September /October 2024

Dear All Saints’ Family and Friends,

I write this letter as we approach the Labor Day weekend. It’s a time to remember, celebrate, and give thanks for the variety of skills, interests, and opportunities that enable us to work for the benefit of ourselves, others and the environment. We also recognize the ongoing need to ensure the safe fair working conditions and the just compensation for all workers.

This past June, members of our congregation gathered for a town hall meeting to discuss the work that enables us to carry out the mission and vision of our church. The focus was twofold: (1) to identify those ministries that are essential and impactful today and (2) to consider where and how God might be calling each of us to serve at this time. We explored ministries that covered many areas including worship, Christian formation, hospitality, outreach, technology, and fundraising. The exercise gave us a better picture of where change and improvement were needed to grow the ministries that supported the spiritual growth of parishioners and to serve the needs of our neighbors in the surrounding community.

Following the meeting a number of parishioners expressed their interest in joining or learning more about various committees, guilds, and programs. And so, this September, we enter a new program year with an increased sense of purpose, hope and joy as we continue to do God’s work.

We bless the Lord,

who gives us strength to work,

grace to achieve,

compassion to serve,

and favor to excel.

                   -from a prayer posted on the African-American Lectionary website.

Yours in Christ,

The Rev. Maxine Barnett, Rector