St. John’s Episcopal Church
207 Albany Avenue, Kingston, NY 12401

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The Good News of St. John’s

March, 2023

  1. March 30, 2023

    This Sunday: April 2

    • Palm Sunday – Read below for special instructions regarding kids’ worship

    • Inquirer’s Class – What We Believe: The Creeds of the Church… and Beyond!

    Palm Sunday: A Complicated and Paradoxical Day

    On Palm Sunday we begin the story of Jesus’ journey in his final days. Jesus enters Jerusalem to the shouts of “Hosanna!” – a triumphal entry for a messiah. What happened next? What can we learn from this part of the story? We reflect on the complexity and drama inherent in human nature and in the society we create.

    All of us will begin in the Sanctuary for the special Liturgy of the Palms. Then, the young people will go with Leah for a special lesson. We will all come back together for Communion and end with the Reading of the Passion. Finally, we all leave the sanctuary in silence.

    What We Believe: The Creeds of the Church… and Beyond!
    Parish Hall from 1:00-3:30

    Christianity in America is many-faceted. So much so that 2 different communities that both call themselves Christian can have two completely opposing beliefs. How do we make sense of that? And where is the Episcopal Church in all of this? We’ll discuss the catechism, the Nicene Creed, the Resurrection, the Virgin Mary, the Trinity, what we believe about the Eucharist, and more. We’ll also talk about the difference between faith and belief.

    All are welcome to join in our Inquirer’s Class. Come to the whole series or come to the topics that interest you the most. Learn more or register, here.

    What is “Inquirer’s Class?

    Whether you are new to the Episcopal Church or you have been here for years and want to learn more, this class is for you! We take a deeper dive into our Christian faith and how that is expressed as Episcopalians through 6 class sessions. Come to all of them or just come to the sessions where the topics interest you the most.

    This class also serves as preparation for adult baptism, confirmation, or reception into the Episcopal Church. Speak with Rev. Michelle to learn more.

    _____________________________________________

    Easter Memorials

    One way of making an offering at Easter is through our Easter Memorials program. It’s a wonderful way to honor a loved one or offer thanksgiving for the abundance in your life. Each memorial will be listed in the Easter Sunday bulletin.You can choose to help us pay for the flowers that adorn our Easter altar AND/OR to contribute to the Easter Outreach donation, which is going to People’s Place this year. You have a few ways to do this.

    1. Use the form/envelope found in the Sunday bulletin and return with a check or cash to the church before April 5. If you’re here on Sunday, simply put the envelope in the donation plate.
    2. Email Rev. Michelle with the words you would like to have in the Easter Sunday bulletin before April 5. Then, use our Paypal account to make the donation. Choose “one-time donation” and be sure to leave a note on the next page about how you would like to have your donation distributed.
    3. Send a check to the church, marking the memo line with how you would like to apply the donated funds and email Rev. Michelle before April 5 with the words you would like to have in the Easter Sunday bulletin.
    Thank you for your donation!
    ____________________________________________

    Holy Week Schedule

    ________________________________________________

    Our Director of Music Offers “9:30 Sunday Music”

    I have been surprised at how few music schools offer organ studies for worship any longer. There are very few organ students now except those who study to become concert organists. Patelsons, which was THE former music center in NYC for organists, had only a small box full of music before it closed in recent years. Organ music is seldom published on the scale it once was, and it is expensive. If I need a title that isn’t in print, I now need to order it from England, and it has to be printed especially for my order.On Sundays, between 9:30 and 10:00, I am offering organ literature from the hundreds of years of work, and devotion of other organists. Bach dedicated all his sacred music in this way: “Soli deo Gloria” or To the Glory of God only.

    So, I invite you to come a little early and hear music that once was commonly heard but is less and less frequently heard anywhere. God Bless.

    Soli deo Gloria,
    Terry Earles

    ______________________________________________

    A New Offering at St. John’s

    I have to admit that the pandemic has made me aware of the risks that many people deal with every day. Now that we are all living with covid as a part of our reality, those with autoimmune disorders have so much more to navigate than those who do not.  I’m really proud to see one of our beloved St. John’s members, Sara Hutton, offer such an important support group right now. May this be a blessing to many.           – Rev. Michelle

     

    ____________________________________________________

    Holy Week: Ancient Rites of the Pilgrim Path


    Dear Ones,

    Holy Week is the most sacred time in the Christian faith.

