you to meet with Rev. Lindsey Briggs.

* If you are a youth, please sign up with an adult.

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Saint Mary’s COVID Protocols (updated 6/30/2022)

  • Masks covering the nose and mouth are still required indoors.
  • 6’ physical (also known as “social”) distancing will not continue.
  • Lay Leader or Officiant will continue to read important announcements from lectern, including those from the Weekly Email, from the basket at the back of sanctuary and from the chat. Individual parishioners go to floor mic to request prayers. Anti-bacterial wipes will be available to wipe the mic for those who wish to do so.
  • Bread and wine will be distributed for communion. Wine will be served from the “pourable chalice”, so bring your small glasses or take a paper cup from an usher.
  • Communion will take place at the center aisle, either standing or kneeling.
  • Small processions are back.
  • Use Acolytes again (with parental permission)
  • Singing with masks in place!
  • Passing the peace with handshakes – yes, can do this. We need to respect that people have different comfort levels. Please check each person’s color dot and/or ask re their preference.
    • RED • dot – maintain social distance (peace sign, air hug)
    • YELLOW • dot – more comfortable coming closer (a wave, or a fist or elbow bump as a greeting)
    • GREEN • dot – willing to be close and are potentially open to hugs

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Saint Mary’s Making a Difference in the World

About every 3 months, a few Saint Marians gather via zoom to make loans around the
world through the KIVA organization. Saint Mary’s has been making KIVA loans for over 10 years.
As previous loans are re-paid, those re-payments are put in a KIVA account for Saint Mary’s to re-
loan. When the KIVA account has grown to over $1000, it’s time to turn those dollars into
new loans. Recently, Saint Mary’s made 11 new loans to 9 different countries: Honduras, Kenya,
Ecuador, Philippines, Togo, Dominican Republican Tajikistan, El Salvador and Kyrgyzstan. What
do the people who receive these loans do with the money? These 11 loans provide hay for
livestock, cows, a new oven to do baking, a sewing machine to sew women’s clothing, spare
parts to repair vehicles, grocery store stock and vegetables to sell, fertilizer to increase growth
of fruits and veggies, fishing items to catch fish and farm supplies to increase food production.
All of these loans make it possible for people to earn money and provide a better quality of life
for their families and their communities. An exciting aspect of this loaning period is that 9 of
these loans were matched—If we loaned $100 it was matched with another $100!! Yes, Saint
Mary’s is making a difference in the world!

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“Welcome home, Wanderer. We’ve been saving a place for you at the campfire!”

This is the tag line for a live virtual conference called “Evolving Faith”. The conference
comes to us from Atlanta, GA, on Friday and Saturday, October 14 and 15. The cost is
$129/person. There will be wonderful, wise speakers, interactive Q&A in real time, breakout
sessions and robust spiritual care.
Three of us have already signed up for this conference and we’d love to have other Saint
Marians join us at one of our homes or at Saint Mary’s, depending on how many sign up. So in
addition to the breakout sessions and Q&A times for all conference attendees, we’ll be able
to discuss the presentations amongst ourselves as well. Contact any one of us if you’d like
more info about this conference or if you’d like to sign up or if you’d like a list of speakers.
Paulette Briese, Nina Johnson and Julie Thomas

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Prayer Requests & Pastoral Care

Please pray for those on Saint Mary’s prayer list:  Bishop Craig Loya as he leads the ECMN; ECMN; all front-line workers; teachers and those who support children and youth in education; all who have had hardships because of Covid; all who are homeless, unemployed, or struggling financially; doctors, nurses, caregivers, and all who care for the sick or dying; all who work for new systems of justice and equity; all those who are in need of some extra love, grace, peace, and good energy; all who are in need of prayer.

If you would like a name to be added to Saint Mary’s public prayer list or special prayer shared, please email Claire at clairehorton97 at gmail.com. The prayer list will be updated weekly, and all prayers will remain on the list for one month unless otherwise requested.

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Education

Families with kids 0 through 6th grade

Hello everyone!

It is going to be an amazing fall and winter.  Hold onto your hats! We have a wild ride in store for you with so many fun adventures! This email is only for families with kids 0 through 6th grade.  If you have a youth grouper, a separate email will be forthcoming.

As summer comes to a close, we have been working hard here at Saint Mary’s to create new relevant plans for the 2022-2023 Faith Formation year!  We have a mix of programming this year. Most of our programming for kids has shifted to an in-person format (with masks) however, we do have some zoom programming (by the kids request).  For those of you that may not be familiar with the names of our groups and programs– I endeavor to explain them all below. In that way, you can get a good understanding of what might be a good fit for your young person. I hope this email helps to explain all the details for fall. However, if you have a question or concern, please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly at mialisamcfarland at gmail.com or text me at 570 – 269 – 9688. 

What do I need to do?

Funny you should ask– I do actually need your help with something. Please fill out this VERY SHORT registration form and media release.  It registers kids for all activities at church (Sunday School, Pre-Tweeners and Tweeners). Register here.

How will Sunday mornings work for families?

Families will show up for Family Gathering with their children. They wil stay for the short 15 minutes and then the children will depart until 9:50.  At that time, we will bring them out to the Saint Marys room so they can connect with you. 

What programming is available?

Parent Meeting for Sunday School

Sunday, September 18, 2022

9:00am in the Chapel

For Families with school aged children

  • I am holding a parent meeting to answer questions about how we are handling Sunday School classrooms in the midst of COVID and to answer any questions you may have about our curricula.

 

Family Gathering 

Sundays,  September 25, 2022- May 31, 2022

9:00-9:15am in the Chapel

For Families with young children

Led by MiaLisa Millares

  • Last year we tried a mini family worship service online.  It worked pretty well for online with kids.  We are doing the same format in- person for families. All are welcome– but the service is geared toward preschool and elementary aged kids. This is for families– not just for kids.  Please stay with your kids during this part. This Family Gathering will be in the Chapel. The format includes short intros, breathing, prayer, a story, a question, a song, blessings and a closing. 

 

Sunday School

Sunday, September 25, 2022 through May 31, 2022

9:15-9:50am in the Youth Room

For Kindergarten through sixth grade

Led by MiaLisa Millares, Brian Nerbonne, Trevor Sannes, Billy Lackey (There are two teaching teams.  Team 1- MiaLisa, Trevor and Billy  and Team 2-  MiaLisa and Brian

    • After Family gathering parents will leave and children will stay.  The Sunday School teachers will take the children through the old sacristy down the steps to the Youth Room. We are using the Whirl K-5 All Kids Curricula.  This is the same curricula we used for zoom Sunday school.  The kids liked it a lot. We will have an opening, watch a short (1 minute video from Whirl Kids), answer questions about the video, read a Bible story, discuss the story and do a craft or service project. In the month of December, Sunday School time is used to prepare for the Christmas Pageant. 
    • The lessons are as follows:
      • 9/25: In the Beginning
      • 10/2: Noah and the Flood
      • 10/9: Abraham and Sarah
      • 10/16: Joseph and His Brothers
  • 10/23: No Sunday School MEA Weekend
      • 10/30: Joseph in Egypt
      • 11/ 6: Deborah
      • 11/13: Elijah and Elisha
      • 11/20: Esther
      • 11/27: Daniel
      • 12/4:  Annunciation and Christmas Practice
      • 12/11:Mary Visits Elizabeth and Christmas Practice
      • 12/18: Jesus is Born and Christmas Practice
  • 12/25: No Sunday School, Christmas Day
  • 1/1: No Sunday School, New Years Day
    • 1/8: Sunday School resumes

 

Activities for Elementary Aged Kids

 

Zoom Programming: I was just as surprised as you are that the kids asked for this zoom programming to continue.  But, in short a quote from Penelope sums it up best. “I got to know kids in a way I somehow failed to do during Sundays at church.” And there you have it folks.  We will continue this part of the programming by kid request.

 

PreTweeners

Kindergarten through Fourth Grade

Led by MiaLisa Millares and Carmen Patterson

September 21- May 31 (there will be some weeks off for holidays)

Wednesday Evenings 6:30-7:00pm

  • The format is simple.  We do introductions and a question of the day.  We share the highs and lows of our week. Then we do a show and tell or short game.  We close with a prayer. This is all about connection with one another and getting to know each other better.

 

Tweeners

Third Grade through Sixth Grade

Led by MiaLisa Millares and Emily Topinka

September 21- May 31 (there will be some weeks off for holidays)

Wednesday Evenings 7:00-7:45pm

  • This year we are exploring a slightly different format for Tweeners.  We will still do introductions, question of the day and highs and lows. Then we will alternate in weeks. We will be using some of the Classroom curricula from Doing Good Together which focuses on gratitude, giving back and social justice.  Other weeks we will simply play games! We always end with a prayer. 

 

In-Person Fall/ Winter Activities for Pre Tweeners/ Tweeners –Click HERE

 

Feed My Starving Children

Saturday, October 8, 2022

2:00-3:45pm

This will be a parent/ child activity as we need a large number of parent chaperones to meet the quota for FMSC. 

 

Big Stone Mini Golf Meet Up

Saturday, October 16, 2022

Time TBD

After church we will meet at Big Stone Mini Gold.  It is a bit of a hike– but completely worth it.  This family adventure is an ALL PARISH EVENT.  You can choose to golf (you must pay cash adults are $12 and kids are $10) or you can choose to just walk around the sculpture garden (free but suggested donation $2). If you haven’t been there– it is a must see for Minnesota.  

 

Hopkins Stages Theater

November, Date TBD

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer 

We will be going as a group to see this play.  Again, this is a parent/ child activity (not a drop off activity).  

 

Gingerbread Houses

Sunday, December 4, 2022

11:15am

This family event led by Anne and George Green and supported by MiaLisa is a crowd pleaser. Just bring yourself and we will provide the graham crackers, frosting and candy to decorate the most charming Gingerbread House. 

 

Christmas Practive and Pageant 

Practice, Saturday, December 17, 2022

10:30am-12:30pm

Pageant, Sunday December 18, 2022

Time TBD

 

This year the Christmas Pageant will be in person.  As we have done in other “in-person” years, we will practice the script and learn the songs during Sunday School.  Our songs for the play this year will be Go Tell it On the Mountain, Angels We Have Heard on High and Joy to the World. Our pageant practice is scheduled for December 17, 2022 10:30-12:30pm. The pageant will be on December 18, 2022– the time is TBD. The snow day for the pageant will be January 8, 2023.

 

Epiphany Party with Pinata

Sunday, January 8, 2022

11:15am

 

We will rekindle our Epiphany party pinata tradition. As with tradition, we will have a pinate party for Epiphany. The kids always enjoy having a fun party and trying to knock the pinata 

 

Faith Formation at Home

There are 168 hours in a week and church is only one hour of that time. How are you and your family infusing spirituality and faith at home in the little things you do. Are you doing family service, saying prayers in the evening or at meals, practicing gratitude, doing an inspirational reading?  There are so many ways to infuse faith into your daily life.  I want to inspire families to do more faith formation at home (along with what we offer here at church too!)  But, our lives are SO busy– so I am going to make it easy for you! I put out a table in the Saint Mary’s room with some nice Sparkhouse resources for including Faith formation in your family life.  There are packets for different seasons.  I left out the Fall and Winter packets.  Each page is a very short way to have a faithful reflection around your dinner table.  I encourage you to give it a try!  

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, & Meet-Ups
for the week of 9/2 – 9/8

Sunday, September 4, 2022
In-person and Virtual Worship Service
10:00am
Link

Thursday, September 8, 2022
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
6:00pm
Contact Julie Thomas for more information – julieandcats at comcast.net

Thursday, September 8, 2022
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link (please note that the Contemplative Service returns to In-person and Virtual!)

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – January 28, 2022

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IMPORTANT NOTICE: St. Mary’s continues Virtual Services until the end of February

Weekly Worship Service
Sunday, January 30, 2022

  • First Message: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13
  • Gospel: Luke 4:21-30
10:00am – Virtual Eucharist Worship Service via Zoom. The Reverend Susan Moss will be the celebrant and preacher. Stick around after the service for a Zoom social gathering.
No in-person service. Worship is via Zoom only.
To join the 10am worship on January 30, 2022 Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967
 
To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625
 
For the January 30th Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the Epiphany Songbook – Click HERE

What’s in this Weekly?

