MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Andranovory

Andranovory, St. Gregory's Parish link in Madagascar, is reaching out for your support. They have just launched an important fundraiser to provide essential school supplies for local students with an aim to raise $8,000. Reaching this goal will equip up to 400 students with the necessary school supplies for the upcoming school year. Just $20 can supply one student with a notebook, pens, pencils, a slate, chalk, and a backpack for an entire year.

Although public education is free in Madagascar, many families struggle to afford basic school supplies, leaving children to work in fields rather than pursue their education. Teachers in these schools volunteer their time and often only receive payment after 10-15 years of service. In most cases, teachers are forced to balance teaching with their paid job to make ends meet. While these teachers embody dedication and perseverance, it is a hard system.

We invite you to contribute to this noble cause by July 15, 2024. Your timely donation ensures we can purchase and deliver these supplies before the new school year starts in September. To get involved or for more information, feel free to reach out to Betsy Wenzel at jpbetsy@gmail.com, Walter Jones at wjonesjr@comcast.net, or Gena Vallee at gvallee@st-gregorys.com.

By donating $20, you have the power to:

-Enhance a child's educational journey.

-Break the cycle of poverty.

-Improve their quality of life.

-Unlock a young person's potential.

Please make your check payable to St. Gregory's, with "Andranovory" in the memo line. Together, we can change lives and build a brighter future for the children of Madagascar.

THE REALITY OF BEING

“How do we open to a higher level? When there remains even a residue of conceptual or intellectual meaning, there can be no pure awareness. The finest and highest energy I could know does not animate me. […] I need to feel this, to feel that my force is taken and I cannot be transformed. I am not open to a higher level, a higher thinking. I have to suffer this lack, to stay resolutely in front of it. Little by little this will become more important than anything else. But it requires giving all of myself. And the ego always reasserts its dominance. To stay in front is voluntary suffering. […] My aspiration is stronger and stronger for this essential force. At the same time, I live with continual concern for my own well-being, the desire to satisfy all the avidity of my ordinary ‘I’. This contradiction leaves a taste of remorse. I am not free.”

- Jeanne de Salzmann

This Week, our group work continued within The Reality of Being.

Voluntary suffering is not false humility.

They live in different worlds. And this objective truth is a conscious struggle to stay in front.

We’ve all had conversations with people we feel a little off with and with the people we treasure and love the most. But if we pause. If we stop. If we drop the mind into the heart, through sensation, we can feel the confrontation between these two movements.

This act takes attention. This act takes sensing the fluctuations between the movements - between the worlds - in real-time. Asking ourselves: How do I feel my attitude right now?

Do we want to imitate reality? Or do we want to live in it?

How do we suffer the lack we need for our transformation?

A blessed taste of resurrected life to all.

We will continue with the chapter, VOLUNTARY SUFFERING, pp. 238 - 243, (sections 114 - 116).

The group meets 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+

A MESSAGE FROM TIM

By Tim Brumfield

I want to thank everyone who gave so generously to support the Easter Music! Your gifts really do help to offset the additional costs of eight services during Holy Week and Easter. If you received a blessing from the music on Sunday or at any service last week and would like to make a belated gift, it’s still not too late! It’s never too late to give! 

This Sunday we will host the Master Chorale of South Florida for their first concert in our newly renovated sanctuary at 4 pm. My dear friend and colleague Brett Karlin who serves as their conductor is very excited about this concert and is greatly looking forward to the chorale to sing in our space! Their rehearsal a couple of weeks ago sounded extraordinary! I know you’ll enjoy this concert! 



I’ll be out of town this weekend and Ms. Susan Dodd will be playing the organ at the 10 am service with Mr. Sam Cucci singing “The Call” by George Herbert (1593-1633) set to music by Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958). This beautiful song is part of a musical suite by R. V. Williams in which he set to music four of Herbert’s poems, naming the collection “Five Mystical Songs.” “The Call” is especially appropriate for the Easter season. “Come, my Way, my Truth, my Life: Such a Way, as gives us breath: Such a Truth, as ends all strife: Such a Life, as killeth death. Come, my Light, my Feast, my Strength: Such a Light, as shows a feast: Such a Feast, as mends in length: Such a Strength, as makes his guest. Come, my Joy, my Love, my Heart: Such a Joy, as none can move: Such a Love, as none can part: Such a Heart, as joys in love.”