    From earliest times Christians have observed the week before Easter as a journey of special devotion that can have a life-changing effect on us in the present. Jerusalem is the site of many sacred places where Jesus suffered and died. And for centuries, pilgrims have followed the path of Jesus in his last days at these places with processions and worship services.

    The rites Episcopalians and other Christians will observe during Holy Week evolved from the observances of the pilgrims at these holy sites. These rites provide a worship experience of the last days of Jesus’ earthly life, as well as the time and events leading up to the Resurrection.

    Find all the details here: Holy Week – St. John’s Kingston

    Come and worship this coming week and journey into the deeper meaning of Easter.

    In God’s love and mine,
    Rev. Michelle

    ________________________________________________________

    Announcements for April 2
    Palm Sunday

    Easter Memorials Please consider making an offering to help cover the cost of Easter flowers or toward our Easter Outreach recipient, People’s Place. Use the slips/envelopes in your bulletin or email Rev. Michelle before Wednesday, April 5. All memorials will be listed in the Easter Sunday bulletin. It’s a meaningful way to help and to honor your loved ones.

    THIS SUNDAY! April 2
    What We Believe: The Creeds of the Church… And Beyond!     A part of the ongoing Inquirer’s Class series at St. John’s. We meet from 1:00-3:30 in the Parish Hall on Sunday afternoon.  Christianity in America is many-faceted. So much so that 2 different communities that both call themselves Christian can have two completely opposing beliefs. How do we make sense of that? And where is the Episcopal Church in all of this? We’ll discuss the catechism, the Nicene Creed, the Resurrection, the Virgin Mary, the Trinity, what we believe about the Eucharist, and more. We’ll also talk about the difference between faith and belief.

    Social Hour Hosting: You are invited to sign up on the bulletin board in the Vestibule to be a social hour host! Talk with our Hospitality Coordinator, Barbara Johnston for more information.

    Page Turners Book Club Meetings are on the first Thursday of the month at 2 p.m., in the parish hall. Here’s what we selected for the next few months: April 6 – Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus; May 4 – If on A Winter’s Night A Traveler by Italo Calvino. All are welcome! Interested? Talk with Lynn Dennison.

    St. John’s Office Hours
    Mondays from 12:00-4:00 pm and Thursdays from 1:00-3:00 pm
    Phone: 845-331-2252
    Email:     stjohnskingston@aol.com
    Please note: Rev. Michelle’s Sabbath Day is Friday and she is unavailable.

    Have an announcement for the bulletin?
    Please send by Wednesday at noon to     stjohnskingston@aol.comAnchor.

    2023 Easter Season at St. John’s

    Here are the many opportunities for people to engage and learn at St. John’s over the coming months. Look for more information here in our e-newsletter, The Good News from St. John’s.
    FOR DETAILED SCHEDULE OF HOLY WEEK SERVICES, PLEASE SEE ABOVE.Apr 9: Easter Sunday: Festive Choral Eucharist with Godly Play provided, followed by Community Brunch and Egg Hunt for the kids.
    Apr 16: Healing Sunday, no Godly Play
    Apr 23: Outreach Meeting after worship.
    How We Read Scripture I: The Hebrew Scriptures. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    Apr 30: Rector’s Forum – Life at the Time of Jesus. After worship.
    May 7: All Ages Worship
    How We Read Scripture II: The Greek Scriptures. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    May 20: Consecration of Matthew Heyd as Bishop Coadjutor of the Diocese of New York, Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine in NYC.
    May 21: Godly Play for kids, Healing Sunday
    What We Do: Ministry and the Baptismal Covenant. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    May 28: The Feast of Pentecost

  2. March 24, 2023

    This Sunday: March 26
    Rector’s Forum: Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia
    Who We Are: History and Structure of the Episcopal Church

    Rector’s Forum: Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
    After worship in the Parish Hall.

    The Alzheimer’s Association, Hudson Valley Chapter, is coming this Sunday to talk about the impact of these diseases along with risk factors, stages, research, and treatments. This is good information for everyone to know so we can care for ourselves and our loved ones.

    WEAR PURPLE! To show your support of the work of the Alzheimer’s Association, please wear purple to church. Plus, it’s Lent, so purple is the perfect color for a Lenten Sunday.

