From the Rector

Dear Parishioners and Friends,

After a really wonderful trip to Scotland (our first), Pete and I are happy to be home in Tuxedo, despite the oppressive heat. Our Scottish friends had been inviting us to come and visit for years, but for some reason, we just never worked it into our plans. What a surprise it was! The scenery, the history, and the food were absolutely incredible, and the people couldn't be nicer. It was also great to have the local perspective on things as well as their knowledge of all the best things to see and do. For instance, one of our hosts took me to a beautiful hidden garden located behind the local castle, as well as onto the grounds of a ruined manor house--all things that I never would have found on my own!

Regardless of the damp and chill, both Pete and I fell in love with Scotland, and hope to return someday soon. We are both very grateful for those who helped to hold down the fort while we were away. As Rick Steves says, "Keep on travelin'!"

Blessings,
Father Rick

Outreach Camp Sponsorships

Dear Friends,

It has become a tradition at St Mary's to provide financial support to local children who otherwise would not be able to have the experience of camp or enjoy so many of the fun Summer activities that most of us take for granted.  Last year, through your generosity, we were able to support 21 children in the local camp at a cost to us of $15,350. Each year the cost of living goes up, and for many of these families there's not much left after providing the basics.

This year, we offered a sponsorship for a maximum of 20 children. We have those twenty children already! The cost has gone up by $100 per student, to $700 for the first child and $600 for siblings. The cost of the optional Friday trips amounts to $178 per student: Splashdown, White Castle, High Exposure [rock climbing], Bowling, and Boulders Baseball. The Bounce trip will be free to campers. Not all students will opt for every trip, though they will be in the minority!  If they can afford it, we are asking the parents to pay $200 for the first child and $100 for each sibling as their part towards the fees and Friday trips.  

St Mary's would be grateful for any donations of whatever size to help us fund this year's campers. Checks should be made out to St Mary's Outreach, with memo ‘Camp’, or you can donate online, with the memo ‘Camp’.

Thank you for your support which will give five weeks of fun to twenty local children!

Sincerely, Sue Heywood, St Mary's Outreach Chair

Community Notices