Celebrating Eastertide the Week of May 17
This is the sixth Sunday of the Easter season. On May 17 we remember the early Church through the eyes of Peter and Paul, apostles who speak of "times of human ignorance" and that even if we do suffer for doing what is right, we are blessed.
In these challenging times of Covid-19, the talented hymn writer Carolyn Winfrey Gillette reminds us: When we face an unknown future that we can't imagine yet, when the Slovenes we have treasured turns from blessing into threat--As we miss our friends and loved ones, as we crave community, may we look, God, in this season, for a whole new way to be.
The Rev. Jennifer Walding will lead our service of Morning Prayer at 9:30 a.m., followed by a group discussion of the gospel. The service is available each week on Zoom. Contact us in advance of Sunday to receive the link to this service, and we're happy to share the Worship Guide with you so you can say these prayers at home.
Our Bishop-Elect reminds us of one of the most treasured prayers in times like these. We hope it speaks to your heart:
This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. Ito lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.
Other Ways to Celebrate Eastertide
The Washington National Cathedral has worship services online throughout the week and every Sunday at 10:15 AM (Central). The Episcopal House of Prayer in Minnesota also offers a contemplative prayer service every Wednesday at 5:30 PM via Zoom.
Are you struggling with fear or a sense of loss? Reflect on this meditation. Or fill out a prayer request on the homepage of this site.
One of the best things we can do is to do for others. Don't forget to check in with people in your neighborhood who may be alone or vulnerable. We are the Church together in this Eastertide Season. We must remember that Christ is risen indeed, but also in deeds, done by all of us.
We hope you have a good week, and may + the blessings of Christ go with you this day, and always.
Special Notice: Church Online Today
Just to let you know, Ss. Martha & Mary is not having Sunday church services in-person right now. We are doing our part to help combat the spread of Corona Virus/Covid-19, a rapidly spreading and harmful respiratory illness characterized by fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Just because we are not gathering together, does not mean we are not having church. It is important for us to continue to minister to you.
First off, we want to hear your prayers concerns and special requests at www.mandm.org.
And each week we offer a service of Morning Prayer. Members, please check your email for details and access to our online service of Morning Prayer at 9:30 AM. Not a member? Contact us by emailing our church webmaster. If you cannot join us, the Washington National Cathedral regularly offers an online service at 10:15 AM (Central Standard Time). Simply go to https://cathedral.org to watch it. Be the church where you are, and God's peace go with you this day and always.
What We Stand For
The four pillars of Episcopal belief are Scripture, Reason, Tradition & Experience. We believe we are called to love everyone, with no exceptions. Our's is an ancient faith, but a modern one too.
Scripture
Each week we have readings from the Bible and we listen for the inspired Word of God. Sermons (homilies) are based on the weekly scripture readings, but because the Good Book was written by humans we draw on knowledge and reason to interpret the Bible’s meaning—and not literal interpretation of every word.
From Bishop-Elect Craig Loya
