A MESSAGE FROM REVEREND TINA |
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We just wrapped up this year’s stewardship campaign at Grace and we celebrated together on Sunday by blessing our offerings before placing them on the altar. There is so much holiness in giving! Through it we grow in freedom, in love, and in joy - and part of the purpose of community, I believe, is the chance it offers each one of us to give of our gifts.
But what about the holiness of receiving? This is far less often spoken of – and is sometimes much harder to do. If giving is a delight, then receiving often feels like a burden -- but it is every bit as important. Receiving requires humility, which is to say truthfulness about who we are. And whenever we open ourselves to it, we will be every bit as transformed as when we give from the depths of our hearts.
Last week I had the honor of blessing the hands of the nurses who serve our community through the Berkshire Health Systems. These men and women, so used to giving day after day, were as shy about receiving as the rest of us. Endless in their generosity and care for others, some were taken aback by the idea that they too deserved care, and when we met – hand touching hand – tears often came. This is what happens when giving and receiving meet. It gets so it’s even hard to tell the difference sometimes. Who is giving in the photo above, for example, and who is receiving?
God is in both, that’s all I really know. And in both equally. So may you all be blessed with the opportunity to give this week -- and also with the willingness to receive….
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Putting the garden to bed
As the soil begins to cool and nights dip into freezing temperatures, I am finishing up the final report for Gideon's Garden 2021. The garden had an impact on the local community to be sure. For the three students who participated in the internship program, their lives were impacted. I know that those students will keep with them the experience of seeing, touching, smelling and understanding what it takes to grow vegetables.
This year the garden produced 8,818 pounds of fresh, quality produce to our surrounding community. We made over 30 deliveries over the summer to pantries. Here's an idea of how we reached this impressive amount:
Beans 219 pounds
Broccoli 228 pounds
Cabbage 562 pounds
Cucumber 680 pounds
Sweet Peppers 434 pounds
Tomatoes 1,491 pounds
Winter Squash 1,478 pounds
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Soup & Song
Sunday, November 28,
12:15-2:00 pm
Do you want to sing with confidence during worship? Are you curious to know more about the music and lyrics we sing on Sundays?
Join Ryan and the Music Team at the Grace Church Office for a chance to discuss and practice the Advent Service Music and Hymns over a delicious soup lunch (provided)!
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Berkshire South Regional Community Center is hosting suppers on Mondays from 5-6pm. |
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All suppers will be a “to go” option.
Welcome back! Attached is the October 11, 2021 “List of Food Pantries & Meal Sites in Berkshire County”. Please note the following additions to my October 4th list:
We welcome the Berkshire Humane Society Pet Food Pantry in Pittsfield! They are open
Mondays – Sundays from 10am – 4pm to provide food for pets.
For list of Food Pantries and Meal Sites Click Here
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Mission Matters
News from the
Episcopal Diocese
of Western Massachusetts
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Support the Resettlement of Refugees
Episcopal Migration Ministries, the refugee resettlement and migration ministry of The Episcopal Church, is currently working in partnership with the U.S. government to assist Afghan SIVs and other arrivals with resettlement and direct services through a network of 12 affiliates across the U.S.
DFMS-Protestant Episcopal Church US
P.O. Box 958983
St. Louis, MO 63195-8983
(Include Episcopal Migration Ministries and Afghan SIV’s in the memo line.)
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CHANGE THE BABIES
It costs about $1500 a year to support a baby. The Diocese's goal is for one congregation
to support one child for a year.
To donate to support babies at the Mampong Babies Home in Ghana please send a check to Grace Church, PO Box 114, Great Barrington, MA 01230.
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Becoming Beloved Community
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"This tribe helped the Pilgrims survive for their first Thanksgiving. They still regret it 400 years later. Long marginalized and misrepresented in U.S. history, the Wampanoags are bracing for the 400th anniversary of the first Pilgrim Thanksgiving in 1621." Read, listen, and watch this important story of human and Massachusetts history in the Washington Post here.
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'It's Been Erased: Stockbridge Mohicans Retell, Reclaim Their Story In Berkshires.
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"Pauli Murray Should Be a Household Name. A New Film Shows Why. "The lawyer, activist and minister made prescient arguments on gender, race and equality that influenced Thurgood Marshall and Ruth Bader Ginsburg." from NYTimes article, read here.
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Grace Church worships and gardens on the traditional land of the Mohican people.