With Easter Blessings,

Tim

SUPPORTING THE SISTER'S TEAM AND THE LORD'S PLACE SLEEPOUT

SLEEPOUT BEGINS TOMORROW!

Friday, April 5

Another Sleepout is scheduled for Friday, April 5.  I am writing to you with immense gratitude for your past support of The Sisters – our team that sleeps out every year to combat homelessness in our community. As a member of the Sisters Team, your dedication and generosity have made a tangible impact on the lives of those experiencing homelessness while supporting The Lord’s Place. For over 45 years, they have served the most vulnerable people in our community with innovative and effective programs and services.



For 16 years, the Sisters Team has been an integral part of SleepOut, - sleeping out to raise awareness and funds. As we approach this year's SleepOut, I express my deepest appreciation for your continued support. While it brings me mixed emotions to share this news, I want to let you know that this year's SleepOut will be my final participation as an official member of the Sisters Team. Although my direct involvement may be ending, my commitment to the mission of The Lord's Place and ending homelessness will endure.

As we embark on this final SleepOut journey together, I am reaching out to you once again to ask for your support. Your contribution will make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and families experiencing homelessness, providing them with hope, support, and opportunities for a better future. I am deeply grateful for your past support and humbly ask for your continued generosity.

Together, we can make this final SleepOut in honor of The Sisters, our most impactful yet and leave a lasting legacy of compassion and change in our community.

On behalf of the thousands of people whose lives have been transformed because of The Lord’s Place, I thank you for your support.

BAPTISM BLESSINGS

From St. Gregory's

This Sunday during the 10 AM service, we will welcome into our Family of God: Alaya Scarlett Demi Mullings, Skylar Elizabeth Potter, Peyton James Coffy, Lyra Addie Conner and Eliza Anne Conner. Through the Sacrament of Baptism, they will become our Brother and Sisters in Christ. Pray that they will continue to grow in faith and love throughout their lives.

MASTER CHORALE OF SOUTH FLORIDA

IN CONCERT AT ST. GREGORY'S

Sunday, April 7 at 4:00 PM

Mozart’s Great Mass in C Minor

Brett Karlin, Conductor

This dazzling setting of the Mass exemplifies Mozart’s brilliance in uniting music and text to create drama. Written to showcase the vocal talents of his wife Constanze, the Great Mass is an undisputed masterpiece revered by Mozart fans for 250 years.



On this program, the Master Chorale’s performance of the Great Mass in C Minor will be complemented by two motets: Mozart’s glorious Exsultate, Jubilate, and Joseph Haydn’s Insanae et Vanae Curae. Click to learn more and to purchase tickets.

CHILDREN, YOUTH, AND FAMILIES

A Place to Belong

THIS SUNDAY, APRIL 7

9:10 am - Confirmation Class

No Rise & Shine service -- All children and youth are invited to a special program in Harris Hall!

Please meet in Harris Hall at 10 am.

NEXT SUNDAY, APRIL 14

Brothers Breakfast -- after 8 am and 10 am services (Harris Hall) Parents: Dine together at your specially reserved table(s)!

9:10 am: Confirmation Class (Conference Room)

9:30 am: Nursery opens

9:45 am: 3yrs - 5th grade regular classes (designated classrooms)

9:45 am: Youth Upper Room Time (Harris Hall and Youth Room) Meet for Brothers Breakfast in Harris Hall, then head to Youth Room - Breakfast is FREE for all youth attendees!

SPECIAL PROGRAM THIS SUNDAY FOR ALL CHILDREN AND YOUTH

Sunday, April 7 at 10:00 AM

Special Program for Children and Youth of all ages in Harris Hall at 10 AM on Sunday! All children and youth are invited to join this special activity!

