Dear St. Andrew’s family and friends,

Here we are on another September 1^st, still trying to beat back the Covid virus, this time it’s the Delta variant. We are still prayerfully in search of a new rector, but we are able to start being back together with masks, ventilation, and appropriate distancing, which is a giant step from last year.

One of the most beautiful things we have been able to do in person this year happened this past Sunday. Albrecht, our gifted and talented organist, put on a concert of works by J.S. Bach, which was the most extraordinary hour of music I have ever heard. The wonderful news is that on September 12^th at 4:00 p.m. he is going to play the concert again so your chance to be “blown away by Bach” and Albrecht is still possible. If you are interested, please call the church office (653-3921) and reserve your spot. Because of social distancing concerns, we do have to limit attendance, but I can assure you if you are able to reserve a spot, you won’t be disappointed.

Also, please remember that Canon Kristin White is going to be with us on September 12^th to be our celebrant at worship and also begin a five part series on Christian formation. It will be held right after our 10:15 a.m. service, last about an hour and will be followed up once a month through January. The opportunity is open to anyone in the 8^th Grade and up, as well as adults who might be interested in learning more about the Episcopal Church and their walk of faith. It can potentially lead to confirmation or reaffirmation, if that is your decision.

Finally, we had a nice “blessing of the backpacks and bag tags” as well as this year’s kick-off of Godly Play on Sunday. Because of the upcoming Labor Day weekend, Godly Play will not meet this week, but will be back on September 12^th for children through 7^th Grade. We are grateful for our teachers who give their time and experience many weeks through the academic year. We hope to see you soon.

Blessings,

Sue

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING SINGING, MASKING, AND SEATING

As we gather in person for Sunday worship, please remember we still need to be protective of each other as the Delta Variant of the Covid virus continues to spread. The Delta Variant is many times more contagious and believed to be more dangerous, particularly to those who are not yet vaccinated, than earlier strains. Even those who are vaccinated may become infected and transmit the virus. It is projected that this outbreak will peak in late August, early September. To protect our communities until this subsides, the Diocese has suggested that you wear masks indoors regardless of vaccination status and take a congregational singing hiatus. During this time only one cantor and one singer will be allowed, and no choir for awhile. We also ask that you maintain social distancing. Please only sit in pews with prayer books and hymnals. Hopefully, one day soon, we will all be able to lift our voices in song. Many thanks to everyone for your patience.

Prayers and Reflections for this week

Sunday In-Person Worship, September 5 led by The Reverend Mary Slenski

You can connect to the service via Zoom. Click on this link to connect. If you have not used Zoom before, you will be prompted to download Zoom, go ahead and do that. When you enter the meeting you should be able to see and hear others and others can see and hear you. If you come in a little late, please listen for a moment before speaking. In order to see everyone, go to Gallery view (upper right on PCs and upper left for Macintosh). When we get started everyone except the speaker will be muted. If you are reading or playing music, please be sure to unmute yourself.

If you are connecting via telephone dial 301-715-8592 and when prompted enter the Meeting ID: 847 8600 1703 and press #, then enter the password: pray and press # again.

Click here for the service booklet for September 5

Please join us for an organ recital on Sunday, September 12 at 4:00 p.m. Albrecht von Gaudecker, our most exceptional organist, will be presenting a program with organ works by Johann Sebastian Bach. 

Due to social distancing guidelines and the seating at Saint Andrew’s limited, please let the church office know if you are planning to attend so we can keep everyone safe as they enjoy this wonderful program. Please e-mail standrewsgreencastle@gmail.com or call (765) 653-3921.

Please join us for our regular Sunday service on September 12 at 10:15 a.m. Harriet Thompson Moore will be playing several harp solos during this service. Harriet is an active freelance performer and is the Principal Harpist with the Terre Haute Symphony Orchestra. She joined the School of Music faculty at DePauw University in 1989.

Your prayers are asked for: