Tag: st. edward's episcopal church

Sunday Online Worship at St. Edward’s – Second Sunday after the Epiphany – January 17, 2021

administrator

Dear parishioners and friends of St. Edward’s,

We welcome you to our online worship and ministry offerings for this Sunday, the Second Sunday after the Epiphany.  All essential links are noted below. 

Due to the alarming rise in cases within Lancaster County and here in our own township, I prayerfully request that we continue to refrain from gathering with other parishioners in public groups, particularly in restaurants, indoor spaces, or even outdoors without masks. COVID-19 is not a hoax.  We are all in this together, and honoring our parish community, by complying with the recommendations set forth during this time, conveys our love for God in Christ, the members of our parish family, and the wider community.

Here are two links that may be helpful:

Lancaster County, PA COVID-19 Hub

PA Department of Health

Father Rick +

—
A message from our bishop:

I am writing to you with an update on the health of The Rev. Canon Stephen Casey who, as you know, has been hospitalized at Lancaster General Hospital for COVID-19 for the past week. Father Casey remains in the Intensive Care Unit, sedated and on a ventilator. In spite of the excellent care that Stephen has been receiving, his recovery has not been promised and the situation is grave.

Rayelenn and their girls, Emily and Elizabeth, son-in-law Kevin and granddaughters Sadie and Emma are gathered together and able to spend time with Stephen via an iPad app used by the hospital. I, too, have been able to be in prayer with Stephen in this way and am grateful for the opportunity to share words of comfort, hope and healing from our Holy Scriptures and the Book of Common Prayer.

Rayelenn wants you to know how deeply appreciative she and the family are of all of the cards, messages and prayers that you have sent. Your kindness is so cherished at this time.

Please do continue your prayers for Stephen and the Casey family, and we will keep you informed of his progress.

With love and on behalf of Rayelenn.

The Rt. Rev. Audrey C. Scanlan
XI Bishop

Cards can be sent to:
The Rev. Canon and Mrs. Stephen C. Casey
429 Camp Meeting Road
Landisville, PA 17538
—
Sunday Service Information:

Click here to connect to the Second Sunday after the Epiphany, January 17th, which will be live streamed at 10:00 AM on Sunday.  

Click here to download our service bulletin for the Second Sunday after the Epiphany.

We also wanted to take this opportunity to share with you important announcements regarding upcoming events, as well as prayer and adult spiritual formation opportunities.

We continue to honor the guidance delivered by our bishop, as well as our love of God in Christ, to care for one another, by remaining socially distanced, and refrain from in-person worship and gathering.  There are many opportunities for us to worship, and perform ministry, in community, in other ways, during this continued Covidtide. Please see a listing below and stay tuned to our weekly emails, web site posts, and Sunday bulletins for updates on specific details, as we are updated, with times and links. We invite you to celebrate with us, as a community of faith!


Virtual Coffee Hour this Sunday, January 17th, from 11:00 AM – 11:40 AM, on Zoom. Hosted by Christina McLaughlin. Let us share our fellowship with one another during our extended Covidtide.  Your join code and pass code are in your Saturday email message.
—
At St. Edward’s, we have two ministries, we would like to call to your attention, in need of parishioner support:

Our first, is our continued support of the Hempfield Area Food Pantry. So many of our neighbors are in dire need. St. Edward’s provided, generously, to this social outreach in 2020. The need continues in 2021, for both financial and food donations. Here is a food wish list for January: Spaghetti; Spaghetti sauce; Mac and cheese; Jelly; Peanut butter; Canned pears; Canned peaches; Instant oatmeal; Regular oatmeal. Let us continue our tradition of generosity for those less fortunate than ourselves.

Our second, is our Altar Flower ministry. It is through the generous donations of parishioners that we beautify our altar shelves with fresh flowers. These symbolize for us, a lifting up of God’s creation and are displayed in memory of those whom we love, and in thanksgiving for the blessings in our lives. Such a subtle, yet important, component of our worship services at St. Edward’s. There are 41 weeks in a calendar year that we seek donations of $100 for our altar flowers, with the remembrance printed in our bulletin and read during the Prayers of the People. We currently have commitments for 9 Sundays in 2021 and we are seeking 32 additional commitments. It is our hope that you will prayerfully consider donating to this important ministry. Please contact the parish office with questions on how to donate and submit your remembrance.

We have exciting Spiritual Formation opportunities to engage in starting in January, 2021.  Click here to get an overview, but please pay attention to weekly emails which will provide the Zoom invitation details.

To our dear friends at St. Edward’s,

Please accept our humble thanks for all the love and support we’ve received this past week as we honor the life of our father/grandfather Robert Carter.  We are blessed to have such a spiritual community to embrace us always, but especially in times such as losing someone we love and care for dearly.  Thank you for reaching out through meals, cards, emails, phone calls and prayer. We feel your love and we are truly grateful.

With love,
The Ishlers
Dina, Patrick, Faith, Carter & Thomas

—
Please keep Ian Bentley in your prayers as he has been diagnosed with COVID-19, today.  He was not feeling well earlier this week and after visiting his doctor was administered a test, which came back positive. His symptoms are mild.

Be well. Stay safe.  Keep the faith.

Michelle
—

Besides prayers, calls, cards and emails, there is one more thing you can do to support St. Edward’s. Please keep up-to-date with your pledge or regular contribution.  Pledges/giving can be mailed to the church, and we also have an easy-to-use “Give to St. Edward’s” button on our website that links to our secure Paypal page, as well as a “Donate” button on our YouTube Channel home page.

To assist parishes, the diocese has set up online giving for each parish.  If you feel comfortable making your weekly giving or pledge donation in this manner (it is a secure giving tool), simply go to the diocesan web site, click on the tab up top and it will take you to a page where you can scroll down, find St. Edward’s, and continue with making your contribution!  Thank you for maintaining your faithfulness through your financial stewardship!

Click here if you would like to donate online through the diocesan portal. You will scroll down to find St. Edward’s under Lancaster. The portal is a secure giving site.

To learn more about St. Edward’s, please click our website, YouTube, or Facebook icons at the bottom of this email.

 

St. Edward’s Thursday Message – January 14th

administrator

Dear parishioners & friends of St. Edward’s,

Today, as we look towards the celebration of life for Robert Carter, tomorrow at 1:00 pm, via our YouTube live stream channel, and we continue to pray for Father Stephen, Rayelenn, and the entire Casey family as they fight their battle with COVID-19, we offer this prayer:

For the Human Family
O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(Page 815, The Book of Common Prayer)

We are accepting sign-ups for baked goodies (no main dishes, just “sweet treats”) for Rayelenn (we are looking for volunteers for dates in February).  Prayers are deeply needed, and of course, cards are so very welcome!

