Mid-Summer Parish Update

Hi Everyone, 
Here we are in the middle of summer 2021.  To say that this has been an interesting and intense year would be an understatement.  That being said, the sun is still shining and as I write this there are no new COVID cases reported in any of the Atlantic Provinces.  We are still very blessed.  

Here are a few Parish Update Items to note as the summer season progresses:

1.  Offerings.  Thank you to everyone who has been faithful with their offerings through this time.  It is truly the only reason our parish is still here at a time where so many institutions are suffering.  Your faithfulness and consistency are most appreciated.  

2.  Backyard Summer Services.  We will be switching to “Backyard Summer Services” just for July and August this year.  So as of Sunday, July 4th services will take place in different locations around our parish.  The reasons for this are that it provides the opportunity to worship and fellowship at a time where we are still not allowed to do that inside, it allows for new leaders to lead services, and it allows people who may never darken the doors of a church building to participate in worship as we saw happen last year.  

A few points:     

a.  If you are unsure of what group you are in please call the office and we can help you.     

 b.  If you would like to receive Communion more often you are welcome to attend St. Paul’s, Oak Point or the group that meets at the Kiwanis Lodge where Art Gregg will be celebrating Communion regularly.  I will also be circulating throughout July celebrating Communion with different groups.       

c.  Offering will be collected at each group weekly for those who are not on e-offering.  

3.  Refugee Sponsorship.  Our parish has agreed to be the signing church for a Syrian Refugee family currently in Turkey looking to join their family in Saint John.  A few points to note:     a.  There will be different ways people in our parish can join in this important effort.  It will most likely take over a year to raise the money and complete the process for the family to be able to come.       b.  It is not the parish’s responsibility to raise the $65 000 necessary to bring the family to Canada.  There is a fundraising team led by Marie-Helene Morell composed of people both inside the parish and the greater community.  The main task of the Parish is to be the undersigning authority for the application.   That being said, there will be opportunities to help fundraise ahead.   

 4.  Cozy Corner Free Clothing Exchange.  Our Cozy Corner Clothing Exchange is up and running and led by Sana Nearing.  This ministry is for everyone who would like to drop off/Pick up clothing.  Please take advantage of this exciting ministry and consider volunteering for a few hours a week.  The hours of operation are Monday, 10-12, Thursday, 10-12, 6-8, Saturday, 10-12.  

That’s all for now.  May you be blessed with a great summer and may the Lord Jesus grant you a season of renewal and joy.

“Jesus-Centered, in the community, for the community”

The Rev’d Michael CainesPriest&Rector