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

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The Good News of St. John’s

August, 2025

  1. Aug 15

    Good News

    We hope you are all enjoying your last days of summer and that it was filled with beautiful memories and perhaps exciting travel. We encourage you to participate in services at Holy Cross/Santa Cruz as often as possible. It is a spiritually nourishing place and filled with caring people and an excellent priest, Father Eliacin Rosario Cruz.

    Our transition team continues to move forward in their work to discuss many aspects of future consolidation. We are expecting a formal Vestry vote in September, for each congregation. Please reach out to Leah Siuta, Lynn Dennison, or Liz Moeller if you have questions or concerns.

     

    Funeral Service for Roger

    We are saddened by the death of our long-time friend and parishioner, Roger Bonsteel on July 31st. Roger loved this parish and devoted many hours to help in so many ways over the years. Roger was also Treasurer of Angel Food East for many years. We will miss his humor, his kindness and compassion, and his quiet generosity. We ask you to keep Sue and their family in your prayers. His funeral service will be on Saturday, August 30th at 11:00 at St. Johns. Calling hours will be from 10 – 11 that morning, at the church. The family has requested memorial donations go to Angel Food East, PO Box 3813, Kingston, NY 12402

    Parish Notes at Holy Cross/Santa Cruz/St. John’s

     

    Weekly Service & Sunday Services

    Mid-Week Eucharist Service, Wednesdays 12PM

    Sunday 10AM Holy Eucharist Service, English

    Sunday, 4PM  Holy Eucharist Service, Spanish

    Monthly Taize Service, 7PM, Third Thursday of the Month

     

    Worship at the Park next Sunday, August 24, 10AM-3PM

    Bilingual Outdoor Service & Congregational Picnic

    We’re heading back to the park for a joyful day of worship, fellowship, and fun!

    Marbletown Park — 350 Tongore Road, Kingston, NY 12401

    Join us for a bilingual service under the open sky, followed by a potluck picnic. Please bring food and drinks to share, along with your own plates, cups, and utensils to help us care for creation and reduce waste. After worship, we’ll enjoy games, good conversation, and time to simply be together.

    What to bring:

    • Something delicious to share
    • A lawn chair or picnic blanket
    • Potluck dish & beverages to share
    • Reusable eating utensils
    • Lawn games
    • A playful spirit!

    This annual tradition reminds us that church is not a building—it’s the people, gathered in love, wherever we may be.

    DIRECTIONS TO THE PARK FROM KINGSTON:

    • Follow Broadway to I-587 W/Col Chandler Dr
    • 3 min (0.7 mi)
    • Take US-209 S to Tongore Rd in Marbletown
    • 12 min (9.7 mi)
    • Follow Tongore Rd to your destination
    • 2 min (1.1 mi)

    Marbletown Town Park

    350 Tongore Rd, Kingston, NY 12401

    Upcoming Taize Service, Thursday, August 21 at 7:00PM

    Every 3rd Thursday of the month
    Taizé service is a quiet, meditative gathering that includes candlelight, simple chants, scripture, and silence. Rooted in the ecumenical Christian community of Taizé, France, this form of prayer invites deep reflection and spiritual renewal.

    Important reminder !!  While we are all gradually becoming oriented towards HCSC, there is still programming and activities happening at St. John’s and we can use your help maintaining our beautiful space.

    ANGEL FOOD EAST

    Angel Food East is looking for volunteers, especially regular and substitute drivers to deliver meals on Thursdays. Speak to Lynn Dennison or Claudette Ford for more information.

    PLEDGES

    We also encourage everyone to keep up with your pledges to St. John’s and extend a thank you to those who have been sending in their pledges, or dropping them in the basket at HCSC.

    BACK TO SCHOOL: UIDN School Supply Drive 

    Bring items to Holy Cross/Santa Cruz Episcopal, Church, 30 Pine Grove Avenue, Kingston, until August 29. Mondays/Tuesdays/Thursdays/ Fridays: 10 am – 3 pm. Wednesdays: 10am-4pm. items to Holy Cross/Santa Cruz Episcopal 30 Pine Grove Avenue, Kingst

    Questions?
    uidn@ulsterimmigrantdefensenetwork.org or https://ulsterimmigrantdefensenetwork.org/2025-school-supply-drive

    THANK YOU

    Thank You to Don Hughes and others who have been working hard recently to clean up our overgrown Memorial Garden. Your efforts are much appreciated and this has restored our beautiful space. Thanks also to Leah and Joe, and Sara for monitoring our grounds and ensuring small repairs are done.

     

    Garden Help: (at HCSC)

    Can you water and weed the church garden a few days in a week this summer?  Thank you to everyone who already signed up and took a week of garden care!!  Please sign up on the watering schedule (now on the bulletin board in the Parish Office hall), or contact Zoe: 917-670-6392 about weeks you could water. Thanks!

