TODAY'S VIDEO MESSAGE

FROM FR. ANDREW

St. Gregory's is ALIVE!

In today's video message, Father Andrew shares the exciting growth and vibrancy St. Gregory's is experiencing! The Light of Christ is glowing at St. Gregory's as we focus on further growth. Let's Grow!

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

The Brothers of St. Gregory's

This Sunday following the 8 am and 10 am services, we celebrate the first Brothers Breakfast of the new year, and the first time we will gather for breakfast since the beginning of the Sanctuary renovation. We want to express our deepest gratitude to Philip Hall and all of The Brothers of St. Gregory’s for their tireless dedication and the many ways they give back to our community. They are best known for consistently creating the "Best Breakfast in Boca" but their contributions run far deeper. 

Beyond the breakfasts, The Brothers' commitment to our parish is profound. They have created an environment for sharing, social interaction, prayer, and service. Their efforts in organizing events, supporting the youth group, and contributing to the church's vibrancy have been invaluable. The sense of fellowship and inclusiveness they foster is a testament to their hard work and dedication.

As we enjoy the delightful breakfast and fellowship this Sunday, we invite the men of our congregation to consider joining this impactful group. The Brothers of St. Gregory's isn't just about their outstanding culinary skills; it's a commitment to serving our community, building connections, and embodying unity and service. The Brothers truly are Making a Difference at St. Gregory's. We encourage those who may be interested to reach out to Philip Hall at hall.philip@gmail.com or call 781-632-9471 to learn more about this important ministry. 

PRESIDING BISHOP MOVED FROM ICU TO A REGULAR HOSPITAL ROOM

Please Hold Bishop Michael Curry, his Family, and his Medical Team in Your Prayers

The Presiding Bishop moved from

ICU to regular hospital room, continues recovery.

Episcopalians are asked to hold Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, his family and his medical team in their prayers as he continues to recover from a Jan. 6 surgery to treat a reoccurrence of the subdural hematoma he experienced early last month. Click here to read the full article.

NEW PODCAST:

REFLECTIONS WITH BISHOP PETER EATON

The Episcopal Church in Southeast Florida is excited to announce that we have launched a brand new podcast called Reflections with Bishop Peter Eaton. The podcast is available to listen on your favorite podcast apps: Apple, Spotify, and RSS. Click here to read the full article.

AN UPDATE FROM

FR. ANDREW AND THE VESTRY

On the 2023/24 Stewardship Campaign

Thank you to those members who have made their financial commitment to St. Gregory's. If you have not yet made your financial commitment, please visit our online pledge page at stgregorysepiscopal.org/pledge or contact the church office at office@st-gregorys.com to make your commitment. We invite your prayers for our stewardship campaign.

With Gratitude,

Father Andrew, Bill Lintz, Stewardship Chair, and the Vestry Team.

Here are some statistics about our Stewardship Campaign

We have approximately 400 families who are members.

As of January 11, 2024, St. Gregory's has received 164 pledges totaling $984,937 toward our goal of $1,100,000.

THE REALITY OF BEING

“We live in two worlds. The reaction of our functions to impressions is our contact with the world below. Our perception of the fine energy in us represents the contact with the world above. We are also inhabited by two simultaneous but opposite movements - one toward the outside, the other toward the inside. In our organism, certain cells multiply in order to create and maintain the body. Others, germinating, contract and concentrate, saving energy for later creation. In manifesting in life we believe that we are creating, but real creation takes place through drawing in, through absorption. The role of Presence is in connecting these two worlds.”

- Jeanne de Salzmann

This Week, our group work continued within 

The Reality of Being.

A Blessed Epiphany to all.

In the main Christian liturgical traditions, we celebrate The Feast of the Epiphany - a threshold we crossed just a few days ago. And yesterday, we celebrated The Baptism of our Lord at the ocean at sunrise.

