The Weekly Epistle

Sunday, March 23, 2025

Dear Friends,

On a recent weekday I had a meeting in my office with a prospective new member, who arrived early and spent about 15 minutes sitting inside the church. “Wow,” he said, “I was surprised by how many people were there in the pews.” 

He’s right. The church is open to the public Monday through Saturday from noon to 5 pm and on Sundays from 8:30 am to 5 pm. The hours are longer, of course, when evening services occur. If you go into the church during the open hours when no liturgy is scheduled, you will usually find anywhere from four to forty people scattered throughout the nave. Some are sitting quietly, some are strolling about taking the cell phone tour, others are kneeling in a pew deep in prayer. 

I’ve written many times before that the first line of ministry is to keep the building open as much as possible. Our prayer is that the Holy Spirit and the sacred space will conspire to make a positive difference in people’s lives. We trust that those who come inside tired, anxious, and overwhelmed will leave in some measure refreshed, renewed, and reassured of God’s living presence. Indeed, even those contemplating some wrong may rethink their ways and leave resolving to do the right thing. 

Yes, it’s expensive to open the church even when no services or concerts are on the calendar. Not only do we have to keep it heated in the winter, cooled in the summer, and lighted when the public is welcome, we also have to keep eyes on the building to assure that it’s safe. The expense is well worth it. 

Some time ago I was leafing through our old parish history book (published in 1923), and came across a memorable quote from William Reed Huntington, who was the 6th Rector of Grace Church from 1884-1909. Apparently, when Huntington took office the church was closed during the week, but one of the first moves he made was to open it. He met with resistance, but defended the new policy with an interesting argument: “The exemption of ecclesiastical property from taxation by the State can only be defended on the score of the usefulness of the Church as a bulwark for public morals. The Church would seem, therefore, to owe it to the citizens to make her sacred buildings as accessible as possible. Even if no prayer be said by the casual visitor, the influence silently exerted upon him by the architecture and symbolism of such a church as Grace Church can scarcely fail to be a wholesome one.” 

My prayer is that God always gives Grace Church the will and the way to keep this place open – not just for ourselves, but for anyone who would come inside. 

See you in church – and you don’t have to wait till Sunday,

Quick Links

2025 Pledge Campaign

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Sermons

Catch up on past sermons on Apple Podcasts or our Website.

9:00 am Holy Eucharist

Preaching:

The Rev. Julia Macy Offinger

Music:

Dr. Patrick Allen, organ

11:00 am Morning Prayer

Preaching:

The Rev. Julia Macy Offinger

Music:

The Adult Choir

Dr. Patrick Allen, organ

This service is video-streamed every week. Access via any of our live channels. Grace Church Livestream, YouTubeLive, Vimeo, FacebookLive

6:00 pm Holy Eucharist

in the Chantry

Preaching:

The Rev. Megan E. Sanders

Music:

Hymns with Instrumentalists

Coffee and Fellowship takes place today in Tuttle Hall following the 9 am and 11 am services. Come enjoy coffee, conversation, and a variety of treats that have been provided.   

The Sunday Forum: Holy Week: What Really Happened? – Our Sunday Forum topic for the Sundays in Lent will be an exploration of the key events of Holy Week. What really happened on the pivotal days that mark the end of Jesus’ earthly ministry? 10 am in the Reception Room. 

• Good Friday (Mar 23), led by the Rev. Don Waring 
• Holy Saturday (Mar 30), led by the Rev. Julia Offinger 
• Easter (Apr 6), led by the Rev. Don Waring 

Mar 23, 30, and Apr 6 – Seekers & Returners – A class for anyone who is looking for a church community or coming back to one after a time away. We will delve into the tenets of our faith and have a place for frank questions, and, hopefully, some answers! The Rev. Julia Offinger will lead the group over five Sundays in the Reception Room, using Rowan Williams’s lecture series “Being Christian” as our guide. This is a great class for newcomers or those considering baptism or membership. Sundays at 12:30pm (after the 11am service) in the Reception Room. 

Mar 23, 30, and Apr 6 – Preparing for Resurrection: A Lenten Study – The season of Lent offers the opportunity to slow down and ponder anew Christianity's greatest claim, which is that we follow a God who is both crucified and risen. Using poetry and art to complement this study, together we will explore this claim further through six of the lessons appointed for the Great Vigil of Easter. Led by the Rev. James Morton, this class will meet in the Chantry on Sunday evenings immediately following the 6 pm service. No advanced reading is necessary to participate. Refreshments served. 