SAVE THESE DATES!

Other Great Stuff In the Works!

April/May (dates/details TBD)

Sunday, April 7 - No Rise & Shine Service - Join us at 10:00 AM for a Special Program for Children & Youth (Harris Hall) - 10:00 AM - Children and Youth of all ages are warmly invited to join us in Harris Hall at 10 AM for a Special Program.

Saturday, April 13 - Diocesan Acolyte Festival

9am - 3pm; Holy Family Episcopal Church (Miami Gardens) A fun and learning event for all ages of acolytes to improve skills and to celebrate this vital ministry.

Sunday, April 21 - Special Earth Day Program

9:45 AM - during Youth Upper Room time for teens and after the 10 am service for everyone!



Friday, April 26 - Sunday, April 28 - Happening Retreat - Diocesan program for high school teens.

St. Joseph's Episcopal Church, Boynton Beach

May (date/details TBD) - Youth Group fun time -- Boomers in Boca



April/May (date/details TBD) - Youth Group service -- Visit to Boca Rehab

April/May (date/details TBD) - College Conversations -- FAU students sharing wisdom with youth about all things college

ST. GREGORY'S NURSERY

The Nursery Opens Sundays at 9:30 AM

On Sundays, the beautifully renovated nursery provides childcare for the 10:00 AM service. Dropoff for little ones begins at 9:30 AM. There is no cost for this service.

BRIYA GATHERING AT ST. GREGORY'S

Sunday, April 14 from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM

Our next BRIYA gathering is scheduled on

Sunday, April 14th

1:30 PM to 3:00 PM.

St. Gregory's Episcopal Church

100 NE Mizner Blvd, Boca Raton, FL 33432

We will be touring St. Gregory's new sanctuary, which promises to be both enlightening and inspiring.

During our time together, we'll engage in a discussion about the concept of sanctuary – what it means to us personally and as a community. I'm eager to hear everyone's perspectives.

We plan to have pizza and snacks at our program. Please wear your BRIYA shirts and long pants.

Please RSVP or if you have any questions contact Cathy at Cathyb@bnai-torah.org or Gena at gvallee@st-gregorys.com

JUNE: IT'S KANUGA TIME!

Kanuga Youth Week 2024

Kanuga Youth Week 2024

June 16-21

Bus transportation and other details are being determined by our diocese. Stay tuned for more info.

Let Anita know if you are interested in going!

anitasherman561@gmail.com

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 - This class meets via (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 class - 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

UPCOMING AT ST. GREGORY'S

Sunday, April 7 - Master Chorale in Concert

Monday, April 8 - Art Classes begin, Knitters Ministry Meets, Vestry Meeting

Wednesday, April 10 - Lunch Bunchers meet at Noon Max's Grille in Mizner Park

Saturday, April 13 - DOK Monthly Zoom Meeting, ECW Annual Spring Tea

Sunday, April 14 - Brothers Breakfast following both morning services, Thrift Store Grand Re-Opening. The Funeral for Carl House followed by a reception in Harris Hall will begin at 3:30 PM.

Sunday, April 21 - Mommy and Me Group meets, A Service of Rededication and Celebration with a reception in Harris Hall following the service.

Saturday, April 27 - YogaMass in the Chapel

Sunday, April 28 - Seraphic Fire in Concert at St. Gregory's

OPEN HEARTS, OPEN DOORS

A SERVICE OF REDEDICATION

AND CELEBRATION

Sunday, April 21 - 6:30 PM

St. Gregory's service of Rededication will be one of celebration and renewal as we come together to formally bless our beautifully renovated sanctuary and honor all those who have labored on this great project and those who have made it possible through their leadership, sacrifice, and gifts. Invitations to the community at large are being issued including civic leaders, city council members, sister parishes within the Diocese, religious organizations, churches and synagogues, as well as performing arts organizations. 

This monumental service will be in the form of a Choral Evensong with the Choir of St. Gregory’s and guest musicians and will feature the music of Hubert. H. Parry, William Harris, Ralph Vaughan Williams, and a special setting of the Preces and Responses by Tim Brumfield. 

