For those new to the life of this parish–and those who have been here for a while but would appreciate a “refresher course”– an Episcopal 101 class will be offered from 9:30 – 10:20 AM on Sundays, February 21, 28, March 7, 14, and 21.
One of the four focus points for the School for Christian Practice is “Practices of Prayer.” By claiming this, we affirm the essential place of prayer in our life as followers of Jesus. Prayer lies at the heart of who we are, yet how we understand prayer is varied, complex–and sometimes confusing.
Cynthia and Stuart are offering a special sermon series during Lent to focus our attention on prayer. Their sermons are orbiting around the questions of “What is prayer?” “How do you pray?” and “How do you become prayer?” How can we move from a transactional understanding of asking God for favors to a transformational posture that affirms the presence of God in all our lives? How are we challenged to be aware of what we mean when we say “I will pray for you?”
On Palm Sunday we recall Jesus’ return to Jerusalem, and share the moments that took him from the gates of Jerusalem to the cross. This year, we’d like to invite you to help us share that story! We’re asking folks to make a video of one scene each and we’ll piece the videos together—much like our Christmas Pageant this year. This video will be used as the Gospel Reading during the liturgies on Palm Sunday. If you’re willing to help, please sign up at the link below.
After consulting with our medical advisory team and the vestry, and looking closely at the entire calendar for the parish, I am pleased to share that we plan to resume outdoor in-person services beginning on Maundy Thursday, April 1. You’ll remember that we will begin our Zoom-based Episcopal 101 classes this coming Sunday, February 21, for five weeks during Lent. Since the 9:30 AM space will be filled with the clergy and staff managing a preparatory time for Confirmation, we cannot be in two places at once. Given all the pieces in play–and uncertainty around weather–we will aim to resume our 9:30 outdoor services during Holy Week. Look for additional information about specific services in next week’s newsletter, with details on how to register.
Fr. Stuart+
Beautiful flowers and greenery enhance our celebration of The Resurrection at Grace Church, and you can help make that celebration special. Contributions to our Easter flower fund may be made in thanksgiving for or in memory of loved ones, friends and family. Notice of your donation will be included in the worship bulletin on Easter Sunday.
If you would like to make an offering, please submit both the online form and your donation on or before Wednesday, March 24.
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