    __________________________________________

    Who We are: History and Structure of the Episcopal Church
    Parish Hall from 1:00-3:30

    It’s a part of our human nature that our history shapes who we are. This is true of faith communities too. In this session, we spend time discussing many of the people and events that gave form to the Episcopal Church and how all of that shaped the ways in which we engaged the Christian faith then…. and continue our journey in Christ today.

    All are welcome to join in our Inquirer’s Class. Come to the whole series or come to the topics that interest you the most. Learn more or register, here.

    What is “Inquirer’s Class?

    Whether you are new to the Episcopal Church or you have been here for years and want to learn more, this class is for you! We take a deeper dive into our Christian faith and how that is expressed as Episcopalians through 6 class sessions. Come to all of them or just come to the sessions where the topics interest you the most.

    This class also serves as preparation for adult baptism, confirmation, or reception into the Episcopal Church. Speak with Rev. Michelle to learn more.

    ______________________________________________________________

    Vestry Meeting Notes

    The St. John’s Vestry meets on the third Monday every month at 6:00 pm in the Parish Hall.

    Update on Discernment
    Please keep the Vestry in your prayers as we continue to discern how our current financial reality can be used to renew the ministry of St. John’s. The adjustment of the Rector’s salary, hours, and responsibilities is central to this discernment so we are taking the time that is needed to pray and deliberate with the Holy Spirit. Please continue your individual exploration of the gifts that you have to offer and employ in our common ministry. And please bring your prayerful insights and comments to any one of the Vestry members. Thank you!

    Finance Report

    _____________________________________________________

    Holy Week Schedule

    _______________________________________________________

    During the Week at St. John’s

    Two New St. John’s Community Partners Offer Classes for Kids!
    Did you know?: St. John’s actively seeks ways to rent out our space. Of course this helps with our finances but, more importantly, this helps us to build relationships and community.

    We have recently been blessed with 2 people who are offering classes for kids. Let’s help our new Community Partners have successful ventures by signing up or passing along the information to friends, co-workers, and family members.

    _______________________________________________________________

    Apology: An Acknowledgment of the Breach


    Dear Ones,
    Today I want to share a few words from the Rev. Richard Witt.
    Richard has been with us at St. John’s before as a supply priest and guest preacher. He will return in June to preach for us.

    Richard is the Executive Director of Rural and Migrant Ministries (RMM). RMM is a statewide organization who works to support migrant farmworkers across the state and its office is outside of Newburgh. As a priest in our diocese – the Diocese of New York (Hudson Valley and NYC), Richard is a member of the Reparations Commission, engaged in reparations work in this diocese for 17 years. Here is what he has to say about tomorrow’s Service of Apology (shared with permission):

    I heard many in the early years exclaim: “This was a southern issue, not a northern issue.” and “our congregation is too new to have participated” and “I wasn’t around.” The more we have explored the more we have realized that the North bankrolled and benefitted from enslavement, that New York had the second largest slave market in the United States, that the Hudson Valley agricultural system got its start with slaves, that our banking system (read Wall Street) rested on enslavement. In turn, we have come to realize through our exploration that this legacy led to New Deal decisions that excluded farmworkers from a day of rest until 2019; that zoning and banking regulations shepherded, and continue to shepherd, people away from many of the suburbs that support our parishes; and the maintenance of a criminal justice system that somehow continues the ongoing oppression of people of color. In other words, many more of us have benefitted, and continue to benefit, even though “we weren’t there”.

    There clearly is much to be done to repair this harm. There is much to be done to change the direction of this legacy. Our call is on-going. And, somewhere in this call is the simple act of apologizing – apologizing publicly and breaking our cycle of silence as a Diocese. We have never apologized.

    The Bishop, as the leader of the Diocese, and in the name of the Diocese has called us to join him in apologizing. He has done this in part because of the work we all have done over these past two decades. We will never agree on the specifics of apology, our apology will never be enough. There are those who will be confused by it, or even angered by it. We will have different opinions of our own complicity. I would say that our work and prayer over these years gives us enough to know that we need to apologize. Perhaps we could take another seventeen years to debate the exact apology and come to an agreement – and I would say good, I do hope that the debate will continue. Though I know we will never come to a complete agreement. But, we know enough now to apologize. It is a start.