Plan now to attend and be part of this historic service of rededication when we will not only rededicate our beautiful sanctuary and campus, but also rededicate ourselves to the service of God within our community and the world. 

ECW THRIFT STORE IS NOW OPEN

GRAND REOPENING - SUNDAY, APRIL 14

We are thrilled to announce the grand reopening of St. Gregory's ECW Thrift Store! Our doors will reopen on Tuesday, April 2. Our new operating hours will be every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 AM to 2 PM, and on the second Sunday of each month during Brothers Breakfast Sundays. Join us during our Grand Reopening on Sunday, April 14. It's the perfect opportunity to find unique treasures and support St. Gregory's. We are looking forward to seeing you in the thrift store!

DONATING TO THE THRIFT STORE

We will gladly accept donations of houseware items, jewelry, scarves, purses glassware, dishware, silver, crystal, etc. Donations are accepted in the office Monday through Thursday between 10 AM and 3 PM. We are currently not accepting donations of: records, DVDs, CDs, toys, books, clothing, paintings or electronics.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

ART CLASSES AT ST. GREGORY'S

Start Monday, April 8 at 9:30 AM

Welcome all art lovers and artists. Beginners and Intermediate 1 class in oil painting. Come and have fun while learning. Never again will you wonder what color to select or how to set up and create a pleasing composition. Learn all the rules of composition, design, color theory, and how to critique your work. An extremely positive class. Hope to see you there!

Note: There is no fee for this class. Perhaps a small donation to St. Gregory's as they are providing space and some setup.

Class begins April 8 (Monday) Location - St. Gregory's. The class is six weeks. Please contact Patricia Lusk for a material list or additional information. 

Time: 9:30 AM - Morning prayer is at nine if you wish to attend and the painting class will begin at 9:30 AM. The class is from 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM. 

If you wish you had a watercolor class to attend or Advanced oil or Acrylics, please let me know as I am taking names for the possibility of additional classes. 

Email: Plusk421@yahoo.com

Phone: 786-218-0197

LUNCH BUNCHERS

LUNCH AT MAX'S GRILLE

Wednesday, April 10 at Noon

Join St. Gregory's Lunch Bunchers at Max’s Grille in Mizner Park on Wednesday, April 10 at Noon! It is a wonderful way to catch up with your St. Gregory’s friends, meet a few new friends, enjoy fellowship and great conversation over a delicious lunch! For more information or to RSVP, please contact Andrea Chang at chang0113@aol.com or 954-245-9388.

HATS OFF TO WOMEN

THE ECW SPRING TEA

Saturday, April 13 at 2:00 PM

The Episcopal Church Women (ECW) at St. Gregory's invites you to an enchanting afternoon at our ECW Annual Tea, happening on Saturday, April 13th, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM in Harris Hall.

This year, we're celebrating by taking our "Hats Off to Women," and are thrilled to announce The Rev. Dr. Patricia ("Patsy") McGregor will serve as our special guest speaker.

Prepare to enjoy a variety of sweet and savory treats, complemented by exquisite teas. Tickets are available for $40.00 each. For those interested, mimosas, including non-alcoholic options, will be offered for an additional $5.00.

EVENT PARKING

The ECW Spring Tea is one of St. Gregory's most popular signature events and will likely sell out. Parking at the event will be free for our guests but we encourage everyone to carpool as spaces may be limited. Note: Additional free parking is available in the Mizner Park garage located just across the street if the St. Gregory's parking lot becomes full.

TICKET INFORMATION

To secure your tickets, please reach out to Susan D’Ambrosio at 561-350-5964, or Karen Guzik at 404-983-3476. Tickets will also be available for purchase in the courtyard after both services this Sunday.

Be sure to mark your calendars now as the ECW Tea is one of St. Gregory's most popular signature events and will likely sell out. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy this memorable and inspiring event and feel free to bring your friends!