Cards can be sent to:
The Rev. Canon and Mrs. Stephen C. Casey
429 Camp Meeting Road
Landisville, PA 17538

Be well. Stay safe.  Keep the faith.

Michelle

—
Reminder:  Look for your Saturday email message which will include all links for our Sunday live stream service, via YouTube, at 10:00 AM, our Sunday service bulletin, Virtual Coffee Hour information, as well as giving information.

We will also be offering consecrated wafers for our service of Holy Eucharist this Sunday, safely packaged and available in the narthex, by entering through our front doors.  Monday – Friday, 11 AM – 3 PM.
—
Scepter Reminder
Articles, pictures and announcements for the February Scepter are due Wednesday January 20th. Please send items to [email protected]
—

At St. Edward’s, we have two ministries, we would like to call to your attention, in need of continued  parishioner support:

Our first, is our continued support of the Hempfield Area Food Pantry.  So many of our neighbors are in dire need.  St. Edward’s provided, generously, to this social outreach in 2020.  The need continues in 2021, for both financial and food donations.  Here is a food wish list for January: Spaghetti; Spaghetti sauce; Mac and cheese; Jelly; Peanut butter; Canned pears; Canned peaches; Instant oatmeal; Regular oatmeal. Let us continue our tradition of generosity for those less fortunate than ourselves.

Our second, is our Altar Flower ministry.  It is through the generous donations of parishioners that we beautify our altar shelves with fresh flowers.  These symbolize for us, a lifting up of God’s creation and are displayed in memory of those whom we love, and in thanksgiving for the blessings in our lives.  Such a subtle, yet important, component of our worship services at St. Edward’s.  There are 41 weeks in a calendar year that we seek donations of $100 for our altar flowers, with the remembrance printed in our bulletin and read during the Prayers of the People.  We currently have commitments for 9 Sundays in 2021 and we are seeking 32 additional commitments. It is our hope that you will prayerfully consider donating to this important ministry and help us keep this important St. Edward’s tradition alive. Please contact the parish office with questions on how to donate and submit your remembrance.

—
MINISTRY, WORSHIP & FELLOWSHIP CALENDAR VIA ZOOM
Adult Spiritual Formation – Winter 2021 Flier – Click here to view/download

We will be offering a 3-part series, commencing January 28th, led by Br. David Rutledge focusing on using the BCP for Morning and Evening Prayer. Resources needed:  1979 Book of Common Prayer and a Bible (your choice of translation). Episcopal Church Calendar  https://www.churchpublishing.org/episcopalchurchyearguidekalendar2021  (contact your parish office).
Contact Br David Rutledge for more information and to register:  [email protected]
Registration deadline is January 25.

Zoom details are below:

Topic: Using the BCP for Morning and Evening Prayer
Time: Jan 28, 2021 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Every week on Thu, until Feb 11, 2021, 3 occurrence(s)
Jan 28, 2021 07:00 PM
Feb 4, 2021 07:00 PM
Feb 11, 2021 07:00 PM

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83908180375?pwd=WkZMK3RoczlZc2tRbFB3cktRbXJrUT09
Meeting ID: 839 0818 0375
Passcode: 542551
One tap mobile
+19292056099,,83908180375#,,,,*542551# US (New York)
+13126266799,,83908180375#,,,,*542551# US (Chicago)
Dial by your location
+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington D.C)
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
Meeting ID: 839 0818 0375
Passcode: 542551
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcJhyLma0e

Friday, January 15th,  Lunch & Learn Adult Spiritual Formation – NEW TIME FOR THIS FRIDAY: 3 PM
We will pick up where we left off, amid our conversation on the Sacramental Rite of Matrimony.  All are welcome, even if you haven’t been with us so far.  We are together every Friday, via Zoom, from noon to one pm, taking learning bites out of the BCP with the help of the book ‘Walk in Love’.  Scroll down to note the Zoom meeting join information.

Friday Evening Prayer – January 15th
We invite you to Evening Prayer this Friday evening at 7:00 PM.  This is a wonderful way to peacefully end our week and is led by Patrick Ishler.
Join us on Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86327105082
Join Code:  863 2710 5082

 

Friday Lunch & Learn:  January 15th NEW TIME FOR THIS FRIDAY – 3 PM, via Zoom
We will pick up where we left off, amid our conversation on the Sacramental Rite of Matrimony.  All are welcome, even if you haven’t been with us so far, as we take learning bites out of the BCP with the help of the book ‘Walk in Love’. Perhaps you would feel comfortable in delivering the closing prayer? There are so many wonderful Prayers and Collects to share with the group, from our BCP.  We would welcome your participation. Attendance at every session is not required.

Chapter Six Handout, click here.

With Peace,
Father Rick, Bob Mosebach, and Wanda Stoltzfus

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84479709447?pwd=OWlobm83TDgwNlVoK3hFbjBlWnZSdz09

Meeting ID: 844 7970 9447

Passcode: 228332

One tap mobile

+13462487799,,84479709447#,,,,,,0#,,228332# US (Houston)

+16699006833,,84479709447#,,,,,,0#,,228332# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location

+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)

+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)

+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)

+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

Meeting ID: 844 7970 9447

Passcode: 228332

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbq2eaazXj

 

Funeral Service for Robert D. Carter – January 15, 2021

administrator

Dear parishioners & friends of St. Edward’s,

Please mark your calendar for Friday, January 15th (tomorrow) at 1:00 PM as we celebrate the life of Robert D. Carter, beloved father and grandfather of Dina, Patrick, Carter, Faith, and Thomas Ishler.

While the in-person service is for immediate family only, we will be live streaming our service, via our YouTube Channel. It will be live, so once you click the channel link (below), you will see the video image to click for the service.

We welcome you to join us as we celebrate Robert Carter’s rising to glory.

Please tune in by clicking here for the service on Friday, January 15th at 1:00 PM.

Click here to download our service bulletin.

 From the Book of Common Prayer, page 831

For those we Love
Almighty God, we entrust all who are dear to us to thy never-failing care and love, for this life and the life to come, knowing that thou art doing for them better things than we can desire or pray for; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Be well.  Stay safe.  Keep the faith.