Pick up a Lenten Calendar – The Grace Church Women (GCW) will be selling Lenten Calendars during Coffee Hour following the 11:00 am service during the Sundays in Lent. The calendars are $5.00 each and Coffee Hour is in Tuttle Hall.  

Lenten Sock Drive – This Lent, Grace is collecting new (unused and unopened) socks to be distributed by the Red Door Place to those in need. At a previous parish day of service at Red Door Place one parishioner asked what besides food is most needed and the answer is socks. Red Door Place is a food ministry but it tries to meet other client needs as well. On raw, cold days, warm, dry socks are a godsend. The sock drive will culminate at the Maundy Thursday service on April 17.  

6 pm Sunday and Wednesday Worship in the Chantry – If you cannot be here on Sunday mornings, note that every week we offer two evening opportunities for worship. The Sunday and Wednesday 6 pm services in the Chantry include Holy Eucharist, sermon, and lively hymn singing accompanied by our Steinway grand piano.     

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.  

Mar 26, April 2, 9, and 16 – 1 Corinthians for Everyone – During the Wednesdays of Lent we will embark on a Bible Study of St. Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians. Using the study guide prepared by the Anglican Biblical scholar, the Rt. Rev. N.T. Wright, the sessions will be led by the Rector and Associate Rector. 6:45 pm in the reception room. A soup supper and beverages are served.

Mar 27 – 20s & 30s Pub Theology – The next 20s & 30s Pub Theology will take place at 6:30 pm in the third-floor lounge of the Parish House. We’ll explore intersections of the divine and our everyday lives aided by poets, mystics, and scripture. No advanced reading is necessary! Wine, cheese, and non-alcoholic beverages will be served. Email the Rev. James Morton to RSVP.  

March 29 – GCW Lenten Quiet Day – The Rev. Julia Macy Offinger will lead a workshop on the Spirituality of the Enneagram. Learn about the 9-type system for understanding what motivates people, and how our various instincts can serve to either divide or connect us. You’ll learn about your own Enneagram type and where God meets you in understanding your own motivations and how you see the world. A light breakfast will be served beginning at 9:30 am. Main program will be from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm in the Reception Room. Lunch is served. Please RSVP to the Rev. Julia Macy Offinger.

Apr 5 – 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 2:30 pm. Email the Rev. James Morton if you plan on attending. 

Apr 19 – Easter Eve Walk – Children and families are welcome to join us on Holy Saturday, April 19, from 10:30 am-12 pm, as we experience the Passion and Resurrection of Jesus through interactive storytelling, crafts, lunch, and an Easter egg hunt. Activities are designed for kids ages 3-10, but the whole family is welcome. Volunteer to help! We need donations of candy for hiding in eggs, white hard-boiled eggs for dying, snacks, and party decorations, plus a handful of volunteers to help. Please sign up with the Rev. Julia Macy Offinger. 

April 25 – Celebrating Dr. Allen’s 25 Years at Grace Church – After the Choirs of Grace Church’s Annual Spring Concert at 7:00 pm in the church, everyone is invited to a special festive reception in Huntington Close to celebrate Dr. Patrick J. Allen. This March marks 25 years of service as Organist & Choirmaster. Please join us!  For more details and information on how to make a gift in celebration of the occasion, click here. You can RSVP to Dr. Allen's 25th Anniversary Celebration via Paperless Post Card by clicking here. 

April 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25 – Confirmation for Youth and Adults – Sign up to join Spring confirmation classes culminating with the Rt. Rev. Mary Glasspool’s visit to Grace on Sunday, June 1 at 11am. For youth in 7th grades and up, we’ll meet from 5pm-7pm on Sundays this Spring, with a couple service projects and worship opportunities thrown in. For adults, we’ll meet for lunch after the 11am service from 12:30-2pm. Sign up ASAP by emailing the Rev. Julia Macy Offinger.

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 – Between the services in the Reception Room (and over Zoom) starting around 10 am, we delve into theological and contemporary topics in depth. 

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 professionally staffed according to Safe Church guidelines.  

