Note from the Rector

Dear Friends in Christ,

As Thanksgiving weekend quickly approaches, there is SO much to be grateful for here at St. Mary’s. This is the time of year when we begin to see changes happening around us – the weather gets a little cooler and a little wetter, the leaves begin to change colour and we start to think about gathering with loved ones to celebrate all the wonderful gifts that God provides us. As we all know, we have seen a lot of change here at St. Mary’s this season as well. We have seen great change in our buildings and grounds as we have prayerfully sought to become better stewards of the abundance of land that God has provided us with – and we are now beginning to see the fruits of our labour. The two things of note of which we need to pause for a moment in thanksgiving is of course the new roof on our parish hall, and the Thinking Garden Early Childcare Center which has now moved into our community.

St. Mary’s really is a community like no other – full of faithful people who are diligently seeking ways to support the wider community and be the love of God in the world around us. St. Mary’s church is not the building we worship in, it is not even the leadership here – it is each of YOU working together with God to achieve amazing things. The last few years at St. Mary’s have not always been easy. But time and time again the ingenuity, the tenacity and the faithfulness of this community shines through – and now here we are exploring how we can continue to engage together in meaningful ways being God’s hands and feet and love in the world around us.

As we continue to grow together, I am thankful for all those who have put their trust in me this last year and all those who tirelessly work to making this community of faith the inviting and giving place that it truly is. Each of you are a blessing to me, and I am so grateful to be here with you all as we continue this adventure being God’s people – loved and beloved – here in the community of Nanoose Bay and beyond.

May you all have a blessed Thanksgiving!

Kirsten +

 

The office will be closed on Tuesday October 10th for the statutory Thanksgiving holiday.

 

                                                       

Thanksgiving Church Decorating

This will be on Saturday October 7, 2023 at 10am - come and help make our church beautiful for Thanksgiving!

 

                                      

Saturday October 7, 2023 at 1pm

All creatures great and small are welcome to come to the Blessing of the Animals service this Saturday at 1pm. Rev. Kirsten will be here to lead a short service of prayers and thanksgiving before offering a special blessing on each animal present (either in person or a photo). This is a great service to invite friends and neighbours to, as it will be an outdoors, casual service – so bring everyone along for a blessing!

 

 

Sunday October 8th - Thanksgiving Potluck Lunch

This potluck will be after the morning service on Thanksgiving Sunday, and is a great way to celebrate Thanksgiving together and all we are thankful for.

There will also be a cake celebrating the Baptism of Desirae, and food will be plentiful - we have much in our community to be greatful for! That being said, we could use some extra helpers in the kitchen so if you are willing to help set out the food at the end of the service, or help clean up after the meal, please do pitch in! Many hands make light work so thank you!  

 

TUMAINI EDUCATION FUNDRAISER

                                                   

These useful items will be available on Sunday after the service in the Hall.  Please see Val.

A little bird told me they are FANTABULISTIC!

 

 

    When I Sing by Oceanside A Capella 

Wednesday October 11th at 7pm

A concert directed by Rosemary Lindsay that will be held right here in our beautiful church! 

When I Sing is for family and friends to share the joy that these women have when they get together and sing.  It features a collection of songs from their latest repertoire, including audience favourites from song writers like Billy Joel and Gordon Lightfoot. 

14 tickets are available at the church office.  Donations will be gratefully accepted at the door.