Epiphany means revelation, showing, apocalypse - which are visions to uncover, lay bare, and reveal. So here we are in the season of revelation.

“[…] real creation takes place through drawing in through absorption. The role of Presence is in connecting these two worlds.

As we’ve worked with the image of the cross for several years now, the vertical axis acts as the download of the Holy, which intersects with the horizontal axis of our lives. Jesus lived and lives between both, bridging the gap we often think is there but isn't.

“The role of Presence is in connecting these two worlds.”

This week, we began with the chapter, A Pure Energy, (sections 106-109), pp. 225-231. The opening meditation and aim focused on how we can only know God through sensation - the purgative sensation of fire that burns but does not consume. The feeling tone of this sensation is crucial to grasp if you want to see. Hence, absorption.

In chemistry, absorption is actually known as a shock. An apocalypse, if you will. A revelation. To take something in. It has a prophetic tone to it because it hits you before you intellectually know what it is. This tone is a good sign that sensation is close and that we are staying in front of things. Absorption penetrates the entire volume of your being.

Just as there is absorption, however, there is also adsorption. The chemical process which just clings to the outside of things, giving up its excess energy. We tend to live on this side of things in our lives. The surface instead of the root.

Let us think of these scientific phenomena within the context of attention and intention and within the context of polarities in general. Attention and intention are not separated out. Just as ecstasy and instancy aren’t. The root works with the surface. The surface can work with the root, if we stand with vigilance in between.

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.”

Our seat - in between - is a paradox.

In order for a purer attention to arise, our attention must be stretched. In order to show up in Presence we must witness our tendencies against the wish to be. We must spot the feeling of lack. Stand in between. And know that watchfulness is our aim between the worlds.

See you next Wednesday.

This will be an ongoing group meeting on Zoom every Wednesday morning at 10:00 am - 11:30 am ET.

Zoom link here. Your desire is your compass.

Meeting ID: 854 5001 9587

Passcode: 1+1=3

Bless you,

Benjamin+

NEW CLASS STARTS SOON!

The Cloud of Unknowing with Fr. Ben

Wednesdays at 6:00 PM Beginning January 31

Join Fr. Ben for another fascinating exploration beginning Wednesday, January 31st at 6:00 PM on Zoom. The book being used for this series is The Cloud of Unknowing: With the Book of Privy Counsel.

About the book:

This anonymous fourteenth-century text is the glory of English mysticism and one of the most practical and useful guides to finding union with God ever written. Carmen Acevedo Butcher’s new translation is the first to bring the text into a modern English idiom—while remaining strictly faithful to the meaning of the original Middle English.

The Cloud of Unknowing consists of a series of letters written by a monk to his student or disciple, instructing him (or her) in the way of Divine union. Its theology is presented in a way that is remarkably easy to understand, as well as practical, providing advice on prayer and contemplation that anyone can use. Previous translations of the Cloud have tended to veil its intimate, even friendly tone under medieval-sounding language. Carmen Butcher has boldly brought the text into language as appealing to modern ears as it was to its original readers more than five hundred years ago.

Also included in the volume is the companion work attributed to the same anonymous author, The Book of Privy Counsel, which contains further advice for approaching God in a way that emphasizes real experience rather than human knowledge. Please email Fr. Ben for more information and to register.

A MESSAGE FROM TIM

Music Ministry

This Sunday at the 10 a.m. service, the anthems and final hymn will be sung in honor and in memory of slain civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who is remembered nationally this weekend. “MLK” was composed by Bono as a lullaby to honor Dr. King and earned him the highest honor of the King Center, founded by Coretta Scott King. “If I Can Help Somebody” was one of Dr. King’s favorite hymns and was personified by the life he led. “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often referred to as the Black National Anthem, is a hymn written and composed by two brothers, James Weldon and J. Rosamond Johnson, for the 91st anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln’s birthday in 1900. The hymn has become part of the fabric of the nation and has been performed by everyone from Alicia Keyes to The Mormon Tabernacle Choir. The Episcopal Church supplemental hymnal Lift Every Voice II is so named after this great hymn.    

