Adult Forum begins a new study in January!

Adult Forum class will delve into a beautiful book by Catherine Keller (Professor of Theology at Drew University), "On the Mystery - Discerning Divinity in Process". John B. Cobb of Claremont School of Theology writes "At last; deeply Christian theology that is genuinely credible, relevant, important and also accessible." Join us!

Please Note: there will be no 5:30 PM service on December 27th

Tuesday Social Group with a Bible Study

A group of adults meets every Tuesday evening at 7 PM. in the Library to socialize AND discuss a book of choice. We are off until Tuesday, January 5th when we begin a new book: King David: A Biography, by Steven McKenzie. Please join us.

Greening the Church, December 23rd

On Wednesday, December 23rd, at 10 AM, please join us and help decorate St. James' Church for Christmas. We need everyone's help and you'll have lots of fun! For additional information, please contact Lillie Barrett at 301-855-7829.

Christmas Pageant, December 20th

During the 9 AM service our youth Christmas pageant will take place. This year it is a "no rehearsal play" that the youth can participate in upon arriving for the Service.

Farewell Reception - Kerry+ & Kelly, December 13th

Please join us to thank Kerry Smith+ and Kelly Richard for their service to St. James' Parish and to wish them well in their new home in South Carolina. They will be visiting St. James' Parish and attending all three morning services. The Women of St. James' Parish will host this special reception in their honor on December 13th during the Coffee Hour (following the 9 a.m. Service) and in thanksgiving for their service to the parish over a number of years.

Parish Christmas Caroling!

The St. James' Parish Senior & Celebration Choirs invite you to join them for Christmas Caroling at Greenstreet Gardens on Sunday, December 13th at 1:30 PM. For more information, please contact Parish Music Director, Michael Ryan at mryansings@verizon.net.

The Southern Middle School Community Guidance Emergency Fund now called "The Ferralli Fund"

After the recent death of Southern Middle School's Stephan Ferralli. The Southern Middle School Community Guidance Emergency Fund will be renamed "The Ferralli Fund". The funds from this account benefit local students of Southern Middle in need. Some of the items purchased through this account have been shoes, coats, back packs, supplies and helping families after a fire. This was one of many things Mr. Ferralli was active with. He noticed when students didn't have a coat or their shoes were inadequate. St. James' Outreach Fund has supported this fund for several years. If interest in making a donation, you can mail a check to Southern Middle School, 5235 Solomons Island Road, Lothian, MD 20711. In the MEMO part of the check write "Ferralli Fund". If you have any questions, please contact Nola Meyers at noreme@verizon.net.

Lunch with Santa!, December 12th

Santa will be coming to St. James' Parish on Saturday, December 12th from 12 Noon to 2 PM! Parish children ages 1-11 years old, are invited to join us for lunch, games, crafts, and a visit from Santa and his helper who will hand out a surprise to the children attending.

This activity is a chance to reach out to our community and those who are less fortunate. Please sign up on the Youth Bulletin Board. For additional information, please contact Sharon McGlaughlin at sharon.mcglaughlin1692@gmail.com.

Middle and High School Students - We Need You! Please consider volunteering to assist with activities at the Lunch with Santa. Sign up by contacting Sharon McGlaughlin. Your volunteer time will be documented for Community Service Hours.

Christmas Baskets for South County Families in Need!

St. James' Parish and Friendship United Methodist Church will be distributing groceries for 70 Christmas dinners plus books and toys for needy families in our community on Saturday, December 19th from 7AM to 10:30AM. This is a great family service opportunity! Youth should plan to participate from 8:30AM to 10:30AM.

Donations of frozen turkeys (10-12 pounds) are needed as well as cash contributions to purchase the other food items. Frozen turkeys need to be placed in the St James' Parish freezers no later than Wednesday, December 16th, so we will know how many additional will need to be purchased. Donations of new toys and books will be distributed for the children.

For additional information, please contact Linda Rines at Linda.Rines@comcast.net and sign up to help!

Salvation Army Stockings - Return by December 6th!

Thanks to everyone who is filling a Salvation Army Stocking this season! These stockings benefit local area children who are in need.

Please remember, do not wrap the items (they will just have to be unwrapped before they can be given to the children). And don't forget to label your stocking (or bag!) so we know for whom it is intended (boy, age 6-8 years; girl, age 10-12 years, etc.). Also, please remember that stockings must be returned to the church no later than Sunday, December 6th (they are taken to the Salvation Army shortly after that date).