Michelle

Sunday Online Worship at St. Edward’s – First Sunday after the Epiphany – January 10, 2021

administrator

Dear friends of St. Edward’s,

We welcome you to our online worship and ministry offerings for this Sunday, the First Sunday after the Epiphany.  All essential links are noted below. 

Due to the alarming rise in cases within Lancaster County and here in our own township, as your rector, I prayerfully request that we continue to refrain from gathering with other parishioners in public groups, particularly in restaurants, indoor spaces, or even outdoors without masks. COVID-19 is not a hoax.  We are all in this together, and honoring our parish community, by complying with the recommendations set forth during this time, conveys our love for God in Christ, the members of our parish family, and the wider community.

Here are two links that may be helpful:

Lancaster County, PA COVID-19 Hub

PA Department of Health

Father Rick +

—

Click here to connect to The First Sunday after the Epiphany, January 10th, which will be live streamed at 10:00 AM on Sunday.

Click here to download our service bulletin for the First Sunday after the Epiphany.

We also wanted to take this opportunity to share with you important announcements regarding upcoming events, as well as prayer and adult spiritual formation opportunities.

As we enter 2021 we keep our faith strong and our hope eternal.  While we continue to honor the guidance delivered by our Bishop, as well as our love of God in Christ, to care for one another, by remaining socially distanced, and refrain from in-person worship and gathering, there are many opportunities for us to worship together, in other ways, during this continued Covidtide. Please see a listing below and stay tuned to our weekly emails, web site posts, and Sunday bulletins for updates on specific details, as we are updated, with times and links. We invite you to celebrate with us, as a community of faith!

As we celebrate, this Sunday, The Baptism of our Lord, and say The Baptismal Covenant, let us remember, from our Book of Common Prayer (p. 819) a prayer For those about to be Baptized or to renew their Baptismal Covenant

O God, you prepared your disciples for the coming of the Spirit through the teaching of your Son Jesus Christ: Make the hearts and minds of your servants ready to receive the blessing of the Holy Spirit, that they may be filled with the strength of his presence; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.


Virtual Coffee Hour this Sunday, January 10th, from 11:00 AM – 11:40 AM, on Zoom. Hosted by Christina McLaughlin. Let us share our fellowship with one another during this stay-at home holiday season!  Your join code and passcode are in your Saturday email message.

—
We prayerfully request you consider signing up for the Altar Flowers for a Sunday of your choice in 2021.  The Altar Flowers beautify our sanctuary each week and are made possible through the generous donations of parishioners. The cost is $100 and your donation is recognized in our Sunday bulletin in memory of, or in thanksgiving for, your loved ones, a remembrance, or celebratory event in your life.
—
Hempfield Area Food Pantry:  We continue to request monetary, and food, donations, from our parish family, that are so needed at HAFP.  We may be in a “new year” but the need remains strong.  The UPDATED HAFP Food Wish List for January: Spaghetti; Spaghetti sauce; Mac and cheese; Jelly; Peanut butter; Canned pears; Canned peaches; Instant oatmeal; Regular oatmeal

Sunday Krist Kindling “Reveal” Event – January 10th 7 PM Join us for our traditional “reveal” of Krist Kindling adventures from December. You do not have to be a Krist Kindling participant to join us in an evening of fellowship. Please contact Meredith Westgate for the Zoom invitation link.

We have exciting Spiritual Formation opportunities to engage in starting in January, 2021.  Click here to get an overview, but please pay attention to weekly emails which will provide the Zoom invitation details.

Our fervent prayer is requested, as Father Stephen elongates his stay, for his care for COVID-19, at Lancaster General Hospital.  Please hold Rayelenn, Emily, Elizabeth, Kevin, Sadie, and Emma in your deep prayers.  Rayelenn is so grateful to the “good, good people at St. Edward’s who are praying for Stephen.”  We continue to be mindful of their space for health and healing, and it has been requested that cards and prayers are most in need right now.  Please refrain from calls and texts.

Cards can be sent to:
The Rev. Canon and Mrs. Stephen C. Casey
429 Camp Meeting Road
Landisville, PA 17538

For Recovery from Sickness
O God, the strength of the weak and the comfort of sufferers: Mercifully accept our prayers, and grant to your servant Stephen the help of your power, that his sickness may be turned into health, and our sorrow into joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.


(Book of Common Prayer, p. 458)

Be well. Stay safe.  Keep the faith.

Michelle
—

Besides prayers, calls, cards and emails, there is one more thing you can do to support St. Edward’s. Please keep up-to-date with your pledge or regular contribution.  Pledges/giving can be mailed to the church, and we also have an easy-to-use “Give to St. Edward’s” button on our website that links to our secure Paypal page, as well as a “Donate” button on our YouTube Channel home page.

To assist parishes, the diocese has set up online giving for each parish.  If you feel comfortable making your weekly giving or pledge donation in this manner (it is a secure giving tool), simply go to the diocesan web site, click on the tab up top and it will take you to a page where you can scroll down, find St. Edward’s, and continue with making your contribution!  Thank you for maintaining your faithfulness through your financial stewardship!

Click here if you would like to donate online through the diocesan portal. You will scroll down to find St. Edward’s under Lancaster. The portal is a secure giving site.

To learn more about St. Edward’s, please click our website, YouTube, or Facebook icons at the bottom of this email.

St. Edward’s Monday Message – January 4th

administrator

Dear parishioners & friends of St. Edward’s,

Your prayers are requested for Father Stephen, who has been diagnosed with Covid-19. He is receiving treatment at Lancaster General Hospital and expects to be home before the end of the week.  Please hold Rayelenn, Emily, Elizabeth, Kevin, Sadie, and Emma in your prayers.  In speaking with Rayelenn, today, she is so very grateful for the outpouring of support.  To be mindful of their space for health and healing, it has been requested that cards and prayers are most in need right now.  Please refrain from calls and texts.  We have been assured by Rayelenn that should they need help with errands or meals, she will let us know.

Cards can be sent to:

The Rev. Canon and Mrs. Stephen C. Casey
429 Camp Meeting Road
Landisville, PA 17538

Most importantly, as Bishop Audrey made note of in her pastoral note to clergy, today:
“Pray for all those affected by the coronavirus, for healthcare professionals, and for those suffering during the pandemic.  Please take good care, follow all recommended mitigation practices, and be well!”