    Please forgive me as I say one more thing. During these years, both as a part of the Reparations process, and in my role at Rural & Migrant Ministry, I have heard countless Black brothers and sisters yearn for an apology, for an acknowledgement of the breach, yearn for an ownership of complicity, yearn for humility. I have come to realize that this apology is a step toward removing the walls that divide us and in turn an opportunity for all of us to witness God’s love more fully.      – The Rev. Richard Witt

    Beloved Ones, so often, we are very mindful of our busy schedule, taking care of the big list of little things, and we miss the significant, most important things. I believe this to be a significant, important thing. Here’s a story from Religion News Service: NY Episcopalians to apologize for slavery & aftermath at Manhattan service (religionnews.com)

    The diocese is paying for a bus to take people from the Hudson Valley to the Cathedral and there is room on this bus. We will be leaving New Paltz at 8:00 am and return in the late afternoon. As I told you in my last letter to you, I am going as a vested member of the clergy and Ana is going as one of the musicians. So often, we are more mindful of our busy schedule, taking care of the little things and we miss the significant, most important things. I believe this to be a significant, important thing. Here’s a story from Religion News Service: NY Episcopalians to apologize for slavery & aftermath at Manhattan service (religionnews.com)

    If you would like to join us on the bus, email me as soon as possible at michelle.stjohnskingston@gmail.com. You can also view the service at home: Calendar – Cathedral of Saint John the Divine (stjohndivine.org)

    Whatever your decision, I hope that you will consider seriously your engagement with the work of Anti-Racism both in your own life and in our common life as the community of St. John’s.

    In God’s love and mine,
    Rev. Michelle

    ____________________________________________________________________

    Announcements for March 26
    The Fifth Sunday in Lent

    Easter Memorials Please consider making an offering to help cover the cost of Easter flowers or toward our Easter Outreach recipient, People’s Place. Use the slips/envelopes in your bulletin or email Rev. Michelle before Wednesday, April 5. All memorials will be listed in the Easter Sunday bulletin. It’s a meaningful way to help and to honor your loved ones.

    THIS SUNDAY is Purple Sunday! Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia The Alzheimer’s Association is coming on Sunday, March 26 to talk about the impact of these diseases along with risk factors, stages, research, and treatments. Please wear purple to church to show your support of the work of the Alzheimer’s Association.

    THIS SUNDAY! Who We Are: History and Structure of the Episcopal Church A part of the ongoing Inquirer’s Class series at St. John’s. We meet from 1:00-3:30 in the Parish Hall on Sunday afternoon. It’s a part of our human nature that our history shapes who we are. This is true of faith communities too. In this session, we spend time discussing many of the people and events that gave form to the Episcopal Church and how all of that shaped the ways in which we engaged the Christian faith then…. and continue our journey in Christ today.

    NEXT SUNDAY! April 2
    What We Believe: The Creeds of the Church… And Beyond!     A part of the ongoing Inquirer’s Class series at St. John’s. We meet from 1:00-3:30 in the Parish Hall on Sunday afternoon.  Christianity in America is many-faceted. So much so that 2 different communities that both call themselves Christian can have two completely opposing beliefs. How do we make sense of that? And where is the Episcopal Church in all of this? We’ll discuss the catechism, the Nicene Creed, the Resurrection, the Virgin Mary, the Trinity, what we believe about the Eucharist, and more. We’ll also talk about the difference between faith and belief.

    Social Hour Hosting: You are invited to sign up on the bulletin board in the Vestibule to be a social hour host! Talk with our Hospitality Coordinator, Barbara Johnston for more information.

    Page Turners Book Club Meetings are on the first Thursday of the month at 2 p.m., in the parish hall. Here’s what we selected for the next few months: April 6 – Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus; May 4 – If on A Winter’s Night A Traveler by Italo Calvino. All are welcome! Interested? Talk with Lynn Dennison.

    St. John’s Office Hours
    Mondays from 12:00-4:00 pm and Thursdays from 1:00-3:00 pm
    Phone: 845-331-2252
    Email:     stjohnskingston@aol.com
    Please note: Rev. Michelle’s Sabbath Day is Friday and she is unavailable.

    Have an announcement for the bulletin?
    Please send by Wednesday at noon to     stjohnskingston@aol.comAnchor.

    2023 Holy Week and Easter Season at St. John’s

    Here are the many opportunities for people to engage and learn at St. John’s over the coming months. Look for more information here in our e-newsletter, The Good News from St. John’s.
    Mar 26: Purple Sunday! For our Rector’s Forum this month, the Alzheimer’s Association will make a presentation about Alzheimer’s and dementia. After Worship.
    Who We Are: History / Structure of the Episcopal Church. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    Apr 2: Palm Sunday – young people’s lesson with Leah Siuta.
    What We Believe: The Creeds of the Church. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.