    Children’s Ministry Updates:

    The Sunday School Team (Bethany, Ricci, Leah, and Patty) are planning for an exciting year and hope you will join us. The Sunday School room is downstairs in the Fellowship Hall. Parents can walk their children down at the start of the service and the group will return before Eucharist.

    The Sunday School Team is also looking for volunteers willing to complete the Safe Church Training and join our team as helpers or Godly Play teachers in the Fall. The more volunteers we have the more sustainable this ministry becomes for our growing community. Please reach out to Bethany or Ricci if you are interested in a teaching or helper role in this vital service of the church. Sunday school begins again on Sunday, September 7th.

     

    An Invitation to Serve
    Liturgy is the work of the people—the shared, holy labor of our community gathered in prayer and praise. It takes many hands and hearts to support this sacred work, and we invite you to consider joining one of the ministries that help shape our worship together.

    We are currently seeking new volunteers for the following roles:
    – Eucharistic Visitors (bringing Communion to those who cannot attend church)
    – Eucharistic Ministers (assisting at the altar during services)
    – Altar Guild (preparing the altar and sacred vessels)
    – Bread Baking (offering fresh-baked bread for the Eucharist)
    – Thurifers (those who serve with incense during special services)
    – Choir Members
    – Ushers and Door Angels
    – Acolytes

    If one of these ministries speaks to you—or if you’re simply curious—please reach out to Fr. Eliacín. There will be opportunities for conversation, training, and support. It is healthy and life-giving to have a rotation of ministers in our worship. It allows others to step into new roles, and it makes space for new gifts to be shared. Come be part of this holy work. There is a place for you.

    PRAYER TREE

    Our prayer Tree was created for us to write monthly prayer requests for the entire year. Parishioners are asked to add their prayer requests on a monthly basis. These will be read at the Prayers of the People on the last Sunday of each month.

    TRANSITION

    The Transitional team for Discernment on Merger/Consolidation meets twice a month. HC+SC representatives: Cheryl Rigg-Harris, Patty Parker, Tebbie Collins. Saint John’s representatives: Leah Siuta, Liz Moeller, Lynn Dennison.  Clergy: Rev. Susan Copley & Fr. Eliacín. Keep the team in your prayers.

     

    Volunteers Needed

    Coffee Hour – Set up, clean up and/or bring food to share. This is an important activity to support. Please reach out to Peter (Parish Administrator): Wednesdays, 9-4 to coordinate how you can help!

     

    Thrift Shop: Help needed in the Thrift Shop to work once or twice monthly.  The hours of operation are Wednesdays 3-5 & Saturdays 9-1.  See Madeline or Vinnie if you can assist.

    UIDN Food Pantry- Every Wednesday

    • Shifts: 12 pm to 3 pm and 3 to 6 pm.
    • The Ulster Immigrant Defense Network (UIDN) needs volunteers to assist at the food pantry. Join us in this important work to support our immigrant neighbors.
    • Interested? Contact Beth Strum from UIDN at strumb@hotmail.com

     Holy Cross + Santa Cruz Office Hours

    • Fr. Eliacín: Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday, 10AM-2PM, meetings by appointment.
      • Contact: rev.eliacin@gmail.com or 360-536-5005.
    • Chuck Krulis: Mondays, 10-12
    • Peter (Parish Administrator):  Wednesdays, 9-4 (if needed call  845-594-1984)

    Welcome to All

    Church Phone Number: (845) 331-6796

    Leah and Lynn

    St. John’s Wardens

  2. June 20

    Save the Date: Parish-Wide Meeting June 22nd

    During Coffee Hour on Sunday, June 22, all members of Holy Cross + Santa
    Cruz and Saint John’s are invited to a special parish-wide meeting. The Discernment Transitional Team will present an update on where we are in our shared discernment process. This gathering is an opportunity to hear more about the journey so far, offer your feedback, and ask questions. Some questions may have clear answers now—others will unfold as we continue walking together. Your presence and voice are important.Please join us!

    Weekly Service & Sunday Services

    Mid-Week Eucharist Service: Wednesdays 12pm
    Sunday 10am: Holy Eucharist Service, English
    Sunday, 4pm: Holy Eucharist Service, Spanish
    Monthly Taize Service: 7PM, Third Thursday of the Month

    Children’s Ministry Updates

    The Sunday School Team (Bethany, Ricci, Leah, and Patty) would like to share an updated Sunday School Schedule for the summer. The final Godly Play session this school year will be June 22nd during the service. The Sunday School room is downstairs in the Fellowship Hall. Parents can walk their children down at the start of the service and the group will return before Eucharist.

