1895 Laurel, Saint Paul MN 55104

Saint Mary's Episcopal Church

1895 Laurel Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55104

Family, Children & Youth Programming February 21-February 27

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Winter/ Spring Children’s and Youth Programming 2021

Dear All:
 
Here is your informational email on all Children’s and Youth events for the week.
This email has in it Sunday School options, Tweeners info, Youth Group info, Beginnings Info and some fun Parish-wide events.
 
*PLEASE NOTE THE LINKS WILL NOT BE SHARED ON THE WEBSITE. PLEASE REFER TO THE EMAILED INFORMATION OR CONTACT MIALISA FOR THE LINK AT MIALISA@SAINTMARYSEPISCOPAL.ORG*
 
Sunday School Options for Families: 
 
Option #1 Sundays from 9:00-9:45am
 
Option #2 Parent Led
 
 
  • Lent Activities– for those of you that like to prepare ahead, there are a number of lent activities and Easter fun that you might enjoy in this folder!
 
Tweeners
Tweeners — great job brainstorming some activities for the winter/ spring. This coming week we plan to play some games! Feel free to join even if you are new to the group!
 
Youth Group
This coming week youth group will do our usual question of the day, check in and play a game. We will also brainstorm some topics for discussions next week!
  • Parents please make certain that your youth is participating in your presence (ie not locked in a room). We may have youth break into breakout rooms in groups of three and will not have an adult for each section. According to Safe Church, this is okay so long as youth are in a space where they are all alone.
 
 
Blessings
MiaLisa McFarland Millares
Children’s and Youth Director
Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church

Saint Mary’s Weekly – February 18, 2021

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Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, February 21, 2021

Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to Follow – 10:00 AM

 
This will be the first Sunday in Lent. Can you think back to a year ago when we were in the Sanctuary during Lent? If so, maybe you remember that we put away all the bright, shiny things and brought out wooden crosses and offering plates and pottery for all services. The Worship Team is trying to create that same sense of simplicity in our Lent Zoom services. We hope the flow/pace of the service will feel a bit slower, a bit more thoughtful and contemplative. So, you’ll notice some changes in the service. (See “What’s New” below for more info.)
 
First Reading: Genesis 9:8-17
Psalm 25:1-9
Second Reading: 1 Peter 3:18-22
Gospel: Mark 1:9-15
 
Please note that the Zoom information below is new for the New Year!
For the Zoom worship service on February 21, 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 Lent 1 Service Bulletin – CLICK HERE
For the Lent 2021 Music Bulletin – CLICK HERE

Worship Team

Liturgy Matters at St Mary’s by the Rev. Susan M. Moss
 
Liturgy means “the work of the people.” I have been learning how true this is for you.
 
Your voices on worship and what is important to you, are represented in the St. Mary’s Episcopal Church: Overview carefully composed by your Transition Team.
 
The Worship Team has been working hard to represent these values in this extraordinary time of Covid-19.
 
In matters of Worship: 
What are you seeing now that you were not able to see pre-pandemic? 
What is the Spirit saying to St. Mary’s?
What should be maintained? 
What should change? 
Be left behind? 
What new insights might the Spirit be revealing?
 
What’s New?
  • To listen to the 2-14-21 sermon by Missioner Sarah Barnett, CLICK HERE.
  • HELP!!! Calling all artists, photographers, videographers, “image makers” of all kinds. Please see the “2021 Sundays in Lent – Images” article below.
  • What will be different in our worship services during Lent? Announcements will be at the beginning of the service so they don’t interrupt the flow of the service at the end…so don’t be late! There will be fewer voices in each service. There will be less music. There will be two “Moments of Silence”, one after the sermon and one at the end of the service (like a quiet recessional). Our first coffee time will give us an opportunity to talk with others about a question based on the theme for the day-kind of 7:45am style! There will be a second coffee time for socializing! It’s a lovely service and we hope you’ll join us! 
  • The Big Lenten Prayer Tent: For the season of Lent, Bishop Loya invites each of us in ECMN to practice discipleship through daily prayer: 5 minutes every day, inviting the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Let’s join with other congregations and other people throughout ECMN in prayer during this season of Lent. CLICK HERE for more information.
     
Feedback is welcome!
We welcome your feedback and recommendations about worship services.
 
CLICK HERE  to give feedback. Thanks!

2021 Sundays in Lent – Images

The Worship Team would like images to screen share during “Moments of Silence” during our 5 Sundays in Lent. If you have images of any kind (drawings, paintings, photos, videos, stained glass, mosaic, etc.) that conjure up thoughts of God’s Promises as indicated below…and you’d like to share them with the St Mary’s community…please send them to Brian Nerbonne at Michigander_guy@yahoo.com by the Friday before the Sunday they would be used. If you’d like to read the lessons to get your creative juices flowing, check lectionarypage.net website.
 
02/21/2021
God’s Promise – first trial through water, 
baptism, then promise in rainbow – NOAH
Jesus Baptism and then 40 days in desert
 
02/28/2021
God’s Promise – first barren, then fruitful, 
because faithful
Jesus must suffer, we must trust in the plan, be
faithful.
 
03/07/2021
God’s Promise – through commandments, 
Israelites struggle
God is wiser than our wisest.
Jesus upset with commercial-ness of 
worship/sacrifice – rebuild in 3 days
 
03/14/2021
God’s Promise – whining Israelites, still God 
saves them from the snakes when they turn to
him.  
God’s gift of grace to faithful. God sacrifices 
Jesus (Son), a gift for us.
Light comes to save.  
 
03/21/2021
God’s Promise – a new covenant with Israel
Jesus as man suffered, through this suffering 
and obedience he became salvation.
Jesus must die like the wheat grain in order to 
bear much fruit – so we can believe.

Pastoral Care

Pastoral Care Calendar for February 2021
Fridays (ongoing) Feb. 19, 26
Elders & Evening Prayer 6:30 PM
 
Monday Feb. 22
Pastoral Care Team 6:30 PM
 
Mondays (ongoing) Feb. 22 (Mar. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29)
Book Club 7:30 PM
The Pastoral Care Team will host the book club during Lent. Please join us in reading and discussing WALKING THE WAY OF LOVE by Presiding Bishop Michael Curry and others. We will meet on Mondays of Lent. We invite you to join us for one or any of the weeks, as your schedule and interest.  
 
Let’s stay in touch! Join Rev. Cindi, St Mary’s Pastoral Care Minister, for Coffee (or tea?) and Conversation with a few other St Marians (via Zoom.)  The next conversations will be on March 10th, at 10 AM and 7 PM.
 
We have launched our new Prayer Chain, a ministry that anyone can support! 
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)
 
You are invited to join any of these events: 
Reach out to Reverend Cindi Brickson at 
 
For confidential prayer requests, reach out to Rev. Cindi at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org

2021 Budget and Pledge Numbers

The Vestry approved a 2021 working budget for the first six months of 2021 at its January meeting. The budget has a projected annual deficit of ($26,832.40), in spite of the fact that the overall 2021 budget was reduced by almost $47,000 from last year. It was determined that making further reductions would result in unacceptable consequences for staffing and programs.  
 
The Finance Committee recommended only a six-month budget due to the significant budget changes anticipated by the hiring of a permanent rector and likely resumption of in-person services later this year. Another six-month budget covering the last half of 2021 will be forwarded to the Vestry by the Finance Committee in late Spring. 
 
The 2021 Stewardship campaign resulted in a total of 57 households pledging $165,813 for 2021. This is 10 households fewer than 2020, when 67 households pledged $176,542. The 2021 working budget is based on a slightly higher number of $170,000 in pledge income than pledged for 2021 to date, so if total pledge income does not increase to that level by the end of the year, or expenses are higher than projected, we will have a larger deficit than currently projected for 2021. 
 
Pledge income for January was approximately $5,000 under budget, while expenses were right on budget, so we have unfortunately fallen behind our projected budget in the first month of this year. However, pledge income for the first half of February is running a bit higher than expected.

Resources: 

ECMN News
 
If you are interested in hearing from the Bishop, finding out about Education, Events, and Training, and what is happening in the Episcopal Church of Minnesota, please subscribe to the ECMN News weekly email – CLICK HERE
 
 
Hi ECMN Parents, Caregivers, and Ministry Leaders,
Following the Bishop’s Summit in December, we heard a clear ask for more opportunities to gather and support one another as parents and caregivers in ECMN. 
So we’ve pulled together some key professionals who can speak to the intersection of faith formation and home dynamics in the context of this ongoing pandemic. 
Anyone in ECMN who is in a supporting role for young people is invited to the following series of three zoom gatherings. 
 
Bishop’s Series for Parents and Caregivers
Hosted by ECMN, St. Mark’s Cathedral, and St. John in the Wilderness
 
Fostering Coping & Resiliency in Our Homes 
Sunday, February 28 @ 4-5pm
 
Family Trauma and the Pandemic
Sunday, March 28 @ 4-5pm
Home Dynamics: Connection & Conflict 
Sunday, April 25 @ 4-5pm
Speaker TBD
 
Come expecting to:
  • Hear from an expert on the topic
  • Meet other parents and caregivers from other Episcopal faith communities in breakouts 
  • Debrief with a Q&A time with your Bishop and the presenter
  • Learn about more opportunities across ECMN
Nobody can do this alone. We are working really hard to make sure this transformational community across the state is connected and surrounded by support for the long haul. We hope you can join us for one or all of these gatherings. 

Outreach: 

Opportunities for Line 3 Engagement
 
1. Sign this nationwide petition asking President Biden to take action to stop the pipeline. We have thousands of signatures and the list is growing – adding your name shows the power and breath of the Stop Line 3 movement. 
 
2. If you identify as clergy or as a faith leader or spiritual leader, please sign this faith and spiritual leader petition!
 
3. Share the Nationwide Petition and the Faith and Spiritual Leader Petition with your friends and communities. This our moment to show the Biden administration that as people of spirit, faith, and conscience, we expect our elected officials to help us build a world where water is sacred, where Native treaty rights and Native sovereignty are respected, and where rural areas have access to sustainable jobs and community wealth.

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s  

Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups for the week of 2/19 – 2/25 

 

Friday, February 19, 2021
Elders & Evening Prayer
6:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at 
 
Sunday, February 21, 2021
Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to follow.  
10:00 AM
 
Monday, February 22, 2021
Pastoral Care Team
6:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at 
 
Monday, February 22, 2021
Book Club
7:30 PM
The Pastoral Care Team will host the book club during Lent. Please join us in reading and discussing WALKING THE WAY OF LOVE by Presiding Bishop Michael Curry and others. We will meet on Mondays of Lent. We invite you to join us for one or any of the weeks, as your schedule and interest allows.  
 
Tuesday, February 23, 2021
Vestry Meeting
7:00 PM
Vestry Meetings are open to all Saint Mary’s members. The Saint Mary’s Vestry usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month. The meeting begins at 7:00 PM. (Note: If you are a member of Saint Mary’s and would like to attend this meeting via Zoom, please contact Jim DeLuca or Caroline Kaker for the Zoom access code at wardens@saintmaryepiscopal.org)
 
Wednesday, February 24, 2021
Adult Choir
7:00 PM
If you would like to join us, or have any questions, please contact
 
Thursday, February 25, 2021
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click here to contact Julie
 
Thursday, February 25, 2021 
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service Via Zoom
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark  
7:00 PM 
 
Sunday School Online:  
MiaLisa McFarland Millares will send out an email with readings, activities, 
and links for videos and discussions to all on our Constant Contact list.  
If you receive this email, you are on the list. 
 
Visit the St. Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

Saint Mary’s Ash Wednesday Service – February 17, 2021

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Ash Wednesday Service

Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Service via Zoom – 7:00 PM

Please note that the Zoom information below is for this service only
For the Zoom worship service on February 17, 2021 CLICK HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 480380
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 988 0430 7388
 
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 Ash Wednesday Service Bulletin – CLICK HERE
For the Ash Wednesday at Home (below) – CLICK HERE

Family, Children & Youth Programming February 13-20

by

Winter/ Spring Children’s and Youth Programming 2021

Dear All:
 
Here is your informational email on all Children’s and Youth events for the week.
This email has in it Sunday School options, Tweeners info, Youth Group info, Beginnings Info and some fun Parish-wide events.
 
*PLEASE NOTE THE LINKS WILL NOT BE SHARED ON THE WEBSITE. PLEASE REFER TO THE EMAILED INFORMATION OR CONTACT MIALISA FOR THE LINK AT MIALISA@SAINTMARYSEPISCOPAL.ORG*
 
Sunday School Options for Families: 
 
Option #1 Sundays from 9:00-9:45am
 
 
Option #2 Parent Led
 
 
 
  • Lent Activities– for those of you that like to prepare ahead, there are a number of lent activities and Easter fun that you might enjoy in this folder!
 
Tweeners
Tweeners – it was fun finishing our Bigfoot mystery. Next week we will be having a conversation and playing a game!
 
 
Youth Group
Last week we painted a campfire scene. Next week I am canceling youth group because it is the same time as the Ash Wednesday service.
  • Parents please make certain that your youth is participating in your presence (ie not locked in a room). We may have youth break into breakout rooms in groups of three and will not have an adult for each section. According to Safe Church, this is okay so long as youth are in a space where they are all alone.
 
 
Blessings
MiaLisa McFarland Millares
Children’s and Youth Director
Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church

Saint Mary’s Weekly – February 11, 2021

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Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, February 14, 2021

Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to Follow – 10:00 AM

This will be the Last Sunday after the Epiphany and the focus will be on the “Final Revelation”. This will be our last sermon provided by ECMN (Episcopal Church in Minnesota) and the preacher will be Sarah Barnett. Sarah serves as a resource for mission and ministry with children, youth, camp, and young adults. She also assists in the development of children’s and youth ministry for faith communities across ECMN. She coordinates and convenes ECMN Children’s and Youth Ministry Commissions and provides support and networking opportunities for adults who work with youth.
 
First Reading: 2 Kings 2:1-12
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:3-6
Gospel: Mark 9:2-9
 
Please note that the Zoom information below is new for the New Year!
For the Zoom worship service on February 14, 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 Last Service Bulletin of Epiphany  – CLICK HERE
For the Revised Epiphany Song Book – CLICK HERE

Worship Team

From The Right Reverend Craig Loya’s 2/9/21 Message : What does love look like?
 
I encourage you…to be asking the question as individuals, as families, and as faith communities, what does love for the earth look like? What does love for our nation’s first people’s look like? What does love for my neighbor who disagrees with me look like? Those questions will animate our lives, help us become the fullest and truest versions of who God has created us to be, and lend whatever short life we have been given to God’s project of healing and saving the whole world. What does love look like?
 
What’s New?
  • To listen to the 2-7-21 sermon by Bishop Loya (apologies for missing the recording of the first portion), CLICK HERE.
  • To see and hear the 2-7-21 “Lego Gospel”, CLICK HERE.
  • In preparation for Ash Wednesday (Feb 17th), you may pick up ashes and instructions in front of St Mary’s on Sunday, February 14th, 2-3pm or contact Rev. Cindi Brickson (pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org).  Please join us at 7pm on February 17th for the Ash Wednesday zoom service. Zoom link, bulletin and info will be sent on Monday, February 15th.
  • The Big Lenten Prayer Tent: For the season of Lent (February 17th – April 3rd), Bishop Loya is inviting each of us in ECMN to practice discipleship through daily prayer: five minutes every day, inviting the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Let’s join with other congregations and other people throughout ECMN in prayer during this season of Lent.  CLICK HERE for more information.
     
