This Week from Mitch

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I hope and pray that you are well. This Sunday promises to be a day of celebration and fun as we celebrate our parish's namesake, Saint Martin of Tours. Along with being our patron saint, Saint Martin of Tours is considered the patron saint of all veterans. He also was one of the very few saints of his time who were named a saint but never martyred. Instead, Martin was held up as an example of what it means to faithfully serve God for the entirety of one's life, but I digress...

On St. Martin's Day, Bishop Daniel Richards will be joining us for worship. He will also be leading us in a service of confirmation. During the sacrament of confirmation, a bishop lays hands on a person and prays for them, leading them in an adult affirmation of their faith. It is for some of our younger people a right of passage. For others who are new to faith or the church, confirmation can be a milestone on the journey. It is a special service to be a part of.

As a part of the confirmation service, our bishop will also offer the opportunity for people to be "received" and "re-affirmed." Reception is an opportunity to be received into the Episcopal Church after having been confirmed in different denominations. Re-affirmation is for folks who feel the need to re-make a public affirmation of their faith. If you would like to be received or reaffirmed, please let me know. All are welcome.

Again, Sunday promises to be a day of great celebration. The 5 PM service will be led by our SayLove Band, and at 6 PM all are welcome to come to our St. Martin's Day Pig Roast! Bring a side or dessert to share, the BBQ will be hot and good. I look forward to celebrating with you all.

In Christ,

Mitch