From the Rector

Dear Parishioners and Friends,

The drama and grandeur of Holy Week commences this Sunday as we remember Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem with the blessing of palms and singing "All glory, laud, and honor." This year, the children of the Sunday school will be assisting me with the blessing and distribution of the palms. The service quickly takes a darker turn as we then read the story of Christ's Passion and death.

On Tuesday, I will head to the Cathedral of St. John the Divine for the annual renewal of ordination vows. This is a very moving service to which all are welcome, not just the clergy.

Holy Week liturgies, though all unique, form part of a greater whole. I encourage you to take part in as many services as you can. Maundy Thursday and Good Friday liturgies contain some of the most powerful imagery and music of the church year, and remind us acutely of our Lord's suffering and sacrifice.

Easter joy will ring out beginning on Saturday evening at St. John's in Arden, and of course on Sunday here at St. Mary's with festive music, flowering of the cross, the lighting of the paschal candle, and an Easter egg hunt!

May your Holy Week be blessed and your Easter joyful.
Father Rick

Easter Flowers and Music

Two of the delights of Easter at St. Mary’s are the lovely Easter lilies and beautiful music that fill the church on Easter Sunday. If you would like to be part of this tradition and honor/remember someone special on this great festive day, please make a donation using the envelopes in church or online. You may also send a check to St. Mary’s (memo line Easter Flowers). Names of all those remembered/honored that are received in the office by Wednesday, March 27th, will appear in the Easter bulletins and the following Sunday as we enjoy the lilies for two weeks.

Community Notices