Feedback is welcome!
We welcome your feedback and recommendations about worship services.
 
CLICK HERE  to give feedback. Thanks!

Vibrant and Thriving in a Virtual World

This week we highlight the St. Mary’s Men’s Group (SMMG)
When:  7:00PM the first Tuesday of every month
How:    Zoom online
For link and information contact: Bill Turner at BillTur719@aol.com
SMMG Vibrant and Thriving Message
SMMG Vibrant and Thriving Message
Our Saint Mary’s Men’s Group (SMMG) meets each month on the first Tuesday at 7:00pm – all are welcome!  Please stop in for some fellowship and conversation; we’d love to see you.
 
Having a mixed heritage which derives, at least in part, from a prior iteration as “theology and a pint”, we were in a pattern of rotating locations to a different brew pub each month. As the local scene closed, opened, closed, and so-on, we adapted with a mix of Zoom and a few safe and successful outdoor gatherings. We carefully selected brew pubs with big patios with lots of available real estate, so we can spread out and still be together. Also, we added extra events and we looked for new ways to stay in touch!
 
The Zoom SMMG gatherings have several pros & a few cons, as inherent to the platform, but have been pretty well attended with a frequent crowd and a few bonus drop ins from time to time. While we are constrained to just one conversation at a time, the chances to connect are completely worthwhile and everyone gets a chance to share updates and tell their stories. 
 
The video has offered some benefits, such as virtual tours of the backyard projects – we’ve seen some beautiful landscaping, gardens in bloom, and decks progressing through construction. It’s a very personal touch that wouldn’t otherwise be possible.
 
With all of us more isolated than we’re used to or want to, we were looking for more ways to stay in touch. After some discussion, the merits of text and email were a bit pale (we all get enough of those!). At the suggestion from Dan, we decided to try the “Marco Polo” app to record and share short video messages. Throughout the month, there are active individual and group conversations going on and people share anything on their mind – a view while on a run, a glimpse of the walk with a dog, a skyline at sunset, a progress report on the solar panel installation, and even some contemplative and harder messages. The video brings so much more depth to the conversation; it’s been a great option and a way to stay in touch.
 
If you’re interested, you are welcome – it would be great to see you in a Zoom or on the Marco Polo video chats. Even if you just want to listen in or ease into the group, please reach out and let’s stay in touch! 
 
This isolation is hard on everyone, so while we need to keep our distance, there is no need to be alone all the time. We hope to see you at a future gathering!
 
P.S. The St. Mary’s Men’s Group will be holding a Special Mardi Gras gathering on Tuesday, February 16th at 7PM. Please join if you can.

Pastoral Care

Pastoral Care Calendar for February 2021
Fridays (ongoing) Feb. 12, 19, 26
Elders & Evening Prayer 6:30 PM
 
The Pastoral Care Team will host the book club during Lent.  Please join us in reading and discussing WALKING THE WAY OF LOVE by Presiding Bishop Michael Curry and others. We will meet on Tuesdays of Lent.  We invite you to join us for one or any of the weeks, as your schedule and interest.  
 
We have launched our new Prayer Chain, a ministry that anyone can support! 
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)
 
You are invited to join any of these events: 
Reach out to Reverend Cindi Brickson at 
 
For confidential prayer requests, reach out to Rev. Cindi at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org

Communications Team Update

While we haven’t said a lot or really had a chance to introduce ourselves, the St. Mary’s Communications Team has been hard at work the last couple of months and would like to take the opportunity to provide everyone with some updates and to solicit feedback.
 
St. Mary’s Weekly
We’ve been working hard to make sure that all of the information that you need to know about what is happening at St. Mary’s goes into one Weekly email with the exception of the weekly Family, Children, and Youth email and the daily St. Mary’s Mornings. We will be implementing a form for submission of articles to the Weekly in the upcoming weeks to try to do a better job of keeping track of information.
 
St. Mary’s Website
We know that the website needs some work and we’re going to do our best to make some content updates in the next couple of weeks to get it up to date and a useful resource for St. Marians and visitors to the site. We would appreciate suggestions immediately and feedback as we make changes.
 
St. Mary’s Social Media
We put the St. Mary’s Facebook page on hold back in November and will be starting a gradual return as we go into Lent. We will do our best to make sure that the content provides information and inspiration and represents who we are.
 
We would love to hear from you to help us make sure that we are communicating with all St. Marians in the manner that they prefer. Please drop us a line at communications@saintmarysepiscopal.org.
 
The St. Mary’s Communications Team – Beth Varro, Cindy James, Steve Andrews, Todd Reemtsma, and Trevor Sannes

Souper Bowl of Caring

It’s not too late to support the Youth Group with their fundraiser through the Souper Bowl of Caring. This year the youth voted to help Second Harvest Heartland with their funds– since they are struggling and we need every organization possible to help people with hunger right now. The fundraiser will be running for a couple of weeks instead of for a day to allow for all the donations to go through.
  
 
Check out the website, the logo created by youth group, the organization we are donating to and give generously to help those in need!

Resources: 

ECMN News
 
If you are interested in hearing from the Bishop, finding out about Education, Events, and Training, and what is happening in the Episcopal Church of Minnesota, please subscribe to the ECMN News weekly email – CLICK HERE
 
 
Hi ECMN Parents, Caregivers, and Ministry Leaders,
Following the Bishop’s Summit in December, we heard a clear ask for more opportunities to gather and support one another as parents and caregivers in ECMN. 
So we’ve pulled together some key professionals who can speak to the intersection of faith formation and home dynamics in the context of this ongoing pandemic. 
Anyone in ECMN who is in a supporting role for young people is invited to the following series of three zoom gatherings. 
 
Bishop’s Series for Parents and Caregivers
Hosted by ECMN, St. Mark’s Cathedral, and St. John in the Wilderness
 
Fostering Coping & Resiliency in Our Homes 
Sunday, February 28 @ 4-5pm
 
Family Trauma and the Pandemic
Sunday, March 28 @ 4-5pm
Home Dynamics: Connection & Conflict 
Sunday, April 25 @ 4-5pm
Speaker TBD
 
Come expecting to:
  • Hear from an expert on the topic
  • Meet other parents and caregivers from other Episcopal faith communities in breakouts 
  • Debrief with a Q&A time with your Bishop and the presenter
  • Learn about more opportunities across ECMN
Nobody can do this alone. We are working really hard to make sure this transformational community across the state is connected and surrounded by support for the long haul. We hope you can join us for one or all of these gatherings. 

Outreach: 

Opportunities for Line 3 Engagement
 
1. Sign this nationwide petition asking President Biden to take action to stop the pipeline. We have thousands of signatures and the list is growing – adding your name shows the power and breath of the Stop Line 3 movement. 
 
2. If you identify as clergy or as a faith leader or spiritual leader, please sign this faith and spiritual leader petition!
 
3. Share the Nationwide Petition and the Faith and Spiritual Leader Petition with your friends and communities. This our moment to show the Biden administration that as people of spirit, faith, and conscience, we expect our elected officials to help us build a world where water is sacred, where Native treaty rights and Native sovereignty are respected, and where rural areas have access to sustainable jobs and community wealth.
 
  • Do you believe that our community is measured by how we treat those most in need?
  • Are you a person of faith, who is moved to ensure safe housing for all?
  • Are you a state legislator, a county commissioner, or a city council member whose work has been transformed in these trying times?
Our Mission: Everyone, without exception, deserves a safe, decent, accessible, and affordable home.   
 
 
Parks, hotels, and shelters are filling up with the homeless. There is nowhere near enough affordable housing to meet our needs. The crisis of housing is magnified by the crisis of COVID, and the crisis of the economy, and the crisis of institutional racism.
 
Let us come together, as community members and elected officials, to talk about our vision to end homelessness and share our ideas for how to make that a reality. Let us come together to mobilize power to do what it takes to make a safe HOME a reality for everyone.
 
MICAH (Metropolitan Interfaith Council on Affordable Housing) will present its legislative agenda and we will hear from a member of our community directly affected by the housing shortage. We will ask our elected officials to share their visions and their commitments to action.
 
We are strong when we bring together people of values, of faith, of caring. We act on our shared values for shelter and affordable housing, undoing racism, and building opportunity in every neighborhood. MICAH leaders across our city are daily making our vision reality. We must continue to advocate for stronger housing policies at the State, the County, and the City level.
 
RSVP with your name, phone number, legislative district or street address, and the number attending to us at MicahBrkfst@comcast.net
 
Friday, February 12, 2021    8am-9:30am

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s  

Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups for the week of 2/12 – 2/18 

Friday, February 12, 2021
Elders & Evening Prayer
6:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at 
 
Sunday, February 14, 2021
Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to follow.  
10:00 AM
 
 
Tuesday, February 16, 2021
Finance Committee Meeting
6:30 PM
Contact finance@saintmarysepiscopal.org for the Zoom link
 
Tuesday, February 16, 2021
St. Mary’s Men’s Group – Special Mardi Gras Edition
7:00 PM
Contact Bill Turner (billtur719@aol.com) for the Zoom link
 
Wednesday, February 17, 2021
Virtual Ash Wednesday Service
7:00 PM
Zoom link, bulletin and info will be sent on Monday, February 15th
 
Wednesday, February 17, 2021
Adult Ed./Book Study
7:00-8:30 PM
This is the final meeting for this book. If you would like to join us, or have any questions, please contact Nina Johnson at nina@jazmn.net or 651-308-8663 
 
Thursday, February 18, 2021
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group

Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click here to contact Julie

Thursday, February 18, 2021 
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service Via Zoom
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark  
7:00 PM 
 
Sunday School Online:  
MiaLisa McFarland Millares will send out an email with readings, activities, and links for videos and discussions to all on our Constant Contact list.  
 
Visit the St. Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

Family, Children & Youth Programming February 7-February 14

by

Dear All:
 
Here is your informational email on all Children’s and Youth events for the week.
This email has in it Sunday School options, Tweeners info, Youth Group info, Beginnings Info and some fun Parish-wide events.
 
*PLEASE NOTE THE LINKS WILL NOT BE SHARED ON THE WEBSITE. PLEASE REFER TO THE EMAILED INFORMATION OR CONTACT MIALISA FOR THE LINK AT MIALISA@SAINTMARYSEPISCOPAL.ORG*
 
Sunday School Options for Families: 
 
Option #1 Sundays from 9:00-9:45am
 
Bishop Loya will be joining us for Sunday Sunday School this week. We plan to do a show and tell. Children should bring an object that reminds them of church or God and be prepared to answer why the object is important to them and why it reminds them of church or God! See you on Sunday!
 
 
Option #2 Parent Led
 
Tweeners
Tweeners -thanks for the help with the Souper Bowl of Caring skit! I think the whole parish will enjoy it at church on Sunday. Next week we plan to conclude the mystery of Bigfoot (As per request).
 
Youth Group
Last week the youth played Code Names (which was awesome…thank you Julie Phillips). This coming week we plan to do another paint session. Bring your artsy crafts selves.
  • Parents please make certain that your youth is participating in your presence (ie not locked in a room). We may have youth break into breakout rooms in groups of three and will not have an adult for each section. According to Safe Church, this is okay so long as youth are in a space where they are all alone.
 
 
Blessings
MiaLisa McFarland Millares
Children’s and Youth Director
Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church

Saint Mary’s Weekly – February 4, 2021

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Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, February 7, 2021

Worship via Zoom and Community Gathering with Bishop Loya Following – 10:00 AM

This will be the 5th Sunday After the Epiphany and the focus will be “Revelation in Transfiguration”. We will welcome The Rt. Rev. Craig Loya, X Bishop of Minnesota, who will be our preacher. (See What’s New? below for further information.) This is also Souper Bowl Sunday and our youth (along with Bishop Loya) will lead our worship service. They will also invite us to participate, as they’ve done for many, many years, in the Souper Bowl of Caring. (See article for further information.)
 
Psalm 147:2-3
First Reading: Isaiah 40:21-31
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 9:16-23
Gospel: Mark 1:29-39
 
Please note that the Zoom information below is new for the New Year!
For the Zoom worship service on February 7, 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 Epiphany 5 Service Bulletin – CLICK HERE
For the Revised Epiphany Song Book – CLICK HERE

Worship Team

Epiphany Message from an article in “Progressing Spirit” by Rev. Deshna Shine entitled What Pulls at Your Heart:
 
We must maintain hope.  At the heart of Christianity and the path of Jesus is Wild Hope, living and loving with abandon. As John Shelby Spong says, “live fully and love wastefully.”
 
“If God is the source of love, as I believe God is, then the only way you can worship God is by loving. Not by being right, but by loving. By loving wastefully. The image in my mind is an old sink in the basement, that you plug up the drains and you turn on all the [taps] and the water overflows the boundaries and goes all over the floor and fills up every crack and cranny… and never stops to ask whether that crack deserves this living water. You love because love is what you have to do, not because somebody deserves the love. You love wastefully.”
 
Radical love, patience and trust require hope and we must maintain that burning light within if we are going to be a real part of transforming our communities and world. Hope tells us that there will always be more living water within to pour out of us.
 
What’s New?
  • For the 1-31-21 sermon by The Rt. Rev. Craig Loya to ECMN, CLICK HERE.
  • Bishop Loya is making his congregational visit, which happens once every 2 to 3 years, to St Mary’s this Sunday, February 7th.  This will be his schedule:
^    9:00am…..Time with the children in Sunday School
^  10:00am…..Participate in and preach at worship service
^  11:00am…..Join us for a Community Meeting
^  12:00pm…..Break
^    2:00pm…..Time with the St Mary’s Vestry
  • In preparation for Ash Wednesday (Feb 17th), ashes and instructions will be available to be picked up on Sunday, February 14th, 2-3pm.
Feedback is welcome!
We welcome your feedback and recommendations about worship services.
 
CLICK HERE  to give feedback. Thanks!

Souper Bowl of Caring

On Sunday, February 7, 2021 the Youth Group will kick off their fundraiser through the Souper Bowl of Caring. Each year the youth pick a charity and have a fundraising event on Super Bowl Sunday. This year, needless to say, things are a bit different. We cannot have our signature pots with the Super Bowl team logos on them; but we are still having a fundraiser. The youth voted to help Second Harvest Heartland with their funds– since they are struggling and we need every organization possible to help people with hunger right now. We will be running the fundraiser for a couple of weeks instead of for a day to allow for all the donations to go through.  If you want to get a quick head start on donating, here is the website where Souper Bowl of Caring is tracking our online donations!  We will share the link again on Sunday along with a poll to see which Super Bowl team you think will win!
  
 
Check out the website, the logo created by youth group, the organization we are donating to and give generously to help those in need!

Vibrant and Thriving in a Virtual World

This week we highlight Elders and Evening Prayer from Pastoral Care

When:  6:30pm every Friday
How:    Zoom online
For link and information contact: pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org
 
Pastoral care takes many forms at St Mary’s. In addition to the traditional way we think of pastoral care, the Rev Cindi Brickson, Pastoral Care Minister, is broadening that definition. One of the ways she is doing that is by offering a series of Zoom get-togethers around various topics from GLBTQ, to Caring for Aging Parents, to prayer services.
 
Pastoral Care is a contemporary term for an ancient model of emotional, social and spiritual support.
 