Worship Team

Keeping our community safe and healthy

Opportunities to serve St. Mary’s

Finance Committee

Search Committee

Children and Youth

Outreach & Education

Prayers in the Weekly

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

  • New!: The Evening Compline Service has moved from Tuesday nights to Monday nights at 7:30pm.
  • New!: The Thursday evening Contemplative Service will be Zoom only until the end of February and will then be reassessed.

Worship Team

Liturgy Matters at St. Mary’s from Paulette Briese, Chair of the Worship Team

The Worship Team will soon be looking ahead and planning for worship services during Lent. Over the past 14 or so months, we’ve tried very hard to have elements in every service that would be familiar to each and everyone of you. Knowing our one worship service can’t be “all things to all people”, we still wonder what people are longing for. So, we’re asking you…asking you to let us know what it is you’re yearning for and why this is important to you. Please use the feedback “Click HERE” below and respond by February 8th so we’ll have your thoughts before our next meeting. Thank you for sharing your yearnings with us.

What’s New?
  • To hear The Reverend Debbie Brown’s homily given at St Mary’s on January 23, Click HERE.
  • At the January 25th meeting of the Vestry, the decision was made to continue “Zoom Only” services through the month of February, with Ash Wednesday (March 2) tentatively being our first hybrid (In-person & Zoom) service. The COVID numbers in Ramsey County continue to be high and keeping people as safe as possible is our primary concern. The Vestry will review and reassess at the February 22nd meeting.
  • Come to Zoom church and see faces you may not have seen for awhile. Even though it’s been great to have both the Zoom and in-person worship options, it’s also nice to have the community gathered all together.
  • Do you know about “Lent Madness”?? What’s “Lent Madness” you say? Stay tuned!!

Feedback is welcome!
Expect changes as we try things, see how they work and make improvements! Your feedback is more important than ever before to help us know what’s working well and what isn’t. Please send your thoughts, ideas, suggestions to the Worship Team.

Click HERE to give feedback. Thanks!

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St. Mary’s continues Virtual Services through the end of February

The COVID wave may soon be peaking, but we have a ways to go before it dissipates. On Tuesday, January 25, the St. Mary’s vestry discussed whether to resume holding in-person worship services. We have continued to watch the cathedral, which has said they will not return in-person until case rates approach 100. Right now in Ramsey County we are over twice that rate. With this in mind, the vestry has decided to continue with virtual services through the end of February. Our first in-person service is slated to be on Ash Wednesday, March 2, in time for the start of Lent.
 
We recognize that this news may disappoint some people. In-person worship is an important ritual and social function for many of us, and it is hard for virtual services to fully replace that experience. We all hope conditions improve by March so that we can follow through on the plan to return to in-person. Until then, we hope to have you join us online for services.
 
Sincerely,
 
The St. Mary’s Vestry

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Ask not what St. Mary’s can do for you – ask what you can do for St. Mary’s

What gifts and talents has God given you? How might you be called to share your time and talents to build up the body of Christ at St. Mary’s? Where is the Spirit calling you to serve?
 
If you have been at St. Mary’s awhile, you have certainly heard the phrase, or perhaps more importantly seen the actions – “It takes a village.” In spite of a pandemic there is so much going on at St. Mary’s and many hands are needed to help keep our village thriving. Would you like to get to know St. Marians better and what makes the church “tick”? Below are some of the immediate opportunities to serve at St. Mary’s as well as some of the upcoming opportunities. Please feel free to be curious and ask questions about these positions and step up if one seems right for you or provides an opportunity to grow and to get to know your community better.
 
Immediate opportunities to serve:
Altar Guild – Join the team that helps prepare the Altar and Sanctuary for worship and other services. Kitty McFarland – mcfarlandkitty274 at gmail.com
Saint Mary’s Weekly – If you like communication and have some editorial skills, please join the team in creating the Weekly. We’ll be hosting a training session on Thursday, February 10th at 7:30pm if you are interested. We’ll also be recording the training for those interested, but unable to join. Communications Team – communications@saintmarysepiscopal.org
Stewardship Committee – Are you interested in helping St. Mary’s grow? Are you wondering where our money comes from? If you answered YES to these questions, our community is asking each of you to consider whether participation with the Stewardship committee could be your ministry at St. Mary’s. Cindy James – james.c.a at comcast.net or Jim Wheeler – james.jw.wheeler at gmail.com
Finance Committee – If you have an interest in helping guide the finances of St. Mary’s, please consider joining the Finance Committee. All St. Mary’s members are welcome to sit in on the monthly Finance Committee meetings. finance@saintmarysepiscopal.org
Technology (Worship Assistance) – Join the team that keeps the audio working and Live Stream accessible to those attending worship virtually. Commitment is a Sunday every month or two based on your availability. Todd Reemtsma – todd.reemtsma at gmail.com
Technology (Equipment & Infrastructure) – Someone with knowledge or interest in networks and equipment to work with the Buildings & Grounds Team to improve and maintain our network at St. Mary’s. building@saintmarysepiscopal.org
 
Upcoming opportunities to serve:
Warden(s) – 1 or 2 people to serve a term-limit of no more than 3 years. Elected at the 2022 Annual Meeting.
Vestry Members – 2 or 3 new Vestry members to replace outgoing Vestry members with a 3-year term. Elected at the 2022 Annual Meeting.
Treasurer – Appointed during the first meeting of the 2022-23 Vestry.
Vestry Clerk – Appointed during the first meeting of the 2022-23 Vestry.
 
Please note that most committees – Worship, Communications, Finance, Buildings & Grounds – can be joined at any time that you might be interested.
 

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2021 Annual Contribution Statements

2021 annual contribution statements will be sent out via e-mail by January 28th. If you do not have a current e-mail address on file, please send your current e-mail address to Rex Holzemer, Treasurer, at rexaholzemer at gmail.com. If necessary, a hard copy of an annual contribution statement will be mailed to any parishioner without an e-mail address on file.
 
If you think there are any inaccuracies on your statement or you have questions, please feel free to call or e-mail Rex Holzemer, Treasurer, at 65I-3O8-4895 or rexaholzemer at gmail.com.
 
Thanks to each of you for your generosity and financial support of St. Mary’s in 2021!
 

Saint Mary’s Annual 2022 Finance Report

Greetings St. Mary’s Community,
 
In an attempt to get information out to all parishioners regarding our 2021 and 2022 budgets as soon as possible, the Vestry has decided to send out the Annual Finance report via e-mail immediately rather than wait until an annual meeting can be scheduled. An update on St. Mary’s finances will still be provided at the annual meeting.  
 
We have some good news! Due to pledge income coming in higher than expected in 2021 and significantly lower than expected expenses, as well as excellent gains on our investments, we ended 2021 with a $48,189 surplus. This surplus has been moved to contingency reserves to cover any future budget deficits.
 
The challenging news is that our projected budget deficit for this year is ($84,176). This is due to the fact that the Vestry has committed to hiring a full-time priest to assist in rebuilding our parish community, and we have 9 fewer household pledges in 2022 compared to 2021.
 
We continue to have a very committed parishioner base. With continued commitment and leadership from our parishioners, the Vestry is hopeful and confident we will indeed be a thriving, vital community again in the future. It likely means we will run deficits for the next couple of years or so. However, given our solid reserves thanks to those who came before us, we can manage such deficits during the rebuilding process.  
 
Attached (link below) is a simplified 2-page annual report from our Finance Committee that is a quick read and important for all St. Mary’s members to understand. Please take time to read through it. If you have any questions regarding our budget or finances, please feel free to call or e-mail Rex Holzemer, Treasurer, at 651-308-4895 or rexaholzemer at gmail.com.  
 
My personal thanks to each of you for your continued financial support of St. Mary’s and for your commitment to this community!
 
Rex Holzemer, The Finance Committee, and The St. Mary’s Vestry
 
 

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Search Committee

Update from the Search Committee
We’ve finished our first, short interviews (on Zoom) with candidates. We are conducting second interviews, also on Zoom. We’ve also asked each candidate to answer a short essay question, we’ve listened to recordings of their sermons, and we are answering thoughtful questions from the candidates. Each candidate brings different gifts and experiences to the table, and we are excited to have deeper discussions about our community’s needs and their strengths. After the second interviews, finalists will visit with the search committee in person for more mutual discernment. God be in our ears and in our listening!
 
Prayers for the Search Committee and Candidates
Dear Saint Marians:
 
As the Rector’s Search begins anew, let us remain constant in prayer for members of the Search Committee and the candidates who have come forward.
 
Faithfully, 
 
Susan
The Rev. Susan M. Moss
 
 Let us pray:
 

Lord Jesus Christ you are the Light of the World!

May your Holy Spirit continue to  guide and illumine the discerning hearts and minds of the Saint Mary’s Search Committee and rector candidates, in the search for a faithful pastor who will care for your people and equip us for ministries in your name.  Amen.
 

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St. Mary’s Children’s and Youth for Winter

NEW! Pre-Tweeners Group on Wednesday from 6:30pm – 7pm:
We just started a group for kids who are K-2nd grade.  Any child in that age group is welcome to join.  We will be having a question of the day, talk about our lows and highs and then do a show and tell.  All children K-2 are welcome to join. Please contact Mia for the link! 
 
Youth Group:
Join Kat for youth group on Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm-8:00pm We are excited that the youth will be back in person again this year! Just a reminder that Youth Group is for young people who are 7th through 12th grade. Stay tuned to our text chain. Kat will inform the group if YG will be virtual or in person. Contact Mia if you need to be added to the group.
 
Tweeners:
Join Mia and Emily for Tweeners on Thursdays from 7-7:45pm. The meeting will be virtual. Please contact Mia for the link!
 
NEW! Family Service on Sunday at 9:00am:
We are piloting a family church service on Sunday January 30, 2022 from 9am-9:20am. Anyone is welcome to join the service. The link is below. The service will have:
  • Intros
  • Welcome
  • 3 Breaths
  • Song
  • Story
  • Question for the kids
  • Activity
  • Prayer
  • Call to Action
Topic: Family Church
Time: Jan 30, 2022 09:00 AM Central Time (US and Canada)
 
Join Zoom Meeting
 
Meeting ID: 890 7277 9543
Passcode: Fun
 

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Outreach & Education

Making a difference in the world – KIVA Loans

This is a Report from the Xemuji Group in Guatemala. St Mary’s made a loan to this group and the group is re-paying the loan. Thanks to The Reverend Susan Moss for the translation.

Mayan women, textile weavers, are those who, for the most part, stick to tradition wearing typical traditional clothing. This is why Felipa, 64, stands out. She is an entrepreneur, married and mother of 10 children between the ages of 14 and 41. 

Felipa says because her large family is so large, her children could only attend school for 6 years. To generate her own income while not neglecting her children’s upbringing, Felipa decided to weave belts typical [of the region] to sell in the community market.

Felipa’s children are married, so she needs to generate her own income to defray the cost of her home’s basic services.

That’s why she acquired the third Kiva loan last March.

Thanks to the new financing, Felipa could actually buy a variety of good quality yarns and another back strap loom.

There are nine women that gave life to the Xemuj Community Bank. This group of women are in solidarity with one another and are motivated… investing capital into their textile businesses and
raising animals.

They have little or no formal education so the loan program, informal education and the health service “Microcrédito Plus” gives them monthly education training.

Studying finance allows these women to be able to effectively invest capital into their businesses and to save part of their earnings for an emergency. 

In matters of health, they were visited by nurses from the institution who visited their homes every two months.

They also were able to become familiar with their rights and duties as women, mothers and spouses.

Thanks to all who have given loan to Kiva, these women move forward creating a more prosperous and sustainable future.

 

Faith & The Way of Love: Finding Hope in Troubled Times (Part of the Faith & Life Series from St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran Church in Plymouth, MN)

We have heard from the office of Michael Curry, the Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church, that he has put his travel plans on hold for the foreseeable future, and therefore will not be with us in person for our Feb. 1 Faith & Life event with him.