Thanks to your generosity, these stockings make a huge difference in the lives of many, many children! For additional information, please contact Nola Meyers at noreme@verizon.net.

Community Assistance Fund - October Activity

In the month of October, St. James' was able to help ten families with fuel, electricity, rent and medical bills in the amount of $1,930. One woman in particular had special needs. She was living in her car, in need of heart surgery, only it couldn't be done until her medical bills were paid and she had a permanent place in which to recover. We were able to pay her medical bills and working with the Community Action Agency, we have found an apartment for her making it possible for her to have her life-changing surgery. The generosity of our Parishioners makes this kind of heartwarming outcome possible.

Making Advent Wreaths, November 29th

November 29th is the first Sunday of Advent. After the 9AM service adults and children are invited to gather in the parish hall for a joint coffee hour and Advent Wreath making. We invite multi-generational families to gather as we make our very own Advent Wreaths to use at home, counting down the Sundays until Christmas. We will provide the wreath making materials and candles but enthusiastically welcome donations of greenery (holly, fir, spruce, pine, etc.). A suggested donation of $5 will go to help offset the cost of candles. For additional information please contact Devon Snodgrass at devon.e.snodgrass@gmail.com.

Salvation Army Stockings

Salvation Army Stockings are NOW available. Please take one (or two) to fill to help our local children in need this Christmas. The stockings make a huge impact in their lives. A Christmas box has been placed in the foyer (between the Offices and the Education Building). Please place your stocking in the box. If you have over flow (or can't locate a stocking) please place in a grocery bag and place in the box. Thank you again for supporting the Salvation Army of Annapolis. For more information, please contact Nola Meyers at noreme@verizon.net

The 1979 Book of Common Prayer

Many of our Prayer Books are falling apart. We have to replace some at St. Mark's and some at St. James'. If you would like to assist in covering the cost for the Prayer Books, please fill out the following form and submit it with a check made out to St. James' Parish for $20, which will cover the cost of one Prayer Book. There will be a book plate in the front of each Prayer Book and you are welcome to donate for one:

"In Loving Memory of	____________________
or "In Thanksgiving for	____________________
Your name:	____________________
Information to be inscribed on Book Plate:	____________________
Telephone Number or email address:	____________________

Lock-In for Middle and High School Youth, October 23rd

At 8:30 PM the older youth will leave for Heidi's Haunted Hills in Harwood, Maryland for a haunting experience. Upon returning to St. James' we will enjoy pizza and movies. Everyone needs to bring a sleeping bag and pillow. Pick up on Saturday morning will be 9 AM.

A sign-up sheet will in the Parish Hall on the Youth Bulletin Board. Any questions, please contact Sharon McGlaughlin at sharon.mcglaughlin1692@gmail.com. Looking forward to a spooky good time!

Halloween Party & Trunk-or-Treat

On Friday, October 23rd from 6:30 PM to 8 PM, the youth of St. James' will be gathering for a Halloween experience. The evening will include the Middle School & High School Youth leading the younger ones in games and activities. Our Atrium aged children will be served dinner before heading out to the parking lot for Trunk or Treat at 7:30 PM.

We invite our older crowd to park their cars, decorate your car/truck trunk, wear your costumes, and bring plenty of treats and goodies for our youngsters as they stop by each trunk. We ask that the trunks be ready by 7:30 PM. Last year was a huge success with a parking lot full of decorated trunks. This is a fun and safe event for the children of St. James' and surrounding community!

Holiday Food Baskets - Please Help Feed the Needy

St James' Parish and Friendship United Methodist Church will be distributing groceries for 70 Thanksgiving dinners for needy families in our community on Saturday, November 14th from 7-11 AM. This is a great family service opportunity! Youth should plan to participate from 8:30-10:30 AM.

Donations of frozen turkeys (10-12 pounds) are needed as well as cash contributions to purchase the other food items for the Thanksgiving baskets. Frozen turkeys need to be placed in the St James' Parish freezers no later than Wednesday, November 11th so we will know how many additional will need to be purchased.

For additional information, please contact Linda Rines at Linda.Rines@comcast.net and sign up to help!

College Student Ministry

College Student Ministry if you have a college student you would like to receive greetings from St. James' Parish during the school year, or if you would be interested in helping with this ministry, please contact Taylor Milbradt at tayfm@aol.com. PLEASE NOTE: Even if your student has the same address as last year, please let us know, we start a new list each year.