With peace,

Father Rick +
Michelle

A Prayer for Strength and Confidence
Heavenly Father, giver of life and health: Comfort and relieve your sick servant Stephen, and give your power of healing to those who minister to his needs, that he may be strengthened in his weakness and have confidence in your loving care; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(Page 459, The Book of Common Prayer)
—
The Sunday Service for the Second Sunday after Christmas was wonderful!  In case you missed it, click here to view.

We have giving envelopes for 2021, as well as your grocery cards available at church.  Please stop by between the hours of 11 AM – 3 PM to pick your items up.  If you would like them mailed to you, please contact the parish office.

We will also be offering consecrated wafers for our service of Holy Eucharist this Sunday, safely packaged and available via a table in the narthex, by entering through our front doors.  You can also pick up the latest Scepter copy!
—
We prayerfully request you consider signing up for the Altar Flowers for a Sunday of your choice in 2021.  The Altar Flowers beautify our sanctuary each week and are made possible through the generous donations of parishioners. The cost is $100 and your donation is recognized in our Sunday bulletin in memory of, or in thanksgiving for, your loved ones, a remembrance, or celebratory event in your life.

Hempfield Area Food Pantry:  We continue to request monetary, and food, donations, from our parish family, that are so needed at HAFP.  We may be in a “new year” but the need remains strong.  The HAFP Food Wish List for January: Spam; Prune juice; Chicken and beef broth; Large peanut butter; Large jelly; 2 lb. packs of rice; Canned pears; Instant and regular oatmeal; Cream of celery soup; Cream of chicken soup; Boxed pastas (ziti, rotini, etc.); Canned tomatoes; Pancake syrup; Canned fruit cocktail.
—
MINISTRY, WORSHIP & FELLOWSHIP CALENDAR VIA ZOOM
Adult Spiritual Formation – Winter 2021 Flier – Click here to view/download

Wednesday Evening Contemporary Bible Study will resume next Wednesday, January 13th, with a new session.   Details are in the January Scepter as well as in the Winter Adult Spiritual Formation flier (above link).

We will also be offering a 3-part series, commencing January 28th, led by Br. David Rutledge focusing on using the BCP for Morning and Evening Prayer. Resources needed:  1979 Book of Common Prayer and a Bible (your choice of translation). Episcopal Church Calendar  https://www.churchpublishing.org/episcopalchurchyearguidekalendar2021  (contact your parish office).
Contact Br David Rutledge for more information and to register:  [email protected]
Registration deadline is January 25.

Zoom details are below:

Topic: Using the BCP for Morning and Evening Prayer
Time: Jan 28, 2021 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Every week on Thu, until Feb 11, 2021, 3 occurrence(s)
Jan 28, 2021 07:00 PM
Feb 4, 2021 07:00 PM
Feb 11, 2021 07:00 PM
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83908180375?pwd=WkZMK3RoczlZc2tRbFB3cktRbXJrUT09
Meeting ID: 839 0818 0375
Passcode: 542551
One tap mobile
+19292056099,,83908180375#,,,,*542551# US (New York)
+13126266799,,83908180375#,,,,*542551# US (Chicago)
Dial by your location
+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington D.C)
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
Meeting ID: 839 0818 0375
Passcode: 542551
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcJhyLma0e

Friday, January 8th,  Lunch & Learn Adult Spiritual Formation – 12 Noon – 1 PM
Having taken some time off from our Friday sessions to enjoy the holidays, we are ready to dive into our Book of Common Prayer with renewed vigor.  We will pick up where we left off, amid our conversation on the Sacramental Rite of Matrimony.  All are welcome, even if you haven’t been with us so far.  We are together every Friday, via Zoom, from noon to one pm, taking learning bites out of the BCP with the help of the book ‘Walk in Love’.  Scroll down to note the Zoom meeting join information.

Friday Evening Prayer – January 8th
We invite you to Evening Prayer this Friday evening at 7:00 PM.  This is a wonderful way to peacefully end our week and is led by Patrick Ishler.
Join us on Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86327105082
Join Code:  863 2710 5082

Sunday Krist Kindling “Reveal” Event – January 10th 7 PM Join us this Sunday for our traditional “reveal” of Krist Kindling adventures from December.  You do not have to be a Krist Kindling participant to join us in an evening of fellowship.  Please contact Meredith Westgate or the parish office so we can email you the Zoom invitation link!

 

Friday Lunch & Learn:  January 8th 12 Noon – 1 PM via Zoom
Having taken some time off from our Friday sessions to enjoy the holidays, we are ready to dive into our Book of Common Prayer with renewed vigor.  We will pick up where we left off, amid our conversation on the Sacramental Rite of Matrimony.  All are welcome, even if you haven’t been with us so far, as we take learning bites out of the BCP with the help of the book ‘Walk in Love’. Perhaps you would feel comfortable in delivering the closing prayer? There are so many wonderful Prayers and Collects to share with the group, from our BCP.  We would welcome your participation. Attendance at every session is not required.

Chapter Six Handout, click here.

With Peace,
Father Rick, Bob Mosebach, and Wanda Stoltzfus

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84479709447?pwd=OWlobm83TDgwNlVoK3hFbjBlWnZSdz09

Meeting ID: 844 7970 9447

Passcode: 228332

One tap mobile

+13462487799,,84479709447#,,,,,,0#,,228332# US (Houston)

+16699006833,,84479709447#,,,,,,0#,,228332# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location

+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)

+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)

+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)

+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

Meeting ID: 844 7970 9447

Passcode: 228332

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbq2eaazXj

Sunday Online Worship at St. Edward’s – Second Sunday after Christmas – January 3, 2021

administrator

Dear friends of St. Edward’s,

We welcome you to our online worship and ministry offerings for this Sunday, the first Sunday of this New Year, and the Second Sunday after Christmas.  All essential links are noted below. 

Due to the alarming rise in cases within Lancaster County and here in our own township, as your rector, I prayerfully request that we continue to refrain from gathering with other parishioners in public groups, particularly in restaurants, indoor spaces, or even outdoors without masks. COVID-19 is not a hoax.  We are all in this together, and honoring our parish community, by complying with the recommendations set forth during this time, conveys our love for God in Christ, the members of our parish family, and the wider community.

Here are two links that may be helpful:

Lancaster County, PA COVID-19 Hub

PA Department of Health

Father Rick +

—

Click here to connect to The Second Sunday after Christmas Liturgy of the Word, January 3rd, which will go live at 10:00 AM on Sunday.  

Click here to download our service bulletin for the Second Sunday after Christmas.