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TUESDAYS WITH THE WORD
Dear "Ruth" Bible Study Participants,
Thank you for your participation in the November Community in Faith Study Series. It's great to see the interaction among folks from all three of the South Berkshire County Episcopal/Lutheran congregations. I learned a lot in the process of preparing to lead these three sessions on the book of Ruth, and I hope you also came away with new or deeper understandings, as well as questions for further exploration on your own. I also hope each of us has taken away from this study something that influences our life and actions in the here and now. For my part, I'm going to be more intentional about looking for and engaging with those who are typically marginalized. I'm also intrigued by the idea of gleaning interpreted for the 21st century. Above all, I will hold onto to the notion of the 'hesed' or steadfast love of God that accompanies us and holds us through all the uncertainties and bitterness of life and rejoices with us in the good times. Ruth and Boaz in their own way embodied that faithful and steadfast loving care for others.
Below is the announcement of the next Community in Faith Offering (taken from the St. Paul's e-news this morning). Fr. Sam Smith will be our guide through these three weeks in December. I hope you will consider being part of the group again. "Sing Noel!" promises to be fun and illuminating.
Peace,
Libby+
The Rev. Elizabeth T. Wade
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Our Next Community in Faith Offering:
Sing Noel!
An exploration of the music of Advent and Christmas
Tuesdays, November 30,
December 7 & 14, 7:00-8:00 pm, via Zoom
Of all the various aspects of Christmas, perhaps none is more beloved, and more reminiscent, than the music of the season. In this three-week study, we will explore together the music we love, learning not only the stories of the creation and meaning of these beloved songs, but also taking time to use them as tools for meditation. No preparation needed – just join us to talk about and pray on the music we cherish.
Tuesday with the Word
7:00 to 8:00 PM
To join the Zoom meeting
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Our EfM group read Proverbs, Job, Ecclesiastes and James this week. These writers all participate to a greater or lesser extent in the wisdom tradition of the Bible, grounding their theology in practical matters of community living and interpersonal relations. This image was prompted by James’ focus on lifting up the poor and condemning the rich. James indicates that God has a preference for the poor both in this life and in the next (see James 2:5). We took a ‘slow-looking’ approach to this image, asking questions such as “What do you see?” “Where is the darkness?” “What draws your attention?” And “What is the source of the light?” The image is a painting by the artist Chris Richford called “Poverty.”
COLLECT
Blessed are you, O Lord God of generosity and love.
Make us continually aware of the humanity of those in need
And inspire us to share our time, treasure, and attention with them.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN
Please Note: EfM will not meet on November 16,
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THIRD SUNDAY SUPPER
Join us for lively conversation
and fellowship on
every third Sunday, at 6:00PM
Separate checks/All are welcome
For more information contact
George Raymond. His contact information is in the Grace directory.
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MOVIE NITE
Join us for a discussion of
ABOUT SCHMIDT
A 66-year-old (Jack Nicholson) retires, deals with his wife's sudden death and tries to stop his daughter (Hope Davis) from marrying a salesman (Dermot Mulroney).
on Thursday, December 2, at 6:30 PM
Watch at your leisure then join us on Zoom
(Meeting ID): 370 191 823 (Password): 385337
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BOOKS AND BREAD
Book Nominations
on January 12
at the Church office
at 7:00 pm
All are welcome!
To join this Zoom meeting at 7:15 PM
(Meeting ID): 370 191 823
(Password): 385337
or call 646 558 8656 US (New York)
- Participants should contact the Hosts (Mark and Dindy Anderson's) if they plan to attend but have not signed up at Grace Church (Crissey Farm Welcome Desk)
- If you are a "regular" and are not planning to attend, please let the Host know.
- Discussion begins at 7:00 pm regardless of whether it's a Dinner gathering or an A&D gathering.
- Dinner-Appetizers, wine, soft drinks, main dish, side dishes, dessert, decaf and tea. One main dish serves 8 people.
- The Host is responsible for planning the meal. Participants are encouraged to make offerings in consultation with the Host.
- Please sign up to bring appetizers or dessert items.
Meeting is over promptly at 8:30 PM. For more information email Peter Kirchoff.
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Step into Grace
Where strangers become friends
We are an Open and Affirming church. Every one of every age, race, ethnicity, culture, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental ability, or economic status is invited to join us as together we live out the Gospel message of love, forgiveness, service, and justice. No matter where you are in your spiritual journey- you are welcome here.
