Note from the Rector

A dear friend of mine from seminary has the pattern of offering “Star Words” to those who want one as we celebrate the season of Epiphany.  It is a practice that I have always wanted to do within a congregation, and perhaps next year when there isn’t an Ordination on Epiphany, we will try it here at St. Mary’s. The practice of “Star Words” is really quiet simple and harkens to the story of the Magi who followed the star for quite some time to find the child in the manger.  The practice itself is quite simple, as it is where we are given a word to reflect on, pray on, and set an intention with as this word becomes our guiding light for the coming year.  

My friend from seminary offers these words up via social media – so anyone she knows can ask for a word for the year.  Last year, the word chosen for me from over 500 different words, was “boldness”!  A curious word to be sure but one I reflected on often during a year that was like no other with its unexpected twists and turns along the way. This year the word that I have been given is “abide.”  A word with a very different feeling than the year before and I wonder how God will use this word in my life as I go about 2023 and learn deeper and more meaningful ways to abide with the Divine presence and to abide with each of you here in this community in new ways as 2023 unfolds for each of us.  

The season of Epiphany begins with Magi from a far seeking, trusting and following a sign from God, a bright light placed before them to guide them on their journey.  While we may not be offering gold, frankincense and myrrh, like the Magi, we too seek Jesus, and trust that God can and will offer all sorts of signs (stars included), to guide us closer to the Divine Presence in the world around us. With any luck next year we will have star words for each of us to pray with going forward.  So with any luck, next year we will have star words for everyone, but until then I invite you to continue seeking the Christ child, continue looking for the signs of where God is leading you over this coming year both as individuals and together in community.  

May the light of that Star shine on, brighter than ever before as we embrace all that 2023 has to offer us.

Peace and Love,
Kirsten +     

                                  

PLEASE JOIN US THIS SATURDAY There will be a reception following the service.  

  IN-PERSON ANNUAL VESTRY MEETING
Sunday February 12, 2022.                    Stay tuned for more information.        

 

Changes to Pre-authorized Giving

Effective February 28, 2023, the Diocese will discontinue the current Electronic Collection Plate (ECP) program. They are recommending that parishes join the United Church Pre-Authorized Remittance Program (PAR) which will continue electronic giving but in a slightly new way.

 Our parish has applied to become part of this program, but we need your help!  In order to transition to the new program, all those who currently use the ECP program as well as any new users will need to complete an Authorization form and provide a voided cheque.  It is important that we begin the transition process as soon as possible in order to have everyone registered by the end of February.

Those who are already active ECP users will receive an email/letter this week. This will contain the Authorization form, more information about the program and some instructions, and we ask you to return it to the office by Tuesday, January 31st.  If you have any questions or concerns about the new program or have any issues with the forms, please let us know - we are here to help!

For those not yet part of the program, please seriously consider using the new PAR program as your method of giving to the church.  Information regarding the program and Authorization forms will be available in the office for anyone who wants to move to online giving.  There are many benefits; ask those who use the program, or ask Malcom or Rev. Kirsten for their experiences with electronic collections.

 

We are looking for CEDAR WOOD for ST. MARY CREMATION URNS (12”W X 12”H X 3/4”D)

Fred H very graciously makes these for St. Mary’s at no cost, as long as the wood is free.  Thank you Fred! Know of anyone cleaning up their wood stash?  Please contact the office if you need more information.

 

 The new 2023 Altar flowers donation sign-up sheet is in the hall.

It's a lovely way to celebrate special occasions or remembrances. The sign-up sheet is located on the wall near the Sunday coffee station.                

THE 2023 WEEKLY 'MY OFFERING' ENVELOPES HAVE ARRIVED

Please pick up yours at the back of the church as soon as you can.


                                                        

The Diocese of Islands and Inlets is presenting a second 7-week course, from February to March 2023, designed to equip lay leaders. The course will provide the skills and resources for laity to lead worship services, Morning and Evening Prayer and the Liturgy of the Word (a church service without the Eucharist). At the end of the course, successful participants will be licensed by the bishop as Lay Ministers. Please click HERE for more information.    

        January 2023 Issue

Faith Tides is the official publication of the Anglican diocese of Islands and Inlets. It is a space where people of faith and doubt can share their stories, challenge their perceptions, and grow together.

In this issue: The most secular diocese in North America by Bishop Anna; Will the new year bring anything new, or just more novelties? ; Christian themes in the Harry Potter book series; A timeless love; and more!  For more information visit  FaithTides.