We are so fortunate to have the music, for this Sunday’s service, provided by the St. Edward’s Band – The Rev. Dr. Rick Bauer, Dr. Randy Westgate, Mike Freshwater, and Jamie Alton.

We also wanted to take this opportunity to share with you important announcements regarding upcoming events, as well as prayer and adult spiritual formation opportunities.

As we enter 2021 with strong faith, peace, hope, and love, and look forward towards all of the good things to come, we continue to honor the guidance delivered by our Bishop, as well as our love of God in Christ, to care for one another, remain socially distanced, and refrain from in-person worship and gathering.  But, there are many opportunities for us to worship together, in other ways, during this continued Covidtide. Please see a listing below and stay tuned to our weekly emails, web site posts, and Sunday bulletins for updates on specific details as we are updated with times and links. We invite you to celebrate with us, as a community of faith!

As we think about the sense of renewal a new year brings, let us read from page 99 of the BCP:

A Collect for the Renewal of Life

O God, the King eternal, whose light divides the day from the night and turns the shadow of death into the morning: Drive far from us all wrong desires, incline our hearts to keep your law, and guide our feet into the way of peace; that, having done your will with cheerfulness during the day, we may, when night comes, rejoice to give you thanks; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.


Virtual Coffee Hour this Sunday, January 3rd, from 11:00 AM – 11:40 AM, on Zoom. Hosted by Christina McLaughlin. Let us share our fellowship with one another during this stay-at home holiday season! Your join code and passcode are in your Saturday email communication.

—

Grocery Cards: Will be available to pick up on January 4th.

Giving Envelopes:  YES!  Our 2021 giving envelopes are in and if you are a household who gets giving envelopes they can be picked up starting January 4th from 11 AM-3 PM.

Please consider donating to the Altar Flowers fund during 2021.  These flowers beautify our services each Sunday and can be given in memory of, or in thanksgiving for, your loved ones or in celebration of an event in your life.  It is a wonderful way to support St. Edward’s, and supports our local business, El Jardin florist, and shows those who view our services online what an outstanding sanctuary we have!

The Scepter is published, online and in print.  To view the January 2021 edition, click here.

We have exciting Spiritual Formation opportunities to engage in starting in January, 2021.  Click here to get an overview, but please pay attention to weekly emails which will provide the Zoom invitation details.


Welcome to Congregational Care!  Each Saturday, we will include in our messages any submissions we receive from our parish community, as we invite you to share prayer requests or news about yourselves or your family. We believe this outreach to be incredibly important to keep our spiritual community connected to each other and to Jesus Christ, our Lord, as we walk in love with one another in our daily journeys.  Please submit your “news” to the parish office by Friday of each week and we will feature it in the Saturday email, bringing it to our hearts and minds in our Sunday prayers.

While we may have flipped the calendar just a couple days ago, into a new year, we continue to pray for so many, during this Covidtide.  We also pray for the safe and expedient distribution of the vaccine and all of those who have been tasked with this very important scientific and medical endeavor.

The message this Saturday is quite simple and was shared by a beloved parishioner, Jill Bell, to our vestry junior warden, Julie Hoff, who shared it with me. Please click the link below and enjoy.  It is a wonderful sentiment in every way!

A beautiful rendition of Auld Lang Syne – A poem written by Robert Burns in 1788 and set to the tune of a traditional folk song, with this version set to the beauty of Norway.

Click here:  Auld Lang Syne by Sissel

—

Besides prayers, calls, cards and emails, there is one more thing you can do to support St. Edward’s. Please keep up-to-date with your pledge or regular contribution.  Pledges/giving can be mailed to the church, and we also have an easy-to-use “Give to St. Edward’s” button on our website that links to our secure Paypal page, as well as a “Donate” button on our YouTube Channel home page.

To assist parishes, the diocese has set up online giving for each parish.  If you feel comfortable making your weekly giving or pledge donation in this manner (it is a secure giving tool), simply go to the diocesan web site, click on the tab up top and it will take you to a page where you can scroll down, find St. Edward’s, and continue with making your contribution!  Thank you for maintaining your faithfulness through your financial stewardship!

Click here if you would like to donate online through the diocesan portal. You will scroll down to find St. Edward’s under Lancaster. The portal is a secure giving site.

To learn more about St. Edward’s, please click our website, YouTube, or Facebook icons at the bottom of this email.

Be well. Stay safe. Keep the faith.

– Michelle

St. Edward’s Monday Message – December 28th

administrator

Dear parishioners & friends of St. Edward’s,

We wish you Great Joy during this Christmastide as we journey towards our New Year!  We will not be sending out a Thursday email, as the office is closed this week and there is very light news to share.  Our next email will be Saturday, January 2nd with details for Sunday worship and fellowship offerings.  Then, stay tuned for many happenings starting in January, 2021!  For now, let us be at peace and in contemplative prayerful moments, as we bask in the Good News and Glory of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:2

Jesus said, “I am the light of the world; whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12
—
In case you missed it, we invite you to view our Sunday worship offering from the Diocese:

Sunday, December 27th – Shaped by Faith Virtual Liturgy

Be well.  Stay safe.  Keep the faith.

Michelle
—
As we reflect on this past year, you may wish to visit the St. Edward’s YouTube Channel,
by clicking here.

It is a wonderful way to reflect on all that St. Edward’s, as a community of faith, has accomplished in 2020, weathering this Covidtide with a resilience that is found when we confront challenges together, lean on each other, and put our faith in God.

Not only do we say, “Thanks be to God,” but we also give thanks to and for Father Rick – for his  pastoral guidance, faithful spirit, and strong leadership in shepherding our parish every day, and to Katrina, Ricky, and Christian; to each and every parishioner, ministry leader, ministry participants; and to friends and visitors of St. Edward’s, all of whom have made our community stronger and who have helped serve our wider community in generous ways that show our commitment to loving and serving God.
—
Noteworthy Items:  The January Scepter, January grocery cards, and 2021 giving envelopes will be available starting Monday, January 4th.  Please do not forget to sign up for altar flowers in 2021 by contacting the parish office.  There will be announcements in our Sunday bulletin regarding this very important ministry that pays tribute to your loved ones and serves to beautify our altar each Sunday.
—
Hempfield Area Food Pantry:  We continue to receive monetary donations, from our parish family and friends, that are so needed at HAFP.  The new year, 2021, is only days away and it is a crucial time for many families as they await the continuation of their lapsed benefits.  Let us continue to show our support for those in need in our wider community. Please keep these families in your prayers. Thank you for your dedicated and continued support.
—
WORSHIP DURING THIS CHRISTMASTIDE WEEK


Friday Evening Prayer – January 1st
We invite you to Evening Prayer this Friday evening at 7:00 PM.  This is a wonderful way to peacefully end our week and is led by Patrick Ishler.
Join us on Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86327105082
Join Code:  863 2710 5082

Saturday Taize Service – January 2nd 5:00 PM – Members of St. Edwards are cordially invited to join St. Luke’s for our Zoom Taize service. A service of deep prayer and worship, sacred darkness, and the singing of chants in candlelight. We cannot meet in person at present, so the services will be held on Zoom, to create a greater sense of community. Prepare by lighting some candles. Connect to the service:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84847298680.