    FOR DETAILED SCHEDULE OF HOLY WEEK SERVICES, PLEASE SEE ABOVE.

    Apr 9: Easter Sunday: Festive Choral Eucharist with Godly Play provided, followed by Community Brunch and Egg Hunt for the kids.
    Apr 16: Healing Sunday, no Godly Play
    Apr 23: Outreach Meeting after worship.
    How We Read Scripture I: The Hebrew Scriptures. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    Apr 30: Rector’s Forum – Life at the Time of Jesus. After worship.
    May 7: All Ages Worship
    How We Read Scripture II: The Greek Scriptures. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    May 20: Consecration of Matthew Heyd as Bishop Coadjutor of the Diocese of New York, Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine in NYC.
    May 21: Godly Play for kids, Healing Sunday
    What We Do: Ministry and the Baptismal Covenant. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    May 28: The Feast of Pentecost

  3. March 9, 2023

    This Sunday: March 12
    How We Pray: Worship in the Episcopal Church
    Parish Hall from 1:00-3:30

    Have you ever wondered why we do the things we do during worship? Where did all of these practices come from? What do all the symbols mean – the colors, the white robes, the gestures? What is in the Prayer Book? What is the liturgical year? What is the deeper meaning behind the services of Holy Week? And what is “prayer” anyway? Phew… lots to talk about here. Bring all your questions!

    All are welcome to join in our Inquirer’s Class. Come to the whole series or come to the topics that interest you the most. Learn more or register, here.

    What is “Inquirer’s Class?

    Whether you are new to the Episcopal Church or you have been here for years and want to learn more, this class is for you! We take a deeper dive into our Christian faith and how that is expressed as Episcopalians through 6 class sessions. Come to all of them or just come to the sessions where the topics interest you the most.

    This class also serves as preparation for adult baptism, confirmation, or reception into the Episcopal Church. Speak with Rev. Michelle to learn more.

    _______________________________________________________

    During the Week at St. John’s

    Two New St. John’s Community Partners Offer Classes for Kids!
    Did you know?: St. John’s actively seeks ways to rent out our space. Of course this helps with our finances but, more importantly, this helps us to build relationships and community. We have recently been blessed with 2 people who are offering classes for kids. Let’s help our new Community Partners have successful ventures by signing up or passing along the information to friends, co-workers, and family members.

    _________________________________________

    Mac N’ Cheese Bakeoff: We had a great time!

    Thank you to everyone who came out to support Angel Food East at the return of the Mac n’ Cheese Bakeoff! It was a fun afternoon and we successfully raised a bunch of money for Angel Food East.

    Special congratulations to St. John’s parishioner Steve Axelson who won in the category of “Traditional” on behalf of an agency. Steve is the chef at People’s Place Community Cafe. Well done, Steve!

    Here are all the winners! Please thank them by supporting their establishments. They gave of their skill, time, and pantry shelves to support Angel Food East so let’s keep the goodwill flowing!

    • Professional Traditional DIETZ DINER
    • Professional Exotic URBAN FORK – Crack n Mac
    • Amateur Traditional FIONA MCELROY
    • Amateur Exotic CRYSTAL AGUAYO – Pastelon
    • Agency Traditional PEOPLE’S PLACE
    • Agency Exotic BLACKBOARD BISTRO – Pulled Pork Mac n Cheese
    • Kid’s Choice Award – Hole in the Wall Donuts – Cherry Donut Mac n Cheese
    • People’s Choice Award – Patty Manfrates – Traditional

    __________________________________________________________

    What We Have Left Undone


    Soon after my arrival in the Diocese of New York about 7 years ago, I began to hear about a group called the Reparations Committee, which eventually became the Reparations Commission. What is this work?

    Those who are engaged in reparations work have made the moral decision to examine and explore our collective historical involvement in the enslavement of Black people and, subsequently, our ongoing involvement in systems that continue to oppress and marginalize Black people.

    It’s often not an easy conversation. There are people who still argue that slavery is a “Southern thing” despite the knowledge that, not only did people own slaves in the north (we have our own Sojourner Truth here in Ulster County) but that much of the wealth that built New York City were profits from the slave trade itself. There are also people who say, “this happened before I was born and I never did anything wrong.” Yet, all white people, no matter what socioeconomic class, have benefitted directly from systems of privilege (including wealth) that were designed to prevent access to Black people.

