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Sunday
9 am Holy Eucharist
11 am Morning Prayer
(live-streamed)
6 pm Holy Eucharist
(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,
In my sermon last Sunday I proposed that Easter can orient us forward in hope and trust, not backwards in nostalgia. When Mary Magdalene met the risen Jesus in the garden where his tomb was located, Jesus said to her, “Do not hold onto me (John 20:17).” In other words, don’t cling to what was. The adventure of discipleship still lies ahead of us.
In overseeing a congregation with a history as long and deep as Grace Church, it is always easy to dwell on a glorious past. To be sure, we have learned in the last few years that not all of our past was glorious. But people and institutions typically relegate the painful periods to the margins of memory and highlight the bright spots. Not long ago the newcomer committee asked me to talk about the history of Grace Church at a brunch for people who were considering membership. Not a problem, I thought. I can do that at a moment’s notice. I launched into the various eras of our history: the founding of the church, the early years downtown, the move to 10th and Broadway, and the genius of the architect, James Renwick, Jr. I talked about the pioneering ministries: the free chapels, the day nursery, the choir school (now Grace Church School), and the GO Project.
When I was finished, a newcomer raised her hand, said something perfunctory about how interesting all the history was, and then asked, “But what’s happening now?” Believe it or not, she caught me completely off guard. I breathed a sigh of relief that we were out of time. “We’ll have to cover that in the next session or our newcomer series,” I replied. Saved by the bell. But later on I did puzzle over why it is easier to remember the past than it is to envision the future. Once again, Easter can orient us forward in hope and trust, not backwards in nostalgia. It was the novelist Peter De Vries who first coined the phrase, “Nostalgia ain’t what it used to be.” And Jesus said, “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God (Luke 9:62).” Or, as he said to Mary Magdalene, “Do not hold onto me.”
At the Sunday Forum this week I want to begin addressing the newcomer’s question: What is happening now? What lies ahead for Grace Church. In the past 3 ½ years we have sailed through stormy seas. Now that we have emerged from the pandemic and the lawsuits brought against us, what will it mean to follow Jesus now? What is his particular call to us now? Mind you, I don’t have fully formed answers ready to spring from my head, but I want to start the conversation. What’s next for Grace Church? Join us at 10 am in the reception room. Coffee and breakfast treats are served.
See you in church,
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Preaching:
The Rev. Julia Macy Offinger
Music:
The Choir of Men and Boys
Dr. Patrick Allen, organ
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11:00 am Morning Prayer
Preaching:
The Rev. Julia Macy Offinger
Music:
The Choir of Men and Boys
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
Preaching:
The Rev. Megan E. Sanders
Music:
Hymns with Instrumentalists
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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.
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10 am – The Sunday Forum – What's Ahead for Grace Church? The Sunday Forum returns from its Holy Week and Easter recess. Today the Rector will forecast some ministry initiatives that are on the horizon for us, including a dramatic answer to the question: Will we ever restore the damaged plaster in the south nave aisle? Join us to find out, 10 am in the Reception Room. Coffee and breakfast treats are served.
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Easter Plants – Many thanks to all who gave generously to the Easter flower fund! Special thanks to Chair of the Flower Guild, Ellen McElduff, and her helpers, for their generous gifts of time and talent to create the vibrant, visual display of Easter joy before your eyes. After today’s services, anyone may feel free to take an Easter flower home or to cheer a sick friend. Note: please avoid the altar area and also leave the wicker baskets behind for use next year.
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Sunday 6 pm Eucharist – 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.
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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.
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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 email Travis Kennedy so he can make you one.
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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.
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April 22 – Volunteer Day with The GO Project – The GO Project is an after-school program and longtime ministry partner of Grace Church. Join us on Sat., April 22 from 10 am to 12 pm four our next volunteer day where we’ll be reading aloud to the students in groups of 2 or 3. Email the Rev. James Morton if you’d like to attend.
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April 28 – Annual Spring Choir Concert – The Combined Choirs of Grace Church will offer their Annual Spring Choir Concert Friday, April 28, 7:00 pm featuring the works of Britten, Mendelssohn, Vaughan Williams, Wilhousky and others.
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April 30 – 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.
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May 6 – 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 6th 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.
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9 am, 11 am Worship Services in the Church and 6 pm in the Chantry – The 11 am service is video streamed every week.
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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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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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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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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.
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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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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 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.
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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.
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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.
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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 webpage where you will find a direct means of providing feedback.
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Every day, noon to 5 pm
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In Our Immediate Prayers:
David LeSueur
Charles McClean
Tom Hall
Jeffrey Hargrave
Chris Cakey
In Our Continuing Prayers:
Claire Wesselman
Teresa Conway
Ronnye Brickous
The Episcopal Church in Haiti
William Dobi
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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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