From the Rector's Desk
The Rev. Ledlie I. Laughlin
Rector, St. Columba's Episcopal Church, Washington, DC
May 12, 2020

Dear Ones,
I want to say how grateful I am for you, and how inspired I am by the way you serve others through the generosity of your time, talent and resources. Most of you who could, have continued to give generously despite the doors to our buildings being closed. Some went beyond that, recognizing the possible shortfall, you paid your pledge in full or gave above and beyond your pledges. A great many of you have also been reaching out with open hearts, connecting with fellow parishioners, and checking in to make sure others are safe and well. I’m in awe of what you’ve done. Thank you.

As the crisis continues, St. Columba’s clergy and staff met, prayed, and identified several things we can do for one another ~

Pray 
All affected by the COVID-19 crisis are in our Sunday and daily prayers. Please let me know how you would like me to pray for you. Please pray for one another.
  • If you would like someone’s name added to the prayer list, contact Pastoral Assistant, Susan Laing

Seek Assistance
If you need help – financial or otherwise – please click here to let us know. We are eager to help you. Here are three agencies who stand ready to help, as well:

Provide Assistance
  • Contribute to the clergy Discretionary Fund. Clergy can provide direct confidential assistance to members in need.
  • Contribute to St. Columba’s Outreach Fund. Funds will be used to support partner organizations providing direct assistance for coronavirus needs now and other outreach ministry needs in the future. As we are entering the 8th week of this new COVID world, we are aware of the desire and need for St. Columba's to act in helping the most vulnerable in our community. To identify the most effective approach to supporting our vulnerable neighbors' needs, our new Missioner for Community Engagement, Cami Caudill, and Joshua Daniel have convened a "task force" that will reach out to and partner with community leaders to determine where we can have the biggest impact. We ask for your prayers as we work quickly and efficiently to discern the community's biggest needs, and look forward to updating you on St. Columba's Corona Response in the upcoming weeks.

Click here to contribute to these funds.

Gather for scripture, prayer, fellowship, and mutual support

Trusting in the abundance of God, let us take care of one another. “Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to God from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever.” EPHESIANS 3:20, 21

Peace,
The Rev. Ledlie I. Laughlin, Rector