Coffee Hour – Coffee and fellowship generally takes place in Tuttle Hall following the 9 and 11 am services.

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. 

Hymns from Grace – Held in the church during open hours and on the Organ Meditation YouTube Channel at 4:00 pm - 45-minutes of favorite hymns, anthems and voluntaries played on the Bicentennial Organ.  

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

Tuesday-Friday – Bach at Noon – Held in the church during open hours and on the Organ Meditation YouTube Channel at 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 Eucharist in the Chantry 

Saturday – Weekend Organ Meditation – Held in the church during open hours and on the Organ Meditation YouTube Channel at 4:00 pm - 45-minutes of diverse music 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. 

Knitters and Non-knitters Unite! Love to knit, curious how to start, or just want to dust off those old needles and plunge into purling again? We want you! We are looking for all levels of knitters to help grow our partnership with Seamen’s Church Institute and the Christmas at Sea program by knitting heart-made hats, scarves, and mittens. If you are interested, please contact Ashleigh Madureira. Just include your name, the # of adults/children in your household that may be interested, and the level(s) of experience. No experience is OK! 

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

2025 Annual Pledge Campaign: “And I Mean to be One Too” – On November 3rd, we launched the 2025 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. Some will turn in the pledge cards received by mail or found in the pews. Others will begin a time of prayerful reflection to consider what God is calling them to do. 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 at online here: 2025 Pledge Form | Grace Church in New York. (You have all of 2025 to make your payments!) Questions about pledging? Email Travis Kennedy or call him at 212-254-2005.

2025 pledge envelopes are available for those who use them! Pledge envelopes are used for those who wish to make cash donations in the offering plate on Sunday and have the gift applied as a payment on their pledge. Pledge envelopes are not required for those who make their donations by check. If you received 2024 pledge envelopes, your 2025 envelopes will be available for collection by the baptismal font. If you did not receive pledge envelopes last year but would like to receive them this year, please email Travis. 

Altar Flowers – Every Sunday the flowers on the altar assist our prayers by reminding us of the beauty of God’s creation. The gift of flowers is a wonderful way to remember a departed loved one, or give thanks for a happy occasion such as a birthday or an anniversary. The flowers not only brighten our Sundays, but remain on the altar most of the week for school chapels and open door hours. The cost for sponsoring the arrangements on both sides of the cross is $350. But donors can also go in together and jointly sponsor a Sunday. Either way, we will list the givers and the occasions in the Sunday bulletin. Please note that during Advent and Lent we observe those seasons with simpler arrangements that do not include flowers. That said, many other Sundays are available for flower donors to claim. If you are interested, please email Mickey in the parish office.  

Become a Worship Leader – Readers, ushers, and altar guild members play vital roles in all our services here at Grace Church. If you feel called to help us lead worship and are interested in learning more about any of these opportunities, email the Rev. James Morton and he can help you connect to a ministry that suits you. 

Wear your nametags! Nametags can be found on the boards in Tuttle Hall. Newcomers are encouraged to visit our 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 contact Travis Kennedy so he can make you one.  

20s & 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. 

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. 

Nut-Free Fare – To ensure the safety of all our parishioners, every precaution is taken to provide food that is nut-free at coffee hours and other receptions. If you are bringing treats for others to enjoy, please make sure they are nut-free. 

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. 

Assistive Listening System – During Sunday morning worship services, Grace Church provides an assistive listening system (ALS) for visitors with hearing loss. For information on how to connect to our FM radio transmitter, visit this webpage. If you already have your listening equipment, tune in to frequency 87.6 mHZ on your FM dial. 

Give Via Venmo – If you don’t have cash on you, but still want to give to Grace Church, you can Venmo your donation by searching for our page (@GraceChurchNYC) or by scanning the QR code below using the camera on your phone. Use the “What’s it for?” line to tell us the specific project or program you want to support. 

Send your photos of milestone events for possible publication in the Weekly Epistle to Travis B. Kennedy, Membership and Development Manager.

Clergy:

The Rev. J. Donald Waring

The Rev. Julia Macy Offinger

The Rev. James H.B. Morton III

Music:

Dr. Patrick Allen, organ

You’ll find videos of past organ meditations on YouTube.

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GRACE CHURCH IN NEW YORK

www.gracechurchnyc.org

212-254-2000