Library Committee trip to the Hampton House in Towson, October 15th

The Library Committee is sponsoring a day trip to the historic Hampton House in Towson, Maryland on Thursday, October 15th; we will be leaving the church parking lot at 8:45 AM, returning by 4:30 PM. Cost is $20.00 per person. We will be having lunch at a restaurant in Towson. You will be on your own for cost. Please contact Lillie (301-855-7829) for reservations. Please join us.

Ministry Fair, October 18th!

The St. James' Parish Vestry will be hosting a Ministries Fair on Sunday, October 18th from 9 AM to Noon in the Parish Hall. Each St. James' Parish program and organization is invited to set up a display and provide informative handouts about their purpose and activities. If you coordinate one of these groups, please plan to have your display and materials in place by 9 AM to enable people from all Sunday morning services to learn about your group. Linda Rines is coordinating this event and will be contacting the leaders of each St. James' Parish ministry group with more information. The Ministry Fair offers an excellent opportunity to identify new participants for your group!

Please join us for fellowship and to learn more about the many diverse activities, events and groups working within our Parish and community!

Volunteer for Partners In Care (PIC)

Partners In Care (PIC) is a non-profit program designed to create community by linking frail elderly and disabled adults with neighbors who volunteer their time to help with occasional tasks and errands. Participants in the program may provide services, receive services or both. Services are matched to individual needs and may include grocery shopping, transportation, handyman help, yard work or friendly visits. For more information about how you can help, please contact Don Arthur at donlucyarthur@verizon.net.

Fall/Winter Clothing & Volunteers Needed!

The St. James' Parish clothing ministry is now accepting clean, gently used fall and winter clothing, shoes and outerwear. Please leave donations under the table in the clothing room downstairs in the Education Building. As always, we are seeking volunteers to help sort and fold clothes. Even two hours, one day a month, would be appreciated. For more information, or to sign up to help, please contact Taylor Milbradt at tayfm@aol.com.

Parish Leadership Workshops

The 2016 Annual Parish Celebration will be held in January. At that time, three members of the Vestry will be rotating off and will be replaced with other parishioners. Two Leadership Workshops have been scheduled in order to provide information to parishioners who might be interested in learning more about what it is like to serve in a leadership position in the Parish. Workshops will be held in the Choir Room on Saturday, October 31st (10 AM-noon) and Tuesday, November 3rd (7-9 PM). Please give prayerful thought to a call to serve. For additional information, or to register for one of the workshops, please contact the Rector at ticknor@stjameslothian.com.

SCAN Food Pantry Needs Volunteers

The SCAN Food Bank is looking for volunteers with pick-up trucks to transport food from the Anne Arundel County Food Bank in Crownsville to the SCAN Food Pantry at St. James' Parish. Volunteers are also needed to assist with unloading the food items and stocking the pantry. You will be called approximately every three or four months to help for two hours during a weekday. For more information or to sign up to help, please contact Don or Lucy Arthur at donlucyarthur@verizon.net.

The Blessing of the Animals, October 4th

The Blessing of the Animals will be on The Feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, Sunday, October 4 at 4 PM on the grass just north of the Churchyard (north of the main driveway). Please plan to come and bring your pets. It is a wonderful way to thank God for all his creatures. We request that all pet sized animals (dogs, cats, birds, hamsters, etc.) be kept on leash, or in a carrier or cage while on the grounds of St. James' Church. Larger animals (horses, donkeys, llamas, etc.) should be attached to their humans in whatever manner is appropriate. Please keep your animals with you and under control.

Youth Bible Study IS BACK!

Middle School and High School students are invited to dive into the Bible, enjoy fellowship, have pizza and hang out with Bill+ and Miss Sharon. We will begin on September 28, from 6:30 - 8:00 PM in the High School Room, in the Education Building. We will meet on the fourth Monday of each month except for December.

Adult Study Forum - Sunday mornings at 10:00

The Adult Forum meets in the Library each Sunday morning from 10 to 10:45. We have just begun discussing the book, "Dear White Christians: For Those Still Longing for Racial Reconciliation" by Jennifer Harvey and will continue doing so for the weeks to come. Please join us! Please Note: The Bishop is also holding a forum in Baltimore on this book each Wednesday evening through October 28th.

Messiah Sing-Along Sponsors Needed!

Sponsors are now being sought for our 29th Annual Messiah Sing-Along to be held on Sunday, November 29th. Our sponsors make it possible for all donations collected at the Sing-Along and the December Salvation Army Carol Sing to be added to our parish-wide Thanksgiving Offering, all of which is donated to the Salvation Army in support of their ministries in the community. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, there is no cost to St. James' Parish for these events which include a reception held after the Sing-Along and the Carol Sing pot-luck supper. Sponsors will be recognized in the printed program. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please contact St. James' Parish Music Director, Michael Ryan at mryansings@verizon.net.

