From the Rector

  • The Shell Newsletter – December 12, 2019

    The Shell Newsletter – December 12, 2019

    From the Rector – Connecting to the Wider Church Because we are at a distance from the seat of the diocese in Baltimore, it can be easy to feel disconnected or just not pay attention to what’s going on in the wider church except at specific times, like Diocesan Convention (or General Convention when…

  • Kitchen Update

    Kitchen Update

    As you may know, on November 25 there was an oven fire in our kitchen (see bottom of post for the email sent out at that time).  We’d now to like update you on next steps for restoring the kitchen to full use. Last Saturday, November 30, about 25 folks, including parishioners and members…

  • The Shell Newsletter – November 21, 2019

    The Shell Newsletter – November 21, 2019

    From the Rector – A Season of Joy, a Season of Grieving As Thanksgiving approaches, and with it the holiday season launching into full gear, I am deeply aware of many folks in our community who are grieving and for whom this time of year is hard.  I also know that for some, the…

  • The Shell Newsletter – November 14, 2019

    The Shell Newsletter – November 14, 2019

    Volunteers are still needed for the Children’s Secret Santa Shopat the St. James’ Thrift Shop.Friday setup and Saturday event day.  Please click here to sign up orcall Sandy, Thrift Shop Manager at 301-829-0314. From the Rector – The Blessing of Our Work Almighty God our heavenly Father, you declare your glory and show forth your…

  • The Shell Newsletter – November 7, 2019

    The Shell Newsletter – November 7, 2019

    From the Rector – For Heroic Service O Judge of the nations, we remember before you with grateful hearts the men and  women of our country who in the day of decision ventured much for the liberties we now enjoy.  Grant that we may not rest until all the people of this land share…

  • The Shell Newsletter – October 17, 2019

    The Shell Newsletter – October 17, 2019

    From the Rector – Creating Community Through Studying The Word One of the most important ways we create community as Christians is through studying the Word of God together, which is why I hope you will sign up to be a part of the upcoming Zoom Lunchtime Bible Studies that are beginning next week. …

  • The Shell Newsletter – October 10, 2019

    The Shell Newsletter – October 10, 2019

    From the Rector – Will You Serve? There are many great ways to serve at St. James’, both at church and in the wider community.  One way that uniquely combines both is our Thrift Shop. The Thrift Shop is our oldest continuous Outreach program.  It was founded 51 years ago and has served the…

  • The Shell Newsletter – October 3, 2019

    The Shell Newsletter – October 3, 2019

    From the Rector – St. Francis & the Blessing of the Animals This Sunday you’re invited to bring your pets to church!  Whether they’re cats, dogs, reptiles, birds, or guinea pigs (or anything else), bring them for a blessing and for the sheer joy of worshipping God with all creation. This custom developed in…

  • The Shell Newsletter – September 19, 2019

    The Shell Newsletter – September 19, 2019

    From the Rector – Hildegard of Bingen – Spiritual Guide for the Age Tuesday was the feast day of Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179).  Benedictine nun, visionary, mystic, poet, musician, and naturalist – she was one of the most extraordinary figures of the Middle Ages.  At the age of sixty she undertook four preaching tours through…

  • The Shell Newsletter – September 12, 2019

    The Shell Newsletter – September 12, 2019

    From the Rector – The Basket Raffle is Here! This Sunday we kick off our biggest FUNdraiser of the year with the 13th annual Basket Raffle and Silent Auction.  Tickets will be on sale after both services and the bidding sheets will be out and ready.  There are over 60 themed baskets you can…