This past week on Friday, January 29th, was Elders and Evening Prayer.  Announced in the online St Mary’s Weekly, a spoken Evening Prayer service was offered by Rev Brickson. The attendees consisted of elder members of the parish for whom the flow of the service provides a calming reverence to the end of the day. After a check-in period, attendees participated through readings and spoken canticles throughout the service.
 
This bow to other services outside of the normal Sunday morning is a nod to what the Episcopal church and St Mary’s in particular has to offer the community.
 
If Evening Prayer speaks to you, join us on Fridays at 6:30pm as we move forward together, vibrant and thriving in a virtual world.

Pastoral Care

Please keep Jennie Ward and her family (Todd, Max, and Theo) in your prayers as she recovers from a significant and startling health crisis.  If you would like to keep updated, please visit:
 
To provide other support:
 
******
Pastoral Care Calendar for February 2021
Fridays (ongoing) Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26
Elders & Evening Prayer 6:30 PM
 
Monday, Feb. 8
Pastoral Care Team Meeting 7:30 PM
 
Wednesday, Feb. 10
Coffee & Conversation 10:00 AM / 7:00 PM
 
The Pastoral Care Team will host the book club during Lent.  Please join us in reading and discussing WALKING THE WAY OF LOVE by Presiding Bishop Michael Curry and others. We will meet on Tuesdays of Lent.  We invite you to join us for one or any of the weeks, as your schedule and interest.  
 
We have launched our new Prayer Chain, a ministry that anyone can support! 
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)
 
You are invited to join any of these events: 
Reach out to Reverend Cindi Brickson at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org for a Zoom link
 
For confidential prayer requests, reach out to Rev. Cindi at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org

Finance Updates:

2020 Contribution Statements E-mailed

Year-end 2020 contribution statements for donations to St. Mary’s for the period January 1, 2020 thru December 31, 2020, were e-mailed to all contributors on Monday, January 25th.  Printed statements were mailed on February 2nd to any household for which we do not have an e-mail address.
 
Please note that any 2020 contributions that were received either by mail or electronically after December 31, 2020, will be reflected in your 2021 contribution statement. 
 
If you note any inaccuracies in your 2020 statement, please contact Rex Holzemer, Treasurer, at 651-308-4895 or rexaholzemer@gmail.com.  
 
We are very grateful to everyone that has continued to provide financial support to St. Mary’s over this past year. Thank you!!     

 

Missing Phones!

Two black desk phones we are leasing from Comcast have gone missing at St. Mary’s and we need to find the phones or pay Comcast for them.  Please help us find our phones!  
 
It’s possible the two phones may have mistakenly been put out in the lobby area last year for people to take if they wanted, along other items we no longer needed.  If anyone has them or knows where they might be, please contact Rex Holzemer, Treasurer, at 651-308-4895 or rexaholzemer@gmail.com.  A phone amnesty program is in place, so no questions asked!!  We just need to find them as soon as possible.  Thanks for your help!

Resources: 

Hi ECMN Parents, Caregivers, and Ministry Leaders,

Following the Bishop’s Summit in December, we heard a clear ask for more opportunities to gather and support one another as parents and caregivers in ECMN. 
So we’ve pulled together some key professionals who can speak to the intersection of faith formation and home dynamics in the context of this ongoing pandemic. 
Anyone in ECMN who is in a supporting role for young people is invited to the following series of three zoom gatherings. 
An email with a zoom registration link will follow this one next week. It’s flexible – so in the meantime just save the date if you are interested in one or all three. 
 
Bishop’s Series for Parents and Caregivers
Hosted by ECMN, St. Mark’s Cathedral, and St. John in the Wilderness
 
Fostering Coping & Resiliency in Our Homes 
Sunday, February 28 @ 4-5pm
 
Family Trauma and the Pandemic
Sunday, March 28 @ 4-5pm
Home Dynamics: Connection & Conflict 
Sunday, April 25 @ 4-5pm
Speaker TBD
 
Come expecting to:
  • Hear from an expert on the topic
  • Meet other parents and caregivers from other Episcopal faith communities in breakouts 
  • Debrief with a Q&A time with your Bishop and the presenter
  • Learn about more opportunities across ECMN
Nobody can do this alone. We are working really hard to make sure this transformational community across the state is connected and surrounded by support for the long haul. We hope you can join us for one or all of these gatherings. 

Outreach: 

  • Do you believe that our community is measured by how we treat those most in need?
  • Are you a person of faith, who is moved to ensure safe housing for all?
  • Are you a state legislator, a county commissioner, or a city council member whose work has been transformed in these trying times?
Our Mission: Everyone, without exception, deserves a safe, decent, accessible, and affordable home.   
 
Parks, hotels, and shelters are filling up with the homeless. There is nowhere near enough affordable housing to meet our needs. The crisis of housing is magnified by the crisis of COVID, and the crisis of the economy, and the crisis of institutional racism.
 
Let us come together, as community members and elected officials, to talk about our vision to end homelessness and share our ideas for how to make that a reality. Let us come together to mobilize power to do what it takes to make a safe HOME a reality for everyone.
 
MICAH (Metropolitan Interfaith Council on Affordable Housing) will present its legislative agenda and we will hear from a member of our community directly affected by the housing shortage. We will ask our elected officials to share their visions and their commitments to action.
 
We are strong when we bring together people of values, of faith, of caring. We act on our shared values for shelter and affordable housing, undoing racism, and building opportunity in every neighborhood. MICAH leaders across our city are daily making our vision reality. We must continue to advocate for stronger housing policies at the State, the County, and the City level.
 
RSVP with your name, phone number, legislative district or street address, and the number attending to us at MicahBrkfst@comcast.net
 
Friday, February 12, 2021    8am-9:30am

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s  

Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups for the week of 2/5 – 2/11 

Friday, February 5, 2021
Elders & Evening Prayer
6:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org or 612-998-5136
 
Sunday, February 7, 2021
Worship via Zoom with Bishop Loya Community Time to follow.  
10:00 AM
 
Monday, February 8, 2021
Pastoral Care Team
7:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org or 612-998-5136
 
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
Coffee and Conversation with Rev. Cindi
10:00 AM & 7:00 PM
Please reply to Cindi at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org to reserve your space and get the Zoom link
 
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
Adult Choir
7:00 PM
If you would like to join us, or have any questions, please contact Vonda at musicdirector@saintmarysepiscopal.org
 
Thursday, February 11, 2021
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click here to contact Julie
 
Thursday, February 11, 2021 
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service Via Zoom
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark  
7:00 PM 

Saint Mary’s News from the Transition Team and Vestry

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January 29, 2021

St. Marians,
 
There are two important messages below – one from the St. Mary’s Transition Team and one from the St. Mary’s Vestry. Both of these messages are hoping for your careful review and encouraging your feedback. Every voice in this community is important and we want to hear from you.
 
Please review:
  • St. Mary’s Transition Team – Narrative Letter
  • St. Mary’s Transitional Priest
  • St. Mary’s Staffing Changes
  • Bishop Loya’s Visit with St. Mary’s on February 7th
The St. Mary’s Transition Team and Vestry
To our St. Mary’s community,
 
We are writing with news of solid progress. We have completed the first of the two documents we will use in our search for a new priest. This is a narrative letter that describes who we are and what we are looking for in a priest. We worked hard to capture the “soul” of St. Mary’s and to envision what characteristics a priest should bring to the table — God’s table — in order to help us build the future.
 
It is based on input from congregation members that came in a lot of different ways: the “Visioning Our Future” post-it note project, the materials we provided when considering merging with St. James, the answers to and analysis of the Holy Cow! survey, and your feedback during the Transition Team Community Meeting in mid-October.
 
The St. Mary’s community deeply values transparent communication and getting input from all sources. We would love to receive your comments, and we will bring your thinking into the search process. Next week, we will share the rest of the ministry profile, which is one of the last tasks before posting the position.
 
You can read the narrative letter online here. Please send comments and questions to us by e-mail at transitionteam@saintmarysepiscopal.org. To get a reminder about who is on your transition team, see our information here.
 
Our hearts and minds are wide, wide open.
 
Emma Brickson
Laura-Lee Brown
Ginny DeLuca
Joe McMannon
Cathy McNaughton
Catherine Neuschler
Joanna Schnedler
Jennie Ward
Jennifer Wedel
Jane Wells
Greetings from your Vestry,
 
We continue to find ourselves in a time of great change here at Saint Mary’s, as well as in the world around us. This can be both exciting and worrisome, depending on the circumstance. Despite these challenges, Saint Mary’s continues to be a thriving place during our Sunday services and youth programming, and in the active work of multiple committees. The Vestry continues to strive to keep members of our community abreast of changes in a timely manner. There is much happening at this time that we would like to share with you.
 
Transitional Priest Hiring
Our previous Vestry letter described the possibility of Rev. Susan Moss joining us as our transitional priest. We heard only positive feedback from the congregation following that letter, and we are excited to announce that Rev. Moss has accepted our invitation! She will join us at our Sunday, January 31 service on Zoom and be formally introduced to the congregation at that time. She begins her part time role with us at the start of February. Susan will focus her time with us mainly on worship services and working with our community to prepare us for welcoming our next permanent rector. Other administrative duties will continue to be handled by members of the congregation, and pastoral care will continue to be led by Rev. Cindi Brickson. We are very excited to have Susan joining us on our journey through this time of transition, and will be appreciative of her guidance along the way.
 
Transition Team Update
The Transition Team has reached an exciting milestone in their rector search process. The first document that goes outside of our congregation is creating a portfolio describing the position we hope to fill and describing our faith community so that potential applicants can understand what we are looking for in a priest. Within the next couple of weeks, that will be released and posted for potential candidates to review and will of course be available to members of our church. The portfolio is based on what we learned about the congregation from the Holy Cow! survey that many members of our community filled out last summer. This release will kick off the rector search process that we hope will lead to a hire by sometime this summer. Thank you to the Transition Team for all of their work to get us to this stage!
 
Staffing changes
This period also continues to hold challenges for us. Our number of pledging members has declined over the past couple of years, and we as a Vestry are making some difficult choices on how to live within our means. Jim and Caroline met with Joann and agreed that because our church services are now held online, there is no need to staff our nursery. We appreciate Joann’s care for our little ones over the years, and will reevaluate the need for nursery after we have returned to in-person worship. 
Another challenge is our need to reduce staff costs from our music team. We know that music is an important part of the worship experience to many members of our community. However, our current finances and our conducting only one service per week suggests the potential for some cost savings over the next several months. Our wardens met with the music team to discuss options, and Jim and Vonda both expressed a willingness to reduce costs until we return to in-person services, but also as a way to free up some of their own time during this period. When more details become available on any changes to music at Sunday services or choir, we will share them. 
 
Bishop’s Visit
Last but not least, we are excited to virtually host Bishop Craig Loya and a guest deacon on February 7th. Bishop Loya will spend the day with our congregation, starting with his participation with Sunday school at 9:00 a.m. Our worship service that Sunday at 10:00 a.m. will be led by youth from our congregation as part of our annual Super Bowl of Caring event, with Bishop Loya providing a sermon and also celebrating spiritual communion with us. He will then join us for a Community Meeting after the service. In the afternoon, Bishop Loya will join the Vestry for our weekly meeting. We hope you can join us for this visit that typically happens once every 2-3 years. Please submit questions for Bishop Loya to answer during our Community Meeting by emailing wardens@saintmarysepiscopal.org before 5pm on Wednesday, February 3rd. The wardens will compile the questions and share them with Bishop Loya ahead of his visit. During the Community Meeting, we also will take questions using the Zoom chat feature so as to avoid interrupting the conversation.
 
Members of the Vestry continue to appreciate the joy, compassion, and community within Saint Mary’s that is so apparent even though we are not able to be together. Our congregation has been through many challenges over the past few years, and there is still a sense of loss that we feel. However, we are also grateful for the continued contributions of time, talent and treasure by members of our church to make this such a vibrant place, even when we are restricted to a virtual format. Thank you for being a part of that effort!
 
As always, we welcome your feedback on anything raised in this letter, or on other matters you feel we need to hear. Please reach out to the wardens or other members of the Vestry whenever you feel the need.
 
Blessings,
 
The Saint Mary’s Vestry

 

Family, Children & Youth Programming January 30- February 6

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Dear All:
 
Here is your informational email on all Children’s and Youth events for the week.
This email has in it Sunday School options, Tweeners info, Youth Group info, Beginnings Info and some fun Parish-wide events.
 
*PLEASE NOTE THE LINKS WILL NOT BE SHARED ON THE WEBSITE. PLEASE REFER TO THE EMAILED INFORMATION OR CONTACT MIALISA FOR THE LINK AT MIALISA@SAINTMARYSEPISCOPAL.ORG*
 
Sunday School Options for Families: THIS IS A NEW LINK!
 
Option #1 Sundays from 9:00-9:45am
 
 
Option #2 Parent Led
 
 
 
  • Lent Activities– for those of you that like to prepare ahead, there are a number of lent activities and Easter fun that you might enjoy in this folder!
 
Tweeners
Tweeners -we did some drawings for Bishop Loya this past week and did a scavenger hunt. This coming week we will conclude our mystery of Bigfoot and play a game.
 
 
Youth Group
Last week we pulled together details for the upcoming Souper Bowl of Caring. This coming week we will play Code Names and put the final details on Souper Bowl of Caring!
  • Parents please make certain that your youth is participating in your presence (ie not locked in a room). We may have youth break into breakout rooms in groups of three and will not have an adult for each section. According to Safe Church, this is okay so long as youth are in a space where they are all alone.
 
 
Blessings,
 
MiaLisa McFarland Millares
Children’s and Youth Director
Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church

Saint Mary’s Weekly – January 28, 2021

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Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, January 31, 2021

Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to Follow – 10:00 AM

 
This will be the 4th Sunday After the Epiphany and the focus will be “Revelation in Transfiguration”. The Rt. Rev. Craig Loya will be our preacher. The Rt. Rev. Craig Loya was consecrated the X Bishop of the Episcopal Church in Minnesota on June 6, 2020.  Bishop Loya served as Dean of Trinity Cathedral in Omaha, Nebraska from 2013-2020, and was the Canon to the Ordinary in the Episcopal Diocese of Kansas from 2009-2013.
 
Psalm 111:1a, 7, 9
First Reading: Deuteronomy 18:15-20
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 8:1-13
Gospel: Mark 1:21-28
 
Please note that the Zoom information below is new for the New Year!
For the Zoom worship service on January 31, 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 Epiphany 4 Service Bulletin – CLICK HERE
For the Revised Epiphany Song Book – CLICK HERE

Worship Team

Epiphany Message from Bishop Craig Loya:
 
“…I spent yesterday reading Presiding Bishop Michael Curry’s newest
book, Love is the Way. In it, he calls us to embrace a universal love as
the way forward as individuals and a nation. His understanding of what
love is, how we find God, and how love has the power to change the
world and see us through these challenging times is deeply grounded in
his own very real experiences of both suffering and hope….” (excerpt
from Bishop Loya’s message in the 1/19/21 ECMN Weekly News)

 

What’s New?
  • To listen to the 1-24-21 sermon by Rachel Babbitt, CLICK HERE.
  • Sunday’s worship service highlights our St Mary’s Elders.
  • Ash Wednesday is on February 17th this year. In preparation for that day, ashes will be available to be picked up on Sunday, February 14th, from 2 – 3pm at St Mary’s. (See “Pastoral Care” below for more info.)
  • Worship services during Lent are now being planned. If you have thoughts about Lenten services CLICK HERE.
Feedback is welcome!
We welcome your feedback and recommendations about worship services.
 