Community Assistance Fund - August Activity

With your continued support we were able to help five families in the month of August with eviction prevention and BGE bills in the amount of $1,150. One single mother with two very young children needed help with her August rent knowing she would be homeless in September. We helped her with her rent and gave her resources to explore where she might go with her family in September. She was extremely grateful for the assistance and we pray she was able to get the assistance needed to care for her family. Your continued support of this ministry is appreciated by many.

Fundraiser for Ghanian Mothers' Hope, October 25th

Come "Paint with the Queen" on October 25th from 2:30-5 PM to benefit the ministry of Ghanian Mothers' Hope. Enjoy painting your own glass creation at this fun Drinkable Arts Paint Party that will be held at St. James' Parish, Lothian, Maryland. Tickets are $40 per person and includes all supplies, several glass types and four patterns to help you create your custom glass! For additional information, please contact Jeanie LesCallett at jeannie.lescallett@drinkablearts.com. To register online, visit www.drinkablearts.com/event/2092/Paint-with-the-Queen-GMH-Lothian-MD.

Fall Worship Schedule Begins September 13th

8:00 AM Holy Eucharist, St. Mark's Chapel
9:00 AM Holy Eucharist, St. James' Church
10:00 AM Sunday Church School, Education Building
11:00 AM Holy Eucharist, St. James' Church
5:30 PM Holy Eucharist, St. James' Church

Family Day Picnic & Kayaking

On Sunday, September 20th, after the 11 AM service, we will be heading over to West River Camp to enjoy some grilling and kayaking/canoeing. What a better way to celebrate than to spend the afternoon eating and being on the water. Bring some food to share and a kayak if you have one (or you can rent one from West River Camp). We have a pavilion reserved for us, so come and join the fun, bring the whole family. There are other self-led activities besides kayaking. All those under the age of 18 must have parental supervision. Please sign up by Sunday, September 13th by calling the Parish Office at (410-867-2838) so that we can notify West River Camp of the number of people attending and how many kayak/canoes we will need.

St. James’ Community Yard Sale

We are hosting our first community yard sale September 26th, from 8 AM - 2 PM. We are looking for people interested in renting a space. All rental spaces fees will go to St. James' Community Assistance Team. Spaces are $25 for a 10x10 spot with 1 table. Space is limited and will be available on a first come, first served basis. The deadline for renting a space is September 20, 2015, or until we run out of spots. At this time we are not accepting donations to be sold, but are looking for individuals who want to rent a space. For more information please email Ashley at Artemis914@aol.com.

Fall Festival Planning & Preparation

Mark your calendars! The Fall Festival will be held on Saturday, October 10th from 1–5 PM. The Festival featuring the Country Ham and Oyster Dinner is one of the largest Parish fundraisers held during the year. We need everyone's time and donations. The profit from the Festival goes to the operation of the Parish. It also funds special events and receptions as well as contributing to several outreach ministries. The WSJP will be contacting volunteers but, in addition, there are sign-up sheets on the Women’s bulletin board in the Parish Hall. Please take a moment today to sign up. If you have additional questions, contact Kelly Richard at akellyrichard@aol.com.

Blessing of the Backpacks, September 20th

On Sunday, September 20 at the 9 AM service the backpacks of children, youth, and college students can be brought up to the altar at the end of the service for a blessing. Each backpack will receive a laminated tag showing that it has been blessed.

AARP Smart Driver Class

The AARP Smart Driver class for ages 50+ will be offered at St. James' Parish on Wednesday, September 2. You will learn defensive driving techniques, proven safety strategies, and review new traffic laws and rules of the road. There is NO driving test! Upon completion of the class, you may also receive a discount on your car insurance from your insurance company. The cost is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non AARP members, and is payable in cash or check made out to AARP at the time of registration. Registration begins at 9:30 with the class starting at 10:00. There will be a 1 hour break for lunch. Class will resume at 1:00 and will conclude at 3:00 o'clock. Registration prior to class is required. Please bring your AARP card, if applicable, and your driver’s license. Please call 410-867-2838 during normal business hours to register.

Community Assistance Fund - July Activity

In July, the St. James' Community Assistance Team was able to help seven families with their BG&E bills and lot rent in the amount of $1,800. We were only able to meet with people two Thursdays out of the month due to a shortage of funds. Your donation to the Community Assistance Fund means a lot to our neighbors in need. The people who received our assistance are always grateful. This month we got a special “Thank you” from one of our clients and a special angel figure from another.

