Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,   

This weekend we will hear the gospel story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead.  It is a story in which there is a crisis, Lazarus is gravely ill. There are some very human responses to the crisis. And then there is Jesus, who proclaims himself as the resurrection and the life. What we experience in this good news is that Jesus is the love that brings new life from death. His love and compassion are present and real, not only long ago, but right now. 

We are blessed to be able to ponder this story of the raising of Lazarus at this moment in history. There is so much that has been lost in these days of sickness and uncertainty. Understandably, we have a range of emotions and reactions as we try to keep up with what is happening and take care of ourselves, our loved ones and our church. Even in these early days of the crisis, new life is emerging from the losses. Look for it.

As a church we are trying to reach out to each other and make sure that each member and friend knows that they are a part of the Body of Christ. Please remember that you matter here, even as we are physically apart. Take best care of yourself and know that God is very present. 

what you will need to do.  

Go ahead and  Click this link to join the meeting.   It  will get you set up to use Zoom if you need to download the application. 

Alternatively, you can go to the Zoom website, and use this information to download the app and login to our coffee hour. 

Meeting ID: 773 582 845
Password: 090318

Here is a great video to get you started and feeling more comfortable.  Joining a Zoom Call for the first time.

Then on Sunday at 11 a.m., use the link above that says "click this link to join the meeting." See you on Sunday!  Jennifer+

The Collect for the fifth week of Lent:

Your giving supports our common life as a church and the ministry we offer to our members and the wider community.  

Though we do not have an offering plate handy,  there are several easy ways to give.

• You may go to our web page and Give Online. 
• You can mail in pledge payments or financial gifts to St. Mary's Church, 324 E. Main Rd., Portsmouth, RI 02871.
• You can set up online bill pay through your bank.

We are sensitive to the realities of the economy and personal finances of our members during this time. If for any reason you are not able to maintain your pledge, please contact the rector. This will enable us to adjust our income projections so that we can be good stewards of our resources. 

If you find yourself in financial need, please contact the rector. St. Mary's has a discretionary fund, which is used by the rector to offer support for the needs of our members. Members contribute to this fund anonymously, and members may receive support confidentially. 

We will all get through this challenging time, and God will provide. Please continue to give thanks for all God has entrusted to you and to our church.