CLICK HERE  to give feedback. Thanks!

Vibrant and Thriving in a Virtual World

Have you looked at the St. Mary’s calendar?  Almost every day there are events on the calendar, and more are being added as the weeks go by. Our community is alive with so many opportunities to be together in community – book club, pastoral care, Tweeners, choir to name but a few.
 
A year ago, most of us had never heard of Zoom and now it’s a way of life for many of us. Work meetings, online school and yes, St. Mary’s on Sunday mornings and beyond.
 
While Zoom may not work for everyone and it’s certainly not a substitute for in person gatherings, it does afford us the chance to participate together and see each other.
 
The Communications Committee is taking the opportunity over the next few weeks to showcase some of what’s happening at St Mary’s in this virtual world we live in.
 
Sunday mornings find many of us gathered in front of our computer, tablet or phone Zoomed in to the 10:00am worship service coming live into our homes, cabins or wherever we might be on a Sunday morning. These services are put together by the Worship Committee and a group of volunteers each week who read prayers and lessons, provide music and make sure our technology is up and running. We’ve learned a great deal about ‘being live’ and providing a thoughtful and uplifting service each week. While we have had a few glitches, it is all part of the process that makes St. Mary’s an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace.
 
As we move forward together, take a look at our calendar and see where you can Zoom into St. Mary’s to enrich the fabric of our community with your presence.

Pastoral Care

It is with sadness that I inform members and friends of St Mary’s that the mother of Anne Hanson, has departed this life. Please keep her family in your prayers. Notes of condolence may be sent to 1861 Pinehurst Ave / St Paul MN 55116. 
 
And Taylor, daughter of John and Tonia Erickson. Please keep her family in your prayers.  Notes of condolence may be sent to 1800 Keller Lake Dr / Burnsville MN 55306. 
 
May their souls and the souls of all faithful departed, through God’s immeasurable love and mercy, rest with the angels in peace and rise with the saints in glory! 
 
******
 

Please keep Jennie Ward and her family (Todd, Max, and Theo) in your prayers as she recovers from a significant and startling health crisis.  If you would like to keep updated, please visit:

 
To provide other support:
 
******
Pastoral Care Calendar for January/February 2021
Fridays (ongoing) 
Elders & Evening Prayer 6:30 PM
 
Monday, Feb. 1
Pastoral Care Team Meeting 7:30 PM
 
Tuesday, Feb. 2
Caregiving for Aging Loved Ones 7:00PM
 
We have launched our new Prayer Chain, a ministry that anyone can support! 
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)
 
You are invited to join any of these events: 
Reach out to Reverend Cindi Brickson at 
 
For confidential prayer requests, reach out to Rev. Cindi at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org

Finance Updates:

2020 Contribution Statements E-mailed
 
Year-end 2020 contribution statements for contributions to St. Mary’s for the period January 1, 2020 thru December 31, 2020, were e-mailed to all contributors on Monday, January 25th. If we do not have an e-mail for your household, a written statement will be sent to your mailing address early the week of February 1st.
 
Please note that any 2020 contributions that were received either by mail or electronically after December 31, 2020, will be reflected in your 2021 contribution statement. 
 
If you note any inaccuracies in your 2020 statement, please contact Rex Holzemer, Treasurer, at 651-308-4895 or rexaholzemer@gmail.com.  
 
We are very grateful to everyone that has continued to provide financial support to St. Mary’s over this past year. Thank you!!     
 
PPP Loan Eliminates 2020 Deficit!
 
We ended 2020 with a deficit of ($29,173), just shy of the projected ($31,190) deficit for calendar year 2020.  Fortunately, we just recently received confirmation from the Small Business Administration that the $31,700 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan we received in April of 2020 was 100% “forgiven”.  As a result, we can apply the full PPP loan proceeds to our operational budget, effectively allowing us to eliminate the 2020 deficit and add approximately $2,500 to our contingency reserve for future years.
 
Our initial review of the second round of PPP loans just being made available indicates that we will not be eligible for another PPP loan in 2021.  Our current working budget for 2021 has a projected deficit of approximately (32,000+), so this is of significant concern given we will need to utilize reserves if we cannot either increase pledge income or further reduce expenses.  
 
We have already reduced expenses by approximately $45,000 in 2021 compared to 2020.  Further reductions are being considered, but another $32,000+ in reductions would effectively disable our services and staffing.  We currently have only $166,000 in 2021 pledges from 60 households, so the projected pledge income we have included in our current 2021 working budget is $170,000, $30,000 less than in our 2020 budget.   In 2020, we received approximately $187,700 in pledge income, or ($12,300) under our budgeted pledge income of $200,000.  
 
We will continue to provide updates as we work to identify further budget reductions and manage what will be another challenging year financially for our community.  Any additional pledges or contributions will be greatly appreciated!! 
 
If you have any questions regarding the 2021 budget, or input related to revenue or expenses, please feel free to contact Rex Holzemer, Treasurer, at either 651-308-4895 or rexaholzemer@gmail.com.

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s  

Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups for the week of 1/29 – 2/4 

Friday, January 29, 2021
Elders & Evening Prayer
6:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at 
 
Sunday, January 31, 2021
Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to follow.  
10:00 AM
 
Monday, February 1, 2021
Pastoral Care Team
7:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at 
 
Tuesday, February 2, 2021
Caregiving for Aged Loved Ones
7:00 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at 
 
Tuesday, February 2, 2021
Saint Mary’s Men’s Group
7:00 PM
Please email Jim Wheeler if you have any questions or 
would like to get the Zoom link.
 
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
Adult Choir
7:00 PM
If you would like to join us, or have any questions, please contact
 
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
Adult Ed./Book Study
7:00-8:30 PM
If you would like to join us, or have any questions, please contact 
Nina Johnson at nina@jazmn.net or 651-308-8663 
 
Thursday, February 4, 2021
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click here to contact Julie
 
Thursday, February 4, 2021 
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service Via Zoom
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark  
7:00 PM 

Family, Children & Youth Programming January 23-30

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Winter/ Spring Children’s and Youth Programming 2021

Dear All:
 
Here is your informational email on all Children’s and Youth events for the week.
This email has in it Sunday School options, Tweeners info, Youth Group info, Beginnings Info and some fun Parish-wide events.
 
*PLEASE NOTE THE LINKS WILL NOT BE SHARED ON THE WEBSITE. PLEASE REFER TO THE EMAILED INFORMATION OR CONTACT MIALISA FOR THE LINK AT MIALISA@SAINTMARYSEPISCOPAL.ORG*
 
 
Sunday School Options for Families: THIS IS A NEW LINK!
 
Option #1 Sundays from 9:00-9:45am
 
Option #2 Parent Led
 
Tweeners
Tweeners -had an awesome time painting this past week! This coming week we plan to make a music video and continue our mystery (hopefully figure it out!)
 
 
Youth Group
Last week we did a painting with Bob Ross and did some prep for the Souper Bowl of Caring. We will do some more work on the Souper Bowl of Caring this coming Wednesday and figure out which charity we plan to support with the collected funds!
  • Parents please make certain that your youth is participating in your presence (ie not locked in a room). We may have youth break into breakout rooms in groups of three and will not have an adult for each section. According to Safe Church, this is okay so long as youth are in a space where they are all alone.
  • Wednesday 7:00-8:00pm
  • Youth Leaders: MiaLisa and I am looking for a volunteer!
  • Register by Clicking Here
 
Blessings
MiaLisa McFarland Millares
Children’s and Youth Director
Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church

Saint Mary’s Weekly – January 21st, 2021

by

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, January 24, 2021

Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to Follow – 10:00 AM

This will be the 3rd Sunday After the Epiphany and the focus will be “Revelation in Galilee”. Rachel Babbit from ECMN will be our preacher. Rachel is the Missioner for Community Engagement. She supports faith communities in using their gifts for God’s mission in the community. She also supports faith communities in building partnerships and innovative connections with the wider community. Rachel is the primary contact for completing community assessments, organizes and promotes the current Mission Opportunity and oversees MIP grants.
 
Psalm 62:11-12
First Reading:  Jonah 3:1-5, 10
Second Reading:  1 Corinthians 729-31
Gospel:  Mark 1:14-20
 
Please note that the Zoom information below is new for the New Year!
For the Zoom worship service on January 24, 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 Epiphany 3 Service Bulletin – CLICK HERE
For the Epiphany Song Book – CLICK HERE

Worship Team

Epiphany Message from Bishop Craig Loya:
 
“Our nation and our world stand in desperate need of light, shining the way of love. The only way we can be those lights and fulfill our promise is by rooting ourselves, day by day, even moment by moment, in the person and power of Jesus through unceasing prayer.” (Taken from Bp Loya’s 1/12/21 letter)
 

What’s New?

  • To hear the 1/17/21 sermon by The Rev Canon Robert Two Bulls CLICK HERE.
  • To view the 1 Samuel 3:1-10, 11-20 First Reading from 1/17/21, CLICK HERE. You’ve never heard it this way!!
  • Thank you to ECMN for providing sermons during the Sundays After the Epiphany.
  • If you would like to be a Reader now and then, send Anne Green an email at georgeanne1376@yahoo.com. All people (including kids) are invited to be Readers.
  • Do you know everyone who logs in to Sunday morning worship services?  Or might you wonder who that second person on the screen is? Who’s here this morning?? By putting names of all those in your household who are participating in the service on your screen (even those we can’t see), you help us know how many people are attending the service. It’s kind of like wearing your name tag!  It’s more hospitable and inclusive as well.  If you’d like to do this, arrive at the service a little early; on your pc or laptop, click on “Participants” at the bottom of the Zoom screen.
    • Participants: See who’s currently in the meeting and invite others. You can also access to these options:
      • Rename: Hover over your name, click More, and choose Rename to change your screen name displayed to other participants. (Zoom Support) 
Feedback is welcome!
We welcome your feedback and recommendations about worship services.
 
CLICK HERE  to give feedback. Thanks!

Pastoral Care

Pastoral Care Calendar for January 2021 
 
It is with sadness that I inform members and friends of St. Mary’s that Leone, mother of Jim May, has departed this life. Please keep her family in your prayers. 
May her soul and the souls of all faithful departed, through God’s immeasurable love and mercy, rest with the angels in peace and rise with the saints in glory!
Notes of condolence may be sent to jnmay5@gmail.com 
 
Friday, Jan. 22 
Elders & Evening Prayer 6:30 PM
 
Monday, Jan. 25
Pastoral Care Team Meeting 7:30 PM
 
Wed., Jan. 27 
Grief Circle (Prayer and Support) 7:00 PM
Grief and change are often isolating, but they don’t have to be.  
Join this circle for time to be heard, to connect with others, and to pray.
 
We have launched our new Prayer Chain, a ministry that anyone can support! 
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)
 
Looking ahead:
Tues. Feb. 2 at 7 PM
Caregiving for Aging Loved Ones
 
You are invited to join any of these events: 
Reach out to Reverend Cindi Brickson at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org for a Zoom link
 
For confidential prayer requests, reach out to Rev. Cindi at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org

Finance Update: PPP Loan Eliminates 2020 Deficit!

We ended 2020 with a deficit of ($29,173), just shy of the projected ($31,190) deficit for calendar year 2020.  Fortunately, we just recently received confirmation from the Small Business Administration that the $31,700 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan we received in April of 2020 was 100% “forgiven”.  As a result, we can apply the full PPP loan proceeds to our operational budget, effectively allowing us to eliminate the 2020 deficit and add approximately $2,500 to our contingency reserve for future years.
 
Our initial review of the second round of PPP loans just being made available indicates that we will not be eligible for another PPP loan in 2021.  Our current working budget for 2021 has a projected deficit of approximately (32,000+), so this is of significant concern given we will need to utilize reserves if we cannot either increase pledge income or further reduce expenses.  
 
We have already reduced expenses by approximately $45,000 in 2021 compared to 2020.  Further reductions are being considered, but another $32,000+ in reductions would effectively disable our services and staffing.  We currently have only $166,000 in 2021 pledges from 60 households, so the projected pledge income we have included in our current 2021 working budget is $170,000, $30,000 less than in our 2020 budget.   In 2020, we received approximately $187,700 in pledge income, or ($12,300) under our budgeted pledge income of $200,000.  
 
We will continue to provide updates as we work to identify further budget reductions and manage what will be another challenging year financially for our community.  Any additional pledges or contributions will be greatly appreciated!! 
 
If you have any questions regarding the 2021 budget, or input related to revenue or expenses, please feel free to contact Rex Holzemer, Treasurer, at either 651-308-4895 or rexaholzemer@gmail.com.

Would you like to say THANK YOU?

Please join us in thanking everyone who is working so hard on behalf of our community by signing our online message board. The link is below. The site is easy to use and in addition to a written message, you can add photos and GIFs. Feel free to have fun with it!
 
You may consider dropping a note of gratitude for the amazing Pageant; perhaps you loved Community and Carols; or maybe you’d simply like to thank all of the folks that are working behind the scenes to bring St. Mary’s forward. If possible, please post one message on the board per family, as we have a limited number of posts.

Outreach Opportunities: 

January 24, 2021
Isaiah’s We Make Minnesota Virtual Launch
Please CLICK HERE for more information on the event and/or contact Ginny DeLuca for more information – ginnydeluca1736@gmail.com

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s  

Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups for the week of 1/22 – 1/28 

Friday, January 22, 2021
Elders & Evening Prayer
6:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org or 612-998-5136
 
Sunday, January 24, 2021
Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to follow.  
10:00 AM
 
Monday, January 25, 2021
Pastoral Care Team
7:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org or 612-998-5136
 
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
Vestry Meeting
7:00 PM
Vestry Meetings are open to all Saint Mary’s members. The Saint Mary’s Vestry usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month. The meeting  begins at 7:00 PM. (Note: If you are a member of Saint Mary’s and would like to attend this meeting via Zoom, please contact Jim DeLuca or Caroline Kaker for the Zoom access code at wardens@saintmaryepiscopal.org)
 
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Adult Choir
7:00 PM
If you would like to join us, or have any questions, please contact Vonda at musicdirector@saintmarysepiscopal.org
 
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Adult Ed./Book Study
7:00-8:30 PM
If you would like to join us, or have any questions, please contact Nina Johnson at nina@jazmn.net or 651-308-8663 
 
Thursday, January 28, 2021
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click here to contact Julie
 
Thursday, January 28, 2021 
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service Via Zoom
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark  
7:00 PM 
 

Family, Children & Youth Programming January 16-23

by

Winter/ Spring Children’s and Youth Programming 2021

Dear All:
 
Here is your informational email on all Children’s and Youth events for the week.
This email has in it Sunday School options, Tweeners info, Youth Group info, Beginnings Info and some fun Parish-wide events.
 
*PLEASE NOTE THE LINKS WILL NOT BE SHARED ON THE WEBSITE. PLEASE REFER TO THE EMAILED INFORMATION OR CONTACT MIALISA FOR THE LINK AT MIALISA@SAINTMARYSEPISCOPAL.ORG*
 
Sunday School Options for Families: THIS IS A NEW LINK!
 