    My beloveds, these are not opinions. These are facts. And the continued denial of these facts has raised a heinous demon in the soul of our society. You all know me well enough to know that I don’t use that word every day but that is exactly what it is – a demon that conflates rhetoric, opinion, and truth in the attempt to justify the continued oppression of others as “the cost of doing business” or “collateral damage” or, worse.

    Meanwhile, the entire trajectory of the Hebrew Scriptures speaks in outright opposition to this evil. Which leads us to Jesus.

    Last week, in the Gospel, we read about Jesus talking to Nicodemus. And Jesus says to him: “Very truly, I tell you, we speak of what we know and testify to what we have seen; yet you do not receive our testimony.” Who are we, then, if we are not willing to receive the testimony of our own siblings who tell us of their oppression? We must be willing to look past the line we have drawn in the sand and see where Christ is pointing.

    So, let us begin by acknowledging that slavery is and was a sin. In so doing, it is proper to look at our Confession: Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. 
    By what we have done… and by what we have left undone. Dear Ones, this is the key phrase.

    We have left so much undone. We may not have been alive when slavery was the law but, we have to take seriously the continued effort to “undo” this sin because it still infects our systems and our institutions and, therefore, it still infects us.

    The Diocese of New York is collectively doing this work of undoing. And the Reparations Commission is leading all of us in this effort. You can learn more here.

    On Saturday, March 26 Bishop Andy Dietsche will be joined by Bishops Mary Glasspool, Allen Shin, and Bishop Coadjutor Elect Matt Heyd in a special service of apology. I am going as a vested member of the clergy. Ana is going as one of the musicians. And I ask you to consider going. Please do. And let us fill the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, with a prayer of apology that resounds far and wide, shakes the very ground under our feet, and opens our hearts to God’s deeper truth and grace that will lead us in our undoing.

    And then, let this be for us at St. John’s what carries us forward into an exploration of our own complicity in the evil of slavery.

    I’d like to end by saying this, and it’s something I have said before when it comes to our collective anti-racism work: We do not do this work to feel superior to those who do not do it. It’s much too important for it to be an ego trip. I will not tolerate anyone demeaning others or gossiping about others. Afterall, Nicodemus came to Jesus in earnest. Confrontation is one thing, and it is necessary. But we must always endeavor to speak the truth in love.

    In God’s love and mine,
    Rev. Michelle

    ________________________________________________

    Announcements for March 12
    The Third Sunday in Lent

    THIS SUNDAY: St. John’s Inquirer’s Class Begins! Join us in the Parish Hall from 1:00-3:30 for “How We Pray: Worship in the Episcopal Church.” Have you ever wondered why we do the things we do during worship? Where did all of these practices come from? What do all the symbols mean – the colors, the white robes, the gestures? What is in the Prayer Book? What is the liturgical year? What is the deeper meaning behind the services of Holy Week? And what is “prayer” anyway? Phew… lots to talk about here. Bring all your questions! All are welcome.

    Don’t forget: Godly Play on March 19! Parents: Come a little early and help your young people upstairs for Godly Play. Everyone will be back to join us in time for Eucharist.

    Purple Sunday: Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia The Alzheimer’s Association is coming on Sunday, March 26 to talk about the impact of these diseases along with risk factors, stages, research, and treatments. Please wear purple to church to show your support of the work of the Alzheimer’s Association.

    Social Hour Hosting: You are invited to sign up on the bulletin board in the Vestibule to be a social hour host! Talk with our Hospitality Coordinator, Barbara Johnston for more information.

    Lenten Activity Book for Families with Kids: You can pick up a copy of “This Is My Body” from Illustrated Ministry next to the bulletins. Designed to help children understand how important it is to take care of the gift of our body, a wonderful Lenten practice.

    Page Turners Book Club Meetings are on the first Thursday of the month at 2 p.m., in the parish hall. Here’s what we selected for the next few months: April 6 – Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus; May 4 – If on A Winter’s Night A Traveler by Italo Calvino. All are welcome! Interested? Talk with Lynn Dennison.