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The First Sunday
of Advent
Holy Eucharist
November 28, 10:00 AM
Sunday services
will be at Crissey Farm, both
in-person and live-streamed.
Please visit our website:
for up-to-date information and a link to the digital service booklet.
Officiant/Preacher
The Rev. Tina Rathbone
Welcome Team......Sue and Rick Gore
Lector.................. ..Sue Gore
Intercessor.............Robert Forman
Tech.......................Abe Streeter
Altar Guild.............Kirchoff/Haywood
Coffee Hour...........Booton/Gore
Counters................S.Gore/M. Layton
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ZOOM INVITATIONS
FOR GRACE CHURCH
The First Sunday
of Advent
Holy Eucharist
November 28, at 10:00 AM
Now in person and on Zoom.
For Zoom
or call 646 558 8656
US (New York)
(Meeting ID): 177 160 858
(Password): 917937
Tuesday with the Word
November 23,
7:00 to 8:30 PM
To join the Zoom meeting
For more information please see the article below.
Centering Prayer
Thursdays, at 5:00 PM
Now in person and on ZOOM
To join the Zoom meeting,
(Meeting ID): 203 314 800
(Password): 578877
646 558 8656 US (New York)
Grace Church Men's Group
Future dates to be announced here.
Movie Nite
Thursday, December 2
More information in the
article below.
To join this Zoom meeting,
(Meeting ID): 370 191 823
(Password): 385337
or call 646 558 8656 US
(New York)
Books and Bread,
Book Nominations
Wednesday, January 12
In person at 7:00 PM
at the Church office
Third Sunday Supper
(Every Third Sunday)
Resumes in January
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The First Sunday of
Advent
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Luke 21:25-36
Jesus said, "There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see 'the Son of Man coming in a cloud' with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."
Then he told them a parable: "Look at the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
"Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day catch you unexpectedly, like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man."
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Lo He Comes With Clouds Descending |
For the most up to date information:
please visit the
Berkshire Vaccine Collaborative website,
They will post notice of appointment openings 6-12 hours in advance. You can find answers to your vaccination questions including information about the new Johnson & Johnson vaccine on their FAQ page.
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Covid-19 vaccination
booster shots
are now available for those with certain big-risk medical conditions at Walgreens and Fairview Hospital on a walk-in basis. If you think you might have a qualifying condition, we urge you to go to one of these locations for a booster shot.
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There will be a gathering of friends
of Vanessa Poulos Neves
on Sunday December 12,
2:00 - 5:00 at Crissey Farm,
Great Barrington
Vanessa died on October 26 in Austin where she lived with her family.
Light refreshments will be served and there will be a cash bar. Please join us as we remember our dear friend.
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Praying for each other and for the needs of the world is a vital mission of Grace Church. To add a prayer request to this list, please contact the Church Office
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We supply this list so you may contact members of our congregation who are at home or in a nursing facility. Please hold in your prayers and reach out as you can.
ANDREWS, Anne
659 South Egremont Road
P.O. Box 714
Great Barrington, MA 01230
BLAKELY, Rosemarie
21 Crossway, #108
Lee MA 01238
BOWENS, Marina
c/o Maryella Satinover
11908 Windward Ave.
Mar Vista, CA 90066
BREASTED, John
Fairview Commons
151 Christian Hill Road
Great Barrington MA 01230
BROOKS, Jane
165 George Street
Lee MA 01230
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FRYE, Vonnie
PineHill Assisted Living
at Kimball Farms
235 Walker St. Apt #32
Lenox, Ma. 01240
GORE, Barbara
50 Stockbridge Road
Lee MA 01238
HAIDER, Meredith
5 Fox Hollow Road
#409
Lenox, MA 01240
McCURDY, Deborah
Skilled Nursing Center
Loomis Lakeside at Reed's Landing
807 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01109
TURNER, Barbara
Fairview Commons
151 Christian Hill Road
Great Barrington, MA 01230
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Healing Prayers
If you would like to receive healing prayers from
The Rev. Ted Cobden, Pennie Curry, or Sue Gore,
please refer to your directory for their contact
information, or contact the Grace office.