Please contact St. Luke’s to let us know you will attend – at [email protected] Secure services – waiting room enabled.

St. Edward’s Thursday Message – December 10th

administrator

Dear parishioners & friends of St. Edward’s,

We offer, this evening, a Collect For Peace, in this Second Week of Advent:

Almighty God, kindle, we pray, in every heart the true love of peace, and guide with your wisdom those who take counsel for the nations of the earth, that in tranquillity your dominion may increase until the earth is filled with the knowledge of your love; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Be well.  Stay safe.  Keep the faith.

Michelle
—
Looking for a way to brighten someone’s day during the holidays? We can all participate in our own personal “social outreach.”  Click on the link below to find a list of Retirement Homes in our area that are accepting cards for their residents.  What a nice way for us to reach out to the wider community to let them know that we care!

Retirement Home List for Christmas Cards

—

Let’s bless our church family with some Holiday cheer!  
Since we can’t wish each other a Merry Christmas in person this year, we are asking you to send a digital photo of you/your family holding a large piece of paper or sign displaying some sort of Christmas message.  (Santa hats and reindeer antlers are optional). We’ll put them all together to create a virtual Christmas card.

Text your photo and names of those in the photo to Christina McLaughlin at 717-415-7043 or email them to [email protected] no later than Sunday December 13th.
– Christina McLaughlin and Ellen Milligan
—

Be a part of a St. Edward’s tradition by contributing to our Christmas Altar Flowers.   We will continue with our tradition of offering people the opportunity to donate to our Christmas Flowers for our Christmas Eve service, live streamed at 8:00 PM, with the names of your loved ones remembered in the service bulletin.  Flower entries are at a suggested donation of $20.  Please email the parish office by December 20th with your names and amount donated.  When sending in your check, please make it payable to St. Edward’s and mark in the memo line “Christmas Flowers.”  Click here for more information.
—

Many of you have expressed an interest in receiving a 2021 Episcopal Church calendar.  We have ordered 25 and they have arrived!  Please let the office know if you would like to have us put aside one for you!  We are accepting donations for the calendars, with a suggested amount of $3-$5, to offset the cost of production.  Thank you.
—
Click here for service times and offerings during the seasons of Advent and Christmas, at St. Edward’s, as well as diocesan offerings (including the information for our Sunday Virtual Coffee Hour at 11 AM!)

We are so fortunate to have an invitation to a wonderful spiritual offering by The Community of Francis and Clare, and Br. David Rutledge, for Christmas Eve morning.  If you were able to join us for the Thanksgiving Morning Prayer, you know how meditative and special these offerings are and we encourage you to join us!

Christmas Eve Morning Prayer @ 9:00 am ET
Time: Dec 24, 2020 09:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85396362496?pwd=R1lGR0hIOFk5NllJSlN4VUpuSzE1QT09


Meeting ID: 853 9636 2496
Passcode: 062205

One tap mobile
+19292056099,,85396362496#,,,,,,0#,,062205# US (New York)
+13017158592,,85396362496#,,,,,,0#,,062205# US (Washington D.C)

Dial by your location
+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington D.C)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
Meeting ID: 853 9636 2496
Passcode: 062205
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcXmijjIhf
—
MINISTRY, WORSHIP & FELLOWSHIP CALENDAR FOR THIS WEEK VIA ZOOM
Friday, December 11th,  Lunch & Learn Adult Spiritual Formation – 12 Noon – 1 PM
Join us for this series led by Father Rick, Bob Mosebach, and Wanda Stoltzfus.  Scroll down to note the Zoom meeting join information.

Friday Evening Prayer – December 11th
We invite you to Evening Prayer this Friday evening at 7:00 PM.  This is a wonderful way to peacefully end our week and is led by Patrick Ishler.
Join us on Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86327105082
Join Code:  863 2710 5082

Friday Lunch & Learn:  December 11th 12 Noon – 1 PM via Zoom
Our conversation continues, this week, with Chapter Six, in our text.  We have had engaging and enlivening discussions each week! Perhaps you would feel comfortable in delivering the closing prayer, this week?  There are many wonderful Prayers and Collects in our BCP!  We  would welcome your participation. Attendance at every session is not required.

Chapter Six Handout, click here to download.

We encourage you to have your Book of Common Prayer for each session and the text, Walk In Love is optional, but can be ordered at forwardmovement.org or by contacting the parish office (we have copies on hand).  If you do not have a copy of the BCP on hand, this link will give you the downloadable pdf.

With Peace,
Father Rick, Bob Mosebach, and Wanda Stoltzfus

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84479709447?pwd=OWlobm83TDgwNlVoK3hFbjBlWnZSdz09

Meeting ID: 844 7970 9447

Passcode: 228332

One tap mobile

+13462487799,,84479709447#,,,,,,0#,,228332# US (Houston)

+16699006833,,84479709447#,,,,,,0#,,228332# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location

+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)

+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)

+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)

+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

Meeting ID: 844 7970 9447

Passcode: 228332

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbq2eaazXj

Sunday Online Worship at St. Edward’s – Second Advent – December 6, 2020

administrator

Dear friends of St. Edward’s,

We welcome you to our online worship this weekend as we celebrate the Second Sunday of Advent.

Due to the alarming rise in cases within Lancaster County and here in our own township, as your rector, I prayerfully request that we refrain from gathering with other parishioners in public groups, particularly in restaurants, indoor spaces, or even outdoors without masks.  COVID-19 is not a hoax.  We are all in this together, and honoring our parish community, by complying with the recommendations set forth during this time, conveys our love for God in Christ, the members of our parish family, and the wider community.

