For All That is Flourishing

Dear Friends in Christ,

 

As we celebrate the generosity of our pledge campaign—we are within striking distance of our goal!—I want to celebrate the good work made possible by your gifts.

 

The weeks leading up to Christmas are busy everywhere, and Grace Church is no exception. We lean into activities that support our mission to love, proclaim, and serve God. In the last two weeks:

 

• We held a reception to welcome newcomers to the church—an important act of hospitality, given that we have new faces every single week.
• Our Outreach Team met to talk about how to support partners in the community in 2026.
• We invited our youngest members deeper into faith through Advent Wreath making, a visit from Saint Nicholas, and our Christmas Pageant.
• We supported three seminarians in their journey towards the priesthood.
• We continued the tasks of maintaining our building, working diligently to modernize our elevator.
• We shared in ministry with Grace School through chapels, classes, and the support of special seasonal events.
• We cared for the sick and the dying, with both clergy and members of the congregation visiting those who were homebound or in the hospital.
• We strengthened the bonds of our community with a luncheon for Grace Church members residing at Goodwin House.
• And, of course, we centered our life on worship, celebrating the hope of Advent while preparing logistically for the six Christmas services that will take place over the course of two days.

This work is all the more remarkable when set against the backdrop of the ordinary business of maintaining a small non-profit. This work at present is done by three full-time and four part-time staff—and, of course, volunteers of incredible skill and dedication.

 

Scripture tells us that the kingdom of God is like the small seed that grows into a great tree. Your gifts have been that seed. I am awed at and grateful for all that is flourishing now.

 

Yours in Christ,
Anne+