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GRACE
CHURCH
Please include
in your daily prayers this week:
Members of the Parish Family:
Sue Gore, George Raymond; Doreen Hutchinson, Anne Andrews, Pennie Curry, Mark Anderson, Stacey, Claire and Mark Thomas, Meredith Haider, Linda White, Rosemarie Blakely, Marina Bowens, John Breasted, Jane Brooks, Vonnie Frye, Barbara Gore, Sara Keene, Barbara Turner and Annalise Clausen.
Others we love: Rino Aldrighetti, dear friend of Steve White; Wyatt Hicks; Larry Cheek, John's brother; Karen La Rocque friend of Sue Gore; Rosalind Haywood, Sue Gore's mother; Deborah McCurdy; Joy Milani, dear friend of Dindy Anderson.
Those who have died:
Sara Keene; Jim Santolin dear friend of Rick and Sue Gore; Robert Bruce Martin, and Alexandra Pratt, friends of Monique; Bernadette McCarroll, beloved family member of Jainee, John & Ellis; Thomas J. Fisher, father of The Rt. Rev. Douglas Fisher; Alan Sparks, brother of Debbie Holmes; Ruth Crawford; John Grammer, husband of Mary Anne; Neil Brandt, brother of Linda White; John Turner, husband of Barbara Turner; Leslie Albert, friend of Margaret Layton and Sarah Sieber.
Our world: For the people of Afghanistan, and of Haiti, who have struggled for so long under burdens seemingly too great to bear.
For all victims of violence, and for those who inflict violence on others. For people who suffer from the COVID-19 virus, those who have died and those who mourn; caregivers and those who have been affected through loss of work, income, and housing.
For all who are alone or afraid or despairing. For prisoners, unhoused people, newly arrived immigrants and all our neighbors, near and far.
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The many ministries of our local community and the Diocese of Western Massachusetts:
especially for our partners at St. Paul's, Stockbridge and the Rev. Sam Smith and the Rev. Jane Tillman; Christ Trinity, Sheffield and the Rev. Erik Karas; our Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Douglas J. Fisher; and the Mampong Babies' Home in Ghana; All Saints Worcester; Human to Human; Pittsfield Council of Churches.
The Church's wider mission:
Igreja Episcopal Anglicana do Brasil
And we offer thanks: for all those celebrating birthdays or anniversaries this week: Susan Happ, Janet Zimmerman, 11/25; Vonnie Frye, Nell Pinkston, 11/28.
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Join us for
Centering Prayer
now in person and on ZOOM
every Thursday
5:00 - 6:00
Encouraging a practice of silence and stillness we focus on practices of Centering Prayer and Lectio Divina using scripture, art and music. All are welcome.
To join the Zoom meeting
Meeting ID: 203 314 800
Password: 578877
Dial by your location
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
To find your local number:
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WHAT ARE YOU
GRATEFUL FOR?
In this time of fear and anxiety, it can be easy to miss the daily blessings that are right in front of us. Being grateful is not just for good times. Being grateful is even more important when fear sets a place at your table and heartbreak seems to be in your every breath. Because by being grateful we become aware of all the ways God is working in us. Being grateful is a part of our healing and our deliverance. Being grateful is where our best selves reside.
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SHINE YOUR LIGHT
Thank you for giving generously to support the ministry of Grace. You may continue to mail your contributions to Grace Church, P.O. Box 114, Great Barrington, MA 01230. As we begin to gather in person, you may bring your contribution to our services on Sunday, once again.
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Kids of all ages:
Please join us for Sunday school. We will meet during the first part of the service and then re-join the service at the Peace.
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Thank you all
for signing up for this year’s
Flower Dedications.
It is a beautiful way to honor our family and friends both living and deceased, and is shared by all.
Please note that $35.00 contributions toward the flower purchases can be sent to the Grace Office or placed in the Offertory Collection.
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An Episcopal Community in the Southern Berkshires
67 State Road/P.O. Box 114, Great Barrington, MA 01230
GRACE Parish Administrator: Ms. Jean Chapin
and by phone 413-644-0022.
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The Rev. Tina Rathbone
Rector
413-644-0022
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Ms. Annalise Clausen, Director of Farming for Gideon's Garden
413-644-0022
gideonsgarden at graceberkshires.org
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Mr. Ryan LaBoy,
Grace Church Music Director
413-644-0022
RLaboy at graceberkshires.org
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Tuesday's Child Editor Monique Kirchoff
Associate Editor Kathy Clausen
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