We will still hold this event virtually on the same date and the same time—Tuesday, Feb. 1, at 7 p.m., Central time. You can watch Bishop Curry deliver his presentation live at faithandlife.org/livestream.

  • We encourage you to submit written questions in advance, or during the event at the link above, or via email to social@spdlc.org.

Since we recognize that some people may still want to gather to watch this presentation together in a more public space, we will also hold an in-person viewing of the event at St. Philip the Deacon. This will be held on a large screen in our sanctuary, and—as always—attendance is free and open to the public. No tickets are required.

 

Prayer Requests

Please pray for those on Saint Mary’s prayer list: Don; Anne; Kirby; Amara; Steven, Bishop Craig Loya as he leads the ECMN; all frontline workers; teachers and those who support children and youth in education, all who are thinking about getting or waiting to get a COVID vaccine or booster; all who are homeless, unemployed, or struggling financially; doctors, nurses, caregivers, and all who care for the sick or dying; all who work for new systems of justice and equity; all who are in need of prayer.

If you would like a name to be added to Saint Mary’s public prayer list, please email claire1412 at gmail.com. The prayer list will be updated weekly, and all prayers will remain on the list for one month unless otherwise requested.

CaringBridge for Don Horton

Hello my dear friends,

If you would like to stay updated on my dad’s health situation and don’t use Facebook, I will be posting updates on CaringBridge too.

Website Link: https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/donhorton

Much love,

Claire Horton

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups
for the week of 1/28 – 2/3

Sunday, January 30, 2022
Virtual Family Church Service
9:00am Service
Link

Sunday, January 30, 2022
Virtual Worship Service
10:00am Service
Link

Monday, January 31, 2022
Compline (Now on Mondays!)
7:30pm
Link

Tuesday, February 1, 2022
St. Mary’s Men’s Group (Virtual this month)
7:00pm
For more information Click HERE

Wednesday, February 2, 2022
Pre-Tweeners
6:30pm
Contact Mia for more information. Click HERE

Wednesday, February 2, 2022
Youth Group
6:30pm
Contact Mia for more information. Click HERE

Thursday, February 3, 2022
Tweeners
7:00pm
Contact Mia for more information. Click HERE

Thursday, February 3, 2022
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information – julieandcats at comcast.net

Thursday, February 3, 2022
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link (please note that the Contemplative Service will be Virtual Only until the end of February and then reassessed)

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – November 19, 2021

by

Weekly Worship Service
Sunday, November 21, 2021

  • First Message: Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14
  • Gospel: John 18:33-37   
10:00am – Eucharist Worship Service In-person and via Zoom with distanced social time to follow for those worshipping in person, and Zoom gathering for those worshipping virtually. This Sunday, The Rev. Susan Moss will be the preacher and celebrant.

The new format for the 10am service has seemed to work well for those attending virtually. Please join via Zoom in the link below and the Zoom Host will share the Live Stream. This will allow all of those attending virtually to interact during the service.

For the 10am Zoom worship service on November 21, 2021 Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967
 
To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625
 
For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the 2021 Fall Songbook – Click HERE

What’s in this Weekly?

Worship Team

Update on the October 21st Letter from Bishop Loya

Saint Mary’s Stewardship 2022

Finance Committee

Children and Youth

Outreach

Prayers in the Weekly

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

Worship Team

Liturgy Matters at Saint Mary’s by Ginny DeLuca, Worship Team member

Nurturing the Roots of Our Community:
An Advent Service of Healing and Renewal 
led by The Rev. Susan M. Moss
Saturday, Dec. 4th at 4pm

Let us prepare the way for renewal at Saint Mary’s as we experience Advent this year. Join us for a Healing and Renewal Service, Saturday Dec. 4, 2021 at 4pm. 

Saint Mary’s has experienced many changes these past few years, some which went smoother than others, to say the least. On November 28th we enter the season of Advent in preparation for the birth of Jesus as we also prepare to call a new Rector. There have been requests to have a time where all our community may gather together and support each other as we heal; a time to come with our faith and doubts, hopes and fears as we prepare for what that exciting future can be! No matter where we are on our journey, we recognize that the community of Saint Mary’s is important to us.

In her October 24th sermon, Susan Moss reminded us about a gardener’s care when she and her neighbors rescued and transplanted perennials from the backyard of a house on their alley that had been torn down. “Some of the plants were really tattered…we reminded each other– protect the roots!… we need to protect  that which has been entrusted to our care.”  This definitely sums up our community; we’re feeling a bit ragged, some of us more than others. Remember, our roots are good, we need to nurture them, protect and care for them. Let us all create space for a time to be together to offer that care, show support, and pray as we prepare to move forward and thrive. God is Good!

What’s New?

  • To listen to the homily given by Steve Andrews on November 14th, Click HERE.
  • Do you know about #AdventWord? 28 daily words, meditations and images will be offered during this holy season beginning Sunday, November 28.  There is also a new Advent devotional published by Forward Movement, Promise & Praise, which corresponds with the daily reflection words of AdventWord, including reflections by Bishop Curry and Lisa Kimball who teaches at VTS (Virginia Theological Seminary) and who some of you know.  Click HERE to learn more and to sign up for AdventWord.
  • The Worship Team is looking for new members who would like to help plan the liturgy for one season. Advent is already planned so we’re looking ahead to Epiphany. Epiphany Sundays  include January 9 through February 27 ( 7 Sundays). Planning for these Sundays will start at the Worship Team meeting  on Tuesday, December 7, from 4-6pm at St Mary’s. Click HERE if you’re interested in joining us!
  • Worship Schedule
    • Sun—Nov 21…10am Eucharist –Last Sunday in Pentecost
    • Sun—Nov 28…10am adapted Morning Prayer—Advent 1
    • Sat—  Dec 4……4pm—Advent Service of Healing and Renewal led by The Rev. Susan M. Moss
    • Sun—Dec 5……10am Eucharist—Advent 2
    • Sun—Dec 12….4pm Lessons & Carols—Advent 3
    • Sun—Dec 19….10am Eucharist—Advent 4
    • Fri—   Dec 24…..4pm Eucharist—Christmas Eve
    • Sat—  Dec 25…..No service
    • Sun—Dec 26…. Let’s Zoom together to St. Mark’s Cathedral in Minneapolis—More info to come
    • Sun—Jan 2…….10am Christmas carols & adapted Morning Prayer

Feedback is welcome!
Expect changes as we try things, see how they work and make improvements! Your feedback is more important than ever before to help us know what’s working well and what isn’t. Please send your thoughts, ideas, suggestions to the Worship Team.

Click HERE to give feedback. Thanks!

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Update on the October 21st Letter from Bishop Loya

In his October 21st pastoral letter to St. Marians Bishop Loya wrote:

… I recognize that given the nature of LeeAnne’s departure, some of you may want to have a conversation with her in order to bring closure to your pastoral relationship with her. If so, please be in touch with my office, and I will work with you and LeeAnne to arrange for you to meet. 

To make an appointment with The Rev. LeeAnne Watkins for the purposes of bringing closure to a pastoral relationship, please contact Karen Olson, Missioner for Ministry at karen.o@episcopalmn.org or call Karen at 612-423-3902 (cell)
 
Available dates for LeeAnne: After November 22
Available times: Monday 9-4; Wednesday 1-8; Friday 9-4
Place: St John the Evangelist Episcopal Church, 60 Kent Street, St. Paul 55102
 

The names of those who want to schedule time with LeeAnne are confidential and will not be shared. Conversations are private.

Please contact us if you have any questions, comments or concerns.

Brian Nerbonne, Warden michigander_guy@yahoo.com

Susan Moss, Transition Priest susan@saintmarysepiscopal.org

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Faithful Belonging: Now and in the Future –  Stewardship 2022

THANK YOU to all who sent in a pledge to St. Mary’s for 2022.

  • 39 pledges received totaling $125,389

Our 2022 stewardship campaign is over, but financial contributions can be made at any time by accessing the St. Mary’s website (www.saintmarysepiscopal.org), selecting the CONTRIBUTE tab and scrolling to the Faithful Belonging – Stewardship 2022 menu option.

As a reminder, we have several ways you can pay your pledge:

  • By check made out to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church.
  • Electronic Funds transfer from your bank. Contact our treasurer, Rex Holzemer (rexaholzemer@gmail.com) for details on how this works.
  • Click the CONTRIBUTE tab at the top of our website (CLICK HERE) and select Give Now Online from the menu to set up a Vanco account to put your pledge on a credit card or have it withdrawn from your bank account. Note: If you choose this option, please check the processing fee box (2.75% for credit cards and 1% for bank accounts) to help cover the processing fee.  This fee will be included in your pledge statement at the end of the year, so you get the tax credit and St. Mary’s won’t have to pay the processing fee.

Thank you for your contribution and your support,

Cindy James and Jim Wheeler

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Updates from the Finance Committee monthly meeting

Due to two large contributions, pledge donations were $7.2K over budget for the month of October. Pledge contributions are now $32,600 over budget for the year. Total income for the year is $31,400 over budget. Expenses were $3,700 under budget for October and are $31,300 under budget for the year. One of the contributing factors to lower expenses is that the approved budget includes a ¾ time priest with benefits effective July 1, 2021, and we continue to employ only an interim priest at 15 hours/week.
 
Year to date, we are running $62,700 ahead of budget based on our deficit budget of ($23,232). In other words, we currently have a $39,500 surplus for the year. We expect lower than monthly pledge income in November and December given a number of parishioners have fulfilled their annual pledges in the last several months through large donations. Regardless, we are now projecting that we may at least end the year with a balanced budget, which is better than expected! Thanks to each of you for your continued financial support of St. Mary’s!
 
If you have any questions regarding our budget or financial status, please feel free to contact Rex Holzemer, Treasurer, at 651-308-4895 or rexaholzemer@gmail.com.
 

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St. Mary’s Children’s and Youth for Fall

Youth Group:
There is no youth group scheduled for Wednesday, November 24, 2021. Youth group resumes the following week.
Join Kat for youth group on Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm-8:00pm We are excited that the youth will be back in person again this year! Just a reminder that Youth Group is for young people who are 7th through 12th grade.
 
Tweeners:
There is no Tweeners on Thursday, November 25, 2021. Tweeners resumes the following week. 
Join Mia and Emily for Tweeners on Thursdays from 7-7:45pm. Please note that Tweens will be on THURSDAY and not on WEDNESDAY due to the availability of the tweens that expressed interest! The meeting will be virtual. Please contact Mia for the link!
 
Tweeners Thanksgiving Fundraiser
The Tweeners would like to raise money for The Hallie Q Brown Food Shelf this Thanksgiving Season as a way to express gratitude and to give back.  Check out their Video (Click HERE!) enticing you to give. You can give easily on this website platform or send a check to the church with “Hallie Q” in the memo (so we know your intent). Tweeners have a goal of raising $300 to help hunger this Thanksgiving season.
 
 

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All Our Good Holiday Giving

Nina Johnson is asking for your help in collecting donations for the annual holiday community event sponsored by Zion Baptist Church, We Win Institute, and the Racial Justice Network. Several St. Marians donated a total of 100 gift cards last year to this cause, and it was a huge success!

Event details: 

“All Our Good Holiday Giving”
Saturday, December 18
11:00am-3:00pm
Zion Baptist Church
621 Elwood Ave N, Minneapolis
Hosted by Zion Baptist Church, We Win Institute, and Racial Justice Network

Last year we welcomed over 300 adults and children and gave away over 1,600 toys, books, and gift cards in 2 hours. This year, we’re doubling the length of the event and we plan to double the amount of inventory.  

What we need–

*2500 gifts (ages birth to 18 years)
*1000 Target, Walmart, Cub Foods gift cards ($10)
*$5,000 to purchase books by Black authors and illustrators

Several other churches, community partners, and corporate partners are also being asked to help make this happen. Since we know there are supply chain issues this season, we’re asking for your help in securing dollars or gifts as soon as possible. 

Please let Nina Johnson know how you can help. Organizers are hoping to have a preliminary total number of gifts, gift cards, and/or dollars by December 5, if possible, so we can plan accordingly.

Please contact Nina Johnson at 651-308-8663 or nina@jazmn.net with any questions.

