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This Sunday
9 am Holy Eucharist
in-person worship
11 am Morning Prayer
in-person worship
and live-stream
6 pm Holy Eucharist
in-person worship
(in the Chantry)
on
Clergy:
The Rev. J. Donald Waring
The Rev. Julia Macy Offinger
The Rev. James H.B. Morton III
Dr. Patrick Allen, organ
You’ll find videos of past organ meditations on YouTube.
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Please see below for weekday worship opportunities, both
in-person and virtual.
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Dear Friends,
This coming Sunday is the day we launch the 2023 Annual Campaign at Grace Church. If all has gone according to plan, most of you reading these words should have received in your mail a letter from me and a brochure entitled, “A Mighty Fortress is our God.” The invitation is for all of us to place our trust in God as our help in time of trouble. We do this by pledging (or promising) a financial gift to the church that may prove to be a sacrifice in the year to come. Think not, however, that sacrificial giving is merely for the good of Grace Church. Even more, it is for the good of our souls. What follows are ten reasons why I think sacrificial giving comes back around to bless the giver:
- Sacrificial giving says “thank you” to God for all the blessings of this life.
- Sacrificial giving is a tangible expression of love for God. Imagine trying to maintain a loving relationship without ever showing it. It doesn’t work with people, and it doesn’t work with God.
- Sacrificial giving frees us from guilt. Most of us receive a barrage of solicitations from worthy humanitarian agencies. Because we give to the church does not mean we don’t support other causes too, but we know we are at least doing our part through an organization we trust.
- Sacrificial giving empowers the ministries of the church.
- Sacrificial giving makes us a part of something bigger than ourselves. Yes, we are made members of God’s family through baptism, but annual giving to the church is like a yearly renewal of our baptismal vows.
- Sacrificial giving teaches us to be generous, and generous people are invariably happier people.
- Sacrificial giving puts us in a right relationship with money and possessions. We realize that what we have we only borrow briefly from God. We are stewards, managers of what belongs to God. We are putting God’s resources to work through God’s church.
- Sacrificial giving teaches us to be more disciplined with finances. If we “give till it hurts” right off the top, then we have to be extra mindful of how to apportion what remains.
- Sacrificial giving puts us in a place where faith is possible. It teaches us to depend on God. Strangely, we all want to be God’s faithful people, yet at the same time we spend the best of our energies chasing earthly security, pursuing lives where faith is not needed, or even possible. Jesus wants us to live by faith, not with the illusion of material safety.
- Finally, sacrificial giving teaches us that we cannot out-give God. The more we learn to be generous people, the more we realize how much we have. Conversely, the less we give the less we seem to have and the more anxious we become.
Sacrificial giving is an invigorating spiritual discipline. It is good for the soul, and by it we dwell securely in the mighty fortress that is our God.
See you in church!
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9:00 am Holy Eucharist
Church is open
for in-person worship!
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Clergy:
The Rev. J. Donald Waring, preaching
The Rev. Julia Macy Offinger
The Rev. James H.B. Morton III
Music:
Dr. Patrick Allen, organ
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11:00 am Morning Prayer
Church is open
for in-person worship!
Clergy:
The Rev. J. Donald Waring, preaching
The Rev. Julia Macy Offinger
The Rev. James H.B. Morton III
Music:
The Girls’ Choir, HS Singers and Adults
Dr. Patrick Allen, organ
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Service is video-streamed every week. Access via any of our live channels.
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6:00 pm Holy Eucharist
In the Chantry
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Clergy:
The Rev. J. Donald Waring, preaching
The Rev. James H.B. Morton III
The Rev. Megan E. Sanders
Music:
Hymns with Instrumentalists
vice Bulletin
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2023 Annual Pledge Campaign: A Mighty Fortress is our God – Today we launch the 2023 Annual Pledge Campaign at all three services. All parishioners and friends of Grace Church are asked to support the work of Grace Church by making an annual pledge. Today, we will begin turning in the pledge cards we’ve received by mail or find in the pews. In this way we not only support the church, but give thanks to God for all the blessings of life. To make your pledge, please fill out the pledge envelope, place it in the offering plate today, or return it to the parish office as soon as you can. You may also make your pledge here. (You have all of 2023 to make your payments!) Questions about pledging? You may email Travis Kennedy or call him at 212-254-2005.