Here are two links that may be helpful:

Lancaster County, PA COVID-19 Hub

PA Department of Health

Father Rick +

—
Please note the NEW TIME of 10 AM for our one Sunday Service via our YouTube Channel, which will be followed by a virtual coffee hour (detailed below).

Click here to connect to our YouTube Channel to enjoy the Second Sunday of Advent Rite II service, with a Prayer for Spiritual Communion, at 10:00 AM, on Sunday, December 6th.

We offer an opportunity for those viewing our online service to Donate to St. Edward’s via our Paypal link directly from our YouTube Channel.  On the St. Edward’s Channel Home Page, in the lower right corner of the image of our church is a “Donate to St. Edward’s” link.  You can also find it in the “About” section, just scroll down to “links” in that section.  We have installed it, tested it, and it works securely and wonderfully!

Click here to download the Second Sunday of Advent Rite II service bulletin, with a Prayer for Spiritual Communion, for Sunday, December 6th.

We also wanted to take this opportunity to share with you important announcements regarding upcoming events, as well as prayer and adult spiritual formation opportunities.

The season of Advent is upon us, and while we must stay socially distanced and refrain from in-person worship, in our sanctuary, there are many opportunities for us to worship together during this Covidtide. Please see a listing below and stay tuned to our weekly emails, web site posts, and Sunday bulletins for updates on specific details as we are updated with times and links. We invite you to celebrate with us, as a community of faith! We are all in this together and we are all connected as we walk in hope, peace, joy, and love, during this season of Advent, through Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Rose Dixon Memorial Service:  In case you missed watching the service for Rose Dixon today, click here to view.

St. Edward’s Virtual Christmas Card Ministry Let’s bless our church family with some Holiday cheer! Since we can’t wish each other a Merry Christmas in person this year, we are asking you to send a digital photo of you/your family holding a large piece of paper or sign displaying some sort of Christmas message. (Santa hats and reindeer antlers are optional). We’ll put them all together to create a virtual Christmas card. Text your photo and names of those in the photo to Christina McLaughlin at 717-415-7043 or email them to [email protected] no later than Sunday December 13th. – Christina McLaughlin and Ellen Milligan

Our virtual cultural event, Fire in the Glen, scheduled for December 13th has been postponed, due to the Coronavirus. Stay tuned for any rescheduling. It reminds us that honoring our parish community, by complying with the recommendations set forth during this time, conveys our love for God in Christ, the members of our parish family, and the wider community.

Christmas Flowers at St. Edward’s: We will be offering our traditional Christmas Flower sign-up with your “In Memory of” or “In Thanksgiving for” names to be placed in the Christmas Eve bulletin. Please prayerfully consider signing up for Christmas flowers this year. Flowers are $20 and can be submitted, via email, with your check mailed into the parish office, made payable to St. Edward’s and marked “Christmas Flowers” in the memo line. Deadline is December 20th.

December 18th: Lessons & Carols Virtual Convocation Event – Stay tuned for details.

Drive-In Christmas Worship: Our December Bishop Out of the Box event will be Drive-in Worship services. We will have two options of free, outdoor, socially distanced services to help us all celebrate the Christmas season. From your car, enjoy a Christmas message, live worship, and carols. The first will be on Saturday, December 19, 2020 at 6:30 PM at The Point Drive-in, Northumberland. The second will be on Sunday, December 20, 2020 at 6:30 PM EST at The Cumberland Valley Drive-in, Newville. We welcome fellow St. Edward’s parishioners to join us at either of these events (Carlisle is the closer drive-in event) as Father Rick, Randy Westgate, Jamie Alton, and Mike Freshwater will be providing wonderful music for these services.

Christmas Eve at St. Edward’s: December 24th 8 PM virtual Rite II service live streamed on the St. Edward’s YouTube Channel. Please stay tuned for details regarding how we will distribute consecrated wafers for Christmas Holy Communion at home.

Our December Scepter is posted on our web site. Click here. Color copies will be in the front entry and available for pick up Monday – Friday 11 AM – 3 PM.

Our monthly grocery cards can be picked up starting Monday, December 7th and will be in your parish mailboxes, or can be mailed to you. Please let the parish office know if you would like your cards mailed.

—
Annual Jesse Tree Project was such a beautiful example of the love and generosity that abounds this year!  Thank you to all who so graciously contributed to this St. Edward’s Social Outreach ministry, and a holiday tradition at St. Edward’s.  Because of your faithful commitment to this project, we raised over $2,100 this year!!

Join us for our Virtual Coffee Hour, right after the 10 AM service, each Sunday,  from 11:00 AM – 11:40 AM, on Zoom.  It will be hosted by Christina McLaughlin. During these holidays, and because we cannot gather in-person through the end of this calendar year, sharing fellowship with our community is not only a connective thread for the fabric of our parish life, but it is wonderful “social outreach.”  We invite you to join us! Join code and pass code were in your weekly emails.


Welcome to Congregational Care!  Each Saturday, we will include in our messages any submissions we receive from our parish community, as we invite you to share prayer requests or news about yourselves or your family. We believe this outreach to be incredibly important to keep our spiritual community connected to each other and to Jesus Christ, our Lord, as we walk in love with one another in our daily journeys.  Please submit your “news” to the parish office by Friday of each week and we will feature it in the Saturday email, bringing it to our hearts and minds in our Sunday prayers.

For this week, we pray for Robert Carter, father of Dina Ishler, who is battling Covid-19.  Please offer your prayers, love, and support to the Ishler family and keep all of them in our deepest hearts and prayers as they support each other.

As Dina so graciously  expressed this week:  “I’d also like to lift up how hard it is for anyone in a residential facility in this era because of all the isolation and loneliness. . . let us all hold all such folks close in our souls.” 
 
In addition to the Prayer for the Aged, below, please pray for people, of all ages, who live in residential facilities.

Prayer For the Aged

Look with mercy, O God our Father, on all whose increasing years bring them weakness, distress, or isolation. Provide for them homes of dignity and peace; give them understanding helpers, and the willingness to accept help; and, as their strength diminishes, increase their faith and their assurance of your love. This we ask in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
—

Join us, at St. Edward’s, and with our convocation churches, for wonderful offerings, each week, of prayer and adult spiritual formation, via Zoom. Join in, anytime!  Click here to learn more.