    This summer volunteers will be providing a craft activity for children during Coffee Hour each week as follows:

    July 6th – Michelle H
    July 13th – Carol D
    July 20th – Emily B
    July 27th – Jane B
    Aug 3rd – Open
    Aug 10th – Heidi N
    Aug 17th – Madeline H
    Aug 24th – Open
    Aug 31st – Barbara J

    If you would like to cover an open week with a low key craft project, please
    contact Bethany or Ricci. No training needed for this role!

    The Sunday School Team is also looking for volunteers willing to complete the Safe Church Training and join our team as helpers or Godly Play teachers in the Fall. The more volunteers we have the more sustainable this ministry becomes for our growing community. Please reach out to Bethany or Ricci if you are interested in a teaching or helper role in this vital service of the church.

    An Invitation to Serve
    Liturgy is the work of the people—the shared, holy labor of our community gathered in prayer and praise. It takes many hands and hearts to support this sacred work, and we invite you to consider joining one of the ministries that help shape our worship together.We are currently seeking new volunteers for the following roles:
    – Eucharistic Visitors (bringing Communion to those who cannot attend church)
    – Eucharistic Ministers (assisting at the altar during services)
    – Altar Guild (preparing the altar and sacred vessels)
    – Bread Baking (offering fresh-baked bread for the Eucharist)
    – Thurifers (those who serve with incense during special services)

    If one of these ministries speaks to you—or if you’re simply curious—please
    reach out to Fr. Eliacín. There will be opportunities for conversation, training,
    and support.

    It is healthy and life-giving to have a rotation of ministers in our worship. It
    allows others to step into new roles, and it makes space for new gifts to be
    shared.

    Come be part of this holy work. There is a place for you.

    With gratitude,
    Fr. Eliacín

    A Note from St. John’s Wardens

    Leah and I encourage you to participate in any of the above ministries. As we move forward becoming one worshipping community, these are rewarding ways to serve during the liturgy and a good way to learn more about the church and to get to know people. As Eliacin mentions, training will be provided in all these areas.

    Lynn and Leah
    St. John’s Wardens

  3. May 22nd

    Sunday, June 1st at the 10:00am Service

    Recognition and thanks for the Legacy of Saint Johns, Kingston

    We anticipate that this will be our final service at St. John’s as we are moving forward to worship with Holy Cross/Santa Cruz (Pine Grove Avenue, Kingston). We invite you to join us for this service of gratitude as we reflect on our history of almost 200 years! We will have a service of remembrance, gratitude, blessings for our history, community and faith! This will be followed by a special luncheon provided by St. John’s, a few short tributes, and tours of the buildings and grounds! We hope you will join us!!

    Sunday, June 8th at the 10:00am Service

    The Festival of Pentecost & the beginning of a shared ministry at Holy Cross/Santa Cruz

    This festival day is often considered the “birthday of the church”. It is a time of new beginnings and anticipation of rebirth. This joyous day will also mark the beginning of St. Johns & Holy Cross/Santa Cruz worshipping as one community of faith. Although, no formal decision has been made about a formal merger, we are joining our worshipping community as we consider this option. All are welcomed!

    St. John’s Upcoming Schedule

    May 25th: Combined service at Holy Cross/Santa Cruz – with Godly Play
    June 1st: A service of gratitude and celebration of the legacy of St. John’s – worshipping as one community with picnic afterward
    June 8th: Feast of the Pentecost at Holy Cross/Santa Cruz– First Sunday- joining together as one worshipping community

  4. May 9th

    Important Update From St. John’s

    Dear Beloved members of Saint Johns,

    We are writing to share some important and hopeful news with you.

    The Vestry of Saint John’s has made the faithful and heartfelt decision that our final service at Saint John’s will take place on Sunday, June 1. Beginning June 8th —on the joyous Feast of Pentecost—we will join Holy Cross & Santa Cruz for worship and congregational life.

    While this does not mean that a formal merger has been finalized (that decision will come later, through careful discernment and mutual agreement by both vestries), it does mark a beautiful new season: two congregations coming together to worship as one community.

    In the month of May, we will worship together at HCSC on Sunday, May 11th and Sunday, May 25th. On May 18th, we will be at each church separately. This gives us time for reflection and conversation as the St. John’s community. Rev. Susan Copely will be with us for this Sunday.

    On June 1st, we will have a very special service with both congregations at Saint Johns which will be a service of celebration and gratitude for our history and legacy of nearly 200 years. More plans and details for this service will be shared but we are planning a special picnic luncheon on the parish lawn following the service. We hope you will join us in marking this momentous time and invite former parishioners and friends as well.