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The Sunday Forum at 10 am – The Episcopal Church and Abortion – With the Supreme Court’s recent overturning of Roe v. Wade the topic of abortion has been much in the news. What has the Episcopal Church said officially about abortion and the many issues surrounding it? The Rev. Julia Offinger will review the relevant resolutions from General Conventions, and lead us in theological reflection. 10 am in the Reception Room.
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Refreshments and Fellowship – After 9 and 11 am services in Tuttle Hall and the lovely outdoor courtyard called Seymour Close. Join us for coffee or something cool to drink, as well as homemade goodies compliments of the Guild of Bakers.
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Wear your nametags! Nametags can be found on the boards in Tuttle Hall. Newcomers are encouraged to visit our new welcome table during coffee hour to create their own nametags. If you are a pledging member and do not see your nametag on the boards in Tuttle Hall, please send Travis Kennedy an email so, he can make you one.
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Sunday 6 pm Eucharist – The weekly 6 pm Sunday Eucharist in the Chantry is a great option for those who may have other morning commitments (such as sleeping late) or are returning to the city after being away for the weekend. Join us for hymns with instrumentalists and sermon. An important component of the Sunday 6 pm service is Canterbury Downtown, the college fellowship that meets for dinner and discussion after the service. All college students welcome.
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Oct 19, 26, & Nov 9 – New Book Discussion - Join us for a discussion of Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s book “The Sabbath,” a brief yet profound exploration of the meaning of the Seventh Day. We will meet on three Wednesdays - October 19 and 26, and November 9 - at 6:45pm in the Reception Room, covering the Introduction, Prologue and Part One on October 19; Part Two on October 26, and Part Three on November 9. The book is available at local bookstores, including Barnes and Noble, and on Amazon. Led by parishioner Jennifer San Cartier and the Revs. Harry Krauss and Don Waring.
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Nov 2 - Church Club of New York Event – Grace Church will be hosting the Church Club’s annual Bishop's Forum on Wednesday, Nov 2. We look forward to Eucharist 6 pm in the church, an address by the Rt. Rev. Andrew M.L. Dietsche, Bishop of New York, followed by a reception and the announcement of the Young Adult Service award. All members and friends of Grace Church are invited to attend the event as guests of the Church Club by registering here. |
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Nov 6 - All Saints’ Sunday - During the services we’ll light candles and remember all those connected with Grace Church who have died but still remain on the hearts and minds of their loved ones. To include a name on this year’s list, please email Mickey Hawley, Parish Office Coordinator, by Tuesday, Nov 1.
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Nov 6 – Fauré’s Requiem will be offered by the Adult Choir as part of Choral Evensong on Sunday Nov 6 at 4 pm in the Church.
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Nov 6 – Post-Halloween Candy Drive - On Sunday, November 6 we will collect individually wrapped candy for the Seamen’s Church Institute (SCI) Christmas at Sea project, which distributes gift bags to seafarers working in maritime commerce far from home at the holidays. Here is an opportunity to clear your home of excess Halloween candy, as well as to take advantage of half-price sales after the holiday! Please leave it in the baskets marked “candy” near the door of the church or chantry.
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Nov 8 – Christmas Pageant Sign-ups and Interviews! All children and youth aged 5 and older are invited to participate in the annual pageant, held on Christmas Eve at 4 pm. All participants must submit an online cast information sheet by Monday, Nov 7. Those interested in singing a solo, duet, or trio must also sign up for an interview (Tues, Nov 8 from 1-5 pm in the Music Room). Visit this webpage for links to the full pageant schedule, the cast info sheet and the interview sign-ups.
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Nov 12 & 13 - Grace Christmas Fair – Saturday, Nov 12 from 11 am - 7pm. Sunday, Nov 13 from 10 am - 4 pm. Art / Crafts / Silent Auction / Refreshments at Catharine's Cafe! Wine & Cheese Reception - Saturday from 5 - 7 pm. Bring your Christmas gift list! Contact Elana for more information, and Lethe if you would like to volunteer!
