Note from the Rector

Earlier this year, our Parish Council spent some time discussing some of our priorities for the coming year and where God is calling us as a community. One of these priorities was to put some focus on our finances, including our fund-raising and FUN-raising events.  With that in mind, we have taken on a few different events so far this year – from our little Lenten boxes to the Jumble Sale this week. Lots has happened so far with more events to come as the year continues to unfold.  

That being said, I want to make it really clear that the purpose of these events is in the interest of the long-term sustainability of our church, NOT so that we can “keep our doors open.”  In the last few weeks I have heard a number of comments from folks in the community infering that St. Mary’s is raising funds to “keep their doors open.”  I want to be very clear that we are not trying to keep our doors open, but working for the long-term sustainability of our ministry in Nanoose Bay.  We are creating opportunities to have fun together and to promote community, as well as raise funds so that we are better able to serve and minister to the community outside our doors in new ways.  Please be very cautious how we advertise and talk about our fundraising events, because we are not coming from a place of scarcity but rather wanting to share the abundance God has given us so that we can in turn better support one another both inside and outside the church.  God is good and our future is bright.  We are called to share the goodness of God in all sorts of ways within these walls and without, as we seek ways to serve our neighbours in Nanoose Bay and beyond, sharing our bright future together.  

So invite your friends and neighbours to the various events we will be holding so we can share our abundance and love with them all.  And as we continue to move forward together, be sure to open your hearts as we discern how best to use our buildings and facilities to serve the community, and let us continue to grow in faith, love and service as we embrace the future God has for us.

Peace, 
Kirsten +  

Visits with Rev. Kirsten!

As summer fast approaches things settle for a while in the office and Kirsten has a little more time and space in her schedule for getting to know you all a bit better. If you or someone you know would like to have Rev. Kirsten come for a visit – either a pastoral visit or just to share some time together - please do reach out and let her know either through the office, via email or call at 250-619-5826.  

Highlights from May 2023 Parish Council Meeting

  • Our 101st Synod has come and gone, and all went well. Thank you to our delegates Val and Elaine for representing us.
  • We are researching potential ways to upgrade our Wayside Pulpit to make it a more user friendly way to communicate with our neighbours.
  • Masking is no longer required by the diocese for those serving at communion
  • Memorial Garden advertisements are coming along and will be ready to go live in the coming weeks
  • Our gardens are looking much tidier and the watering system is back online – thank you to all who have adopted a garden bed!    

2023 FUNdraisers at St. Mary’s

June Jumble Sale:  Saturday June 10, 2023; 9am-2pm - ONLY 3 MORE SLEEPS!

                                            

So many good quality items. . . with more to come! The busiest time for the Jumble sale will be from 9-11am, so if you can come early to help out, it would be appreciated.   We will need help between 8-9 am setting up the outside venues and awnings.  

Please bring labelled plants and baking on Friday if possible.  

The NCS room will be open for breaks and lunch.  Steve Slater has washed all the outside chairs so they may also be used in any shady areas. This room is only for St. Mary’s workers and Tumaini while the outside door will remain locked.  Please bring your own lunch; a cooler will be there to store it and there will also be a tote for purses.  Coffee, water and juice are available for all the workers and can be purchased by the public.    

And bring your returnable bottles too!  

A heartfelt thanks to all involved in making the JUNE JUMBLE SALE a success.  

St. Mary’s Festival of Music on Sunday June 25; 6:30pm  

                                                                

Come and enjoy beautiful music and friendship with Patricia Plumley & Friends and our very own Margaret Nelson.    Suggested donation $20 with reception to follow.