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Prayer Requests

Please pray for those on Saint Mary’s prayer list: Don; Anne; Kirby; Amara; Bishop Craig Loya as he leads the ECMN; all frontline workers; all who are thinking about getting or waiting to a COVID vaccine or booster; all who are sick, anxious, struggling financially; all who care for the sick and dying; all who work for new systems of justice and equity; all who are in need of prayer.

If you would like a name to be added to Saint Mary’s public prayer list, please email claire1412@gmail.com. The prayer list will be updated weekly, and all prayers will remain on the list for one month unless otherwise requested.

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups
for the week of 11/19 – 11/26

Sunday, November 21, 2021
Hybrid Worship Service In-Person and via Zoom
10:00am
Link

Tuesday, November 23, 2021
Vestry Meeting
7:00pm
For more information Click HERE

Tuesday, November 23, 2021
Compline
7:30pm
Link

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – October 29, 2021

by

Weekly Worship Service
Sunday, October 31, 2021

  • First Message: Deuteronomy 6:1-9
  • Gospel: Mark 12: 28-34
10:00am – ZOOM ONLY Gospel Based Discipleship Service with social time to follow.

This Sunday will be a ZOOM ONLY worship service. We’ll be doing an adapted version of Gospel Based Discipleship. There’s no sermon today. We’ll be breaking into 3 groups to discuss the First Message and Gospel and create our own sermon! These will be the discussion questions…they’re a little different than usual:

o What is the Holy Spirit doing/saying in the First Message & Gospel?
o Where do you see yourself?
o What do these readings say about this journey you’re on?

For the 10am Zoom worship service on October 31, 2021 Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967
 
To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625
 
For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the 2021 Fall Songbook – Click HERE

What’s in this Weekly?

Worship Team

Update on the October 21st Letter from Bishop Loya

A Message from our Warden

St. Mary’s Stewardship 2022

2021 Pledge Update

Finance Committee

Update from the Search Committee

Safe Church Training

Children and Youth

Notice of Death

Prayers in the Weekly

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

Worship Team

Liturgy Matters at St. Mary’s

Marigolds and the Day of the Dead
(from St. Mary’s member Todd Maitland, our lay preacher on All Saints Sunday)

On Sunday, November 7, St. Mary’s will celebrate All Saints’ Day. We will learn about the Days of the Dead as it is practiced in Mexico, where the Dias de los Muertos, October 31 to November 2, are a time to welcome the souls of departed loved ones. Families create a home altar, an ofrenda, or offering for the dead, with candles, flowers, fruit, and favorite foods of the deceased. Marigolds, which grow wild in Mexico, are gathered by the truck load, sold in markets and arranged on the ofrenda, where the pungent scent of the flowers will guide the spirits home.

Every culture must deal with the mystery of death. Many have rituals that mark the life/death/life cycle of the seasons, with autumn as a time to honor the dead. For Celtic cultures, the days around November 1 were a “thin time,” when the veil between the living and the dead becomes permeable. While the Spaniards brought Catholicism and its feast days to Mexico, the Aztecs had their own ancient ceremonies honoring the dead around this time. The Days of the Dead are a synthesis of traditions growing out of the emotional and spiritual needs of all humans.

So please bring flowers for our altar, marigolds if you have them, in jars or cans or vases, to brighten our worship. We will learn the simple and beautiful tradition of making an ofrenda in our homes, to expand the joy of this season of remembrance.

What’s New?

  • To listen to the homily given by The Rev. Susan Moss on October 24th, Click HERE.
  • This Sunday is Halloween. Kids & Adults: Wear your costumes!
  • And, next Sunday, November 7th, All Saints Day and much MORE…
    • There will be a special prayer naming and remembering those who have died in the last year. Please put names in the chat or send an email to susan@saintmarysepiscopal.org by Tuesday, November 2nd.
    • Remember tying ribbons on our trellis in memory of those who have died? We’ll be doing that again on Sunday. If you worship virtually, you’ll be invited to put names in the chat during the prelude and someone will tie a ribbon to the trellis in memory of those persons; if you worship in person, you’ll be invited to tie ribbons to the trellis.
    • And, this will be our first Eucharist with both bread and wine being available since March 2020! You may bring your own little cup/shot glass/Grama’s antique sherry glass with you when you go for communion and a little wine will be poured in it. There will also be small paper cups available if you forget yours or don’t have one.

Feedback is welcome!
Expect changes as we try things, see how they work and make improvements! Your feedback is more important than ever before to help us know what’s working well and what isn’t. Please send your thoughts, ideas, suggestions to the Worship Team.

Click HERE to give feedback. Thanks!

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Update on the October 21st Letter from Bishop Loya

In his October 21st pastoral letter to St. Marians Bishop Loya wrote:

… I recognize that given the nature of LeeAnne’s departure, some of you may want to have a conversation with her in order to bring closure to your pastoral relationship with her. If so, please be in touch with my office, and I will work with you and LeeAnne to arrange for you to meet. 

Karen Olson is looking into scheduling tools like Calendly for those who would like to have a conversation with LeeAnne. It looks like these conversations can be at St. John the Evangelist, 60 Kent Street, St. Paul.

We will post more information as it becomes available.

The names of those who want to schedule time with LeeAnne are confidential and will not be shared. Conversations are private.

Please contact us if you have any questions, comments or concerns.

Brian Nerbonne, Warden michigander_guy@yahoo.com

Susan Moss, Transition Priest susan@saintmarysepiscopal.org

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A Message from our Warden

Dear St. Mary’s community,
 
I want to share some news from the vestry related to our search for a new rector. We heard from members of St. Mary’s during our listening sessions that after 3 years of changing priests, people yearn for the stability and deeper relationships that come from a permanent rector. The vestry has been talking about ways to increase our chances of success in a future call for a rector. One option would be to post a full-time position, rather than a ¾ time position that we advertised in our previous calls.
 
A ¾ time position would require us to use some of our reserves to cover the priest’s salary and benefits A full-time position would put an even bigger draw on our reserves. However, the vestry believes this is the time to make a major investment in St. Mary’s future. We also believe it is important to demonstrate financial support from all members of  the congregation. Pledged income is needed to support a full time call so we do not exhaust our financial reserves. 
 
That is where our annual stewardship campaign comes in. Next week you will receive more information from Cindy James and Jim Wheeler, co chairs of the 2022 stewardship campaign asking you to make a pledge toward our future. I ask that you prayerfully consider how your pledge will enable the support of a full-time rector.
 
This is a crucial time in St. Mary’s history. Those who have been at St. Mary’s for a while know there have been difficult times in the past, and the commitment of the congregation has pulled us through to better times. This is our time to do something similar.
 
I am excited about the potential of calling a full time rector, and I hope you are, too. The vestry and I feel this is our moment to move toward a new beginning for St. Mary’s. When we make our 2022 pledges, let’s be as generous as we can to show our support.  It is going to take all of us making a commitment to making this happen. The vestry and I look forward to traveling this path together with you.
 
If you have questions or concerns about this, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Also don’t forget to pray for discernment and guidance of the Spirit as we all navigate this season!
 
Brian Nerbonne
Warden

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Faithful Belonging: Now and in the Future –  Stewardship 2022

Pledge Goal:  $190,000 – please have all pledges completed by November 14th.

  • 6 pledges received totaling $8160

Stewardship thought from Crisis & Care: Meditations on Faith and Philanthropy edited by Dustin D. Benac and Erin Weber-Johnson.  “When exploring faith and philanthropy, we remember we belong to one another.”

Click HERE for a Stewardship moment from parishioners Maura and Fran Roby

We have a couple of ways that you can make your pledge:

  • Paper pledge cards are available again this year.  If you would like a paper pledge card, please contact Cindy James at james.c.a@comcast.net or at 651-261-4884.
  • Online pledge by accessing our stewardship page by clicking this link. Click HERE

We have several ways you can pay your pledge:

  • By check made out to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church
  • Electronic Funds transfer from your bank. Contact our treasurer, Rex Holzemer (rexaholzemer@gmail.com) for details on how this works.
  • Click the CONTRIBUTE tab at the top of our website (Click HERE) and select “Give Now Online” from the menu to set up a Vanco account to put your pledge on a credit card or have it withdrawn from your bank account. Note: If you choose this option, please check the processing fee box (2.75% for credit cards and 1% for bank accounts) to help cover the processing fee.  This fee will be included in your pledge statement at the end of the year, so you get the tax credit and St. Mary’s won’t have to pay the processing fee.

Not sure how much you are currently pledging?  No problem: simply contact our pledge clerk (Enzo DeLuca) at pledgeclerk@saintmarysepiscopal.org and he will give you the information regarding your current pledge.

Thank you for your contribution and your support.

Cindy James and Jim Wheeler

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2021 Pledge Update

Are you wondering how much you have left to fulfill your pledge for calendar year 2021? Contribution statements for pledge contributions thru October 31, 2021, will be sent via e-mail the first week of November, no later than November 7, 2021. Look for a contribution statement in your inbasket, and if you don’t receive it by November 7th, please contact Rex Holzemer, Treasurer, at 651-308-4895 or rexaholzemer@gmail.com.

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Finance Committee

Contributions were $4,000 over budget in September and are approximately $25,300 over budget for the year. Total income, which includes both pledge and non-pledge income, is $24,200 over budget for the year.

Expenses were $10,300 under budget for September and are $27,500 under budget for the year. As of the end of September, we are running $51,700 better than budget overall. However, that does not mean we have a surplus of $51,700, because our budget is a deficit budget with a projected year-end deficit of ($23,200). It does mean that we are covering our deficit totally and have a $28,400 surplus as of the end of September. As a result, the prospects for at least ending the year with a balanced budget have improved over the last several months.

A major contributing factor to contributions being over budget is that a number of parishioners have paid off their annual pledges in the last 2-3 months. It’s possible we could see lower than expected contributions in the last 2-3 months of the year, as a result. The main contributing factor to lower expenses is our budget projected that a ¾ time priest with benefits would be in place effective July 1, 2021. However, at this point we continue to employ only an interim priest at 15 hours/week, which has reduced our monthly staff salary expenses significantly.

If you have questions or concerns regarding the St. Mary’s budget, please feel free to contact Rex Holzemer, Treasurer, at 651-308-4895, or at rexaholzemer@gmail.com.

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Update from the Search Committee

On October 28th, we re-published our call for a new permanent priest. Your Search Committee members have genuine, deep confidence in the successful outcome of this process, even if we wish it would move faster. 🙂  Priest searches often take longer than anyone would like, and that’s without considering the impact of the pandemic. Please ask any questions via transitionteam@saintmarysepiscopal.org.

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Safe Church Training

ECMN has now started Zoom Trainings for Safe Church – https://schoolforformation.org/workshops/safe-church/. It has been three years since our last in-person training at St. Mary’s and there are a number in the congregation that are due training (myself included). Those who need safe church training include vestry members, those involved in youth ministry and those with key codes.  Let me know if you have any questions about what you might need.

Aimee Sutherland
612-709-1579

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St. Mary’s Children’s and Youth for Fall

Youth Group:
Join Kat for youth group on Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm-8:00pm We are excited that the youth will be back in person again this year! Just a reminder that Youth Group is for young people who are 7th through 12th grade.
 
Tweeners:
Join Mia and Emily for Tweeners on Thursdays from 7-7:45pm. Please note that Tweens will be on THURSDAY and not on WEDNESDAY due to the availability of the tweens that expressed interest! The meeting will be virtual. Please contact Mia for the link!
 
NO Halloween Party and NO Virtual Lego Class this Sunday (October 31st)
 

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Notice of Death

Sylvia Clark, mother of St. Mary’s parishioner, Anna Clark, died at the Episcopal Church Home on Sunday October 24th. A memorial service will be held in the St. Mary’s Chapel on November 5th,  led by The Rev. Aaron Twait, pastoral care deacon at the Church Home. Time TBD.

Receive Sylvia into the arms of your mercy O God, into the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of the saints in light. 
Surround Anna and her family with your love. May they have confidence in your goodness and strength to meet the days to come. Amen.