This past Sunday, we sang another hymn from LEVAS II, Baptized in Water, and I commend everyone for singing this new hymn so well and so beautifully!  Which leads me to this:  Your singing has always been beautiful, but now, it seems like you’re singing more energetically and with more confidence!  From my perch in the loft, you, as a congregation, are sounding magnificent!  Your voices are truly ascending to the heavens as you fill up our newly renovated sanctuary with your joyful noise!

Our first Choral Evensong will be held on January 28 at 6 p.m. and I can’t wait!  It’s going to be beautiful.  If you’ve never experienced Evensong, plan now to attend this ancient service steeped in tradition and beauty.  It’s truly one of the most beautiful services in our Anglican liturgical tradition. 

I’ll see you in church!

Blessings to all,

Tim

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO CAME OUT TO LAST SUNDAY'S SUNRISE BEACH EUCHARIST AND CLEANUP

It was a glorious service followed

by a fun and productive clean-up.

Many thanks to all who participated. We nabbed plenty of trash during the cleanup and plan to do this again in the future!

A CASE FOR LOVE DOCUMENTARY

Watch this Important Film on January 23rd

Join Father Andrew, Anita, and the

St. Gregory's Group at the 7 PM Showing!

"A Case For Love" - A different kind of film, a different kind of story. A journey of exploration in troubling times. This is the first in a series of projects aimed at changing the national narrative of division.

“A Case for Love” is inspired by the teachings and writings of Bishop Michael Curry, most well-known for his passionate sermon about “The Power of Love” at the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. This documentary examines the question of whether or not love, specifically, unselfish love, is the solution to the extreme societal and political divide facing the world.

In the documentary, the film team travels across the US, interviewing everyday people from various walks of life and ethnicities, striving to live their lives selflessly. These stories are interwoven with hundreds of person-on-the-street interviews while well-known figures including Pete Buttigieg, Al Roker, Sam Waterston, John Meacham, Jim Clyburn and others weigh in on the subject. In the end, Bishop Michael Curry places what we’ve seen into context.

Subjects explored: Racial Justice, Sexual Identity, Military Service, Foster Care, Politics, Sexual Trafficking, Disability, Loss of Loved Ones, Refugees, Volunteering, Food Justice and more.



(Source: https://www.gracebasedfilms.org/a-case-for-love)

FINANCIAL MANAGER/BOOKKEEPER

For St. Gregory's Church Office

St. Gregory's is currently seeking a dedicated Financial Manager/Bookkeeper to join our team. Under the guidance of the Rector and Parish Administrator, this pivotal role offers administrative and financial support, aiding the staff, congregation, and volunteers in our church’s ministries and mission.

Key Details:

• Hours: The position requires 25-30 hours per week, with a flexible schedule to be arranged in collaboration with the Parish Administrator.
• Education: A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business with an emphasis on non-profit accounting is preferred. Alternatively, a combination of relevant education, training, and experience will be considered.
• Experience: Applicants should have a strong understanding of generally accepted accounting principles, practices, and methods, including payroll platforms.
• Skills: Proficiency in Advanced QuickBooks, Microsoft Office, and database management is essential.

Interested candidates are encouraged to reach out to Father Andrew or Kristen Chaney, our Parish Administrator, for further information. Click here for the detailed job description. Join us in our mission at St. Gregory's and contribute to our vibrant community.

NEED A LITTLE EXTRA SPACE OR ASSISTANCE FOR SERVICES?

To ensure our services are accessible and comfortable for everyone, we have now designated spaces specifically for members of our congregation who use mobility devices such as wheelchairs or walkers. These areas are designed to provide extra room, ensuring full participation in our services for everyone. If you require assistance upon arrival, please don't hesitate to ask an usher for help.

