From the Rector

Dear Parishioners & Friends of St. Mary’s, 

The most important words to say in Church are “thank you.” Say it often, and mean it, and today I say it to you. Thank you for the many gifts that you share with our community.

You have heard the familiar expression “can’t see the forest for the trees” before. We most often use it to describe that occasion in which we lose sight of the big picture while focusing on the details. From my position, I often experience the blessing of being able to see the big picture of our congregation – the ministry we bring to our neighbors, the impact we have on our community, the ways that week after week we come together to celebrate our faith and praise God. This is the forest.

I also get to wander amongst the trees–from the small shoot reaching out from its seed and finding the sunlight, to the mightiest tree, standing tall, offering sheltering love to those who need it. You are those trees, each drawing strength from the Word and Sacraments, and showering the world with the love and grace you have come to know here. I am blessed that here in our congregation, I can see both the forest and the trees.

When I walk through the gift of nature that is Tuxedo, I am aware of the tangle of roots, how one tree is connected to another. Trees use these networks, silently talking to each other through their roots, passing information along. Adult trees share their sugars with young saplings, and a dying tree can send its remaining resources back out to help the community. These networks, these roots of abundance, keep trees in place just as much as they free them to grow and share. 

The theme of our annual pledge campaign this year is Rooted in Abundance, and we are reminded that we are a mighty forest composed of ancient trunks and sprightly saplings, each of us contributing our gifts to a world that needs us. As you hear the forthcoming messages from the Senior Warden and chairwoman of the Stewardship committee and stories of abundance this year, take note of how generosity spreads and widens our root structures of faith and action. Just as the trees of the forest all do their part, we are looking for 100% participation this year. 

In gratitude,
The Very Rev. Richard J. Robÿn, Rector

135th Consecration Anniversary on Sunday

Please join us at 10am this Sunday, October 15th, as we celebrate the 135th anniversary of the consecration of St. Mary’s church with special music and ceremonies, followed by a festive coffee hour.

Sunday School at 9:45am Every Sunday

The formation of children is a critical part of our mission. Service in church helps them learn about responsibility, charity, and self-sacrifice. Children are welcome to participate in our programs and/or attend church services with their parents. Under age 5, there is a a fun childcare program. Children ages 5 to 12 are welcome to attend Sunday School. Those 10 and older are encouraged to participate in the service as acolytes or readers. Please speak with Father Rick or call the church office at 845.351.5122 for more information.

Office Administrator Position Open

St. Mary’s is seeking an Administrative Assistant to be a welcoming and responsive presence in the church office on a regular basis (Mondays-Thursdays, 9am to 1pm). This is a part-time role that provides general office support to the staff, committees, and congregation, in order to support the ministries and mission of St. Mary’s. The full position description is available here.

Community Notices