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Prayer Requests

Please pray for those on Saint Mary’s prayer list: Don; Anne; Kirby; Bishop Craig Loya as he leads the ECMN; all who are sick, anxious, struggling financially; all frontline workers; all who care for the sick and dying; all who work for new systems of justice and equity; all who are in need of prayer.

If you would like a name to be added to Saint Mary’s public prayer list, please email claire1412@gmail.com. The prayer list will be updated weekly, and all prayers will remain on the list for one month unless otherwise requested.

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups
for the week of 10/29 – 11/4

Sunday, October 31, 2021
ZOOM ONLY Gospel Based Discipleship Service
10:00am
Link

Monday, November 1, 2021
Worship Team Meeting
7:00pm
For more information. Click HERE

Tuesday, November 2, 2021
Men’s Group
7:00pm
For more information. Click HERE

Tuesday, November 2, 2021
Compline
7:30pm
Link

Wednesday, November 3, 2021
Youth Group
6:30pm
Contact Mia for more information. Click HERE

Thursday, November 4, 2021
Tweeners
7:00pm
Contact Mia for more information. Click HERE

Thursday, November 4, 2021
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click HERE.

Thursday, November 4, 2021
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – October 8, 2021

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Weekly Worship Service
Sunday, October 10, 2021

  • First Message: Wishful Thinking: A Seeker’s ABC by Frederick Buechner
  • Gospel: Mark 10:17-31 Rich young ruler asks, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?”
10:00am – Eucharist Service In-person & Zoom with outdoor social time to follow for those worshipping in person and Zoom gathering for those worshipping virtually. The Rev. Susan Moss is our preacher and celebrant.

The new format for the 10am service has seemed to work well for those attending virtually. Please join via Zoom in the link below and the Zoom Host will share the Live Stream. This will allow all of those attending virtually to interact during the service.

For the 10am Zoom worship service on October 10, 2021 Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967
 
To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625
 
For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the 2021 Fall Songbook – Click HERE

What’s in this Weekly?

Worship Team

Pastoral visit to St. Mary’s by Bishop Loya

St. Mary’s Stewardship 2022

St. Mary’s COVID contingency planning

Children and Youth (and Talent!)

Communications

Prayers in the Weekly

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

Worship Team

What’s New?

  • Although the Worship Team didn’t get a lot of responses regarding the Lay Leader/Officiant using the lectern, most response was positive because “we’re in this together” and the lectern gives those worshipping with us via Zoom and those in the choir & band the best sound. So, we’ll continue having the Lay Leader/Officiant use the lectern for now.
  • Again, not a lot of responses received regarding adding wine to Eucharist, but all the response received was positive. So starting on All Saints Day (Nov 7), we’ll have both bread and wine available for Eucharist! Look around and see if you have a little glass or cup to bring with you to church if you’d like wine. We will use the “pouring chalice” (with a pouring lip!) to pour a bit of wine into glasses that people bring. We’ll also supply small paper “cups” if you want wine but forget your glass.
  • This Sunday, October 10, we’ll start ‘turning to face the middle aisle’ when we say our Baptismal promises to each other and to God. We can’t touch each other yet, but we can make eye contact with those across the aisle from us. We hope this will increase the sense of community we feel being together.

Feedback is welcome!
Expect changes as we try things, see how they work and make improvements! Your feedback is more important than ever before to help us know what’s working well and what isn’t. Please send your thoughts, ideas, suggestions to the Worship Team.

Click HERE to give feedback. Thanks!

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Pastoral visit to St. Mary’s by Bishop Loya on October 13th

All current and former members of St. Mary’s are invited to participate in a pastoral visit by Bishop Craig Loya to St. Mary’s. This visit will address issues related to Rev. LeeAnne Watkin’s Title IV process (disciplinary procedures of the Episcopal church), including her removal by ECMN from active ministry. The bishop will be joined by Canon Karen Olson for this visit. The bishop welcomes and encourages your questions and concerns on these and other matters so that all can continue the journey toward understanding, healing and wholeness.

The pastoral visit will be on October 13 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s, or people can participate via Zoom if they prefer. A Zoom link for the service appears below. In-person attendees will need to follow COVID protocols that require masking and social distance. For those who are interested, there will be adult-supervised childcare that night in the St. Mary’s Room, where a children’s video will be shown. Children should also be masked.

If you have questions about this upcoming visit, contact Warden Brian Nerbonne at michigander_guy@yahoo.com or The Rev. Susan Moss, our transition priest, at susan@saintmarysepiscopal.org.

To join the meeting via Zoom, Click HERE
Meeting ID: 834 5191 4590
Passcode: 456410

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St. Mary’s Stewardship 2022

Dear St. Mary’s Family,

We have entered that time of year when stewardship is at the forefront of our minds.  This year’s campaign will begin on Sunday, October 10th and run through Sunday, November 14th.  We would like all pledges to be completed by that time.

We are looking at stewardship as something we do year-round and not just in the fall.  Through your time, talent and treasure: leading committees, participating in talent shows, youth activities, singing in the choir and Sunday night bedtime stories (to name a few), we are stewards of our community.

This year’s theme: Faithful Belonging: Now and in the Future reflects that ongoing commitment.

Our goal this year is $190,000 in pledge income.  Yes, it’s a big goal, but we can do it because we value our life together at St. Mary’s.

We have several ways that you can make your pledge:

  • Paper pledge cards are available again this year. Please contact Cindy James at james.c.a@comcast.net or at 651-261-4884.
  • Online pledge by accessing our stewardship page by clicking this link. Click HERE
  • Electronic Funds transfer from your bank. Contact our treasurer, Rex Holzemer (rexaholzemer@gmail.com) for details on how this works.
  • Click the CONTRIBUTE tab at the top of our website (Click HERE) and select “Give Now Online” from the menu to set up a Vanco account to put your pledge on a credit card or have it withdrawn from your bank account. Note: If you choose this option, please check the processing fee box (2.75% for credit cards and 1% for bank accounts) to help cover the processing fee.  This fee will be included in your pledge statement at the end of the year, so you get the tax credit and St. Mary’s won’t have to pay the processing fee.

Not sure how much you are currently pledging?  No problem: simply contact our pledge clerk (Enzo DeLuca) at pledgeclerk@saintmarysepiscopal.org and he will give you the information regarding your current pledge.

The stewardship committee thanks you for your time, talent and treasure. We welcome you to the 2022 Stewardship campaign: Faithful Belonging: Now and in the Future.

Cindy James and Jim Wheeler

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St. Mary’s COVID contingency planning

ECMN guidelines for in-person worship include a threshold in COVID case numbers. If exceeded in the county where we worship, the recommendation is to switch to either outdoor or virtual worship. If you have been watching the news at all recently, you know that the Delta variant has pushed up case numbers to levels similar to what we saw this spring. We have yet to exceed the threshold set by ECMN, but people should pay attention to this email each weekend in case we need to pivot away from in-person services. In the case where we need to make a change, details will be shared in the Friday weekly about the format for that Sunday’s service. Yet another reason to read the Weekly each week!

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St. Mary’s Children’s and Youth for Fall

Youth Group:
Join Kat for youth group on Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm-8:00pm We are excited that the youth will be back in person again this year! Just a reminder that Youth Group is for young people who are 7th through 12th grade.
 
Tweeners:
Join Mia and Emily for Tweeners on Thursdays from 7-7:45pm. Please note that Tweens will be on THURSDAY and not on WEDNESDAY due to the availability of the tweens that expressed interest! The meeting will be virtual. Please contact Mia for the link!
 
Sunday School Updates
 
Basic Info:
We have a Virtual Lego Camp that will be starting up that will be 7 sessions long. Each session will be 45 minutes long and led by Max and Theo Reemtsma (with a little help from Mia and Jennie). Each class will have a short check in, some demonstration and teaching for 10-15 minutes and then some work time.
 
Outcome:
Each kid will animate a different story from the Bible using stop motion. We plan to focus on Advent stories.
 
Needs for Class:
We suggest kids have on hand a few Lego figures, small vehicles, and a general assortment of Lego pieces. It’s ok if they don’t have Legos as they can use clay, pipe cleaners, action figures, animals, etc. – Lego figures are just pretty easy to physically articulate and get good shots of without relying on paid-app-version tricks that can remove hands from the frame, etc.
It is strongly recommended that students have 2 devices for this class– one for zoom and one for the stop motion app.
 
Age Range:
Kids need to be really comfortable reading, or have an adult with them who can help them. This should be kid-led but the whole family can be involved in building, animating, lighting and “special effects” or voiceovers.
 
The dates for this class will be on Sundays in the afternoon (we were thinking 1pm):
 
October 17
October 24
November 7
November 14
November 21
December 5
December 12
 
 
In Person Halloween Party for Children– Come in Costume
October 31
Ghosts of the Bible
Led by Julie Phillips and helpers
More details to come
 
 
Did you miss the Talent Show after church last Sunday or want to see it again?
A big shout out to everyone who contributed to the Talent Show and to Mia for hosting and putting it all together! Click HERE to watch.

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St. Mary’s Website Hosting Going Green!

St. Mary’s website is now hosted by Green Geeks, a move that saves St. Mary’s money while also making a positive environmental impact. Green Geeks purchases wind power credits to replace three times the amount of energy a website uses every year. Didn’t think that websites used energy? From Green Geeks: “The Internet industry consumes enormous amounts of energy. The backbone of the Internet are data centers which hold millions of large servers, stacked on top of each other in racks, which are powered up and running all day every day. These servers consume enormous amounts of energy and to make sure that they do not overheat and fail, they are blasted with arctic temperature air all day every day. … In fact 40% of all of the energy used to power the internet is used to keep those servers from overheating. … Today, data centers account for 2% of the world’s carbon emissions, that is as much as the airline industry! Data Center pollution is expected to grow to 14% of the world’s carbon emissions, as much as the United States of America, by 2040.

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Prayer Requests

Hello friends,

We may experience life’s ups and downs individually, but together as a beloved community we are called to show up for each other. One of the ways our community can show up for each other is through prayer. There is great power in prayer. In addition to our prayer chain, I’d like to add a section in the Weekly. It would be a public list because the Weekly is published on our website. My idea is that the list would be brief. If you missed a Sunday, you’d still be able to know what is on the hearts of those in this community. The list would be updated weekly with prayers remaining on the list for at least a month or longer if requested. For the Weekly that will go out on October 15th, please send me your prayer requests by October 11th. You can email me at claire1412@gmail.com.

Much love,

Claire H.

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups
for the week of 10/8 – 10/14

Sunday, October 10, 2021
Eucharist Service In-Person and via Zoom
10:00am
Link

Tuesday, October 12, 2021
Compline
7:30pm
Link

Wednesday, October 13, 2021
Youth Group
6:30pm
Contact Mia for more information. Click HERE

Wednesday, October 13, 2021
Pastoral Visit to St. Mary’s by Bishop Loya
6:30pm
Link

Thursday, October 14, 2021
Tweeners
7:00pm
Contact Mia for more information. Click HERE

Thursday, October 14, 2021
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click HERE.

Thursday, October 14, 2021
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – October 1, 2021

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Weekly Worship Service
Sunday, October 3, 2021

  • First Message: Remaining Awake through a Great Revolution by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
  • Gospel: Mark 10:13-16
8:00am – Virtual Morning Prayer Worship Service via Zoom with social time to follow. Gospel Based Discipleship discussion instead of a homily, no music, lay led.
For the 8am Zoom worship service on October 3, 2021 Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 171895
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 878 4182 3048
 
To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 878 4182 3048
If asked for a passcode, use 171895
 
For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE
 
10:00am – Hybrid Worship Service in-person and via Zoom with social time to follow.

This Sunday a guest preacher will be with us at the 10am service – Vivian Ihekoronye from the Isaiah organization. Please see below in Worship for more information on Vivian.

Last week’s new format for the 10am service seemed to work well for those attending virtually. Please join via Zoom in the link below and the Zoom Host will share the Live Stream. This will allow all of those attending virtually to interact during the service.

For the 10am Zoom worship service on October 3, 2021 Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 277625
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 818 4016 4967
 
To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 818 4016 4967
If asked for a passcode, use 277625
 
For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the 2021 Fall Songbook – Click HERE

What’s in this Weekly?