Option #1 Sundays from 9:00-9:45am
 
Option #2 Parent Led
 
 
Tweeners
Tweeners – it was fun playing games and continuing our mystery this past week. This coming week, please remember to bring art supplies (watercolors) for our paint class!
 
 
Youth Group
Last week we player Among Us again and this coming week we will be putting together a video for Souper Bowl of Caring and we have paint night too! Bring your art supplies!
  • Parents please make certain that your youth is participating in your presence (ie not locked in a room). We may have youth break into breakout rooms in groups of three and will not have an adult for each section. According to Safe Church, this is okay so long as youth are in a space where they are all alone.
 
 
 
Blessings
MiaLisa McFarland Millares
Children’s and Youth Director
Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church

Saint Mary’s Weekly – January 14th, 2021

by

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, January 17, 2021

Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to Follow – 10:00 AM

This will be the 2nd Sunday After the Epiphany and the focus will be on “Revelations to the Childhood of Christ.” Many of our children will participate in this service. The Rev Canon Robert Two Bulls will be our preacher. (See “What’s New” below for further information.)
 
First Reading:  1 Samuel 3:1-10, 11-20 (Will be read as a Play)
Gospel:  John 1:43-51
 
Please note that the Zoom information below is new for the New Year!
For the Zoom worship service on January 17, 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 Epiphany 2 Service Bulletin – CLICK HERE
For the Epiphany Song Book – CLICK HERE

Worship Team

What’s New?
  • ECMN is graciously providing sermons by Bishop Loya and Missioners for the last 5 Sundays After the Epiphany. Congregations may use one, a few, many or none. St Mary’s will be incorporating 4 of these sermons into our Zoom services, starting this Sunday, January 17th, with Rev Canon Robert Two Bulls preaching.
  • Have you ever wondered how some people become Readers for our Sunday morning worship services? If you would like to be a Reader now and then, send Anne Green an email at georgeanne1376@yahoo.com. All people (including kids) are invited to be Readers.
  • Do you know everyone who logs in to Sunday morning worship services?  Or might you wonder who that second person on the screen is? Who’s here this morning?? By putting names of all those in your household who are participating in the service on your screen (even those we can’t see), you help us know how many people are attending the service. It’s kind of like wearing your name tag!  It’s more hospitable and inclusive as well.  If you’d like to do this, arrive at the service a little early; on your pc or laptop, click on “Participants” at the bottom of the Zoom screen.
    • Participants: See who’s currently in the meeting and invite others. You can also access to these options:
      • Rename: Hover over your name, click More, and choose Rename to change your screen name displayed to other participants. (Zoom Support) 
Feedback is welcome!
We welcome your feedback and recommendations about worship services.
 
CLICK HERE  to give feedback. Thanks!

Pastoral Care

Pastoral Care Calendar for January 2021 
Sunday, Jan. 17 
GLBTQ+ virtual gathering 7:00 PM 
A quarterly event to connect and support each other
please contact Eily Marlow for more information, including the Zoom link at marloweily@gmail.com
 
Mondays, Jan. 18, 25
Pastoral Care Team Meeting 7:30 PM
 
Friday, Jan. 22
          Elders & Evening Prayer 6:30 PM
 
Wed., Jan. 27 
Grief Circle (Prayer and Support) 7:00 PM
Grief and change are often isolating, but they don’t have to be.  
Join this circle for time to be heard, to connect with others, and to pray.
 
We have launched our new Prayer Chain, a ministry that anyone can support! 
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)
 
Looking ahead:
Tues. Feb. 2 at 7 PM
Caregiving for Aging Loved Ones
 
You are invited to join any of these events: 
Reach out to Reverend Cindi Brickson at 
 
For confidential prayer requests, reach out to Rev. Cindi at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org

Would you like to say THANK YOU?

Please join us in thanking everyone who is working so hard on behalf of our community by signing our online message board. The link is below. The site is easy to use and in addition to a written message, you can add photos and GIFs. Feel free to have fun with it!
 
You may consider dropping a note of gratitude for the amazing Pageant; perhaps you loved Community and Carols; or maybe you’d simply like to thank all of the folks that are working behind the scenes to bring St. Mary’s forward. If possible, please post one message on the board per family, as we have a limited number of posts.

Outreach Opportunities: 

January 24, 2021
Isaiah’s We Make Minnesota Virtual Launch
Please CLICK HERE for more information on the event and/or contact Ginny DeLuca for more information – ginnydeluca1736@gmail.com

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s  

Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups for the week of 1/15 – 1/21 

 
Sunday, January 17, 2021
Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to follow.  
10:00 AM
 
Sunday, January 17, 2021
GLBTQ+ Virtual Gathering  
7:00 PM
A quarterly event to connect and support each other. Please contact Eily Marlow for more information, including the Zoom link marloweily@gmail.com
 
Monday, January 18, 2021
Pastoral Care Team
7:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at 
 
Tuesday, January 19, 2021
Finance Committee Meeting
6:30 PM
Contact finance@saintmarysepiscopal.org for the Zoom link
 
Wednesday, January 20, 2021
Adult Choir
7:00 PM
If you would like to join us, or have any questions, please contact Vonda at musicdirector@saintmarysepiscopal.org
 
Wednesday, January 20, 2021
Adult Ed./Book Study
7:00-8:30 PM
If you would like to join us, or have any questions, please contact 
Nina Johnson at nina@jazmn.net or 651-308-8663 
 
Thursday, January 21, 2021
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click here to contact Julie
 
Thursday, January 21, 2021 
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service Via Zoom
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark  
7:00 PM 

Family, Children & Youth Programming January 9-15

by

Winter/ Spring Children’s and Youth Programming 2021

Dear All:
 
Here is your informational email on all Children’s and Youth events for the week.
This email has in it Sunday School options, Tweeners info, Youth Group info, Beginnings Info and some fun Parish-wide events.
 
*PLEASE NOTE THE LINKS WILL NOT BE SHARED ON THE WEBSITE. PLEASE REFER TO THE EMAILED INFORMATION OR CONTACT MIALISA FOR THE LINK AT MIALISA@SAINTMARYSEPISCOPAL.ORG*
 
Sunday School Options for Families: THIS IS A NEW LINK!
 
Option #1 Sundays from 9:00-9:45am
 
Option #2 Parent Led
 
 
Tweeners
Tweeners please note we have a new link for Winter/ Spring…Use this NEW LINK! We will continue with our mystery this upcoming week and hopefully find out who took the photos.
 
 
Youth Group
Last week we painted and it was so relaxing and so much fun. Next week we plan to do Among Us again and the following week we will do painting again…join us!
  • This is a NEW LINK!!!
  • Parents please make certain that your youth is participating in your presence (ie not locked in a room). We may have youth break into breakout rooms in groups of three and will not have an adult for each section. According to Safe Church, this is okay so long as youth are in a space where they are all alone.
 
 
 
Blessings
MiaLisa McFarland Millares
Children’s and Youth Director
Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church

Saint Mary’s Weekly – January 7th, 2021

by

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, January 10, 2021

Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to Follow – 10:00 AM

Epiphany was on Wednesday, January 6. This year at St Mary’s we celebrate Epiphany on Sunday, January 10th. For the sermon we’ll be transported to breakout rooms and join in a participatory sermon. Join other St Marians to talk about Epiphany and the Magi/Wise Men.
 
First Reading:  Ephesians 3:1-12
Gospel:  Matthew 2:1-12
 
Please note that the Zoom information below is new for the New Year!
For the Zoom worship service on January 10, 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 Epiphany I Service Bulletin – CLICK HERE
For the Epiphany Song Book – CLICK HERE

Worship Team

Epiphany Message from Bishop Craig Loya
Taken from Bishop Loya’s letter in the ECMN Weekly News:
“…Epiphany is about remembering how the light of Jesus was first revealed in the world, and is an invitation to consider the ways it continues to shine in the present darkness. In the coming Sundays, we’ll hear stories of how the light of God’s love was revealed in the life of Jesus, and be challenged to look for the ways it continues to show up in our own lives today….” 
 
What’s New?
    • Last week’s sermon by Rev Lydia Huttar Brown CLICK HERE.
    • For the remaining 5 Sundays during the Season after Epiphany, we will hear sermons from Bishop Loya and ECMN Missioners.  These sermons will be shared through our St Mary’s zoom services. 
    • On Sunday, February 7, Bishop Craig Loya will be visiting St Mary’s via Zoom and preaching. St. Mary’s Youth will also participate in the service and will hold their annual Super Bowl Fund Raiser.
Feedback is welcome!
We welcome your feedback and recommendations about worship services.
 
CLICK HERE  to give feedback. Thanks!

Update from Your Transition Team 

We continue preparing the materials we will share with prospective priest candidates.  We are on track with our original timeline.  Most recently, we received feedback from Vestry members, which we are incorporating into the materials. We will present the complete portfolio to the congregation before sending it to Bishop Loya for final review and posting. Details TBA.  The next meeting of the Transition Team is January 9th. Resources: 
 

Pastoral Care

Pastoral Care Calendar for January 2021 
Mondays, Jan. 11, 18, 25
Pastoral Care Team Meeting 7:30 PM
 
Wednesday, Jan. 13 
Coffee and Conversation with Rev. Cindi 
Come, connect with your neighbors and check in!
10:00 AM, 7:00 PM
 
Friday, Jan. 22 
Elders & Evening Prayer 6:30 PM
 
Wed., Jan. 27 
Grief Circle (Prayer and Support) 7:00 PM
Grief and change are often isolating, but they don’t have to be.  
Join this circle for time to be heard, to connect with others, and to pray.
 
Jan. dates TBA:    
GLBTQ+ gathering
Alzheimers support group
 
We will also launch our new Prayer Chain this month….details TBA 
(No meeting required)
 
You are invited to join any of these events: reach out to Reverend Cindi Brickson at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org for a Zoom link
 
For confidential prayer requests, reach out to Rev. Cindi at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org

Would you like to say THANK YOU?

Please join us in thanking everyone who is working so hard on behalf of our community by signing our online message board. The link is below. The site is easy to use and in addition to a written message, you can add photos and GIFs. Feel free to have fun with it!
 
You may consider dropping a note of gratitude for the amazing Pageant; perhaps you loved Community and Carols; or maybe you’d simply like to thank all of the folks that are working behind the scenes to bring St. Mary’s forward. If possible, please post one message on the board per family, as we have a limited number of posts.

Outreach Opportunities: 

January 24, 2021
Isaiah’s We Make Minnesota Virtual Launch
Please CLICK HERE for more information on the event and/or contact Ginny DeLuca for more information – ginnydeluca1736@gmail.com

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s  

Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups for the week of 1/8 – 1/14 

Sunday, January 10, 2021
Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to follow.  
10:00 AM
 
Monday, January 11, 2021
Pastoral Care Team
7:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org or 612-998-5136
 
Wednesday, January 13, 2021
Coffee and Conversation with Rev. Cindi
10:00 AM & 7:00 PM
Please reply to Cindi at  pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org to reserve your space and get the Zoom link
 
Wednesday, January 13, 2021
Adult Choir
7:00 PM
If you would like to join us, or have any questions, please contact Vonda at musicdirector@saintmarysepiscopal.org
 
Wednesday, January 13, 2021
Adult Ed./Book Study
7:00-8:30 PM
If you would like to join us, or have any questions, please contact Nina Johnson at nina@jazmn.net or 651-308-8663 
 
Thursday, January 14, 2021
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click here to contact Julie
 
Thursday, January 14, 2021 
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service Via Zoom
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark  
7:00 PM 
 
Sunday School Online:  
MiaLisa McFarland Millares will send out an email with readings, activities, 
and links for videos and discussions to all on our Constant Contact list.  
If you receive this email, you are on the list. 
 
Visit the St. Mary’s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

Family, Children & Youth Programming January 2-8

by

Winter/ Spring Children’s and Youth Programming 2021

Dear All:
 
Here is your informational email on all Children’s and Youth events for the week.
This email has in it Sunday School options, Tweeners info, Youth Group info, Beginnings Info and some fun Parish-wide events.
 
*PLEASE NOTE THAT LINKS TO CHILDREN AND YOUTH EVENTS WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED ON THE WEBSITE. PLEASE CONTACT MIALISA FOR LINK INFORMATION AT MIALISA@STMARYSEPISCOPAL.ORG*
 
Sunday School Options for Families:
 
Option #1 Sundays from 9:00-9:45am starting September 20th, 2020
Option #2 Parent Led
Tweeners
Tweeners please note we have a new link for Winter/ Spring…Use this NEW LINK! Parents please make certain that your tween is participating in your presence
Youth Group
This coming week we will be doing some painting. Please make sure to bring some paint and a brush and paper.
  • This is a NEW LINK!!!
  • Parents please make certain that your youth is participating in your presence (ie not locked in a room). We may have youth break into breakout rooms in groups of three and will not have an adult for each section. According to Safe Church, this is okay so long as youth are in a space where they are all alone.
  • Wednesday 7:00-8:00pm
  • Youth Leaders: MiaLisa and I am looking for a volunteer!
  • Register by Clicking Here
 
Blessings
MiaLisa McFarland Millares
Children’s and Youth Director
Saint Mary‘s Episcopal Church

Vestry Letter: An Option for Interim Ministry to Saint Mary’s; Reverend Susan Moss

by

December 31, 2020

Families and friends of St Mary’s,
 
Your vestry sends this letter today with sincere hopes that it finds you well and in a place of peace and celebration during this Christmas season. The new year will soon be with us and we are looking forward with confidence, hope and optimism for the blessings that 2021 may bring.
 
We are so grateful for all the gifts of time and energy that members of our community are investing for our future. There is so much activity and participation from so many; the worship teams are hosting loving and touching services to nourish us, the music teams fill us with joy and celebration, our children’s ministry continues to redefine creativity and care for our children, the transition team is gathering often with boundless energy to help discern the possibilities for our futures, the finance team is turning countless iterations in stewardship of prospective budgets, the buildings crew is caring for our (largely) empty beloved home, and so much more… in even in the brief and distanced conversations, limited to phones and zoom, the energy and optimism binds us and shines through to brighten our days.
 
We are blessed to have so many members of our congregation filling important roles, but the vestry feels that it would be best to have someone with experience in these matters walking the road with us. An interim priest could help us through this transition by filling important roles between now and when we are able to complete a call for a new permanent rector. Someone who can walk with us, listen to us, support us, guide us, and work with us, as we are and as who we want to be, for the coming months.
 
We are fortunate that ECMN continues to support us through this transition. The Reverend Karen Olson (ECMN) has been more than just a point of contact for us at the diocese. She is our support, she cares for us, and recently (about two weeks ago) she came to the wardens with a potential candidate who might be a fit for us as an interim role: Reverend Susan Moss.
 
Reverend Susan Moss might be a familiar name to you: she knows us, she has presided and preached at services at Saint Mary’s (listen to her sermon December 9th, 2018), she has been a priest in Minnesota for many years, has been part of the diocese (ECMN) in several roles, and to support our congregation she is interested to step out of retirement and into active ministry to work with us on a part time, temporary basis.
 
Reverend Moss has a wealth of experiences and she has the wisdom to teach, guide, and coach. She is formed and grounded in Episcopal traditions, yet she is so open and imaginative in the ways she sees Christ in the world. She has quiet, but seemingly boundless energy and creativity to help others find the joys from God in this world and she calls us all to serve others to share that love.
 