BROTHERS BREAKFAST

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14

Following the 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM Services

Join St. Gregory's in Harris Hall for the "Best Breakfast in Boca" on Sunday, January 14th! Breakfast will feature all your favorites lovingly cooked by the Brothers of St. Gregory's. It's the perfect opportunity to savor delicious food, engage in warm fellowship, and start your day with nourishment for both body and spirit. Join us on the 14th and let the comforting aromas and flavors bring a smile to your Sunday! The Brothers welcome any and all men who would like to be a part of this special group to contact Philip Hall at Hall.Philip@gmail.com.

MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY

MONDAY, JANUARY 15

The Church Office will be

Closed in Honor of MLK Day

The church office will be closed on Monday, January 15th in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. day and will reopen to normal business hours on Tuesday, January 16th. We wish you a blessed holiday.

NOMINATIONS FOR VESTRY

Nominations Close on January 17

Nominations for the Vestry are now open! If you or someone you know would be an ideal candidate for the Vestry, please email your nomination to the church office at office@st-gregorys.com by January 17.

ST. GREGORY'S ANNUAL MEETING

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28 AT 11:45 AM

In Harris Hall

Join us for St. Gregory's Annual Meeting following the 10 AM service on Sunday, January 28. Hear the latest news, the vision for the new year, and the announcement of the new Vestry members. A light lunch will be available for $5.

LET'S GROW!

GROWING OUR COMMUNITY

THINK TANK DISCUSSION

WITH FATHER ANDREW

Saturday, January 27 at 9:00 AM in Harris Hall

Father Andrew will be hosting a discussion about church growth, outreach, and evangelism in the new year on Saturday, January 27th at 9:00 AM in Harris Hall. Light breakfast foods will be served. With the construction behind us, we are pivoting our minds and hearts from our internal work to growing our beloved community and we want everyone to be a part of this important discussion!

NEWCOMERS WELCOME BRUNCH

Sunday, February 4 at 11:30 AM

at the Rectory

New to St. Gregory's? Join Father Andrew and Anita at the Rectory for the Newcomers Welcome Brunch on Sunday, February 4th immediately following the 10:00 AM service! It is a warm and wonderful way to make new friends and learn about life in Christ at St. Gregory's!

ST. GREGORY'S DEDICATION SERVICE

IS BEING RESCHEDULED

A New Date Will Be Announced Soon

Due to unforeseen delays in the arrival of the new pulpit and lectern from the manufacturer, we will need to reschedule our Dedication Service and Open House. We deeply appreciate your understanding and are eager to announce the new date for the dedication very soon. Thank you for your patience and support.

CHILDREN, YOUTH, AND FAMILIES

A Place to Belong

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14, 2024

All classes resume!

9:10 am - Confirmation Class (Conference Room)

9:45 am - 3yrs - 5th grade (Designated Rooms)

9:45 am - Youth Upper Room Time (Meet in Harris Hall for Brother's Breakfast!) FREE BREAKFAST TICKET for all Upper Room Youth who attend!

MONDAY, JAN 15

Boca Raton Interfaith Youth Association (BRIYA)

MLK gathering - see BRIYA section below for details.

THURSDAY, JAN 18

5:45pm - Choristers Rehearsal (Choir Room)

NEXT SUNDAY, JAN 21

All regular classes have resumed!

9:10 am: Confirmation Class (Conference Room)

9:45 am: 3yrs - 5th (Designated Rooms)

9:45 am: Youth Upper Room Time (Youth Room)

MLK DAY UNITY MARCH

AND CELEBRATION

Monday, January 15 - 9:45 AM Noon

ADULT FORMATION

Classes and Formation at St. Gregory's

Wednesdays

8:00 AM - Men's Spirituality Hour (Zoom) 

Meeting Link

10:00 AM - The Reality of Being with Fr. Ben (Zoom) The Reality of Being is an ongoing group, initially composed of the fruit that has fallen out of a three-year Gospel of Thomas circle, and will meet via Zoom every Wednesday from 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM EST. Zoom link here.