Worship Team

Pastoral visit to St. Mary’s by Bishop Loya

Invitation to register for East Metro Mission Area Gathering – Oct. 2nd

St. Mary’s COVID contingency planning

St. Mary’s Finance Committee

Children and Youth (and Talent!)

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

Worship Team

About our guest preacher Vivian Ihekoronye (introduced by Ginny DeLuca)

This Sunday October 3, 2021 we will welcome Vivian Ihekoronye as our guest preacher. Vivian is Isaiah’s lead organizer for St. Paul and East Metro, working to build a just and abundant Minnesota through faith in action that includes Everyone  with no exceptions. Vivian is a graduate from Central High School and went on to graduate from Macalester College. I’ve had the privilege of working with her for 4 years now and am always inspired and informed by what she has to share. When Vivian previously spoke at St Marys some of us felt called to join the path Isaiah walks, and during these past 4 years I’m happy to say more of us have heard that call. Our faith calls us to action and Isaiah is a vehicle St. Marians can join to help build the Beloved Community within our city and state.

Peace

Ginny DeLuca

What’s New?
  • To listen to The Rev Carol Arney’s sermon on Sunday, September 26, Click HERE.
  • The Worship Team will meet in person on Monday, October 4, 7:00-8:30pm, at St. Mary’s. New members are always welcome for short or long commitments. On our Agenda that night are:
    • planning All Saints Day (November 7) service;
    • will we have bread and wine for communion?
    • what happens when it’s too cold to have social time outdoors?
    • how can worship connect with Stewardship?
    • what works best…speaking in front of the altar or at the lectern;
    • and more!!
      Have ideas about any of these? Join us and let your voice be heard!!!
  • Heads up! In November, Eucharist will be celebrated on November 7th and 21st (the 1st and 3rd Sundays) and adapted Morning Prayer will be on November 14th (2nd Sunday). This is the reverse of our normal schedule because All Saints Day, a high festival day, is on November 7th …AND, believe it or not, Advent starts Nov. 28th.

Feedback is welcome!
Expect changes as we try things, see how they work and make improvements! Your feedback is more important than ever before to help us know what’s working well and what isn’t. Please send your thoughts, ideas, suggestions to the Worship Team.

Click HERE to give feedback. Thanks!

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Pastoral visit to St. Mary’s by Bishop Loya

Bishop Loya is planning a visit to St. Mary’s from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. on October 13. His purpose for this visit is to hear questions and concerns from our congregation surrounding the Title IV process of our former rector, Rev. LeeAnne Watkins. More details about this event will be available soon, but for now we ask any current and former members of St. Mary’s interested in attending to save the date. Expect more information in a future email from St. Mary’s.

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East Metro Mission Area Gathering – Oct. 2nd
Conversations around Convention and Ourselves 

Brothers and Sisters of the East Metro Mission Area,

You are all invited to our Fall Mission Area Gathering.

On behalf of your council representatives, ECMN Missioners and Bishop Loya, please plan to attend our MAG in person on October 2nd, 2021 at 1:00pm at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church.

Registration Link

We are excited to be gathering in person for this Metro Area Gathering this fall. Our gathering will give us the opportunity to share stories, have small group discussion, and hear from our Bishop as he presents the FSM budget and narrative that goes along with it. The business portion of the meeting will be from 1:00-3:00pm with a social and round table discussion from 3:00-4:00pm to follow.

Link to the Financial Statement
Link to Financial Statement Narrative
Agenda

Notes:
Please bring your own lawn chairs so we may be able to spread out more; social distance and all.
If your congregation would like to help coordinate a finger food dish for our event, please reach out to one of your mission area team members.

Email us at: eastmetro@episcopalmn.org

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St. Mary’s COVID contingency planning

ECMN guidelines for in-person worship include a threshold in COVID case numbers. If exceeded in the county where we worship, the recommendation is to switch to either outdoor or virtual worship. If you have been watching the news at all recently, you know that the Delta variant has pushed up case numbers to levels similar to what we saw this spring. We have yet to exceed the threshold set by ECMN, but people should pay attention to this email each weekend in case we need to pivot away from in-person services. In the case where we need to make a change, details will be shared in the Friday weekly about the format for that Sunday’s service. Yet another reason to read the Weekly each week!

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St. Mary’s Finance Committee

Total annual income (pledges and non-pledge income) thru August 31, 2021, is approximately $20,700 above budget and total expenses are approximately $17,000 under budget. Income is significantly above budget primarily due to several large pledge donations in August from households that paid off their annual pledges in full. It is expected that pledges will balance out over the next few months and end the year closer to budget.

The projected 2021 budget is a deficit budget, with a projected year-end deficit of ($23,232). However, if we continue to manage expenses as has been the case over the first eight months, and pledges meet budget, we may be able to reduce the projected year-end deficit significantly. Thanks to each of you for your continued financial support of St. Mary’s!

If you have any questions regarding the St. Mary’s budget, please feel free to contact Rex Holzemer, Treasurer, at 651-308-4895 or rexaholzemer@gmail.com. Please see a summary income vs. expenses chart for exact budget figures for January 1, 2021 thru August 31, 2021, at the following link – Click HERE.

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St. Mary’s Children’s and Youth for Fall

Youth Group:
Join Kat for youth group on Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm-8:00pm We are excited that the youth will be back in person again this year! Just a reminder that Youth Group is for young people who are 7th through 12th grade.
 
Tweeners:
Join Mia and Emily for Tweeners on Thursdays from 7-7:45pm. Please note that Tweens will be on THURSDAY and not on WEDNESDAY due to the availability of the tweens that expressed interest! The meeting will be virtual. Please contact Mia for the link!
 
Sunday School Updates
 
Basic Info:
We have a Virtual Lego Camp that will be starting up that will be 7 sessions long. Each session will be 45 minutes long and led by Max and Theo Reemtsma (with a little help from Mia and Jennie). Each class will have a short check in, some demonstration and teaching for 10-15 minutes and then some work time.
 
Outcome:
Each kid will animate a different story from the Bible using stop motion. We plan to focus on Advent stories.
 
Needs for Class:
We suggest kids have on hand a few Lego figures, small vehicles, and a general assortment of Lego pieces. It’s ok if they don’t have Legos as they can use clay, pipe cleaners, action figures, animals, etc. – Lego figures are just pretty easy to physically articulate and get good shots of without relying on paid-app-version tricks that can remove hands from the frame, etc.
It is strongly recommended that students have 2 devices for this class– one for zoom and one for the stop motion app.
 
Age Range:
Kids need to be really comfortable reading, or have an adult with them who can help them. This should be kid-led but the whole family can be involved in building, animating, lighting and “special effects” or voiceovers.
 
The dates for this class will be on Sundays in the afternoon (we were thinking 1pm):
 
October 17
October 24
November 7
November 14
November 21
December 5
December 12
 
 
In Person Halloween Party for Children– Come in Costume
October 31
Ghosts of the Bible
Led by Julie Phillips and helpers
More details to come
 
 
Did you miss the Talent Show after church last Sunday or want to see it again?
A big shout out to everyone who contributed to the Talent Show and to Mia for hosting and putting it all together! Click HERE to watch.

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups
for the week of 10/1 – 10/7

Sunday, October 3, 2021
Virtual Morning Prayer via Zoom
8:00am
Link

Sunday, October 3, 2021
Hybrid Worship In-Person and via Zoom
10:00am
Link

Monday, October 4, 2021
Worship Team Meeting
7:00pm
For more information on the gathering Click HERE

Tuesday, October 5, 2021
Saint Mary’s Men’s Group
7:00pm
For more information on the gathering Click HERE

Tuesday, October 5, 2021
Compline
8:30pm
Contact Rev. Cindi for details and link Click HERE

Wednesday, October 6, 2021
Youth Group
6:30pm
Contact Mia for more information. Click HERE

Thursday, October 7, 2021
Tweeners
7:00pm
Contact Mia for more information. Click HERE

Thursday, October 7, 2021
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click HERE.

Thursday, October 7, 2021
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – September 10, 2021

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Weekly Worship Service
Sunday, September 12, 2021

Worship In-Person & Live Streamed with special outdoor social time to follow for everyone!—10:00am

This Sunday The Rev. Susan Moss will be our Preacher and Celebrant. After the Eucharist service, we’ll hold our Ice Cream Social and Blessing of Backpacks, Bags & Briefcases. See “What’s New” for details.

  • First Message: Wisdom of Solomon 7:27-8:1
  • Gospel: Mark 8:27-38

NEW! For the Live Stream worship service on September 12, 2021 Click HERE

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the 2021 Fall Songbook – Click HERE

What’s in this Weekly?

Worship Team

September is Rally Month at St. Mary’s!

Sunday Morning Lay Ministry

Children and Youth

Pastoral Care

Communications

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

Worship Team

Liturgy Matters at St. Mary’s by The Rev. Susan M. Moss

In his latest message to ECMN clergy, Bishop Loya reminded us that:

“The central arc of scripture begins with God’s call to Abraham and Sarah to leave behind everything they have known and come to depend on and set out on a journey whose destination is uncertain, relying only on an outrageous promise from God. Throughout the rest of the Bible, God repeats this pattern over and over: a call to leave what Is familiar behind and learn to rely on God’s outrageous promise.”

Acknowledging the uncertainty we face as a church, a diocese and as local congregations, he also assured us that God’ people have been in this place before, and have learned how to faithfully walk through them.

“Our primary diocesan priority of discipleship is fundamentally about learning to leave behind the institutional certainties we’ve come to depend on and relearn what it feels like to rely entirely on the outrageous promises of God.” wrote Bishop Loya.

Our bishop has invited St. Mary’s and every ECMN faith community into a year of dwelling in the stories of scripture.

Why? 

“To allow the story of life, love, and justice we find there to saturate our spirits, so that our imagination is shaped by the God we meet there, and to learn to see our unique stories as part of God’s larger project of healing the whole world with love.” he writes.

Our bishop firmly believes “engaging in this practice will help us listen for how the Spirit is working in us together as a diocesan household. [It] will be an important way of relearning how to let God lead in our lives and ministries.”

 See here for the scriptures we are invited to dwell in together, as well as instructions for how to engage Dwelling in the Word and Gospel-Based Discipleship.

Let’s accept the bishop’s invitation!

When St. Marians gather for team meetings, take time to dwell in the Word.

The current scripture is John 15.1-11 It begins: I am the true vine and my Father is the vine grower.

One more thing: September is not only a Rally Month of regathering activities. It is also a month of Sunday Listening Sessions led by Mia Lisa to refresh the Rector Search profile with your input. And, it’s a month for discerning important financial vestry decisions related to the Search. 

So let us all be diligent in prayer for the leading of the Spirit, asking for guidance and wisdom for the road ahead, trusting that we will be led.

What’s New?
  • The Ice Cream Social will begin at approximately 11:15am this Sunday. It will be outdoors and a variety of ice cream treats will be served. Bring your Backpacks, Bags & Briefcases. The Blessing will begin at 11:45am and will also be outdoors. This is for students of all ages, teachers/educators of all levels and those returning to the office. Holding both of these events outdoors, we’re hoping even those who aren’t comfortable coming into the building yet will be able to join us! There will also be St. Mary’s pens available for people to take!!
  • Students will come from different elementary, middle and senior high schools…maybe even a college student or 2??? Thanks to all of our teachers/ educators: Colleen Carpenter (Associate Professor & Dept. Chair of Theology at St. Kates), Anna Clark (History Dept. at University of MN), Anna Ebbers (Construction Skills Trainer at Goodwill/Easter Seals of MN), Tom Kellogg (teacher at Step-By-Step Montessori School in Plymouth), Erica Scheurer (Professor of English at St. Thomas), Amanda Walwood (Ass’t Director of Donor Relations at Macalester College), Michael White (Elementary Dean at Twin Cities German Immersion). Have I missed anyone?? Please let us know at the link below in Feedback.
  • What do your Gramma’s antique sherry glass and the shot glass you bought while on vacation have in common???? Your first reaction might be “Lordie, Lordie, I can’t imagine they have anything in common!” But wait just a minute! The Worship Team is looking at ways we might bring wine back into our Eucharist…and the common denominator could be those mis-matched glasses mentioned above! Each person who would like to receive wine along with the bread would bring a small glass of some kind with them to church. When it’s time for communion, that glass would accompany the person and a small amount of wine would be poured from the “pouring chalice” (a chalice with a small pouring lip) into each person’s glass. So, what do you think of this idea? How important is it to you to have both bread and wine? The Worship Team is seeking feedback on this idea…both positive and negative. We look forward to hearing from you! Click on the feedback link below.