She has been employed as a permanent Rector in stable communities, she has been deployed as a Vicar for a newly-formed mission church, and she has served in interim and transitional roles to guide congregations through tough transition in face of hard realities. She can share more details of her background as our conversations with her continue. In the meantime, we found this summary bio interesting and informative from just a few years ago, written by Rev Barbara Mraz, while Rev Moss was serving an interim role at St John the Evangelist.
 
Within just a few days from the time that Rev Karen Olson brought forward Rev Susan Moss as a potential candidate to serve in a part-time, temporary interim role with Saint Mary’s, our wardens (Caroline Kaker and Jim DeLuca) were able to follow up in a conversation directly with Reverend Moss. Since your vestry has been meeting weekly (on Sunday nights) for the past several months, a timely second conversation was arranged with the larger vestry audience. The activities aligned over a short period of time just about a week ago.
 
The series of two short conversations with Rev Moss went well. The vestry feels that she may be a good fit for this role and hope to further explore this possibility. In this consideration, it is important that we recognize the context of our community situation: we are a strong, lay-led congregation on our way through transition with a need for an experienced hand to help guide us for just awhile along this path. Rev Moss should not be considered as an “applicant” who reached out to us to fill an open position; rather, our mentors within ECMN recognized potential for mutual ministry and helped to guide two parties together toward the next conversation.
 
Also, it is important to note that none of this is certain; it is just promising. It is new and promising enough for us to share this information with you and share some excitement of the possibility. Whether Reverend Susan Moss is the right fit for Saint Mary’s, whether she is the right person to guide us in the coming months is still in discernment.
 
If we were to proceed, the details (the nuts & bolts) of her role, responsibilities, boundaries, start date and contract would need to be worked out. One consideration in discussions with Reverend Moss is that she is only looking to work part-time and will not assume all of the duties filled by a rector. We are blessed to have Reverend Cindi Brickson, a member from our community, serving us in a role of pastoral care and that could continue should we hire Reverend Moss. This continuity of pastoral care would be beneficial as a way to minimize further transitions for the community.
 
One thing Reverend Moss has shared: if she is called by us to serve in a temporary interim role, she will want to know from us; what is our most important work in this world? And, she will want to be there, beside us, working with us.
 
We welcome your feedback on this question as we continue our conversation with Reverend Moss. We also want to hear from you and know how this option appeals (or doesn’t) to you. We are your vestry representatives and we want to be sure we are best considering all of our voices. If you have immediate questions, please reach out to any of the vestry directly. We look forward to hearing from you.
 
We’ve been through many changes together over the recent years and months. As our lives in community continue to evolve, let us continue together on our journey with an eye to the horizon, while we do our best to ensure each step on the path is in firm footing.
 
We also would like to share an update on the deep, discerning, and meaningful work that our Transition Team is doing. The congregation received an update after services on November 15th. Since then, they have continued to meet at least weekly, often with more conversations and gatherings between. Most recently, they shared another update to the Vestry that shows major progress toward developing information needed for a call for a permanent rector. They are focused on the long term; they are casting forward and guiding our eyes toward the horizon with hope for what might for a call for a permanent rector. In their prayerful work, much remains unknown, but they are working hard and with optimism toward a goal of a successful call sometime in mid-year 2021. As they complete that work, we will be asking them to provide another update to the community for their feedback.
 
We appreciate how difficult so many of the transitions of the past two years have been for this community. Please provide us with any feedback on how we as a vestry can serve the congregation through the transitions ahead of us. We look forward to walking that road together with you.
 
In service,
 
Your St. Mary‘s Vestry
 
Caroline Kaker, co-warden
Jim Deluca, co-warden

Saint Mary’s Weekly – December 31st, 2020

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A Letter from the St. Mary‘s Vestry

Please look for another email from St. Mary‘s later today (December 31st) with a letter from the St. Mary‘s Vestry. Your attention and feedback is greatly appreciated.

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, January 3, 2021

Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to Follow – 10:00 AM

On the second Sunday after Christmas, the Rev Lydia Huttar Brown will preside and preach.  There will be lots of Christmas carols included in this service, so please join other St Marians and give voice (muted, of course!) to many of the beautiful carols that enrich this season.
 
First Reading:  I John 3:1-2                      
Gospel:  Matthew 2:19-23
 
Please note that the Zoom information below is new for the New Year!
For the Zoom worship service on January 3, 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 Christmas 2 Service Bulletin – CLICK HERE
For the Christmas 2 Song Book – CLICK HERE

Would you like to say THANK YOU?

Please join us in thanking everyone who is working so hard on behalf of our community by signing our online message board. The link is below. The site is easy to use and in addition to a written message, you can add photos and GIFs. Feel free to have fun with it!
 
You may consider dropping a note of gratitude for the amazing Pageant; perhaps you loved Community and Carols; or maybe you’d simply like to thank all of the folks that are working behind the scenes to bring St. Mary‘s forward. If possible, please post one message on the board per family, as we have a limited number of posts.

Worship Team

Christmas Message
 
     When the song of the angels is stilled,
       When the star in the sky is gone,
         When the Kings and princes are home,
           When the shepherds are back with their flock,
     The work of Christmas begins:
       To find the lost,
         To heal the broken,
           To feed the hungry,
             To release the prisoner,
               To rebuild the nations,
                 To bring peace among people,
                   To make music in the heart.
 
     Howard Thurman,”The Work of Christmas”: The Mood of Christmas & Other Celebrations, 1985
 
What’s New?
  • Last week’s sermon by Rev Carol Arney CLICK HERE.
  • A few folks requested to include the link again for the Pageant from the December 20th, 2020 service CLICK HERE as well as the Lego Gospel CLICK HERE!
  • Epiphany is on Wednesday, January 6. There are 6 Sundays in the Season after Epiphany, starting on January 10th. The Worship Team is currently working on those worship services.
  • On Sunday, February 7, Bishop Craig Loya will be visiting St Mary‘s via zoom and preaching.
Feedback is welcome!
We welcome your feedback and recommendations about worship services.
 
Click HERE to give feedback. Thanks!

Update from Your Transition Team 

On Sunday, December 20th we met with the vestry to present the narrative part of the Ministry Portfolio (which we affectionately call the “two-pager”). You can watch a recording of our presentation HERE (video will play in your browser window).  We plan to present the complete portfolio to the congregation before sending it to Bishop Loya for final review and posting. Details TBA.  
 
The next meeting of the Transition Team is January 2nd. We would love to hear from you — email us at transitionteam@saintmarysepiscopal.org.

Pastoral Care

Is there something on your mind? 
In your heart?
 
For confidential prayer requests, reach out to Rev. Cindi at: pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org
 
The Pastoral Care Team meets (by Zoom) on Mondays at 7:30 PM.  All are welcome!  
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link.
 
How to contact Rev. Cindi: pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org or 612-998-5136
 
The Pastoral Care Team is looking for your prayerful support. 
We are beginning a prayer chain ministry!  If you would like to join the chain, or would like more information about how it will work, please reach out to Rev. Cindi.
Come pray with us!

In a Hurry? Donate by Credit Card! 

It’s the end of the year. If there are  too many things to do and not enough time, you can make a year-end or Christmas donation to St. Mary‘s quickly by credit card. Just click on the link below and it will take you to the St. Mary‘s site where you can donate using any credit card. Be aware that a fee of 2.9% of your donation will be deducted from your donation.  
 
 
Have enough time and want your entire donation to go to St. Mary‘s with no fee (that’s our preference too!!)? Mail a check with your year-end or Christmas donation.  We check the mail daily, so it’s safe to send in donations via U.S. mail. Send your check to the following address:
 
St. Mary‘s Episcopal Church
1895 Laurel Ave.
St. Paul, MN  55104 
 
Regardless of how you choose to donate, we appreciate it—-a lot!! 
 
Questions? Contact Rex Holzemer, Treasurer, at 651-308-4895 or rexaholzemer@gmail.com.

Outreach Opportunities: 

January 24, 2021
Isaiah’s We Make Minnesota Virtual Launch
Please CLICK HERE for more information on the event and/or contact Ginny DeLuca for more information – ginnydeluca1736@gmail.com

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary‘s  

Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups for the week of 12/31 – 1/7 

Thursday, December 31, 2020
Saint Mary‘s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click here to contact Julie
 
Thursday, December 31, 2020 
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service Via Zoom
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark  
7:00 PM
 
Sunday, January 3, 2021
Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to follow.  
10:00 AM
 
Monday, January 4, 2021
Pastoral Care Team
7:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org or 612-998-5136
 
Tuesday, January 5, 2021
Saint Mary‘s Men’s Group
7:00 PM
Please email Jim Wheeler if you have any questions or would like to get the Zoom link.
 
Wednesday, January 6, 2021
Adult Ed./Book Study
7:00-8:30 PM
If you would like to join us, or have any questions, please contact Nina Johnson at nina@jazmn.net or 651-308-8663 
 
Thursday, January 7, 2021
Saint Mary‘s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click here to contact Julie
 
Thursday, January 7, 2021 
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service Via Zoom
Led by Erika Scheurer and Anna Clark  
7:00 PM 
 
Sunday School Online:  
MiaLisa McFarland Millares will send out an email with readings, activities, 
and links for videos and discussions to all on our Constant Contact list.  
If you receive this email, you are on the list. 
 
Visit the St. Mary‘s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

Saint Mary’s Worship – December 27th, 2020

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Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, December 27, 2020

Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to Follow – 10:00 AM

On the first Sunday after Christmas, the Rev Carol Arney will preside and preach.  There will be lots of Christmas carols included in this service, so please join other St Marians and give voice (muted, of course!) to many of the beautiful carols that enrich this season.
 
Music – Vonda Humburg
Technical Assistance – William Welsh & Brian Nerbonne
 
For the Zoom worship service on December 27, 2020 CLICK HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 330173
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 921 8033 3901
 
To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 921 8033 3901
If asked for a passcode, use 330173
 
For the Christmas 1 Service Bulletin – CLICK HERE
For the Christmas 1 Song Book – CLICK HERE

Saint Mary’s Weekly – December 24th, 2020

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CLICK HERE to watch a Christmas message from Bishop Loya and his family and read his letter to the ECMN community below. 

 
 
Beloved in Christ, 
 
When I was a child, the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas meant that my grandmother would make dozens of tamales, a traditional Mexican dish of  meat and spices wrapped in dough and baked inside a corn husk. When the labor-intensive process was complete, it seemed like my family would eat almost nothing else for days. They were the outward and visible sign of the bottomless love my grandmother had for me and my sisters. To this day, when I eat tamales, it’s as if that seven-year old boy and his loving grandmother are with me in the midst of whatever lies in front of me.  
 
Christmas is like that, too. At Christmas, we don’t simply recall past events, we re-member Jesus, love coming among us in its fullness in a way that allows us to fully participate in that love right now.  
 
In the reading from Isaiah appointed for Christmas Eve, the prophet writes, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.” Isaiah was writing to people who were wandering in the deepest imaginable darkness. Their homes had been destroyed, they had been dispersed in a strange and foreign land, and the worship of God as they knew it had been rendered impossible. They felt abandoned, destitute, completely without hope. They had experienced the Ancient  Near East’s version of 2020 on steroids.  
 
And yet, Isaiah offers a bold and brazen word of hope. In the face of disaster and destitution, he prophesies in the present perfect tense. “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.” The seeing that began in the past is not confined there, but continues uninterrupted into the present. He is inviting the people of Israel to remember what God has done, the ways they have seen God’s  light, in order that they might call those past deeds into the present to carry them into God’s future.  
 
In the deep darkness of 2020’s winter, we do not have to look to some imagined  future to find the light of hope. This Christmas, as ever, we are invited to look back, to God’s unfailing faithfulness to God’s people from the beginning of creation. Through patriarchs, matriarchs, prophets, and apostles. Through the saints of history and the saints who sit next to us in our pews, occupy the square next to us on Zoom, teach in our classrooms, or cook in our grandparents’ kitchens. Through the heroic work of health care workers. Through the weary distance-learning parent who finds a way to carry on. Through the window birthday parties for the aged and lonely in nursing homes. Through weeknight virtual Compline and small groups that allow us to let go of our attempts to keep it all together. 
 
In this year of darkness, I have seen a great light in every single one of you. We have seen a great light in one another. This Christmas, eat your tamales, dearly beloved, and remember. Remember, God is faithful. Remember, we have seen a great light. Remember, a light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not, will not, and cannot overcome it. 
 
Merry Christmas, 
 
The Right Reverend Craig Loya 
X Bishop 
Episcopal Church in Minnesota 
 
(From ECMN News: The Great Light email of December 22, 2020)

Christmas Eve Worship & Gathering Options

Thursday, December 24

Please join fellow St. Marians via Zoom for a few Christmas Eve Service options. On Thursday, December 24th we will gather as a community to participate in one of the services from the National Cathedral in Washington D.C.
 
  • 5:00 PM Family Service: The Nativity story with a service of carols and prayers featuring a menagerie of live animals. 
  • 6:15 PM St Mary‘s Coffee hour for everybody & anybody!! Stay for 5 minutes or 45 minutes or any amount of time in between!!
  • 7:00 PM Christmas Eve Eucharist, a service of readings from Scripture, favorite hymns, seasonal choral and instrumental music and preaching by The Right Reverend Mariann Edgar Budde, Bishop of Episcopal Diocese of Washington.
For the Zoom Christmas Eve services on December 24, 2020 CLICK HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 458490
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 957 8585 8549
 
To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 957 8585 8549
If asked for a passcode, use 458490

Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, December 27, 2020

Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to Follow – 10:00 AM

On the first Sunday after Christmas, the Rev Carol Arney will preside and preach.  There will be lots of Christmas carols included in this service, so please join other St Marians and give voice (muted, of course!) to many of the beautiful carols that enrich this season.
 
Music – Vonda Humburg
Technical Assistance – William Welsh & Brian Nerbonne
 
For the Zoom worship service on December 20, 2020 CLICK HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 330173
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 921 8033 3901
 
To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 921 8033 3901
If asked for a passcode, use 330173
 
For the Christmas 1 Song Book – CLICK HERE

Worship Team

Christmas Message
“My suggestion is that you separate mystery from history and then enter into and enjoy the mystery of the season.  Dream of Peace on Earth and Goodwill among men and women, and then dedicate yourself to bringing that vision into being.”  John Shelby Spong
 
Christmas Eve–December  24
We will “zoom” together to services at the National Cathedral AND have the opportunity to visit with our St Mary‘s friends.
 
Christmas Day–December 25
No service from St Mary‘s.  If you would like to attend a Christmas Day service via zoom, here are a couple choices:
    • St John the Evangelist–10 am Festival Service with the pageant as the Gospel.  Check their website (stjohnsstpaul.org) for further information.
    • St Mark’s Cathedral–10 am ECMN Festival of Lessons and Carols, featuring faces and voices from across the state, bringing the ECMN family together to celebrate Christmas. Available on Vimeo and Facebook. For the bulletin for the service CLICK HERE.
What’s New?
-The Pageant from the December 20th, 2020 service CLICK HERE
 
Feedback is welcome!
We welcome your feedback and recommendations about worship services.
 
Click HERE to give feedback. Thanks!

Update from Your Transition Team 

Last Sunday we met with the vestry to present the narrative part of the Ministry Portfolio (which we affectionately call the “two-pager”). You can watch a recording of our presentation HERE (video will play in your browser window).  We plan to present the complete portfolio to the congregation before sending it to Bishop Loya for final review and posting. Details TBA.  
 
