Hello St. Andrew's Families,

September is upon us, and I don't know about you, but for me, September always feels like the beginning of a New Year, more so than January. The carefree days of summer are winding down, summer vacations are over, and the school year routine is gearing up. For me, the end of summer marks a noticeable shift in our daily rhythm, both personally and at church. However, this September is one for the history books. The change from summer to fall isn't as noticeable because we find ourselves continuing to live in a world of social distancing.  As we have heard over and over, these are unprecedented times. And in unprecedented times, there are opportunities to seek new ways of doing what we have always done. At St. Andrew's, our children's and youth ministries are continually seeking ways for you and your children to stay connected with one another and with St. Andrew's. One such example of doing things in a new way was our Back to School Backpack Blessing. Instead of gathering at HJ's, families received a drive-through blessing. Click here to see the pictures. In September we have a way for parents to connect through a new program called, "Take 15". You will learn more about this program further in the newsletter.

We hope that through these new ways of being church, you will continue to see Christ's presence in each other and the world.

Faithfully,

Jean Long

Minister for Children, Youth & Families