Feedback is welcome!
Expect changes as we try things, see how they work and make improvements! Your feedback is more important than ever before to help us know what’s working well and what isn’t. Please send your thoughts, ideas, suggestions to the Worship Team.

Click HERE to give feedback. Thanks!

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September is Rally Month at St. Mary’s!

Yes, this year we are having Rally Month instead of a Rally Day. There are so many fun and exciting events being planned that we need a whole month to fit them all into our schedule.
 
Below, you will find details on the events coming up in September. They include blessing of the back packs, an ice cream social, community meetings and even a talent show. All will be available live or virtually. Get them on your calendar now.  
 
You don’t want to miss any of these events as we kick off the fall season, Sunday school and welcome everyone back to St Mary’s from their summer adventures.
 
We look forward to seeing you,
 
The St Mary’s Vestry
 
Ice Cream Social & Blessing of Backpacks and Briefcases
 
Sunday, September 12
11:15am – 11:45am  
Ice cream social outdoors
(So those worshipping via live stream will have time to drive over and join in)
A variety of ice cream treats will be served.
 
11:45am – Noon  
Blessing of Backpacks, Bags and Briefcases
(For students of all ages, teachers/educators at all levels and those heading back to the office)
 
Listening Sessions
 
We have decided to refresh our documents that go along with the rector job search. We want to get a sense of who the community is now. The last survey asked people to think back to a time before the pandemic and we may not be the same at this point in time. We are asking for your help to make this refresh. We are holding Community Listening Sessions and you are invited to participate. There are three opportunities; two sessions are virtual and one is in-person. Please join us with your input!
 
The sessions are:
 
September 12, 2021
4:00pm – 5:30pm
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 244 275 5100
Passcode: church
 
September 19, 2021
After Church (~11:30am)
In person session
 
September 19, 2021
7:00pm – 8:30pm
Meeting ID: 244 275 5100
Passcode: church
 
Family Event
 
On September 26, 2021 we are going to have an in-person screening of a video talent show made by the community! The plan is to have the screening right after church so that the community that is there in- person can stay to watch the show. We will simultaneously either livestream it or do a virtual way to watch as well. I am looking for people who would like to share their talents! Let Mia know if you are interested!
Text her now at 570-269-9688!
 
Please join us as we celebrate St. Mary’s and each other this September!
 

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Lay Ministry: Gearing up for Fall

Yes, fall is right around the corner and St. Mary’s needs YOU!! When we started in-person worship services, many of you signed up to help with Sunday morning lay ministries… Ushers, Greeters, Lay Leaders/Officiants and Vergers. Thanks to all of you who were able to do that!  

Now that summer is nearing an end and we’ll soon be settling into our fall/winter routines, it’s our hope that more of you will be able to help with these lay ministries. The goal is to have enough people assisting with these ministries so that no one will be asked to take on responsibilities more often than once each month. You can get more information or sign up now by contacting mauramccro@gmail.com.

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Update from Mia on Children’s and Youth for Fall

We have been in brainstorming mode to try to get some appropriate programming that kids and youth will be interested in for the fall (while keeping kids safe!) 
 
Here is what we know so far. 
 
Youth Group:
Youth Group will start up September (date TBD) in person with our Youth Leader, Kat Lewis!  Yay, welcome aboard Kat!  Check the Saint Mary’s Calendar for more up to date details about the Youth Group.  Since most youth group sessions will be indoors, masks are required.  The youth group may choose to do some outdoor gatherings as well!  
*I am still looking for an additional 1-2 adults who are interested in supporting and helping with youth group this year (in person). 
 
Tweeners:
Tweeners will be starting up virtually September 22, 2021 from 6-7pm on Wednesday nights.  I will be reaching out to families to see if they are interested in family led meet up dates for Tweens that are outdoor!  If you are a Tween parent, let me know if this is interesting to you!
 
Sunday School:
I am still not sure what we are going to do with Sunday school this year.  Below is a link to a survey that will help shape what we are going to do.  If you have a child in the 0-11 range, please fill out the survey to help guide my decisions around this for the year.
 

Parent Survey

Sunday Night Bed Time Stories:
As part of the Christian Formation plan for this year, I would like to do a Story time for our little kids.  Any congregation member can help with this idea.  I will be taking pictures of our Spark Story Bible and attaching the stories to a specific day.  Your job (if you so choose to accept it) would be to read the story and video tape yourself doing this. You would also have a chance to say a few words to the kids and let them know that they are missed and we all hope to be back together soon!  I would then distribute this in the weekly email so that our families can have Bible stories read to our littlest children on Sunday nights.  
 

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Pastoral Care

I am both happy and sad to announce that Rev. Cindi Brickson has a new job that will require her to step down from her role as Pastoral Care Minister. I am so appreciative that she stepped up to take on this role at St. Mary’s with gusto, going above and beyond individual pastoral care to found recurring care groups for LGBTQ+ people and elders, a quarterly healing circle, and curating the St. Mary’s prayer chain, to name a few. All of these efforts happened during a time when face to face interaction was very limited, and people needed virtual venues to connect and help heal one another from all of the trauma that is so present right now.

As we await the results of our search process that we hope will call our new rector this fall, St. Mary’s pastoral care programs will be more limited. Rev. Susan Moss will cover pastoral care emergencies, Eily Marlow has offered to continue to coordinate the LGBTQ+ and elder care groups, and Cindi plans to continue to lead the prayer chain and Tuesday evening Compline gatherings. The members of the pastoral care team look forward to working with a new rector to develop a robust pastoral care program at St. Mary’s once they are in place.

If you have any questions about this transition time for pastoral care, please reach out to Susan or me. Congratulations on your new job with ECMN, Cindi, and thank you for you service to St. Mary’s in this role!

Brian Nerbonne, Warden

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Website Maintenance

Over the next couple of weeks, we’ll be doing some behind-the-scenes maintenance on the St. Mary’s website. It may have some periods of downtime, when you aren’t able to access it. If that happens, please rest assured that it will be up and running again within 24 hours. With questions, please email communications@saintmarysepiscopal.org

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups
for the week of 9/10 – 9/16

Sunday, September 12, 2021
Worship In-Person and Live Stream
10:00am
Link
Ice Cream Social Outdoors
11:15am
Blessing of Backpacks, Bags, and Briefcases Outdoors
11:45am

Sunday, September 12, 2021
Listening Session (information above)
4:00pm

Tuesday, September 14, 2021
Compline
8:30pm
Contact Rev. Cindi for details and link Click HERE

Thursday, September 16, 2021
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click HERE.

Thursday, September 16, 2021
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – July 16, 2021

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Weekly Worship Service
Sunday, July 18, 2021
Worship In-person and via Zoom with Coffee Hour to follow—10:00am

This Sunday Colleen Carpenter, a St. Mary’s member, will be our Preacher. This will be an adapted Morning Prayer service…no Eucharist. Zoom coffee time and outdoor visiting for in-person worshippers will allow us to have social time after the service.

  • First Message: Psalm 23
  • Gospel: Mark 6:30-34, 53-56

For the Zoom worship service on July 18, 2021 Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 657179
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 915 5954 9145

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 915 5954 9145
If asked for a passcode, use 657179

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the 2021 Summer Songbook – Click HERE

What’s in this Weekly?

Worship Team

Technology for Sunday Worship

Altar Guild

  • Volunteers needed – Please review and consider this request as we are in danger of soon NOT having a functioning Altar Guild.

Pastoral Care

Education

Outreach

Beware Phishing Emails!

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

Worship Team

What’s New?

  • To hear The Rev Susan Moss’ sermon from Sunday, July 11, Click HERE.
  • 1 Corinthians 12:14…“For the body is not one member, but many.” The body is not supported by just one person, but by all of us. We’re strongest working together in unity. Teamwork is the key to living life in harmony so we can do God’s work. YOU ARE NEEDED!! If you haven’t signed up to do a Sunday morning lay ministry, now would be a good time to do that…usher,
    greeter, techie, Lay Leader/Officiant, Verger, musician, altar guild member, choir member—ALL ARE NEEDED. Click HERE to learn more and to sign up.
  • In an abundance of caution to keep children and those who can’t be vaccinated safe, masking is still required while in the Saint Mary’s building.

Feedback is welcome!
Expect changes as we try things, see how they work and make improvements! Your feedback is more important than ever before to help us know what’s working well and what isn’t. Please send your thoughts, ideas, suggestions to the Worship Team.

Click HERE to give feedback. Thanks!

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Volunteers for Sunday Worship Service Technology

Brian Nerbonne would appreciate some technology volunteers so that we can continue to provide an online option for worship, and so that he can take a few Sundays off. He has a couple people signed up, but not enough yet to provide coverage for when Brian is on vacation. There are two jobs: 

  1.  Audio/Video live stream from church, which requires a laptop and cell phone
  2. Zoom host, which  can be done from home or even from church if you bring your device. The Zoom host shares the PowerPoint files of song lyrics that Vonda creates for each song. 

Neither job is actually very difficult, and Brian is happy to train people on how to do each. If you can help, please let Brian know.  Click HERE with questions or to volunteer.

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Volunteers for Saint Mary’s Altar Guild

As we open for the first time in a very long time, we are looking for new volunteers for Saint Mary’s Altar Guild. Your duties will be to serve on a team for one Sunday a month. Your team will set up for the services that day. Making sure that the wine and bread are ready for each service, the correct linens are placed where needed, candles are replaced occasionally, and various other small chores having to do that Sunday. Then clean up when the services are over. Once in a while there will be a 5th Sunday, those are rotated among the 4 teams. We really, really do need you, please volunteer if you are interested. I will talk you through the process in detail first and answer questions. Finally you will have the backup of other team members.

Also badly needed are folks that like to bake, one month out of the year you would bake the communion bread for that month, the recipe is simple and we have bakers that will give you the recipe and instructions.

Thank you, Kitty McFarland
mcfarlandkitty274@gmail.com or text 651-955-1639

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Pastoral Care

Pastoral Care Calendar for Summer 2021:

Pastoral Care Team
The Team meets on Zoom on Monday nights at 6:30. Please contact Rev. Cindi if you would like to join us.

LGBTQ+
Monday, July 19th and each third Monday, ongoing
6:30pm meets monthly for reflective conversation and community building. Please contact Rev. Cindi if you would like to join us.

Compline (All Are Welcome)
Each Tuesday at 8:30pm, all are invited to pray Compline in our Zoom prayer room. We will use the Prayer Book. This is a brief form of the Liturgy of the Hours, prayed before bedtime. All are
welcome. Contact Rev. Cindi for details / the link.
pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org 

Caring for an Aging Loved One
Each first Tuesday at 7:00pm: ongoing. All are welcome; please contact Rev. Cindi for more information / to register and to get the link.
 
Coffee and Conversation with Rev. Cindi
The second Wednesday of every month at 10:00am & 7:00pm
Contact Rev. Cindi for details and link Click HERE
 
Join our Prayer Chain:
Pray with and for your friends and family at Saint Mary’s. 
Please contact Rev. Cindi if you would like to be included among those praying for the needs of St. Marians or if you have a prayer request. (No meeting required)
 
For confidential prayer requests or to join any of these events: 
Reach out to Reverend Cindi Brickson at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org for a Zoom Link.
 

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Book Club

Next iteration of the St. Mary’s Book Club — video edition

Slavery and racism aren’t new – and they aren’t accidental. How were these systems created in the British colonies and woven into the founding of the United States? Join us for a series of “watch parties” in which we will view and discuss the 2005 PBS series “Slavery and the Making of America.”