Meeting ID: 854 5001 9587 Passcode: 1+1=3

6:00 PM - Rector's Bible Study with Fr. Andrew - Hybrid - On Zoom and In Person (In the Conference Room). Zoom link here Meeting ID: 841 7545 8345 Passcode: 086160

Thursdays

1:00 PM - Women's Bible Study (Youth Room) - For information, contact Evelyn Anderson at ebunn@stanfordalumni.org  or Susan D’Ambrosio, sldambro@gmail.com

ST. GREGORY'S IS NOW LIVESTREAMING

TO THE HOMEPAGE OF OUR WEBSITE

stgregorysepiscopal.org

If you are unable to join us in person for services on Sunday, please join us online! In addition to livestreaming each Sunday's 10:00 AM Holy Eucharist to our Facebook page, St. Gregory's is now livestreaming the service to our homepage for your convenience. Click here to view the service on our homepage (it is located in the middle of the page) or click here to view it on Facebook.

PASTORAL CARE

St. Gregory's Is Here For You.

St. Gregory's provides a variety of support ministries that are here to support you. Our clergy, staff, and Stephen Ministers are here to answer your questions, pray with you, and for your pastoral needs. Contact the church office at 561-395-8285 or by email at office@st-gregorys.com. Learn more.

PRAYER

Daily Prayer and Prayer Requests

Join us in prayer. Click here to submit your prayer request. To pray for others, click here to view this week's prayer requests. If you'd prefer to receive a daily written prayer, click here to receive each day's word from Daily Prayer (a resource of Forward Movement).

JANUARY PRAYER CALENDAR

Please Pray for Haiti

Please keep the people of Haiti in your prayers. Click here to view the January 2024 Prayer calendar.

SFHP YEAR-END UPDATE

Please Continue Your Prayers and Support.

Thank you for your ongoing prayers and generous financial support for the people of Bondeau, Haiti. For the last two years, it seemed unimaginable that the situation in Haiti could get worse; however, Haiti has faced the most difficult year yet during 2023. Read more.

ST. GREGORY'S LOVES COFFEE HOUR!

Join the Tradition of Fellowship by Volunteering

THE ST. GREGORY FAMILY LOVES COFFEE HOUR!  Join the tradition of fellowship by volunteering for our Sunday Coffee Hour, following the 10 AM service. We are currently seeking volunteers to coordinate and serve our fellow parishioners each week (except for the Brothers Breakfast Sunday). If you are interested in being a part of this ministry, please contact Kay Holt at kholt@st-gregorys.com.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Volunteers are needed for various ministries.

Our Lay Eucharistic Visitor volunteer group is looking for members of our St. Gregory’s family to join them as they:

1. Deliver communion and enrich the religious experience of those unable to attend church due to illness or incapacity

2. Visit and spiritually support those in need of the comfort and companionship of St. Gregory’s

3. Maintain contact with those parishioners with whom they are assigned to assure them that they are still a part of our St. Gregory’s community.



If this type of ministry appeals to you, please contact David Cominole 561-376-9056 or email him at david.cominole@att.net for more information.

GIVING ST. GREGORY'S

Your Support Makes An Impact

Your support of St. Gregory's and our ministries makes our mission of Transforming Hearts and Community Through Jesus' Love a reality. Please click here to give online now. For more information, please email the Church Office or click on these links: Altar Flower Dedications, Capital Campaign, Meals with Meaning, Stewardship, and South Florida Haiti Project.

CONNECT WITH US

Engaging With St. Gregory's

We're grateful that you're part of St. Gregory's growing community! Visit our website at www.stgregorysepiscopal.org for more information or click the links and social media buttons below:

Contact Information

Volunteer Information

Download the St. Gregory's App - iOS, Google Play