SMIF mask-makers sharing their gifts . . .
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As the weeks of our social distancing roll on, it helps to hear how we're helping one another. Many St. Martin's members are putting their sewing skills to work
to make masks for medical professionals, friends & family.
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From Valerie about her makeshift studio on her dining room table:
I've made about 30 masks for the Columbia Coronavirus mask makers and will probably make another 30 or so for them as they try to meet the needs of those in the medical professions. I've made another 30 or so for friends, family, and some people who have immune deficiencies. A friend of mine at a daycare center also asked for some, and I've helped out there, too.
I feel lucky that I have the skills to do something purposeful in this crisis, something proactive against a virus that we (I) can't fight or defeat. It feels good to be a part of a "defense system" and a community joining together to fight for a common cause. There is a reason why "Independence Day" is my favorite movie. I love where humanity comes together to fight for the good of the world, a common cause. Who knew cosmetology and sewing skills would be so useful in a pandemic? (I've been teaching people to cut hair virtually, too.)
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From Carol Lumpkin who is
making masks as part of Seamstresses With A Purpose:
This has given me a way to continue the tradition started by my grandmother when she made quilts from material left over from sewing clothes for her six children. My mom would tell me about her dresses that became part of the quilts. My grandmother and my mother taught me to sew and we have been making clothes and dolls for many years. So I have acquired quite a stash.
As I sew the masks, I relive wonderful memories of the clothes and dolls and those for whom they were made. This has been a wonderful way to spend my time. These masks are for healthcare workers and others in need.
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From Anne Bell from her quilting/art studio at home:
I have made masks for Prisma Women’s and Neonatal Services and everybody who has asked for a mask -- friends, neighbors and family. I have no idea how many I’ve made. As soon as I finish a batch, they are out of here.
Sewing is what I do. As soon as I heard there was a need, I thought that was something I could do.
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Masks made by Sally Peek in her Nana studio
at home:
I am part of a local group sewing masks for healthcare workers in the community.
It feels good to know that I have a skill that can serve the greater good. Having that ability is a benefit to my trade that I have never experienced. This giving back is good for my soul.
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There are surely many others of you out there in the parish doing this type of good work. If we missed you, know that your work matters and we are grateful! And for those who might like to be a part of this work, contact any of these parishioners for additional information about the groups they are helping.
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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
After a few days "off" following Easter, we are back and rolling. I put "off" in quotes because I am not sure any of us at the moment are ever completely off.
Our prayers for friends, family and for the suffering seem to be as constant as our personal longings for physical community. Sure virtual connection helps, but it's not the same. A current truth is that we are all both caregivers, and in need of care. We are all navigators traveling through uncharted waters. At some point this is overwhelming for us all.
This morning as I was praying, I spent some very intentional time thinking about my own emotions in regards to world events, COVID, loss of friends, tales of heroic ministry, recovery, parenting, and how to be a loving spouse. I noticed during this intentional time, simply doing a thorough self-examination felt a bit like being in a whirlpool. It was in the midst of this whirlpool that a prayer popped into my mind. The Serenity Prayer. "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change. The courage to change the things I can. And the wisdom to know the difference." I encourage you all to spend some time with this prayer. Marvel at its simplicity and take heart in its depth.
In the midst of overwhelming emotions, the simplest of prayers can often prove to be the most powerful. Recovery communities have known this to be true for years. On this note, as we seek to navigate the weeks ahead, I want to close with the words from one of the most theologically sound songs in the Christian tradition: “Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so.” My friends, you are loved. Loved by St. Martin’s, loved by me, and, most importantly, loved by our Lord.
In Christ,
Mitch+
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By St Martin's parishioner John Hart,
who has been writing more
during this pandemic time.
The Corona has me down.
I’m feeling like a slug.
Quarantine is not for me.
I think I want a hug.
No more breakfast at a diner,
Not even coffee in a mug.
How do you survive the mornings?
I wish I had a hug.
No more drinks at a brewery,
Not even cold beer to chug,
Or live bands and good friends.
I’ve got to have a hug.
Not even park walks with a pug,
Or romantic meals out with my wife.
Someone give me a hug.
No more playing with my grandkids,
Not even soccer or jitterbug.
This must end soon, I want a haircut.
Dear God, I need a hug!
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Have you heard?
We all just may be getting those hugs John Hart is wishing for in his poem to the left.
Facebook is due to add a hug response on the "Like bar" this week.
Read more about it by clicking
HERE
.
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The Rev. Susan Prinz has organized
pastoral caregivers who are able to shop for those who cannot get out.
- If you are someone in need of a grocery or pharmacy run, email susan.prinz@smifsc.com and she will coordinate your list with a shopper.
- If you are older and able to get out, however, please take note of local groceries that are offering specific hours for older shoppers. Click HERE for a complete list.
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A dedicated extension,
(Ext. 201), has been established for
pastoral care calls for the parish. Should you have a need requiring clergy, please follow the instructions you will receive when you call the parish office, 803.787.0392.
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While scrolling Instagram at the end of the day, be sure to follow
@smifsc for
Compline from Home postings, Monday through Friday, featuring different parishioner's art work. We hope these are soothing posts to help you rest.
This week's artist is Debbie King.
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For parents in need of some support, consider
Triple P parenting tips. If you need to purchase the larger package -- some of the Triple P info is fee-based -- but cannot afford it currently, contact
Courtney Baker, our minister of children and youth.
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Families can also view a museum together through the Columbia Museum of Art's
Museum from Home initiative.
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For our
middle-schoolers:
Courtney hopes you will join her for a
Middle School Zoom Lunch
on Thursday at 12:30 p.m. Fix your sandwich and Zoom into the gathering. (
Sr. High Zoom Breakfast
returns at 8:15 a.m. on Friday.)
Click
HERE
to join either group at the time listed above.
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Wednesday is Earth Day. Cick below for activities to do as families, students or individuals:
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Thank you in advance for keeping your pledge current during this time of uncertainty. You may pay your pledge in these ways:
- Use this link to keep your pledge up-to-date by going online. You will need your bank routing number, which is the first set of numbers printed on the bottom of your checks, on the left side. You will also need your account number, which is the next set of numbers beside the routing number at the bottom of your check. This online link is safe and secure.
- You may also mail your checks to the Parish Office at 5220 Clemson Ave., Columbia, SC 29206.
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5220 Clemson Avenue
Columbia, SC 29206
803.787.0392 | www.stmartinsinthefields.com
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