Rector's Note: More Great News
Dear Saints,
When we say yes to God, God says yes back.
We’ve experienced this many times in the last few years as we’ve stepped out in faith with new ministries and seen the resources and support for them come in turn. And it has happened once again with some fantastic news: Oregon Food Bank has awarded us a $10,000 grant for the Woodstock Food Pantry!
As Covid relief pantries begin to wane, this will help ensure that the Woodstock Pantry is a stable resource for the food insecure. Additionally, our refurbished container is scheduled to arrive in July, so keep an eye out for the Woodstock Pantry’s new home on the north side of our building.
In other great news, you probably saw that Juneteenth, the date marking the end of slavery in the United States, has been established as the twelfth federal holiday. I only learned about Juneteenth a few years ago, but I am so glad to have this important historical moment included in our public consciousness. If you are looking for some ways to celebrate Juneteenth, check out this article from PDX Parent on “How to Teach and Empower Kids About Juneteenth”. Even if you don’t have young kids, it has good local info and ideas.
The final bit of good news I want to share is that we will be able to sing together again in-person starting this Sunday. Anyone can sing at our 9:00am outdoor service and those who are vaccinated can sing at the indoor 10:15am service. This is in line with current state and diocesan guidelines. I know we have all been looking forward to this moment and that hearing our voices together again will mean a lot. This Sunday is also the Summer Solstice, the first day of summer and the longest day of the year, as well as Father's Day.
Happy celebrating and singing this weekend!
Andria+
Pantry photo by Aaron Doucett, Unsplash