    Saint John’s Vestry will continue overseeing our responsibilities, especially our commitment to the ministry Angel Food East, and we will remain attentive to our ongoing affairs such as managing the buildings and finances. At the same time, we will continue coordinating ways to thoughtfully integrate the members of both churches into our new shared liturgical and congregational life.

    Over the past few months, Holy Cross & Santa Cruz has been welcoming us, the servants whom God is sending. We are being given the sacred opportunity for both congregations to make room—to expand our circle of service, friendship, and love. In God’s household we feel the invitation to serve together in joy.

    Rev. Eliacin Rosario-Cruz is also looking forward to deepening his pastoral care for the people of Saint John’s, He has shared that he sees it is a gift and a privilege to walk alongside us as we build new relationships of trust and mutual ministry.

    Of course, even the most hopeful growth comes with its challenges. But we are confident that we will meet these changes with wisdom, hope, faith, and love—trusting in the Spirit who is already at work among us.

    Thank you for holding this tender and exciting transition in your prayers.

    With gratitude and anticipation,
    Lynn and Leah, on behalf of the St. John’s Vestry and the transition team

    Leah Siuta | (845) 380-8413 |  Leah.stjohnskingston@gmail.com
    Lynn Dennison |  (845) 594-4859 | LynnsDennison@gmail.com

    St. John’s Upcoming Schedule
    May 11th: Combined service at Holy Cross/Santa Cruz – Godly Play
    May 18th: Service at Saint John’s with Rev. Susan Copely
    May 25th: Combined service at Holy Cross/Santa Cruz – with Godly Play
    June 1st: A service of gratitude and celebration of the legacy of St. John’s – worshipping as one community with picnic afterward
    June 8th: Feast of the Pentecost at Holy Cross/Santa Cruz– First Sunday- joining together as one worshipping community

  5. April 1

    A Note from Leah and Lynn, St. John’s Wardens

     

    Dear Friends of St. John’s,We welcome the signs of Spring and of the Easter season. We welcome signs of renewal and rebirth. At St. John’s, we look to the future, perhaps with a bit of anxiety over the unknown, but also with hope of a bright future for the Episcopal community of Kingston. Like Rev. Susan’s recent sermon, we strive to be open, curious, and responsive to the call.

    Our transition team, including members of both St. John’s and of Holy Cross/ Santa Cruz, has been meeting regularly to look at the possibility of a merger. No formal decisions have been made, yet our congregations appear open to this possibility. We have had many opportunities to worship and socialize together over the past few months, which have been positive experiences overall. We will be together for Holy Week as well with services at Holy Cross/ Santa Cruz. For Easter service we will be at St. John’s (just our congregation) with an Easter egg hunt and community brunch. We hope you can join as many services as possible during this most Holy time.

    After Easter, we look to celebrate with Holy Cross/ Santa Cruz on a regular basis, probably every other week. Beginning in June, we will celebrate as one worshipping community through the summer. This is due in part to the lack of air conditioning in the sanctuary, but more importantly to continue the discernment of becoming a shared ministry for the future. It is quite possible that the Spirit is guiding us to continue as one worshipping community in the fall. We will be looking seriously at this over the next few months.

    We know that these changes will bring up many feelings, questions, and concerns. It will also spark curiosity about our future. We hope you will share these thoughts with Lynn, Leah, Liz, or any member of the Vestry. We will also have time to process this with Rev. Susan, who will be with us on Sunday, April 6th for a forum after church. We urge you to stay for coffee hour this Sunday to hear more about this and to share your thoughts. Please keep each other and the community of St. John’s in your prayers.

    Below you will find the schedule as it has been planned by the Transition Team.

    Upcoming Worship Schedule

    April 6:Worship at St. John’s, with Rev. Susan, followed by parish forum (just St. John’s)
    April 13: Palm Sunday | Worship at HCSC, at 4:00pm
    April 17: Maundy Thursday | Worship at HCSC, at 7:00pm
    April 18: Good Friday | Worship at HCSC, 12:00pm and 7:00pm
    April 19: Easter Vigil | Worship at HCSC at 7:00pm
    April 20: Easter Sunday | Worship at St. John’s | Brunch & Egg Hunt (just St.
    John’s)
    April 27: Worship at HCSC at 10:00am
    May 4: Worship at St. John’s with Fr. Eliacin or Rev. Susan
    May 11: Worship at HCSC
    May 18: Worship at St John’s, with Rev Susan
    May 25: Worship at HCSC
    June 1: Worship at St. John’s
    June 8:  Pentecost | Worship at HCSC

  6. March 12

    This Sunday!

