From the Rector

Dear Parishioners and Friends,

Just when you think that it is time for the excitement to die down and things to become quieter, at least for a few weeks, along comes a major storm. At some time during last Tuesday's tempest, a huge tree snapped in several places and fell onto the roof of Bentley Hall. Two of its limbs actually pierced completely through the roof and into the interior of the hall.

We immediately sprang into action, notifying Church Insurance and the diocesan offices. The wardens worked quickly to arrange removal of the tree and tarping of the roof until a permanent solution can be worked out. The silver lining is that it looks like the damage is not too extensive. I am so glad that no one was hurt and that the church itself was not damaged.

Blessings,
Father Rick

There will be a pot luck brunch for the Annual Meeting with vestry members & others bringing food. Please contact Jennifer in the office with what you plan to bring.

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.

Community Notices

Outreach to Faith Build — Habitat for Humanity

Last weeks 12th Night Concert was cancelled because of the snowstorm but your donations are still very much needed. Please donate per the instructions below.

During the pandemic, when donations were particularly hard to come by, it was decided to merge the different Christian denominations’ individual efforts to build or refurbish Habitat’s new homes, and work together to achieve the same end. Thus, Episcobuild was replaced by Faith Build. As Episcobuild, we helped build nine new homes! One of the annual fundraisers, started 15 years ago at St. Mary’s, has always been a fun and good fundraising gathering. St. Mary’s Outreach supports Habitat’s work year-round and this year will be making a $1,000 donation at the Twelfth Night concert. We would welcome checks or online donations that will be added to this sum. If you would like to donate, please donate online or make checks payable to St. Mary’s Outreach, memo ‘Habitat Twelfth Night.’ Faith Build has two houses planned for 2024 and a long line of families still waiting to be enrolled in the program that leads to the joy of homes of their own.

Sue Heywood, Outreach Chair