    St. John’s Office Hours
    Mondays from 12:00-4:00 pm and Thursdays from 1:00-3:00 pm
    Phone: 845-331-2252
    Email:     stjohnskingston@aol.com
    Please note: Rev. Michelle’s Sabbath Day is Friday.

    Have an announcement for the bulletin?
    Please send by Wednesday at noon to     stjohnskingston@aol.comAnchor.

    2023 Seasons of Lent and Easter at St. John’s

    Here are the many opportunities for people to engage and learn at St. John’s over the coming months. Look for more information here in our e-newsletter, The Good News at St. John’s.
    Mar 12: How We Pray: Worship in the Episcopal Church. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    Mar 19: Godly Play for kids, Healing Sunday
    Mar 26: Purple Sunday! For our Rector’s Forum this month, the Alzheimer’s Association will make a presentation about Alzheimer’s and dementia. After Worship.
    Who We Are: History / Structure of the Episcopal Church. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    Apr 2: Palm Sunday All Ages Worship
    What We Believe: The Creeds of the Church. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    Apr 6: Maundy Thursday – soup supper, Eucharist, foot-washing, cleaning of the Altar. Begins at 6:00 pm
    Apr7: Good Friday – Prayer service at 12:00 pm with the reading of the Passion. Stations of the Cross at 7:00 pm.
    Apr 8: Holy Saturday – Reflection and prayers followed by Work Party at 9:00 am. Easter Vigil begins at 8:00 pm
    Apr 9: Easter Sunday: Festive Choral Eucharist followed by Community Brunch and Egg Hunt for the kids
    Apr 16: Godly Play for kids, Healing Sunday
    Apr 23: How We Read Scripture I: The Hebrew Scriptures. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    Apr 30: Rector’s Forum – Life at the Time of Jesus
    May 7: All Ages Worship
    How We Read Scripture II: The Greek Scriptures. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    May 21: What We Do: Ministry and the Baptismal Covenant. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    May 28: The Feast of Pentecost

  4. March 2, 2023

    This Sunday: March 5

    All Ages Worship
    Begins at 10:00 am. We’ll be talking about the
    gift of curiosity and Jesus’ friend Nicodemus.

    and…

    Angel Food East Fundraiser

    Come to Keegan Ales for an afternoon of food and fun
    from 2-5 pm to support our feeding ministry, Angel Food East!

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    2023 Seasons of Lent and Easter at St. John’s

    Here are the many opportunities for people to engage and learn at St. John’s over the coming months. Look for more information here in our e-newsletter, The Good News at St. John’s.
    Mar 5: All Ages Worship – The Curiosity of Nicodemus
    Angel Food East Mac-n-Cheese Bakeoff Returns! Come for food and fun in support of our feeding ministry. Begins at 2:00 pm at Keegan Ales.
    Mar 12: How We Pray: Worship in the Episcopal Church. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    Mar 19: Godly Play for kids, Healing Sunday
    Mar 26: Purple Sunday! For our Rector’s Forum this month, the Alzheimer’s Association will make a presentation about Alzheimer’s and dementia. After Worship.
    Who We Are: History / Structure of the Episcopal Church. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    Apr 2: Palm Sunday All Ages Worship
    What We Believe: The Creeds of the Church. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    Apr 6: Maundy Thursday – soup supper, Eucharist, foot-washing, cleaning of the Altar. Begins at 6:00 pm
    Apr7: Good Friday – Prayer service at 12:00 pm with the reading of the Passion. Stations of the Cross at 7:00 pm.
    Apr 8: Holy Saturday – Reflection and prayers followed by Work Party at 9:00 am. Easter Vigil begins at 8:00 pm
    Apr 9: Easter Sunday: Festive Choral Eucharist followed by Community Brunch and Egg Hunt for the kids
    Apr 16: Godly Play for kids, Healing Sunday
    Apr 23: How We Read Scripture I: The Hebrew Scriptures. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    Apr 30: Rector’s Forum – Life at the Time of Jesus
    May 7: All Ages Worship
    How We Read Scripture II: The Greek Scriptures. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    May 21: What We Do: Ministry and the Baptismal Covenant. Inquirer’s Class is held from 1:00-3:30 pm.
    May 28: The Feast of Pentecost
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    St. John’s Inquirer’s Class

    Sign up for one or more sessions in the Vestibule or email Rev. Michelle at michelle.stjohnskingston.org

    _________________________________________________________
    A New St. John’s Community Parter Offers Classes!
    Did you know?: St. John’s actively seeks ways to rent out our space. Of course this helps with our finances but, more importantly, this helps us to build relationships and community. When Mac Maier contacted me, I was so excited to talk with him and see what we could work out because developing humor and improv skills is a wonderful way for kids to learn how to express themselves.
    If you know of kids in this age range, please pass the information along and let’s help Mac make this a successful venture. Take note: There are scholarships available! – Rev. Michelle
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    What Does It Mean to Practice?