    Sunday, 03/16/2025
    This Sunday, March 16th we welcome Rev. Eliacin Rosario-Cruz and the congregation of Holy Cross/Santa Cruz to celebrate the Holy Eucharist at St. John’s. I sincerely hope that you can join us for this special time and the building of our common ministry here in Kingston. We will have Godly Play for the children upstairs! We will also host a special coffee hour after church. If you can, please bring something for the table and stay to help us clean up!
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________
    An Update on St. John’s Transition

    As you know the transition team, including members of both churches are meeting
    every two weeks to discern the possibility of merging. The first steps, involve getting to know each other, exploring the possibilities, and building relationship. We are hopeful that we will have more opportunities this spring to explore our future
    together as one worshipping community.
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Next Sunday and Beyond!

    Next Sunday, March 23rd: we celebrate the Holy Eucharist at St. John’s with Rev. Susan Copley. Rev. Susan is a Missioner for Congregational Development who is also a valuable member of the transitional support team. She is also available for Pastoral Care as requested. The Vestry of St. John’s will meet after church with Susan.
    Sunday, March 30th: Rev. Joe Campo will be with us at St. John’s
    Sunday, April 6th: Rev. Eliacin will be with us for the 10 am service at St. John’s
    Stations of the Cross / Via Crucis

    Join us on Fridays at noon at Holy Cross/ Santa Cruz: March 14th, 21st, 28th, and April 4th and 11th for the Stations of the Cross (Via Crucis), led by Chuck Krulis. This ancient practice began with pilgrims who could not journey to Jerusalem to walk the Via Dolorosa.

    Through prayer and reflection, we follow Jesus’ path to the cross, entering into the sacred mystery of his love and sacrifice. All are welcome to this time of contemplation and devotion. The prayer booklet is in bilingual format.

    Lenten Book Study: Entering the Passion of Jesus

    Join us this Lent for a five-week book study on Entering the Passion of Jesus by Amy-Jill Levine. The book is 143 pages long.

    Together, we will explore the risks Jesus took during his final days—personal, political, and theological—deepening our understanding of Holy Week.

    Wednesdays, 6:00-7:15 PM via Zoom
    Begins March 12
    Each session will include group discussion and reflections on how Jesus’ journey invites us to live with greater faith and courage. We will read and discuss:

    • March 12: Introduction & Jerusalem: Risking Reputation – Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem as a public, prophetic act.
    • March 19: The Temple: Risking Righteous Anger & Teachings: Risking Challenge – Jesus’ confrontation in the Temple and his challenging teachings.
    • March 26: The First Dinner: Risking Rejection & The Last Supper: Risking the Loss of Friends – Table fellowship, betrayal, and the significance of the Last Supper.
    • April 2: Gethsemane: Risking Temptation – Jesus’ moment of deep struggle and surrender.
    • April 9: Entering Holy Week – Reflections on the risks Jesus took and what they mean for us today.

    Participants are encouraged to acquire the book at their bookstore of choice or online at https://bookshop.org or at any online booksellers. A few books will be available to borrow.

    Contact Fr. Eliacín if you have questions.

    Zoom Link: 
    https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82857133125

    Meeting ID: 828 5713 3125

    The Rev. Eliacín Rosario-Cruz
    he/him/el
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Holy Week Schedule
    April 13th: Palm Sunday Service will be at HCSC at 4:00pm.
    April 17th: Maundy Thursday service at HCSC (at 6 or 7pm- to be announced)
    Friday April 18: Good Friday services at HCSC at noon, and an evening service,
    time to be announced
    Saturday, April 19th: Easter Vigil service at HCSC at 7:00pm
    Sunday April 20th: Easter Day service at St. John’s with Rev. Susan Copley
    Followed by Easter Brunch and an Easter Egg Hunt
    _____________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Coming Up at St. John’s:

    As you know the transition team, is meeting every two weeks to discuss the possibility of merging. But the first steps, involve getting to know each other, exploring the possibilities, and building relationship. We hopeful that we will have even more opportunities this Spring to explore our future together as one worshipping community.

    A Big THANK YOU!

    A very special Thank You to Liz Moeller and Don Hughes for hosting our FAT TUESDAY pancake dinner, filled with great food, games, decorations, and most importantly, a wonderful opportunity to celebrate with the people of Holy Cross/Santa Cruz! Thanks to everyone who helped!
    Easter Flowers

    We will be collecting memorial donations for Easter flowers on March 23th, 30th and April 6th. Or you can mail your donation to the church. Be sure to include your memorial or thanksgiving intentions.
    Book Club

    The Book Cub will be meeting on Thursday April 3rd at 2:00pm, in the Parish Hall, to discuss “Help Wanted,” by Adele Waldman, a local author.

  7. September 19

    The Good News from St. John’s Kingston

    This Sunday!