The next meeting of the Transition Team is January 2nd. We would love to hear from you — email us at transitionteam@saintmarysepiscopal.org.

Pastoral Care

Is there something on your mind? 
In your heart?
 
For confidential prayer requests, reach out to Rev. Cindi at: pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org
 
The Pastoral Care Team meets (by Zoom) on Mondays at 7:30 PM.  All are welcome!  
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link.
 
How to contact Rev. Cindi: pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org or 612-998-5136
 
The Pastoral Care Team is looking for your prayerful support. We are beginning a prayer chain ministry!  If you would like to join the chain, or would like more information about how it will work, please reach out to Rev. Cindi.
Come pray with us!

In a Hurry? Donate by Credit Card! 

It’s the end of the year. If there are  too many things to do and not enough time, you can make a year-end or Christmas donation to St. Mary‘s quickly by credit card. Just click on the link below and it will take you to the St. Mary‘s site where you can donate using any credit card. Be aware that a fee of 2.9% of your donation will be deducted from your donation.  
 
 
Have enough time and want your entire donation to go to St. Mary‘s with no fee (that’s our preference too!!)? Mail a check with your year-end or Christmas donation.  We check the mail daily, so it’s safe to send in donations via U.S. mail. Send your check to the following address:
 
St. Mary‘s Episcopal Church
1895 Laurel Ave.
St. Paul, MN  55104 
 
Regardless of how you choose to donate, we appreciate it—-a lot!! 
Questions? Contact Rex Holzemer, Treasurer, at 651-308-4895 or rexaholzemer@gmail.com.

Finance Committee Update

November Donations Reduce Deficit!

Pledge income in November was almost $14,000 above the budgeted amount. It was very welcome news after October when pledge income was well below budget. The donations positively impact our projected year-end deficit. The linked chart (CLICK HERE) outlines the key financials as of November 30, 2020.  
 
If donations in December keep pace with the projected levels for December, we could end the year with a deficit around $10,000 less than projected, in other words, a deficit of approximately ($21,000) instead of the projected deficit of ($31,190). Once we apply the $31,700 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan to the 2020 operational budget that we received in April, which should be 100% forgiven, we could actually end the year with a small surplus. We are very fortunate to have received this forgivable loan. 
 
Feel free to contact Rex Holzemer via e-mail (rexaholzemer@gmail.com) or phone (651-308-4895) if you have questions or want additional information.

Outreach Opportunities: 

January 24, 2021
Isaiah’s We Make Minnesota Virtual Launch
Please CLICK HERE for more information on the event and/or contact Ginny DeLuca for more information – ginnydeluca1736@gmail.com

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary‘s  

Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups for the week of 12/25 – 12/31 

Sunday, December 27, 2020
Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to follow.  
10:00 AM
 
Monday, December 28, 2020
Pastoral Care Team
7:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at 
 
Sunday School Online:  
MiaLisa McFarland Millares will send out an email with readings, activities, 
and links for videos and discussions to all on our Constant Contact list.  
If you receive this email, you are on the list. 
NO Sunday school December 20th or 27th!
 
Visit the St. Mary‘s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

Supplement to the Saint Mary’s Weekly – December 21st, 2020

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Supplement to the Weekly 

Due to technical issues with Google’s Gmail platform this past week, a timely item that was intended for the December 17th Weekly was not received to be included. Please see below for this additional Outreach Opportunity.  
 
The St. Mary’s Communications Team

Outreach Opportunities:

Monday, December 21, 2020
Water and Stars: A Solstice Solidarity Action to Stop Line 3
 
Join fellow St. Marians for a solstice ceremony in solidarity with Line 3 Water Protectors at Bohemian Flats Park at 4 pm on Monday, December 21st.
 
Click here for the location: https://goo.gl/maps/ACGJosmWQccqrJpv5
   
Please Let Maggie (maggie.brickson@icloud.com) or Julia (jnerbonne@gmail.com) know if you have questions. 
 

Facebook Event Information – CLICK HERE

Our broader community has been invited by Native leaders to come together virtually in prayer, reflection, and spiritual practice at sunset on Monday, December 21. On this evening of the Winter Solstice, we will join our collective energy in a rebuke of the destructive Line 3 oil pipeline, and in a shared dreaming of a just and sustainable future. Everyone is invited, and you can do it from home!
 
This action of solidarity is a collaboration between members of St. Mary’s, Minnesota Interfaith Power & Light, Winona LaDuke, Honor the Earth, and Indigenous leaders on the ground resisting the Line 3 oil pipeline.

Family, Children & Youth Programming December 19-31

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Christmas Pageant Info and Thank Yous

 
Dear All:
 
A big thank you in advance to all the youth, kids, parents and Sundays School teachers who helped pull together the pageant. Thank you to staff– Jim and Vonda, and to our volunteers Carmen and Jennie who helped with many aspects of the brainstorming. An especially big thank you to Julie who helped with some of the fancy editing. I appreciate all of your help and contributions!
 
Just a reminder that we will be having our Christmas Pageant as a part of the December 20, 2020 church service. The zoom link is sent out as it normally is for church service.
 
We are taking a break from Sunday School for the Christmas Holiday and resuming on January 3, 2020. We are also taking a break from Tweeners and Youth group for the holiday and resuming on January 6, 2020.
 
We will continue our virtual programming and I will send out some new zoom links– but you can expect the same timing for Sunday school, Tweeners, Youth Group and Beginnings as we had in fall.
 
Let me know if you have questions!
 
Blessings
MiaLisa McFarland Millares
Children’s and Youth Director
Saint Mary‘s Episcopal Church

Saint Mary’s Weekly – December 17th, 2020

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Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, December 20, 2020

Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to Follow – 10:00 AM

Today’s Service and Christmas Pageant will be led by the Youth of St. Mary‘s.
Lighting of the Advent Wreath Candle – The Welsh Family
Music – Rachel, Elias, Jim May, and Vonda Humburg
Technical Assistance – William Welsh
 
For the Zoom worship service on December 20, 2020 CLICK HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 330173
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 921 8033 3901
 
To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 921 8033 3901
If asked for a passcode, use 330173
 
For the service bulletin for the 12/20 service,  CLICK HERE

Worship Team

 
Advent Message
This Sunday, December 20, Advent IV, the Candles of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love will be lit.  The lighter of the candles will say: “Christ, be our light.  As we light this candle of love for all God’s people, we remember your commandments.  You call us to love God and love our neighbors.  Come to us in this time of Advent.  May the light of your love be born anew in us.”  The response is:  “God, fill us with love.  Love is patient, love is kind.  Love is not envious or boastful or rude.  Love does not insist on its own way.  Love rejoices in the truth.  Love bears all things, believes all things, endures all things.  God, bless us with love.”
 
What can I expect at St. Mary‘s Worship services?
All the worship services in Advent are planned and led by parishioners…there will be no priest presiding and there will be no communion or spiritual communion. During the first three Sundays in Advent we worshipped in the style of each of our Sunday services.  This Sunday, Advent IV, we’ll have a Youth led service AND the Christmas pageant.  Please join the youth for this very special service.
 
What’s New?
  • Because of concerns about privacy issues, the full worship services will not be shared.
  • Sermons will continue to be shared.
  • Sermon from the December 13th, 2020 service CLICK HERE

Feedback is welcome!
We welcome your feedback and recommendations about worship services.

Click HERE to give feedback. Thanks!

Christmas Eve Worship & Gathering Options

Thursday, December 24

Please join fellow St. Marians via Zoom for a few Christmas Eve Service options. On Thursday, December 24th we will gather as a community to participate in one of the services from the National Cathedral in Washington D.C.
 
5:00 PM Family Christmas Eve Service
6:15 PM St. Mary‘s Christmas Eve Community Fellowship
7:00 PM Traditional Christmas Eve Service
 
For the Zoom Christmas Eve services on December 24, 2020 CLICK HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 458490
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 957 8585 8549
 
To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 957 8585 8549
If asked for a passcode, use 458490

Update from Your Transition Team 

We continue meeting weekly to prepare the materials we will use in our priest search: a two-page “letter” to prospective priests; and answers to specific questions from the Office for Transition Ministry of the Episcopal Church. This week we will present the letter, revised after the recent community meeting, to the vestry to get their feedback. 
 
Other info:
  • We are on schedule with our general timeline, which you can see HERE
  • The information we shared at the community meeting CLICK HERE 
  • Introductory messages from transition team members CLICK HERE

Pastoral Care

Is there something on your mind? 
In your heart?
 
For confidential prayer requests, reach out to Rev. Cindi at: pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org
 
The Pastoral Care Team meets (by Zoom) on Mondays at 7:30 PM.  All are welcome!  
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link.
 
How to contact Rev. Cindi:
 
The Pastoral Care Team is looking for your prayerful support. 
We are beginning a prayer chain ministry!  If you would like to join the chain, or would like more information about how it will work, please reach out to Rev. Cindi. Come pray with us!

Your Christmas Offering? 

One of our parishioners asked recently about whether we’ll be taking up a Christmas offering. Absolutely!!  However, given COVID-19, Santa won’t be dropping by your home to pick it up!  You’ll need to make a special effort to get it to St. Mary‘s.  That special effort involves some of your time to make out a check, find an envelope, put on a stamp and get it in the mail.  Please put “Christmas Offering” in the note section of your check so we code it appropriately in your individual contribution record.   And, yes, the address to send it to is the same as that for your regular contributions that you mail to St. Mary‘s:
 
St. Mary‘s Episcopal Church
1895 Laurel Ave. 
St. Paul, MN  55104
 
Of course, for those of you on auto-pay, you can certainly send a Christmas donation via auto-pay, as well, or send a separate check via mail.  We check the mail daily, so sending any regular contributions or special Christmas offerings is safe through the mail. 
Thanks everyone for your continued financial support!   
Rex Holzemer, Treasurer
651-308-4895

Finance Committee Update

November Donations Reduce Deficit!

Pledge income in November was almost $14,000 above the budgeted amount. It was very welcome news after October when pledge income was well below budget. The donations positively impact our projected year-end deficit. The linked chart (CLICK HERE) outlines the key financials as of November 30, 2020.  
 
If donations in December keep pace with the projected levels for December, we could end the year with a deficit around $10,000 less than projected, in other words, a deficit of approximately ($21,000) instead of the projected deficit of ($31,190). Once we apply the $31,700 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan to the 2020 operational budget that we received in April, which should be 100% forgiven, we could actually end the year with a small surplus. We are very fortunate to have received this forgivable loan. 
 
Feel free to contact Rex Holzemer via e-mail (rexaholzemer@gmail.com) or phone (651-308-4895) if you have questions or want additional information.

Solar System is Operational! 

The solar panels installed on the church roof this past summer are finally connected and producing electricity!  On Thursday, December 10th, Xcel completed testing, commissioning and meter installation for the system and it is now operational.  Some final work related to internet monitoring of the system will be completed next week, but that does not affect the ongoing operation of the solar panels.  
 
As has been communicated previously, St. Mary‘s is leasing this system from Monarch Solar, so all costs associated with installation and maintenance of the system are the responsibility of the solar company.  We are guaranteed a 20% reduction in our electricity costs during the 25-year lease period.  The lease contract allows for St. Mary‘s to purchase the system at fair market value after six years. 
 
Have questions?  Want more information?  Feel free to contact Rex Holzemer via e-mail (rexaholzemer@gmail.com) or phone (651-308-4895).

St. Mary‘s Music and Food

Did you miss the St. Mary‘s Community and Carols presentation last Sunday? 
Or perhaps you enjoyed it so much that you want to watch it over and over again? Please click on the following link to see it again – CLICK HERE
Thank you Vonda, Erika, Jim May, and all the contributors, readers, musicians, and singers!
 
Did you get a chance to try any of the traditional St. Mary‘s Lessons and Carols recipes?
In case you missed it last week, HERE are the recipes that were shared
and a photo from the Ward/Reemtsma household of Roast Pork with Cherry Sauce,
Apple & Greens Salad, and Wild Rice.

Recipes shared by Julie Thomas.
(Thank you, Julie!)

If you are looking for more music to enjoy during the Christmas season, please check out the schedule of holiday broadcasts on Classical MPR with the option to stream several of the concerts at your convenience. CLICK HERE

Outreach Opportunities: 

January 24, 2021
Isaiah’s We Make Minnesota Virtual Launch
Please CLICK HERE for more information on the event and/or contact Ginny DeLuca for more information – ginnydeluca1736@gmail.com

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary‘s  

Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups for the week of 12/18 – 12/24 

Sunday, December 20, 2020
Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to follow.  
10:00 AM
 
Monday, December 21, 2020
Pastoral Care Team
7:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at 
 
Tuesday, December 22, 2020
Vestry Meeting
7:00 PM
Vestry Meetings are open to all Saint Mary‘s members.  The Saint Mary‘s Vestry usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month.  The meeting  begins at 7:00 PM.  (Note: If you are a member of Saint Mary‘s and would like to attend this meeting via Zoom, please contact Jim DeLuca or Caroline Kaker for the Zoom access code at wardens@saintmaryepiscopal.org)
 
Wednesday,  December 23, 2020
Adult Ed./Book Study
7:00-8:30 PM
If you would like to join us, or have any questions, please contact 
Nina Johnson at nina@jazmn.net or 651-308-8663 
 
Thursday, December 24, 2020
Christmas Eve Services & Community Gathering
5:00 PM Christmas Eve Family Service
6:15 PM St. Mary‘s Community Fellowship
7:00 PM Christmas Eve Service
 
Sunday School Online:  
MiaLisa McFarland Millares will send out an email with readings, activities, 
and links for videos and discussions to all on our Constant Contact list.  
NO Sunday school December 20th or 27th!
 
Visit the St. Mary‘s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

Saint Mary’s Weekly – December 10th, 2020

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Weekly Worship Service

Sunday, December 13, 2020

Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to Follow – 10:00 AM

Lighting of the Advent Wreath Candle – The Wheeler Family
Gospel read by – Rev. Jane Wells
Sermon by – Rev. Cindi Brickson
Lay Readers – 
Jim DeLuca (Opening Acclamation)
Catherine Neuschler (Collect of the Day)
Ginny DeLuca (1st Reading)
Jessie Wheeler (2nd Reading)
Erika Scheurer & Elias O’Brien (Nicene Creed/Baptismal Questions)
Todd, Max, and Theo Reemtsma (Prayers of the People)
Pam, Jessie, and Jenevieve Wheeler (Our Father)
Cathy McNaughton (Prayers and Blessings)
Jennie Ward (Final Blessing)
Music Leaders – Vonda Humburg
Technical Assistance – William Welsh & Brian Nerbonne
 
For the Zoom worship service on December 13, 2020 CLICK HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 330173
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 921 8033 3901
 
To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 921 8033 3901
If asked for a passcode, use 330173
 
For the service bulletin for the 12/13 service,  CLICK HERE

Worship Team

Advent Message
On Sunday, December 13, Advent III, the Candles of Hope, Peace and Joy will be lit.  The candlelighter will say: “Christ, be our light.  As we light this candle for all God’s people, we accept the joy and the challenge of being God-bearers.  We say “yes” to God’s offering of the unknown. God, as we wait for your promise, give light, hope, peace and joy.”  The response is: “God, Fill us with joy on the path of life you have made known to us.  Give us the generosity of spirit to lift up those with heavy hearts, hold them gently and walk with them.  God, bless us with joy.”
Why is the Advent III candle pink/rose in color? Per Anne Green:  Pink/Rose is for joy and love and rejoicing-sort of a “break” from the solemnity of Advent.
 
