September - October 2026

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works…” (Hebrews 10:24)

Dear All Saints’ Family and Friends,

Recently, I had a conversation with Deacon Denise Galloway^* about the Neighbors Being Neighbors outreach ministry. She told me that the program was ongoing and strong throughout the summer months. Deacon Denise went on to praise the volunteers and say that she was grateful for the “Marcias Squared.” Puzzled, I asked who or what was the “Marcias Squared.” She explained that she was speaking of two members of All Saints’ Church, each with the first name Marcia. Both regularly showed up and worked hard to get whatever was needed done. Together they were a powerhouse. I found it interesting that Deacon Denise didn’t name them the “Marcias Duo.” Perhaps she considered the impact of their work to be greater than was expected of two people; together they were exponentially more effective in shared ministry.

I do not believe that God wants any of us to do ministry alone. The Bible lifts up ministry partnership. God created Eve to be a “help mate” for Adam. Remember too that Moses had Aaron, Jeremiah had Baruch, Jesus had men and women who supported him in ministry and he sent the disciples out into the mission field in groups of twos. And these are only a few. The Apostle Paul named many co-laborers in the letters he sent to first century churches. Paul taught that all the members with their diverse gifts, abilities, and resources were needed to help the body of Christ function and grow as God desired.

We need our ministry partners – whether they are members or friends of our parish or other faith communities, or individuals and secular organizations in our neighborhood. All Saints’ Church has always benefitted from working and walking side by side, sharing resources and ideas with others, in our efforts to carry out our mission. We can testify that such collaboration has enabled us to do far more than we could ever imagine. We give God thanks for the blessings of all of you, our partners in ministry.

Yours in Christ,

The Rev. Maxine Barnett, Rector

* The Rev. Denise Galloway serves as Deacon and Director of Outreach at the Cathedral of the Incarnation. She coordinates various aspects of the Cathedral's pastoral care ministry and leads the vibrant "Neighbors Being Neighbors" ministry, visiting "the sweet spot" located on Jackson Street in Hempstead several times a week to minister to God's people where they are. (incarnationgc.org)