Besides prayers, calls, cards and emails, there is one more thing you can do to support St. Edward’s. Please keep up-to-date with your pledge or regular contribution.  Pledges/giving can be mailed to the church, and we also have an easy-to-use “Give to St. Edward’s” button on our website that links to our secure Paypal page, as well as a “Donate” button on our YouTube Channel home page.

To assist parishes, the diocese has set up online giving for each parish.  If you feel comfortable making your weekly giving or pledge donation in this manner (it is a secure giving tool), simply go to the diocesan web site, click on the tab up top and it will take you to a page where you can scroll down, find St. Edward’s, and continue with making your contribution!  Thank you for maintaining your faithfulness through your financial stewardship!

Click here if you would like to donate online through the diocesan portal. You will scroll down to find St. Edward’s under Lancaster. The portal is a secure giving site.

To learn more about St. Edward’s, please click our website, YouTube, or Facebook icons at the bottom of this email.

Be well. Stay safe. Keep the faith.

– Michelle

Sunday Service Online – First Advent – November 29, 2020

administrator

Dear friends of St. Edward’s,

We welcome you to our online worship this weekend as we celebrate the First Sunday of Advent.

Due to the alarming rise in cases within Lancaster County and here in our own township, as your rector, I prayerfully request that we refrain from gathering with other parishioners in public groups, particularly in restaurants, indoor spaces, or even outdoors without masks.  COVID-19 is not a hoax.  We are all in this together, and honoring our parish community, by complying with the recommendations set forth during this time, conveys our love for God in Christ, the members of our parish family, and the wider community.

Here are two links that may be helpful:

Lancaster County, PA COVID-19 Hub

PA Department of Health

Father Rick +

—
Please note the NEW TIME of 10 AM for our one Sunday Service via our YouTube Channel, which will be followed by a virtual coffee hour (detailed below).

Click here to connect to our YouTube Channel to enjoy the First Sunday of Advent Rite II service, with a Prayer for Spiritual Communion, at 10:00 AM, on Sunday, November 29th.

We offer an opportunity for those viewing our online service to Donate to St. Edward’s via our Paypal link directly from our YouTube Channel.  On the St. Edward’s Channel Home Page, in the lower right corner of the image of our church is a “Donate to St. Edward’s” link.  You can also find it in the “About” section, just scroll down to “links” in that section.  We have installed it, tested it, and it works securely and wonderfully!

Click here to download the First Sunday of Advent Rite II service bulletin, with a Prayer for Spiritual Communion, for Sunday, November 29th.

We also wanted to take this opportunity to share with you important announcements regarding upcoming events, as well as prayer and adult spiritual formation opportunities.

Krist Kindling begins this week!  For those participating, we wish you fun, safe local travels, and good spirit, as you enjoy this fellowship tradition at St. Edward’s!

—
We are nearing the end of our Annual Stewardship Campaign, as we had set our “ingathering” for tomorrow, November 29th.  If you have not returned your pledge commitment, we request your prayerful consideration in helping us to steward the important ministry of St. Edward’s, and the care of our church campus, in 2021, by returning your pledge commitment this week.  We have much to be thankful for, and much to look forward to, but it is with the Grace of God, our love of God and for one another through Jesus Christ our Lord, and the stewardship support from our parish community that makes our ministry possible.  Thank you! 

—
Annual Jesse Tree Project Forms: Due Tomorrow, November 29th
Please let the parish office know if you are mailing or dropping off your forms/checks on Monday, if you have yet to do so.

For many, Thanksgiving and Christmas represents a ‘season of giving’.  Giving to the foster children of COBYs during the holidays has been a long-time favorite of this parish.

This service is known as the Jesse Tree project.  Jesse Tree provides gifts for children in foster care, making Christmas a little brighter.  Through COBYS Family Services we obtain a list of children in foster care, their ages, and their Christmas wishes. We don’t take the place of Santa. Rather, we act as Santa’s helpers by adding another gift or two for a child to open on Christmas morning.

Click here for information and sign up form. 

Join us for our Virtual Coffee Hour, right after the 10 AM service, each Sunday,  from 11:00 AM – 11:40 AM, on Zoom.  It will be hosted by Christina McLaughlin. During these holidays, and because we cannot gather in-person through the end of this calendar year, sharing fellowship with our community is not only a connective thread for the fabric of our parish life, but it is wonderful “social outreach.”  We invite you to join us! Your join code and pass code were in the Saturday email.


Welcome to Congregational Care!  Each Saturday, we will include in our messages any submissions we receive from our parish community, as we invite you to share prayer requests or news about yourselves or your family. We believe this outreach to be incredibly important to keep our spiritual community connected to each other and to Jesus Christ, our Lord, as we walk in love with one another in our daily journeys.  Please submit your “news” to the parish office by Friday of each week and we will feature it in the Saturday email, bringing it to our hearts and minds in our Sunday prayers.

For this week, we pray for all peoples, everywhere, who have helped others, in all the ways we can and do, during this Covidtide Thanksgiving and beyond.  But, most importantly, we keep the poor and neglected in our deepest prayers, as we enter this season of Advent.

Prayer For the Poor and Neglected

Almighty and most merciful God, we remember before you all poor and neglected persons whom it would be easy for us to forget: the homeless and the destitute, the old and the sick, and all who have none to care for them. Help us to heal those who are broken in body or spirit, and to turn their sorrow into joy. Grant this, Father, for the love of your Son, who for our sake became poor, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

—

Join us, at St. Edward’s, and with our convocation churches, for wonderful offerings, each week, of prayer and adult spiritual formation, via Zoom. Join in, anytime!  Click here to learn more.

Besides prayers, calls, cards and emails, there is one more thing you can do to support St. Edward’s. Please keep up-to-date with your pledge or regular contribution.  Pledges/giving can be mailed to the church, and we also have an easy-to-use “Give to St. Edward’s” button on our website that links to our secure Paypal page, as well as a “Donate” button on our YouTube Channel home page.

To assist parishes, the diocese has set up online giving for each parish.  If you feel comfortable making your weekly giving or pledge donation in this manner (it is a secure giving tool), simply go to the diocesan web site, click on the tab up top and it will take you to a page where you can scroll down, find St. Edward’s, and continue with making your contribution!  Thank you for maintaining your faithfulness through your financial stewardship!

Click here if you would like to donate online through the diocesan portal. You will scroll down to find St. Edward’s under Lancaster. The portal is a secure giving site.

To learn more about St. Edward’s, please click our website, YouTube, or Facebook icons at the bottom of this email.

Be well. Stay safe. Keep the faith.

– Michelle