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Nov 19 – Volunteer Day at The Red Door Place – Help us prepare a Thanksgiving meal for our neighbors at The Red Door Place at The Church of the Village, our food ministry partner. There are two available shifts, 8 to 11:30 am and 11 to 2:30 pm. Email the Rev. James Morton if you plan on attending.
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Nov 20 – Grace Church School Sunday – It's always a special day when the church and school celebrate our common history and mission, but this year even more so. The Rt. Rev. Andrew Dietsche, Bishop of New York will preach at 11 am, and the school trustees will install the Rev. Robbie Pennoyer as Head of Grace Church School. Everyone is invited. More details to come.
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9 am Worship Service – The Church is open for in-person worship.
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The Sunday Forum – Our weekly discussion forum for adults that examines theological, political, and social topics of Christian concern meets most Sundays in the Reception Room from 10:00-10:45 am.
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11 am Worship Service - The Church is open for in-person worship. Services continue to be video-streamed every week.
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Children’s Chapel - During the 11 am service. Children ages 4-12 are invited to start church with their parents in the pews and then join Father James or Mother Julia in the chantry for a time of learning and prayer.
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Nursery Care – The nursery is open from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm in the room next to the Sunday School classroom, across Tuttle Hall. Adult supervision is required.
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Coffee Hour - Coffee and fellowship will be available today in Tuttle Hall following the 9 am service. Join us for a festive fellowship hour in Huntington Close (weather permitting) after the 11 am service.
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Activity Corner for Children – In the north aisle of the church you will find coloring supplies, and books for children to use during the service. Please return all materials before you leave, and help us keep the area clean for future families.
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6 pm Worship Service and Holy Eucharist in the Chantry |
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Monday - Centering Prayer (over Zoom) – 12:15-12:45 pm Christian silent prayer that prepares us to receive the gift of God’s presence. Led by Currie Estreich, MA, Spiritual Direction, the General Theological Seminary. For Zoom access, please see The Weekly Epistle or email The Rev. Julia Macy Offinger.
Meeting ID: 337 800 858
Password: 058288
One tap mobile
+16465588656,,337800858# US (New York)
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Tuesday-Friday – Bach at Noon (Held in the church during open hours and on the Organ Meditation YouTube Channel) – 12:20 pm - 30 minutes of music by J.S. Bach, played on the Bicentennial Organ.
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Wednesday – Women’s Bible Study – 10:30 am on Zoom with The Rev. Julia Offinger. Contact Julia for Zoom instructions.
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Wednesday – 6 pm Holy Eucharist in the Chantry |
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Saturday – Weekend Organ Meditation – (Held in the church during open hours and on the Organ Meditation YouTube Channel) – 4:00 pm - 45 minutes of diverse music played on the Bicentennial Organ.
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Sunday – Hymns from Grace (Held in the church during open hours and on the Organ Meditation YouTube Channel) – 4:00 pm - 45-minutes of favorite hymns, anthems, and voluntaries played on the Bicentennial Organ.
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Enter, Rest, Pray (CHURCH IS OPEN) Monday - Saturday from noon – 5 pm.
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October is Tuna Month! – Canned tuna is a staple that food pantries always need. Help us make a special push to ensure The Red Door Place is well stocked this October. More information about this ministry can be found below.
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Food Donations for The Red Door Place – Our food ministry partner, The Red Door Place at The Church of the Village, is a vital pantry/soup kitchen serving those in need supporting the social safety net in our neighborhood. Donations are desperately needed. Non-perishable food item(s) may be dropped off in the collection baskets in the narthex when you visit Grace Church during open hours. Clothing donations are not needed for this ministry. We also have an upcoming volunteer day at The Red Door Place planned for Nov 19. Email The Rev. James Morton if you plan on attending.
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Fresh Direct (or Other Reusable Bags) Needed – The Red Door Place is also seeking donations of Fresh Direct or other reusable bags to support its ministries. If you’d like to donate bags, you can place these in the collection baskets in the narthex with the food items.