    Join us for a special worship on Sunday, September 22nd with The Rev. Christy Miller, featuring the wedding of Liz Moeller and Don Hughes.
    ________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Wedding Bells are going to ring on Sunday, September 22nd!
    Join Liz Moeller and Don Hughes as they make their wedding vows during the church service on Sunday, September 22nd at the 10:00 service. Their close friend, The Rev. Christy Miller will be their officiant and preside over the Holy Eucharist. Both Liz and Don are long time members of St. John’s and wanted to have their wedding at St. John’s surrounded by their church family and close friends. All ae welcomed! Liz and Don have also invited us to an informal reception in the parish hall after church. They have asked for our presence (and ask that we not bring presents!). This is such a joyful time for celebration and love!!!
    We Welcome The Rev. Eliacin Rosario-Cruz as our Celebrant on Sunday, September 29th
    Rev. Eliacin is the Priest at Holy Cross/ Santa Cruz in Kingston and will be joining St. John’s to worship, preach, and preside over Holy Eucharist with us. As you know, we are in the discernment process with Holy Cross/Santa Cruz and looking at the future possibility of merger. On Sunday, Sept. 29th, we will welcome Rev. Eliacin and begin to spend time together in prayer and friendship. I hope you will join us as we move forward  in this journey while listening for the Holy Spirit!Blessing of the Animals and Parish Picnic on Sunday, October 6th!

    This Sunday we celebrate the ministry of St. Francis by bring our pets, pictures of pets, or even stuffed animals for a blessing soon after the service!  We also celebrate with an outdoor BBQ and potluck luncheon in the side yard. Join in the food and fellowship, games and music, and time to relax with our St. John’s family. We have also invited the congregation of Holy Cross/Santa Cruz as our guests. Sign-up sheets are in the parish hall. Lets make this a joyous celebration by working together and having fun!!Godly Play Returns on Sunday October 13th!

    Please bring your children to our Sunday School program which incorporates the Godly Play curriculum. This richly thematic program offers time to hear the stories of the Bible, time for wondering, prayer, feast and to honor and celebrate childhood. More adult help is needed! Please speak to Leah and put a little Godly Play in your own life. Maybe, just maybe, this program and our beautiful children will enrich your spiritual life as well!

    My best,
    Leah Siuta, Warden
    845-380-8413
    leah.stjohnskingston@gmail.com
    ________________________________________________________________________________________________

    Life Is For Sowing. The Harvest Is Not Here Yet.

    by Deacon Sue Bonsteel

    Last Friday I was searching for something to watch on Prime and came across the 2018 film “At Eternity’s Gate.” Somehow I wasn’t aware of the film when it was being shown in local  theaters. I was also surprised since one of my favorite actors – Willem DaFoe – had been nominated for an Academy Award for his lead role as the deeply tortured and spiritual artist Vincent Van Gogh. So how did I miss it?

    Well, now it’s a film that I can’t stop thinking about.

    If you know anything about Vincent Van Gogh, you might think of bright yellow sunflowers and blue starry skies. Self-portraits. Irises. The potato eaters. He was a prolific painter amassing a catalog of close to 2000 drawings and paintings, with the best known works completed during the last three years of his life. That alone is stunning since Van Gogh was known to suffer from long periods of psychotic episodes as well as times of great productivity. The image of a tortured artist, unknown by most and ignored by the art world during his lifetime, certainly comes to mind.

    There is a powerful scene in the film where a priest is addressing the painter’s mental state to determine if he should be freed from the asylum in which Van Gogh is being treated. The priest challenges Van Gogh’s statement that he believes that his unique artistic vision is indeed a divine gift from God. The priest then shows the artist one of his darker, more haunting and disturbing paintings and asks, ” Why then would God give you such a gift if it keeps you in such misery?”  Van Gogh’s response to the priest is “Maybe God made me a painter for people who aren’t born yet. It is said, “Life is for sowing. The harvest is not here yet.”

    Vincent Van Gogh’s creative brilliance and impact upon modern art would not be recognized until well after his tragic death at the age of 37. Today he is considered one of the greatest Dutch painters of all time, leaving the world a legacy that will be enjoyed for generations.

    Coincidentally, the subject of legacies came up last week at the vestry meeting. It was a brief conversation but one I thought more about afterwards.

    Do we understand our legacy as purely a financial obligation? Of course as stewards of our church, we are expected to support the ministry of St. John’s as best we are able. Obviously we can’t continue to run the church if we can’t pay our bills. While our wardens and vestry are working very hard to find wise solutions, they can’t do it alone. It’s difficult to admit but no amount of magical thinking will solve our financial problems. Hoping we hit the lottery will not end our worries.

    But a legacy can also be much more than a financial gift or a gift of property. What each one of us can do – what our individual legacies can be – is to step up and volunteer our time and talents now. While we do not yet know what our future may hold, we are still a community that can thrive on service and love for one another, even in the midst of  great challenges. Our faith teaches us that we will always find joy and hope when we serve the church we love and the world around us. I believe this is certainly true at this moment in our history.