    Every Wednesday, as we begin our Centering Prayer time together, I remind the group that the reason we come together is so that we can practice, not so that we can perfect the prayer itself. I believe this is something we all need to remember when it comes to any kind of prayer or spiritual practice. The time we devote to it, is time that we have set aside to practice.

    But what does that mean?

    First, let’s remind ourselves that many things can be spiritual practices – prayer, reading, singing, gardening, hiking, advocating for others… the list is endless. But not everything on the list will work as a spiritual practice for everyone. God made us all different and we all go through many things in our lives. What worked for us at one point is not necessarily going to be useful when we are going through something else.

    The biggest question we need to ask ourselves when we are determining whether something is a good spiritual practice for us is this: Is this something that challenges me enough to see myself more clearly and, thus, my relationship with others and with God?

    I’ll use myself as an example.
    I love watching movies – especially movies that have some kind of philosophical or psychological content to them. A movie like Inception or Blade Runner... something like that. I used to argue that watching these movies was a spiritual practice because storylines like this do inspire me to consider the nature of reality and our relationship with God. But when I really examined this, I realized that I loved these movies because they helped me to escape reality for a couple of hours. Now, escaping reality is not a spiritual practice. It isn’t a necessarily bad thing in moderation. It’s actually a form of self-care at times. But spiritual practice? No.

    This means, it’s important to be honest with yourself. For example, maybe singing is a spiritual practice for you because you find that God sings through you in some way but if you like singing in church because you enjoy how special it makes you feel… then you might want to examine that. It’s not that you need to stop singing. It’s just that you need to be really honest with yourself.

    Sometimes spiritual practices are difficult for us because sometimes this is what we need – a challenge of some kind to shake things up a bit. Other times, we may feel like a spiritual practice is boring or even annoying. Still, other times it may be quite enjoyable because we experience a state of bliss. As a matter of fact, people who maintain a consistent spiritual practice experience all of these things over time.

    In short, here’s what it means to practice:

    • Be honest with yourself. What is a good spiritual practice for you?
    • Give yourself over to a practice for a long enough period of time so that you can experience the fruits it has to offer. If it’s a daily practice, I suggest 2-3 months at least.
    • Let go of any expectation as to what those fruits will be. The important part is not the experience you have every time, but the fact that you showed up to practice. In other words: The day you really don’t want to do it, is the day you really need to do it.
    • Don’t hesitate to ask for God’s help when you’re struggling.

    If you’d like to talk more about spiritual practices, reach out to me.

    In God’s love and mine,
    Rev. Michelle

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    Announcements for March 5
    The Second Sunday in Lent

    THIS SUNDAY!

    • All Ages Worship at 10:00 am. We’ll be talking about the gift of curiosity and Jesus’ friend Nicodemus.
    • Mac-n-Cheese Bakeoff from 2-5 pm at Keegan Ales, a fundraiser for Angel Food East.

     Social Hour Hosting: You are invited to sign up on the bulletin board in the Vestibule to be a social hour host! Talk with our Hospitality Coordinator, Barbara Johnston for more information.

    Lenten Activity Book for Families with Kids: You can pick up a copy of “This Is My Body” from Illustrated Ministry next to the bulletins. Designed to help children understand how important it is to take care of the gift of our body, a wonderful Lenten practice.

    Calling all bakers! Do you like to make things in the kitchen? Our Communion Bread recipe is easy and quick. You bake one batch, deliver the bread to the church, and we keep it in the freezer until we use it. Sign up to bake for a month (or two) this year. The sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board in the Vestibule and so is the recipe.

    St. John’s Office Hours
    Mondays from 12:00-4:00 pm and Thursdays from 1:00-3:00 pm
    Phone: 845-331-2252
    Email:     stjohnskingston@aol.com
    Please note: Rev. Michelle’s Sabbath Day is Friday.

    Have an announcement for the bulletin?
    Please send by Wednesday at noon to     stjohnskingston@aol.com.