We will meet Mondays at 7:30, starting on June 14, for 6 sessions (final session on July 19). Feel free to join us even if you can’t make all the meetings. We’ll watch 30 – 40 minutes of the video and then have some time for discussion at each session. Plan for sessions to run 7:30 – 8:30 PM, with the option for people to stay later for further discussion if there is interest.

Please email Beth Varro at beth.varro@gmail.com to sign up and get the Zoom link. Hope you can join us!

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School Tools Drive

We will once again join with Interfaith Action of Greater St. Paul (I. A.) and other faith communities, to collect new school tools for low-income families involved  in 10 different programs in Saint Paul.

Supplies Needed

  • Backpacks
  • 3-ring binders, loose-leaf paper and folders
  • Calculators
  • Spiral and composition notebooks
  • Pencils, pens, markers, colored pencils, crayons, erasers, highlighters, pencil sharpeners
  • Glue sticks & bottles
  • Scissors & rulers
  • Facial tissue
  • School boxes
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Reusable masks

The drive will run from July to August 1st. Items can be left downstairs by the entrance to the church. Monetary donations can be done online to I. A., under  “donations” with “school tools” entered into the “other” text field. Checks should be sent to the I. A. with “school tools” in the memo line. More information is available on the I. A. website – Click HERE.

Thanks for considering supporting low-income students with the school supplies they need! If you have questions, contact:
Rainy Morgan at Morgan55105@yahoo.com

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Beware Phishing Emails

(The following is a message that was sent by ECMN in January of this year, but we are sharing again as there has been mention of a resurgence by local church communities)
 
Many of us have received emails that seem to be coming from leaders of our churches or in ECMN that seem off. Maybe they’re asking you to send them money, maybe they’re asking you to reach out to them urgently, but the text in the message is misspelled. These types of emails are called email-based impersonation, and are a form of phishing utilized by cybercriminals to get access to your information, or to influence you to send money.
 
When you look closely, there are telltale indications that these messages aren’t truly from the leaders we think they are, but are examples of Phishing.
 
There is no way to stop these scams from occurring. However, with some vigilance and a list of things to look for, you can keep yourself and your data safe. 
 
Here are a few things to look for to determine if a message is, indeed, fraudulent:
  • The return email address: the email sending the message is often something like bishop@gmail.com or the.rt.rev.craiglowa@gmail.com. They might look semi-plausible, but aren’t the actual email of the individual being impersonated. You can expect any email coming from ECMN to come from an account using the domain @episcopalmn.org or @ecmn.org
  • The message: phishing emails often address the recipient as ‘dear friend’ or ‘hello’ but don’t list you or your name in the message.
  • Grammatical errors: phishing emails often have strange grammatical errors or use language, phrases, and content that seem out of character for the individual being impersonated.
Here’s what to do if you think you’ve received a phishing email:
  • Don’t open any attachments 
  • Don’t click on links
  • If you can, report the email to your provider as phishing or spam (in Gmail, you can click the stop sign with the exclamation point inside to let Google know the email is illegitimate).

Confirm requests with a conversation. Even if the email seems legit, if a request contains an urgent ask for contact, personal information or money, or it seems even remotely “off,” don’t respond to the email or act on it until you confirm it.

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups
for the week of 7/16 – 7/22

Sunday, July 18, 2021
Worship In-person and via Zoom with coffee hour to follow
10:00am
Link

Monday, July 19, 2021
Pastoral Care
6:30pm
Contact Rev. Cindi for details and link Click HERE

Monday, July 19, 2021
LGBTQ+
6:30pm
Contact Rev. Cindi for details and link Click HERE

Monday, July 19, 2021
Book Club
7:30pm
Please email Beth Varro at beth.varro@gmail.com to sign up and get the Zoom link.

Tuesday, July 20, 2021
Finance Committee Meeting
6:30pm
Contact for details and a link Click HERE

Tuesday, July 20, 2021
Compline
8:30pm
Contact Rev. Cindi for details and link Click HERE

Thursday, July 22, 2021
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click HERE.

Thursday, July 22, 2021
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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Saint Mary’s Weekly – July 9, 2021

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Weekly Worship Service
Sunday, July 11, 2021
Worship In-person and via Zoom with Coffee Hour to follow—10:00am

This Sunday the Rev. Susan Moss will be our Preacher, and since it’s the second Sunday of the month, it will be a Eucharist service. Zoom coffee time and outdoor visiting for in-person worshippers will allow us to have social time after the service.

  • First Message: From We Make the Road by Walking: A Year-Long Quest for Spiritual Formation, Reorientation, and Activation by Brian D. McLaren
  • Gospel: Mark 6:14-29

For the Zoom worship service on July 11, 2021 Click HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 657179
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 915 5954 9145

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 915 5954 9145
If asked for a passcode, use 657179

For the Service Bulletin – Click HERE
For the 2021 Summer Songbook – Click HERE

What’s in this Weekly?

Worship Team

Search Committee Update

Technology for Sunday Worship

Altar Guild

  • Volunteers needed – Please review and consider this request as we are in danger of soon NOT having a functioning Altar Guild.

Pastoral Care

Education

Outreach

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s

Worship Team

What’s New?

  • Woohoo!!!  At our Eucharist service this Sunday, we’ll have communion bread instead of wafers!!  Yeah!!!
  • Remember, St Mary’s worship services will start at 10am sharp!! Arrive at St Mary’s for in-person worship or join zoom by 10am so you don’t miss anything!!
  • Not new, but oh so IMPORTANT: Before you leave home, download and save the bulletin on your device and bring your device to church. For those with no device (cell phone, iPad, laptop), a few printed bulletins will be available on the left as you enter the sanctuary.

Feedback is welcome!
Expect changes as we try things, see how they work and make improvements! Your feedback is more important than ever before to help us know what’s working well and what isn’t. Please send your thoughts, ideas, suggestions to the Worship Team.

Click HERE to give feedback. Thanks!

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Search Committee Update

(Reprint of the update that was shared on 6/25/21)
 
We have reposted our call for a permanent rector, with a new closing date of July 31. Bishop Loya and other colleagues will also engage in some active recruitment to bring a permanent priest to our “gem of a community” (the Bishop’s words). Our next monthly check-in will be the second Sunday of July, which is July 11. From 9:15-9:45, members of the search committee will be available on Zoom and in the sanctuary to answer any questions you may have. We believe that the Holy Spirit is at work on behalf of St. Mary’s. God is good. All the time.
 
We invite you to share the job posting widely with your own networks. The description of the job on the ECMN website is here: https://episcopalmn.org/job-openings 
 
Here’s a suggestion for how to describe the job to your network:
 
Are you an INNOVATIVE SPIRITUAL LEADER who is looking for a parish that is dedicated to transform what it means to be a church in the twenty-first century?
Are you a GIFTED PREACHER who is passionate about inspiring others?
If so, we are looking for you!! Come talk with us to learn more about our amazing, one of a kind community.
Opening will be posted until July 31st.
 

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Volunteers for Sunday Worship Service Technology

Brian Nerbonne would appreciate some technology volunteers so that we can continue to provide an online option for worship, and so that he can take a few Sundays off. He has a couple people signed up, but not enough yet to provide coverage for when Brian is on vacation. There are two jobs: 

  1.  Audio/Video live stream from church, which requires a laptop and cell phone
  2. Zoom host, which  can be done from home or even from church if you bring your device. The Zoom host shares the PowerPoint files of song lyrics that Vonda creates for each song. 

Neither job is actually very difficult, and Brian is happy to train people on how to do each. If you can help, please let Brian know.  Click HERE with questions or to volunteer.

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Volunteers for Saint Mary’s Altar Guild

As we open for the first time in a very long time, we are looking for new volunteers for Saint Mary’s Altar Guild. Your duties will be to serve on a team for one Sunday a month. Your team will set up for the services that day. Making sure that the wine and bread are ready for each service, the correct linens are placed where needed, candles are replaced occasionally, and various other small chores having to do that Sunday. Then clean up when the services are over. Once in a while there will be a 5th Sunday, those are rotated among the 4 teams. We really, really do need you, please volunteer if you are interested. I will talk you through the process in detail first and answer questions. Finally you will have the backup of other team members.

Also badly needed are folks that like to bake, one month out of the year you would bake the communion bread for that month, the recipe is simple and we have bakers that will give you the recipe and instructions.

Thank you, Kitty McFarland
mcfarlandkitty274@gmail.com or text 651-955-1639

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Pastoral Care

Pastoral Care Calendar for Summer 2021:

Pastoral Care Team
The Team meets on Zoom on Monday nights at 6:30. Please contact Rev. Cindi if you would like to join us.

Compline (All Are Welcome)
Each Tuesday at 8:30pm, all are invited to pray Compline in our Zoom prayer room. We will use the Prayer Book. This is a brief form of the Liturgy of the Hours, prayed before bedtime. All are
welcome. Contact Rev. Cindi for details / the link.
pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org 

Coffee and Conversation with Rev. Cindi
Wednesday, July 14 at 10:00am & 7:00pm
Contact Rev. Cindi for details and link Click HERE
 
Caring for an Aging Loved One
Each first Tuesday at 7:00pm: ongoing. All are welcome; please contact Rev. Cindi for more information / to register and to get the link.
 
LGBTQ+
Each third Monday, ongoing
6:30pm meets monthly for reflective conversation and community building. Please contact Rev. Cindi if you would like to join us.
 
Join our Prayer Chain:
Pray with and for your friends and family at Saint Mary’s. 
Please contact Rev. Cindi if you would like to be included among those praying for the needs of St. Marians or if you have a prayer request. (No meeting required)
 
For confidential prayer requests or to join any of these events: 
Reach out to Reverend Cindi Brickson at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org for a Zoom Link.
 

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Book Club

Next iteration of the St. Mary’s Book Club — video edition

Slavery and racism aren’t new – and they aren’t accidental. How were these systems created in the British colonies and woven into the founding of the United States? Join us for a series of “watch parties” in which we will view and discuss the 2005 PBS series “Slavery and the Making of America.”

We will meet Mondays at 7:30, starting on June 14, for 6 sessions (final session on July 12). Feel free to join us even if you can’t make all the meetings. We’ll watch 30 – 40 minutes of the video and then have some time for discussion at each session. Plan for sessions to run 7:30 – 8:30 PM, with the option for people to stay later for further discussion if there is interest.

Please email Beth Varro at beth.varro@gmail.com to sign up and get the Zoom link. Hope you can join us!

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School Tools Drive

We will once again join with Interfaith Action of Greater St. Paul (I. A.) and other faith communities, to collect new school tools for low-income families involved  in 10 different programs in Saint Paul.

Supplies Needed

  • Backpacks
  • 3-ring binders, loose-leaf paper and folders
  • Calculators
  • Spiral and composition notebooks
  • Pencils, pens, markers, colored pencils, crayons, erasers, highlighters, pencil sharpeners
  • Glue sticks & bottles
  • Scissors & rulers
  • Facial tissue
  • School boxes
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Reusable masks

The drive will run from July to August 1st. Items can be left downstairs by the entrance to the church. Monetary donations can be done online to I. A., under  “donations” with “school tools” entered into the “other” text field. Checks should be sent to the I. A. with “school tools” in the memo line. More information is available on the I. A. website – Click HERE.

Thanks for considering supporting low-income students with the school supplies they need! If you have questions, contact:
Rainy Morgan at Morgan55105@yahoo.com

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Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s
Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups
for the week of 7/9 – 7/15

Sunday, July 11, 2021
Search Committee Q & A
9:15am
Worship via Zoom with coffee hour to follow
10:00am
Link

Monday, July 12, 2021
Pastoral Care
6:30pm
Contact Rev. Cindi for details and link Click HERE

Monday, July 12, 2021
Book Club
7:30pm
Please email Beth Varro at beth.varro@gmail.com to sign up and get the Zoom link.

Tuesday, July 13, 2021
Compline
8:30pm
Contact Rev. Cindi for details and link Click HERE

Wednesday, July 14, 2021
Coffee and Conversation with Rev. Cindi
10:00am & 7:00pm
Contact Rev. Cindi for details and link Click HERE

Thursday, July 15, 2021
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click HERE.

Thursday, July 15, 2021
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark
7:00pm
Link

Visit the Saint Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

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