    St. John’s seeds were planted close to 200 years ago. Over the years many have labored to keep the church strong and a constant and visible presence in Kingston. Their commitment was their legacy. I believe that we can continue to be this presence, even if we are called to be so in a new way. We are the sowers once again. But the harvest is not here yet.

    Deacon Sue Bonsteel
    ________________________________________________________________________________________________
    Potluck BBQ Party on October 6thWe are hosting a parish wide Potluck BBQ Party after service on Sunday, October 6th with our new friends from Holy Cross/Santa Cruz. Sara Hutton has offered to get a committee together to help plan this activity. Please reach out to her if you can help! Sara can be reached at (845) 633-3784 or shutton324@gmail.com

  8. August 30th

    The Good News from St. John’s Kingston

    This Sunday!

    Join us for worship on Sunday, September 1st with The Rev. Joe Campo
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    Back to the Sanctuary on Sunday September 8th

    It is hard to believe that summer is wrapping up! It has been an important time for all of us to relax with family and friends but also a busy time in the life of our church family. Help us celebrate our return to church services within our Sacred church space, along with our choir and the return of Godly Play Sunday school program. We will be celebrating through the fall with supply clergy, Morning Prayer and visits with the people of Holy Cross Santa Cruz! The Rev. Joe Campo will be with us on the first two Sundays of each month.

    September 8th is also our next Vestry meeting.

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    Discernment About the Future of St. John’s

    As you know, the Vestry has been working with The Rev Canon Alissa Newton, Canon to the Ordinary for the Diocese of New York to explore options moving forward. Rev. Alissa met with the parish in June and a letter was sent to the entire congregation following that meeting. Friends, our beautiful church is in significant disrepair and our budget does not allow us the opportunity to meet the operating costs needed to maintain our space for much longer. Rev. Michelle resigned, in part, because she understood the financial challenges we faced by having a full time (and then part-time) time priest.

    After careful thought, much prayer, and a listening spirit, our Vestry has decided to look at three options including relocating to a smaller church space, potential closure, or possible merger with another parish. Given the fact that there is another parish of Episcopalians at Holy Cross/Santa Cruz, we have begun this process of discernment of merger. Holy Cross/ Santa Cruz has also met and they, overwhelmingly, want to move forward with this journey with us. Please remember that this process will take months to work out before any final decisions are made. Consider it a marriage of sorts in that we need to get to know each other, plan worship and activities, and come to a shared vision of a new Episcopal presence in Kingston. The decisions about the shared assets, including the buildings, will come at a later time.

    In the meantime, let us worship and support the work of St. John’s by participating in parish life. This includes keeping our vital pledges and plate offerings up to date. This is financial support is necessary as we need to make this discernment process proceed at a pace that seems right for everyone.

    We realize that this decision is painful and creates anxiety for some. We understand this pain and feel it deeply as well. Please consider that this is also an opportunity to listen for the Holy Spirit and see hope for the future. Together, we may share resources that would only exist by the close collaboration and the possibility of merger.  Perhaps this future includes a growing body of people in prayer and followship., maintaining and growing current programs, creating greater service to the community, enriching our own lives with a more robust Sunday School and Choir, and by developing a shared and devout life of worship.

    Please speak to Leah or Lynn if you have further concerns about this complex and heartfelt process.
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    Potluck BBQ Party on October 6th

    We are hosting a parish wide Potluck BBQ Party after service on Sunday, October 6th with our new friends from Holy Cross/Santa Cruz. Sara Hutton has offered to get a committee together to help plan this activity. Please reach out to her if you can help! Sara can be reached at (845) 633-3784 or shutton324@gmail.com
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    Supply Priest Schedule

    Sunday, September 1st        Rev. Joe Campo, worship in the parish hall
    Sunday, September 8th      Return to the Sanctuary for worship, choir, and Godly Play. Vestry meeting after church. Rev. Joe Campo presides
    Sunday, September 15th    Rev. Tyler Jones
    Sunday, September 22nd   Morning Prayer
    Sunday, September 29th    Rev. Heidi Newmark

  9. August 2nd

    The Good News from St. John’s Kingston

    This Sunday!

    Join us for All Ages Worship on Sunday, August 4th.
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    Important: A Change in our August Schedule
    After conversation with Canon Alissa Newton, we have decided that we will continue to worship at St. John’s for the month of August. Despite everyone’s best efforts, we realized that we do need more time to hear from one another and discern which path we will take. Those conversations should take place where we are most comfortable right now and that is in St. John’s.

    So please join us in August in St. John’s air-conditioned parish hall for worship followed by light refreshments and social time.

