The early days of the pandemic made many of us aware, perhaps for the first time, of how much care we receive through unplanned interactions and conversations. It wasn’t until these were stripped away that many of us realized how crucial unstructured, casual care is for us. One of the bright spots of the pandemic at Saint Paul’s arose partially in response to this sudden gap: a lay pastoral care team under the coordination of parishioner Ellen Nesbitt. Somewhat under the radar, a team was formed and got to work sending cards, making phone calls, and organizing meal trains. Many people—including those with no relation to the organized team—heroically found new ways to reach out to others when a new gap was forced on us. And whatever the new normal becomes, we are going to need to continue to rely on some of the new, innovative habits we have formed.  

All of us Christians are called to care for one another. Some of us feel a special call to a more concentrated pastoral ministry. This ministry need not be limited to the clergy; and at Saint Paul’s, we can’t afford to limit it to the clergy because the clergy would never be able to keep up with the need. And so we are working to expand, offer training to, and further organize the pastoral care team that is already working under Ellen’s leadership. I invite you to do a couple of things. First, consider whether this work might be part of your vocation. The idea of providing pastoral care for someone in crisis may seem daunting, but some of you have these gifts and we have resources to help you develop them. Also, pastoral care is much broader than having the courage to go into a crisis. If you can cook, or send cards, or make friendly phone calls, we want to be able to call on you. If you feel drawn to this ministry, please speak to me or to Ellen. 

And second, I invite you to be open to receiving care from the Church beyond the clergy. Sometimes indeed only the priest will do. But too often when the Church provides care outside of the clergy, we think of it as our friend checking on us (which is great) and not the Church caring for us. At Saint Paul’s, we have half of the paid clergy we used to have. We must give care to and receive care from each other. 

Eric+

The Finance Committee and the Vestry are beginning the work of preparing the 2022 budget. Your pledge allows them to prepare a more accurate budget. If you have not yet completed a pledge card, please prayerfully consider your pledge to a momentous year. Pledge cards are available in the Narthex and by contacting the parish office. You may also pledge online using the link below.

91 Increase (23 new), 6 Decrease, 40 no change

as of 03/09/2022

Offerings pledged this Week $12,981.00

Offerings received this Week $15,026.66

Operating Expenses to Date $173,239.48

Total Income Received to Date $223,109.25

Please contact the Parish Office to update our files.