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Help Ukrainian Families – Episcopal Relief & Development is working to provide humanitarian assistance to the more than 2 million people who have had to leave Ukraine. Specifically, their partner ACT Alliance is helping families on the Hungarian border, and their Anglican partners are mobilizing both an immediate and long-term response in Poland, Romania and Hungary. Your emergency gift will provide cash, blankets, hygiene supplies and other needs as this crisis unfolds. To make your donation today, click here.
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20s and 30s at Grace Church – We have a very active group of parishioners in their twenties and thirties here at Grace Church who meet twice a month for programs such as Pub Theology and Christ in Pop Culture. If you are interested in participating, please email The Rev. James Morton and he will add you to our mailing list.
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The Guild of Bakers – The summer has depleted our stockpile of coffee hour goodies! If you enjoy baking (or buying) cookies, brownies, muffins, or other freezable bite-sized treats, please consider joining a revitalized ministry called the Guild of Bakers. You can participate on your own timetable, whenever the Spirit moves you. The next time you are baking (or buying) goodies that would be popular at coffee hour, all you have to do is make an extra batch. Just wrap it well and drop it off at the parish office any time during business hours, or on Sundays after church. We have plenty of freezer space to store your culinary creations for a future coffee hour. Please sign up for the “Guild of Bakers” by sending an email to Mickey Hawley, Parish Office Coordinator. |
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Baptism at Grace Church – There sacrament of baptism takes place during a weekly, public worship service about once a month. If you are interested in baptism for yourself or a child, please first be in touch with The Rev. Julia Offinger to discuss next steps. Attendance at one class prior to your chosen baptism date is required. Upcoming classes: Sunday, October 16 at 4 pm; Friday, November 4 at 5 pm; Saturday, December 10 at 11:00 am. Upcoming baptism dates: Sunday, October 23 at 9:00 am; Sunday, November 6 at 11:00 am, Sunday, January 8, 2023 at 11:00 am.
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Grace Cares – Would you like a visit at home or at the hospital? Do you need assistance in getting to church or an appointment? Are you struggling and in need of a friendly phone call? Would you like the Sunday lessons read to you or the service bulletin brought to you? Would you like to receive communion in your home? Grace has a pastoral care team that provides these services and more. Contact The Rev. Julia Offinger.
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Restrooms are available on the 1st floor of the parish house, through the north aisle door near the baptismal font.
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Safe Church – Grace Church is committed to providing its members, staff, and visitors with a place that is free of abuse and harassment. If you have observed, or personally experienced sexual, or other forms of harassment while attending activities, classes, or events held at Grace Church, or on our shared campus with Grace Church School, we encourage you to notify us. Please visit this page where you will find a direct means of providing feedback.
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Mask and Vaccine Optional – In order to bring Grace Church more in line with comparable NYC establishments, vaccines, though still strongly encouraged, are no longer required for you to be in the building. Likewise, masks are optional. For those feeling unwell, please join us via the livestream.
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The Church is Open
Every day, noon to 5 pm
Vaccinations are required to enter Grace Church. If you are vaccinated, masks are optional. All visitors are required to observe posted guidelines during in-person worship and events, and to adhere to CDC Covid-19 safety protocols.
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Please Get Fully Vaccinated |
Vaccines against Covid-19 are now available for anyone 12 years of age and older who wants to be inoculated. Receiving the vaccine protects not only you, but those you love and everyone around you. It is the best way to help speed along the reopening of society. Please speak with your doctor or go to the NYC Vaccine Finder to make an appointment.
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In Our Immediate Prayers:
Rebecca Ross
Jade Ostner
Gordon Matheson
Susan Yaccarino
Suella Slibeck
Ann Meredith
Paul La Farge
Gardner Rankin
In Our Continuing Prayers:
Claire Wesselman
Teresa Conway
Ronnye Brickous
Claudia Paoloni
Tom Hall
The Episcopal Church in Haiti
For Those Who Have Died:
Catherine Loftus
Robert James Kemp
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Send your photos of milestone events for possible publication in the Weekly Epistle to Travis B. Kennedy, Membership and Development Manager.
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Your engagement on our social media helps Grace Church!
Please Subscribe, Follow, Like and Share
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GRACE CHURCH IN NEW YORK
212-254-2000
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