WEEKLY RECTOR’S MESSAGE – January 27th – Fr. Thomas
A large sign at the Texas A&M University football stadium says, “HOME OF THE 12th MAN.” In addition to the eleven players on the field at one time, the presence of thousands of A&M students and fans cheering the players on is an example of the essential support they provide. (The tradition has its roots going back to 1922 when the coach called a student from the stands to suit up and be ready to replace any injured player. Although he never entered the game, his willing presence on the sideline greatly encouraged the team: he became the “12th Man.”)
The Letter to the Hebrews describes heroes of the Faith who faced great trials yet remained loyal to God. “Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders us and the sin that so easily entangles, and run with perseverance the race that is set before us.” (ch. 12: vs 1) Our race is not a “sprint,” but a marathon, and we are expected to stay the course through prayer, study, and service until the very end.
Our Annual Parish Meeting last Sunday reminded us all that we are not alone in our journey of faith, and by the dedication and hard work of many people in our congregation, our worship and service are effective instruments in spreading the Gospel in word and in deed. The Saints in heaven represent that 12th player standing with us while we persevere in our own parish to Welcome Seekers, Form Disciples, and Send Apostles.
NOTICES:
Welcome to 2023! Did you make a resolution to have fun and support the church this year?! Well, we’ve made it easy for you to keep both resolutions – BUNKO is on Saturday, February 4th, at 6:00 p.m., in the Parish Hall! Not a problem if you’ve never played – super easy to learn – and loads of fun! You can win cash, even if you lose! Seriously, where can you find that?! Just bring a dish to share, $10 per person, and your resolutions will take root!! Remember, the more the merrier – bring a friend or two!
Facebook Page. Please join our St. David’s social media community by scanning the QR code below. This will take you to our Facebook page where you can begin to follow us if you have not done so in the past.”
Sandwiches for St. George’s: Please bring your sandwiches to St. David’s west side parking lot each Wednesday morning from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
Hospitality Hour is scheduled after the 10:00 a.m. service – Hosted by the Maria Scher. Next Sunday will be hosted by the Vestry.
“Souper Bowl” is on Sunday, February 12th. We are collecting cans of soup starting next Sunday the 5th. Support your favorite team by donating cans or packages of soup or other non-perishable food for the team of your choice. Thanks for your support. Linda McKeown.
St. David’s Family Picnic is scheduled for Sunday, February 19th after the 10:00 a.m. service. Please join us for what we hope to be the start of our annual church picnic for all parishioners and the community. There will be food, a bounce house, balloon animals, face painting and other games. We are looking for volunteers to help make this event a success. For more information, please contact Matt Hogan at 865-406-5978
Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper is on February 21st at 5:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m. Please join us for pancakes, sausages and beverages. Tickets will be sold on Tuesday mornings at 9:00 a.m. and Sundays after service. Adults $7.00 and $3.50 for kids 10 years and under. Please wear your mask.
Sunday school is open and available for children starting at age 3 years old. We are looking for volunteer Sunday school teachers, anyone interested can contact Erin Thomas to learn more details, or contact the church office.
Women’s Bible Study weekly meeting resumes on Sunday at 11:30 a.m. in the Mark Room.
Forward Day by Day brochures for next quarter are now available in the narthex. Donation $3.00.
Tuesdays: Holy Eucharist 8:30 a.m.
Sunday’s Worship: We are open for live worship on Sundays at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. We also “live-stream” our 10 a.m. service.
Video Viewing Options for Sunday’s mass. There are three different ways to view our videos: 1) our church website; 2) our Facebook page; and 3) our YouTube channel. See the links listed below.
Opportunities for Giving – there are several options that safely and efficiently expedite your generous donations: electronic bank transfers or automatic bank transfers via personal accounts or credit/debit cards; personal checks delivered by USPS; and our favorite through joining our giving family online through our website or at myEoffering.com with our secure vendor Church Envelope Budget Company, who provides you with yearly offering envelopes. Please do NOT leave any envelopes with checks/cash unattended at church mailboxes.
PLEASE PRAY. For the sick: Alice, Amanda, Barbara, Beth, Carol, Carolyn, David, Diana, Donna, Doris, Doug, Ed, Elston, Ezra, Gina, Grace, Jacob, James, Jayden, Jeanne, Jill, Joaquin, Jory, Kenzie, Manuel, Michael, Miguel, Parker, Patricia, Predrag, Rachel, Robin, Ron, Rosie, Sharon, Shelly, Steve, Sue, Susan, Tracy, Vernetta, Violet, William, Woody. For the departed: Donald Chonak. For birthday celebrations: Kati Erickson, Sue Ashe. For our expectant mothers: Alexandra and Taylor.
Our YouTube Channel – https://www.youtube.com/c/SaintDavidsinthePinesWellingtonFL
