The Weekly Epistle - Sunday, April 30

Sunday, April 30, 2023

Sunday

9 am Holy Eucharist

11 am Holy Eucharist

(live-streamed)

6 pm Holy Eucharist

(in the Chantry)

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.

Catch up on audio podcasts of past sermons on our Soundcloud Channel .

Please see below for weekday worship opportunities, both in-person and virtual.

Dear Friends,

Living as we do in a cosmopolitan city like New York, it is impossible to put on blinders and pretend that we are the only game (or faith) in town. On Easter night, after all the services at Grace Church were done, I was out for a walk with my son, Luke. As we headed through Union Square we heard a “hell, fire, and brimstone” preacher regaling the multitudes over a loudspeaker. No one seemed to be paying attention, and we, likewise, passed by on the other side. An hour later on our return loop we walked through the park again, and he was still at it. I quipped that I didn’t think he’d make a good guest preacher at Grace Church.

In the meantime, I had been approached twice by Orthodox Jewish men who asked, “Excuse me, are you Jewish?” It’s a frequent occurrence, especially during the Jewish high holy days. I’ve been asked the question even with my black clergy shirt and white clerical collar in full view. My confession is that I have never found a satisfactory response. I’ve tried everything from no reply at all, to “no, thank you,” to “no, but it looks like you are.” It was in Washington Square Park when I responded with the latter, and the young man replied, “was my hat the giveaway?” We both laughed.

Another time I responded, “no, but thank you for giving us Jesus.” The man mumbled something and moved on, clearly not wanting to engage on that level. The fact is, the Jews gave us Jesus. When I teach 5th Grade Bible over at Grace Church School, the students are usually surprised – even shocked – to learn that Jesus was not a Christian. Jesus was a practicing Jewish man of the first century. He viewed the world and he taught the multitudes through a particular Jewish lens. It is to our spiritual poverty and shame that we pass by, or overlook the rich Jewishness of the New Testament.

At the Sunday Forum this week, the Rev. Julia Offinger will begin a two-part series on the relationship between Christianity and Judaism. She will help us understand the Jewish roots of Christianity in the first century, and how Christians and Jews might relate to each other in the 21st century. I have always found that studying another faith or language gives me a better understanding of my own. Join us in the reception room at 10 am.

Also, you still have time to sign up as a blood donor anytime on Sunday. Last but not least, don’t forget the Annual Choir Concert tonight at 7 pm in the church, followed by a reception. Read below for more details.

See you in church,

Sunday

9:00 am Holy Eucharist

Preaching:

The Rev. J. Donald Waring

Music:

Dr. Patrick Allen, organ

View or Print the 11am Service Bulletin

11:00 am Holy Eucharist

Preaching:

The Rev. J. Donald Waring

Music:

The Choir of Men and Boys

Dr. Patrick Allen, organ

Service is video-streamed every week. Access via any of our live channels.

Grace Church website

YouTubeLive, Vimeo, FacebookLive

6:00 pm Holy Eucharist

In the Chantry

Preaching:

The Rev. Megan E. Sanders

Music:

Hymns with Instrumentalists

Community Blood Drive – NY Blood Center is partnering with Grace Church for a community blood drive Sunday, April 30, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Can I donate? Questions or concerns regarding eligibility should be directed to the NYBC Eligibility office: 800-688-0900 Mon through Fri. 9:am to 5:00 pm. Those who are ineligible or those who prefer not to donate can still help by spreading the word to recruit donors! Sign up online, or or use your phone to scan the QR code shown on the posters. Registrants also have a chance to enter a Best Buy gift card sweepstakes. For more info: NYBC.org/sweepstakes. Sponsored by the Grace Church Women.

Coffee and Fellowship – After-service fellowship and refreshments will take place today in the reception room due to the blood drive in Tuttle Hall.

The Sunday Forum – Christian-Jewish Relations – At the Sunday Forum today the Rev. Julia Offinger will begin a two-part series on the relationship between Judaism and Christianity. The focus today will be on the Jewish roots of the Christian faith. Join us in the reception room at 10 am for conversation, coffee, and breakfast treats.

Nursery Care Returns! Nursery Care is now available again from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm (during and between both morning services). The room is located in the Sunday School wing just off Tuttle Hall, and is professionally staffed according to Safe Church guidelines. Parents are welcome to bring their children up to age 4. For more information, contact the Rev. Julia Offinger.

Sunday 6 pm Eucharist in the Chantry – The weekly 6 pm Sunday Eucharist is another way to experience the fullness of worship at Grace Church. The intimate service takes place in the cozy setting of the Chantry and features live instrumental music led by Dr. Patrick Allen, Organist and Master of Choristers. In addition to schedule flexibility, the evening hour provides an opportunity to end the weekend on a spiritual note and transition to the busy week ahead with an extra dose of faith. Newcomers and long-time members alike are welcome to join us.