DONATIONS NEEDED FOR THE

ECW SPRING TEA SILENT AUCTION

Please Consider Donating for a Great Cause

Be a part of this year's ECW annual Spring Tea, where we take our "Hats Off to Women" to celebrate the remarkable women in our lives and community. As part of this special event, we are excited to host a silent auction to further support our cause. We are currently seeking donations of items to be auctioned, including gift cards, jewelry, gourmet snacks, candies, coffees, teas, and biscuits, among others. Your generous contributions will add to the success of our event.

BROTHERS BREAKFAST

Sunday, April 14

Join us for morning services on Sunday, April 14, and stay for a scrumptious breakfast prepared by the dedicated Brothers of St. Gregory's. We invite you, your friends, family, and neighbors to savor "The Best Breakfast in Boca" as we come together in celebration and fellowship.

SERAPHIC FIRE IN CONCERT

AT ST. GREGORY'S

Sunday, April 28 at 4:00 PM

Enjoy Seraphic Fire’s Concert “Mid-Century Modern” at 4 PM on Sunday, April 28th at St. Gregory’s. For more info, visit seraphicfire.org.

ECW (EPISCOPAL CHURCH WOMEN) SCHOLARSHIP

Apply Now! $1,000 Scholarship to

Support Education for Women

Due to successful ECW fundraising efforts and to the generous donations of our greater church parishioners, and, as part of St. Gregory’s ECW mission in alignment with the National ECW organization, this program helps:

-To bring aid to women to help them become equal partners within their communities; and

-To provide an opportunity for women to improve life for themselves, their families, and their communities.

All applications must be received in full by COB May 5, 2024. The award recipient will be notified and receive their award either on or before May 15, 2024.

Contact: Rebecca Sorensen at rsorens51@gmail.com

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.

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.

GETTING A PARKING PASS

FROM THE USHERS

If you have not yet gotten a parking pass, please stop by the church office during weekly business hours to get a pass.

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.

PALM TRAN CONNECTION

RIDE ASSISTANCE FOR THOSE MEETING ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Palm Beach County provides ride assistance to those who are unable to drive and meet their eligibility requirements. For those approved for the program, the cost is $3.50 each way or $7.00 round trip. To learn more about the eligibility requirements and to schedule an interview, call 561-649-9838 (and dial "7") or visit Paratransit (Connection) - PalmTran

HOW DO YOU SAY ANDRANOVORY?

(Hint: An.dra.new.voory)

If you're wondering how to say, "Andranovory," you're not alone! Click the video above and take a journey with Gena Vallee as she consults with a few friends both near and far to find out!

ABOUT ANDRANOVORY

Andranovory is one of sixteen parishes within the Diocese of Toliara, Madagascar. The Diocese is approximately the size of Florida. The Andranovory parish has eight churches. There is one parish priest, Bishop Samitiana (Samy for short) for all the congregations. In addition, there are two Evangelists and several Catechists that assist Bishop Samy. Christ Church (Fiangonan ’i Kristy) is in the town of Andranovory. Many rural parish congregations worship in a home, under a tree or in a classroom or rented space. The photos today are of Christ Church and Antranokaky Church. (under the tree)

Please keep the eight parish churches, Bishop Samy and their church leaders in your prayers, as we know that they are praying for St. Gregory’s. If you would like to be involved in sharing video clips or photos from St. Gregory’s, or just want more information about our mission, you may contact Mary Herin at cmnkd@comcast.net or visit: www.dioceseoftoliara.org/en/who-we-are/diocesan-churches/andranovory-parish

SOUTH FLORIDA HAITI PROJECT

April Prayer Calendar

Click the button below to view

the April prayer calendar for Haiti. 

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).

ST. GREGORY'S LOVES COFFEE HOUR!

Donations and Volunteers Needed

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, contact Kay Holt at kholt@st-gregorys.com.

Please support Coffee Hour by bringing something to share. We have plenty of pastries, but would greatly appreciate cheese and crackers, fruit, or other treats.

Schedule of Donated Goods for Coffee Hour

Sunday, April 7th - Newcomers Host Coffee Hour

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 AT 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