What can I expect at St. Mary‘s Worship services?
All the worship services in Advent are planned and led by parishioners…there will be no priest presiding and there will be no communion or spiritual communion.  We’ve worshipped in the styles of the 7:45am and 9:00am services, and this Sunday, Advent III, we’ll worship in the 11:00am style. This service will include folks who generally attend the 11:00am worship service.  Please join them as they introduce us to their worship style and give us the opportunity to experience it for ourselves.
 
What’s New?
CLICK HERE for a link to the First Message from the 12/6/20 service
CLICK HERE for a link to the sermon from the 12/6/20 service
CLICK HERE for a link to the complete recording of the 12/6/20 service
CLICK HERE for a link to the complete recording of the 11/29/20 service
For the near future, a link will be provided in each Weekly for the previous week’s service for those that may have missed it or would like to watch it again.
 
Feedback is welcome!
We always welcome your feedback as it helps us to know what speaks to you and works for you…and it helps us in planning liturgy for upcoming seasons and services.  Feel free to direct your feedback to any of us on the Worship Team:  Terry Alewine, Cindi Brickson, Paulette Briese, Ginny DeLuca, Anne Green, Anne Hanson, Nina Johnson, Jim May, Cathy McNaughton, Brian Nerbonne, Trevor Sannes, Lisa Stratton and Tim Welsh.
 
Click HERE to give feedback. Thanks!

Community and Carols

Sunday, December 13th at 4 PM

We are creating a new version of Lessons and Carols for these unprecedented times.  We will come together by sharing St. Mary‘s family Christmas Traditions.  We will compile them into a video – mixed with Christmas Carols and spoken word.
 
To join Community and Carols  CLICK HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 812588
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 990 3113 1004

A Season of Traditions: Recipes!

For over 20 years it has been a tradition at St. Mary‘s that following Lessons & Carols, families gather in the decorated Undercroft to the wonderful smells of a meal lovingly prepared by volunteers. While we are unable to gather together in person this year for this wonderful meal of roast pork with cherry sauce, minted peas, apples ‘n greens salad, rice pilaf, white bean and kale gratin, trifle, and chocolate cream cake, we can share the recipes so that perhaps you can make some or all of these items at home. Hopefully next year we can gather together once again to share this meal in person. Please click on the link below for the recipes and if you decide to make a few items, please share pictures that can perhaps be posted in the next Weekly!
 
CLICK HERE for recipes. Send pictures to communications@saintmarysepiscopal.org.
Recipes shared by Julie Thomas. (Thank you, Julie!)

Pastoral Care

Is there something on your mind? 
In your heart?
 
For confidential prayer requests, reach out to Rev. Cindi at: pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org
 
The Pastoral Care Team meets (by Zoom) on 
Mondays at 7:30 PM.  All are welcome!  
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link.
How to contact Rev. Cindi:
The Pastoral Care Team is looking for your prayerful support. 
We are beginning a prayer chain ministry!  If you would like to join the chain, or would like more information about how it will work, please reach out to Rev. Cindi. Come pray with us!

Your Christmas Offering? 

One of our parishioners asked recently about whether we’ll be taking up a Christmas offering. Absolutely!!  However, given COVID-19, Santa won’t be dropping by your home to pick it up!  You’ll need to make a special effort to get it to St. Mary‘s.  That special effort involves some of your time to make out a check, find an envelope, put on a stamp and get it in the mail.  Please put “Christmas Offering” in the note section of your check so we code it appropriately in your individual contribution record.   And, yes, the address to send it to is the same as that for your regular contributions that you mail to St. Mary‘s:
 
St. Mary‘s Episcopal Church
1895 Laurel Ave. 
St. Paul, MN  55104
 
Of course, for those of you on auto-pay, you can certainly send a Christmas donation via auto-pay, as well, or send a separate check via mail.  We check the mail daily, so sending any regular contributions or special Christmas offerings is safe through the mail. 
And another reminder (see last week’s Finance Update) to please send in your 2021 pledge by December 15th if you haven’t done so already.  We need your pledge!
Thanks everyone for your continued financial support!   
Rex Holzemer, Treasurer
651-308-4895

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary‘s  

Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups for the week of 12/11 – 12/17 

Sunday, December 13, 2020
Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to follow.  
10:00 AM
 
Sunday, December 13, 2020
Community and Carols
4:00 PM
 
Monday, December 14, 2020
Pastoral Care Team
7:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link at 
 
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
Finance Committee Meeting
6:30 PM
Contact finance@saintmarysepiscopal.org for the Zoom link
 
Wednesday,  December 16, 2020
Adult Ed./Book Study
7:00-8:30 PM
If you would like to join us, or have any questions, please contact 
Nina Johnson at nina@jazmn.net or 651-308-8663 
 
Thursday, December 17, 2020
Saint Mary‘s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information. Click here to contact Julie
 
Thursday, December 17, 2020 
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service Via Zoom
Led by Erika Scheurer and  Anna Clark  
7:00 PM 
MEETING ID: 958 0236 2199
Passcode: 047188
 
Sunday School Online:  
MiaLisa McFarland Millares will send out an email with readings, activities, 
and links for videos and discussions to all on our Constant Contact list.  
If you receive this email, you are on the list. 
 
Visit the St. Mary‘s Calendars page for more information on what is happening.

December 12-18 Family, Children & Youth Programming

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Advent for Families

Sunday School Options for Families: 

This year, Sunday School is all about options because we know that one option isn’t right for everyone. I have put together three different education options for kids Pre-K through 6th grade. We reserve the right to shift plans as needs arise.
 
Option #1 Sundays from 9:00-9:45am starting September 20th, 2020
  • Teaching Lead: MiaLisa Millares
  • Teaching Team: Carmen, Trevor, Rose, Claire (occasional substitute)
  • Sunday School Registration
  • Kids:
    • For Kids PreK through 6th grade
  • Schedule:
    • All kids meet together with teaching team and Mia
    • PreK and K kids must be with a parent
      • 9:00-9:15 Session will start with songs, story and prayers (Spark Story Bible)
      • After general group session ends Pre-K and K can leave (so theirs is 15 minutes)
    • 9:15-9:45-
      • Digital Sparkhouse Curriculum Whirl Lectionary
      • Curriculum video clip
      • Discussion
      • Bible Reading
      • Discussion

Option #2 YouTube “Kid Church”

  • We are pausing this option while Christmas Pageant preparation is happening.

Option #3 Parent Led

Tweeners

Last week we did some filming for the Pageant with Tweeners…great job! We started doing a fun mystery solving activity with the Tweeners. If you don’t participate in Tweeners but want to solve the mystery– let me know!
  • Every Wednesday 6:00-6:45pm
  • Tween Leaders: MiaLisa Millares and Emily Topinka
  • Register by Clicking Here
  • Parents please make certain that your tween is participating in your presence (ie not locked in a room). We may have tweens break into breakout rooms in groups of three and will not have an adult for each section. According to Safe Church, this is okay so long as youth are in a space where they are all alone and a parent can overhear.
  • View the calendar for tentative schedules. Tweens will be creating their own schedule.

Youth Group

We had so much fun playing “Among Us” that we will be playing again this coming week!
  • Every Wednesday 7:00-8:00pm
  • Youth Leaders: MiaLisa and I am looking for a volunteer!
  • Register by Clicking Here
  • I will wait to admit teens until 3 youth are present.
  • Parents please make certain that your youth is participating in your presence (ie not locked in a room). We may have youth break into breakout rooms in groups of three and will not have an adult for each section. According to Safe Church, this is okay so long as youth are in a space where they are all alone.

Beginnings:

  • December 16, 8:30-9:30pm
  • Parent meet up Topic TBD
 
Blessings
Children’s and Youth Director
Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church
 

December 3, 2020 Weekly Updates and Announcements

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Weekly Worship Service
Sunday, December 6, 2020
Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to Follow – 10:00 AM

Lighting of the Advent Wreath Candle – The Valaas-Turner Family
Lay Leader –  Paulette Briese
Deacon – Rev. Jane Wells
Preacher – Eily Marlow
Response Leaders – The Nerbonne Family
Prayers of the People – Nina Johnson, Michael Phillips, Dan & Theo Brown, Cathy McNaughton
Music Leaders – Jim May & Vonda Humburg
Technical Assistance – William Welsh

For the Zoom worship service on December 6, 2020 CLICK HERE
If asked for a passcode, enter 330173
If asked for a meeting ID, enter 921 8033 3901

To join by cell phone only (voice only, no video),
call: 312-626-6799
Enter Meeting ID 921 8033 3901
If asked for a passcode, use 330173

For the service bulletin for the 12/6 service,  CLICK HERE

Worship Team

Advent Messages

On Sunday, November 29, Advent I, the Candle of Hope was lit. The candlelighters say:  “Christ, be our light.  We light this candle for all God’s people, struggling to be bearers of hope in a troubled world.  God, as we wait for your presence, give light, give hope.”  The people respond:  “God, fill us with hope.  Hope for a new day.  Hope that all fears will be removed.  Hope that doors of opportunity that seem locked will be opened.  Hope that broken relationships will be restored.  Hope for healing.  Hope for something more than ourselves.  Hope that damaged trust will be revived.  God, fill us with hope.”

This Sunday, December 6, Advent II, the Candles of Hope and Peace will be lit.  The candlelighters will say: “Christ, be our light.  As we light this candle for all God’s prophets, confronting injustice and restoring the dream of a world of freedom and  peace.  God, as we wait for your promise, give light, give hope, give peace.”  The response by the people is: God, fill us with peace.  Give us strength and courage to pursue peace, especially on behalf of all who suffer consequences of war, for all victims of violence and of disasters.  God, bless us with an abundance of peace.”

What can I expect at St Mary’s Worship services?

All the worship services in Advent will be planned and led by parishioners…there will be no priest presiding and there will be no communion or spiritual communion.  We’ll worship in the style of one of our 3 Sunday services and the 4th Sunday in Advent will combine features of those services AND will include the Christmas pageant!!!  The service on Advent II (Dec 6) will be led by Paulette Briese and will include folks who generally attend the 9:00am worship service.  Please join Paulette and the 9:00am crowd as they introduce us to their worship style and give us the opportunity to experience it for ourselves.

Feedback is welcome!

We always welcome your feedback as it helps us to know what speaks to you and works for you…and it helps us in planning liturgy for upcoming seasons and services.  Feel free to direct your feedback to any of us on the Worship Team:  Terry Alewine, Cindi Brickson, Paulette Briese, Ginny DeLuca, Anne Green, Anne Hanson, Nina Johnson, Jim May, Cathy McNaughton, Brian Nerbonne, Trevor Sannes, Lisa Stratton and Tim Welsh.

 Click here to give feedback. Thanks!

Pastoral Care

Is there something on your mind? 
In your heart?
For confidential prayer requests, reach out to Rev. Cindi.

How can we connect with God during these stressful times? In Seven Ways to Nourish Your Spirit and Soul, Rebecca Roberts lists practical and simple habits we can cultivate to find the strength to persevere even in the most difficult times.  Take a few minutes to feed your Spirit this Advent!

The Pastoral Care Team meets (by Zoom) on 
Mondays at 7:30 PM.  All are welcome!  

Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link.

How to contact Rev. Cindi:
pastoralcare@saintmarysepiscopal.org
612-998-5136

The Pastoral Care Team is looking for your prayerful support. We are beginning a prayer chain ministry!  If you would like to join the chain, or would like more information about how it will work, please reach out to Rev. Cindi.  Come pray with us!  

Programming for Kids, Tweeners, Youth: 

CLICK HERE

for the link to programming for Kids, Tweeners, Youth,  and Parent Beginnings Group 

Finance Committee Update

2021 Budget Has Reduced Pledge Income

The Finance Committee has developed a draft 2021 budget that is currently under discussion by the Vestry.  This draft budget has projected pledge income for 2021 of $170,000, which is $30,000 less than the amount in the current 2020 budget.  

The Stewardship Campaign goal for 2021 was $215,000, but we are far short of that goal. The current total is 55 households pledging $161,813.00, so we still need additional pledges to even reach the reduced amount of $170,000 in the draft 2021 budget.  

If you have not yet pledged for 2021 and intend to pledge, please do so by December 15, 2020, so we know what final pledge figure to include in the 2021 budget.    

The Finance Committee and Vestry are targeting the final Vestry meeting of the year on December 22, 2020 to approve a final working budget for 2021.  

Thank you to everyone that has pledged for 2021!  For those of you who haven’t pledged yet and have questions or concerns that you want to discuss before making a decision, please feel free to call me directly or any other member of the current Vestry.  We’d appreciate hearing from you!

Rex Holzemer
Treasurer
651-308-4895

Community and Carols

Sunday, December 13th at 4 PM 

We are creating a new version of Lessons and Carols for these unprecedented times.  We will come together by sharing St. Mary family Christmas Traditions.  We will compile them into a video – mixed with Christmas Carols and spoken word.

Outreach Opportunities 

Become one of Santa’s Elves this December. 

The Minnesota Tool Library, a membership based non-profit, was asked to build desks to be given at no cost to students in St. Paul Public Schools. Join the COVID – friendly builds and help transform 150 sheets of plywood and 8000 feet of lumber into 500 desks. NO experience necessary. There are tasks for all ages and abilities  Sign up for a private build session on the website: MNToolLibrary.org

Upcoming Events at Saint Mary’s  

Opportunities for Worship, Education, Choir, & Meet Ups 

Thursday, December 3, 2020
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information.

Thursday,  December 3, 2020 
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service Via Zoom
Led by Erika Scheurer and  Anna Clark  
7:00 PM 
CLICK HERE
MEETING ID: 958 0236 2199
Passcode: 047188

Sunday, December 6, 2020
Worship via Zoom with Coffee Hour to follow.  
10:00 AM
CLICK HERE

Monday,  December 7, 2020
Adult Ed./Book Study
7:00-8:00 PM
If you would like to join us, or have any questions, please contact 
Nina Johnson or 651-308-8663 

Monday, December 7, 2020
Pastoral Care Team
7:30 PM
Contact Rev. Cindi for the Zoom link (email or 612-998-5136.)

Thursday, December 10, 2020
Saint Mary’s Dinner Group
Contact Julie Thomas for more information.

Thursday,  December 10, 2020 
Thursday Evening Contemplative Service Via Zoom
Led by Erika Scheurer and  Anna Clark  
7:00 PM 
CLICK HERE
MEETING ID: 958 0236 2199
Passcode: 047188

Sunday School Online:  
MiaLisa McFarland Millares will send out an email with readings, activities, and links for videos and discussions to all on our Constant Contact list. 

If you receive this email, you are on the list. 

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

 

Welcome to our new online news section!

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Missed announcements this week? Looking for a link to an online activity? Looking for information about the Transition Team’s work? Here’s your new spot to find all this . . . and more!

If you’re searching for information about something specific, you can type that topic or name into the search bar (in the right side bar) and all posts that concern that topic will be shown to you, in a list starting from most recently published. You may not find much here yet, but week by week, this archive will grow. 

Contact communications@saintmarysepiscopal.org any time with questions, comments, and feedback. We love to hear from you!