Canterbury Downtown Campus Ministry for College Students – Canterbury Downtown is an open and inclusive Episcopal campus ministry for students of Manhattan colleges. Students of all religious and cultural backgrounds are invited to share in a faith-based community, connect with one another, and grow together in Christ. During the academic year, students gather for worship, conversation, and a complimentary meal with Canterbury Downtown Chaplain, The Rev. Megan E. Sanders, following the Sunday 6 pm service at Grace Church. All college students welcome.

Coming Soon

Confirmation for Youth and Adults – Sign up to join Spring confirmation classes culminating with the Rt. Rev. Allen Shin's visit to Grace on Sunday, June 4 at 11am. For youth in 7th grades and up, we’ll meet on six Sundays at 5pm this Spring, with a couple service projects and worship opportunities thrown in. For adults, we’ll set up a series of 3 classes based on interest and availability. Sign up ASAP by emailing the Rev. Julia Offinger.

May 3 – Coronation and the Anglican Tradition – As the world prepares for the upcoming coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, join us for an evening looking back at the historic 1953 coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. We will view excerpts from the 1953 Technicolor film of the ceremony and the Rev. Julia Offinger will lead a discussion about the significance of various aspects of this splendid and sacred part of Anglican religious life. Wednesday, May 3rd following the 6:00 service (beginning around 6:45pm) in the Reception Room. Refreshments and a light supper will be served. Admission is free but be sure you reserve your spot by clicking here.

May 4 - 20s and 30s Pub Theology – For Pub Theology this Spring we'll be reading The Nail by Stephen Cottrell. This short book offers imaginative reflections on the Passion Narrative with each of the seven chapters focused on a different key character who describes his or her experience of the story. Join us at The Penny Farthing (103 Third Ave., New York, NY 10003) on Thursday, May 4th from 6-7:30 pm to discuss chapters 3-5 (Pontius Pilate, Caiaphas, and Judas) - about 20 pages all together. If you’re interested in attending, email the Rev. James Morton and he will add you to our list.

May 20 – Volunteer Day at The Red Door Place – Help us prepare a meal for our neighbors at The Red Door Place at The Church of the Village, our food ministry partner. There are two available shifts, 8:30 to 11:45 am and 11:30 to 3:30 pm. Email the Rev. James Morton if you plan on attending.

May 20 – The Rev. Matthew Hyde, Bishop-elect of the Diocese of New York, will be consecrated at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, 11 am with reception following the grand service. Everyone is welcome to attend. For more information, visit the diocesan website.

Every Sunday

9 am, 11 am Worship Services in the Church and 6 pm in the Chantry – The 11 am service is video streamed every week.

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.

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 and Mother Julia in the chantry for a time of learning and prayer. Children will return during the announcements.

Nursery Care – The nursery (next to the Sunday School classroom, across Tuttle Hall) is open from 8:30 am – 12:30 pm. Adults can sign children ages 0-4 in and out at their convenience. The nursery is staffed by two professional caretakers from The Baby Sitters’ Guild.

Coffee Hour – Coffee and fellowship takes place in Tuttle Hall following the 9 and 11 am services. Delicious baked goods are available thanks to the Guild of Bakers.

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.

Every Week

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.

Zoom Centering Prayer

Meeting ID: 337 800 858

Password: 058288

One tap mobile

+16465588656,,337800858# US (New York)

For questions about Zoom access, email the Rev. Julia Offinger

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.

Wednesday – Women’s Bible Study – 10:30 am on Zoom with The Rev. Julia Offinger. Contact Julia for Zoom instructions.

Wednesday – 6 pm Holy Eucharist in the Chantry

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.

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.

Enter, Rest, Pray (CHURCH IS OPEN) Monday - Saturday from noon – 5 pm.

Outreach

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.

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.

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.

Parish Life

Coffee and Fellowship takes place in Tuttle Hall following the 9 and 11 am services. Delicious baked goods are available thanks to the Guild of Bakers.

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 email Travis Kennedy so he can make you one.

2023 Annual Pledge Campaign: A Mighty Fortress is our God – On October 30th, we launched the 2023 Annual Pledge Campaign. All parishioners and friends of Grace Church are asked to support the work of Grace Church by making an annual pledge, or promise of financial support for God’s work in the coming year. Some will turn in the pledge cards we’ve received by mail or find in the pews. Others will begin a time of prayerful reflection to consider what God is calling them to do. Remember, the annual campaign not only supports the church, but gives 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 online here. (You have all of 2023 to make your payments!) Questions about pledging? Contact Travis Kennedy by email or call him at 212-254-2005.

MAKE YOUR PLEDGE HERE

2023 pledge envelopes have arrived! If you made a 2023 pledge and requested envelopes to guide your giving, please email Travis Kennedy to arrange to pick them up.

20s and 30s at Grace Church – We have a very active group of parishioners in their twenties and thirties here at Grace who meet regularly for Pub Theology and other seasonal events. If you are interested in connecting with us, please email the Rev. James Morton and he will add you to our email list.

The Guild of Bakers – 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.

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.

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.

Restrooms are available on the 1st floor of the parish house, through the north aisle door near the baptismal font.

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 webpage where you will find a direct means of providing feedback.

Open Door

Every day, noon to 5 pm