    We look forward to seeing you.
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    Are You a Piece of the Puzzle?

    by Paula J. Wisneski

    If I asked you to put a puzzle together, what would you say?  A 5-piece, easy peazy. 50 pieces, ok.  500 pieces alright but it will take me a few days.  5,000 pieces maybe a month or more (with help).  What if I asked you to put a 5,000,000-piece puzzle together.  You would look at me like I was crazy.

    In the beginning of this transition, I felt like a 5,000,000-piece puzzle as we had to put it together alone.  In these past few weeks, I can see where we are not alone.  With the guidance of Warden Leah, Retired Deacon Sue and all the vestry members, Bruce, Kathy, Michele, Keith, Sara and myself we are putting this puzzle together.  It started with the outside edge, getting pulpit supply priests (The Rev. Janet Vincent), and having morning prayer.  As we start filling in the puzzle with the help of Rev. Canon Alissa Newton, the Episcopal Diocese of New York, with our recent Vestry Retreat and Forum.  A conversation and some solutions.

    This puzzle takes all of us to help keep filling in. We need your input.  To all of the kids and adults: we need you to share your ideas, your talents, your cookies and lemonade. Add your puzzle piece and soon a wonderful Spiritual image will emerge!
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    Supply Priest Schedule

    August
    4 – Janet Vincent
    11 – Tyler Jones
    18- Tyler Jones
    25- Morning Prayer

    September
    1 – Joe Campo

  10. July 11

    The Good News from St. John’s Kingston

    This Sunday!

    Join us for worship on Sunday, July 14th.

    Next Month: July 21

    Join the Rev. Canon Alissa Newton to celebrate Holy Eucharist with us!
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    Summer Suggestions from Sue Bonsteel

    Let us not love not (only) with words…but with actions…
    1 John 3:18

    It’s hot. It’s humid. It’s summer and I’m sure most of us wish to rest, relax and enjoy fun times with family and friends. We’ve earned some time off and hopefully have some long-awaited vacation plans. If so, may summer be a time of rest and renewal for all.

    Of course, summer worship at St. John’s continues in the air-conditioned parish halI. There’s a “come as your are” vibe (shorts and sandals are always appropriate) with cold drinks and cookies following the service. Please join us whenever you’re in town. A play area has been set up for the kids, as well. It’s a lovely way to stay connected with your parish family during these lazy summer days.

    But for those of you who may also have a bit of free time this summer and are wondering about ways to help, I have a few suggestions.

    Angel Food East is in need of volunteers willing to deliver a few meals at lunchtime to our neighbors in need. Whatever time you can offer this summer will be greatly appreciated (whether you can help once or on a regular basis!). All you have to do is call (845) 331-6538 and say you want to help out.

    Our beautiful Memorial Garden has been lovingly tended by our music director, Terry Earles, for several years. He would love help with maintaining the many plantings and flowers which add so much to a truly sacred space. So if you have a green thumb (or not!), speak to Terry.

    Our Little Library (which is located on the front lawn) is in great need of a new selection of books again. We are in particular need of gently used children’s and young adult books. Our library offers our neighborhood children (and adults) free books to read, keep, and share all year long. Speak to me if you have questions.

    And as the saying goes, it takes a village… so please join us when you can and help share our many blessings with one another and the wider community.

    –Sue Bonsteel
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    Supply Priest Schedule

    July
    14 – Janet Vincent
    21 – Rev. Canon Alyssa Newton  with forum after church
    28 – Janet Vincent

    August
    4 – Janet Vincent
    11 – Holy Cross/ Santa Cruz
    18- Holy Cross/ Santa Cruz
    25- Holy Cross/ Santa Cruz

    September
    1 – Holy Cross/Santa Cruz
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    Help Spread the Word!

    Kitchen & Parish Hall Rentals at St. John’s

    Did you know…?
    St. John’s has a fully licensed commercial kitchen!

    Do you have a small food business and need a kitchen to make your product? Do you love to bake to sell at the farmer’s market?

    We have a fully licensed commercial kitchen for all your cooking needs – gas stove, ovens, warmer/braisers, prep space, and dry storage available for rent.

    Rates start at: $25/hr

    For availability, contact: KitchenatStJohns@gmail.com
    or find us on TheFoodCorridor.com

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    The Parish Hall is the perfect place to host a birthday party, family gathering, yoga class, dance class… and more!

    Did you know…?
    We have hosted a variety of events in the Parish Hall. From group meetings to primary election voting, our Parish Hall can transform to fit your specific needs. Tables and chairs included!

    Inquire by contacting: stjohnskingston@aol.com

    *By spreading the word about our Kitchen and Parish Hall rental program, you are supporting St. John’s!
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