Cleaning out the North Barn

Can you help? We want to clean out the North Barn like we did for the South Barn. We have chosen Saturday, August 15th and will meet at the North Barn at 8 AM. A large dumpster will be there waiting for us. All we have to do is pick stuff up and put it in the dumpster. Please bring gloves, a hat and recommend safety glasses too. If we can get 6 to 10 people it will go very quickly and easily be done by 11 AM. Thank you!

Altar Guild Members Needed

We desperately need help for September and October. Altar Guild sets up the silver, wine, and wafers for the service. We fill the candles. You would not need to clean linens. Each month we have two people assigned to the 10 AM service. Training is provided; you would not be on your own. For more information, or if you are interested, please speak to the clergy or to Paula Davis at PKay621@aol.com.

Save the date! Special coffee hour, July 26th

The coffee hour on Sunday, July 26, will be a special one. We will gather in the Parish Hall after the 10 AM service to offer our thanks to Dawn+ for her ministry among us and to celebrate her recent engagement and her pending move to the West Coast! Let us gather to thank God for his hand at work!

Summer Breakfast Club Ministry - June 25th to August 15th

The Summer Breakfast Club Ministry provides bagged breakfast meals to children in southern Anne Arundel County (Lothian and Tracy's elementary school areas). Often the only meals they get during their day are the free or reduced breakfasts and lunches provided at their school.

The Breakfast Club will run for 7 weeks, from July 1st thru the middle of August - Mondays through Fridays. Volunteers from St. James' Parish are needed to pack breakfasts every Wednesday at 6 PM for approximately 45 minutes each week. On Fridays, the Deale Library will be partnering with us to present a special library program. In addition, FoodLink Annapolis, will to provide funds for extra food to families for their weekend. Each Friday, following the Library program, we will hand out a large bag of food to each family to help carry them through the weekend.

For more information, or to sign up to help on one of the Wednesdays listed below, please contact Nola Meyers at noreme@verizon.net.

Dates for St. James' Parish Volunteers: July 1, July 8, July 15, July 22, July 29, August 5, August 12 (possibly)

Sing with the Summer Choir

Music is an important part of our worship experience and we make every effort to provide it to our congregations during the summer months. Beginning on June 7th, just show up in church at 9 AM on any given Sunday and prepare an anthem to sing for the Service at 10 AM. Everyone is invited to participate either on a regular or a one time basis. This is a great time to try singing in the choir... and, it's fun! Music is selected depending on the group we have on each Sunday. Everyone is welcome to participate. You can do this!

Note Reading Course

Anyone seriously interested in the annual Note Reading Course should contact St. James' Parish Music Director, Michael Ryan at mryansings@verizon.net by June 30th to register. Class begins in mid July and is held for 5 weeks, 2 evenings per week. All work is done in class and the workbook is available for $10.

Community Assistance Fund - April Activity

The Community Assistance Team assisted ten families in the amount of $2,855, mostly for eviction prevention and help with very high electric bills from our frigid winter. In addition, we used the South County Community Energy Assistance Group funds ($1,156) to help two additional families pay their portion of their electric bills so that the power could be turned back on. The support from St. James' Parish is tremendously important to the people who are trying to stay afloat, especially for those with medical problems that require electricity. The Community Assistance Team thanks you for all your support to our South County neighbors in need.

Reading Camp South County - Donations Needed

Reading Camp South County needs your donations. You can make a general donation or it can cover a specific need. Checks need to be made out to Southern Maryland Regional Council. You can put them in the plate, or hand them to clergy or to Marjie Mack. So far we need:

1. Bus costs for the two trips - $600
2. Visiting author, Janie Suss, $15 a book x 25(one per child) - $375
3. Visiting author, Fred Bowen, $6 a book x 25 - $150
4. Back packs and school supplies per child
5. Jug Bay trip $3 per child - $75
6. Food/snacks

On behalf of the children we will serve, we thank you! For more information about Reading Camp South County please email Paula Davis at southcounty.md.readingcamp@gmail.com.

The Prayer Shawl Ministry - Help Needed

For many years, prayer shawls made by the ladies of St. James' have comforted people in need in our Parish and in our community. The shawls are blessed by our clergy and are given to anyone who has an illness, a hardship, has lost a loved one or a pet, and has a celebration, a new baby, a new home or a wedding. They are given to people in need by the Community Assistance Team, distributed to nursing homes, assisted living communities, veterans' homes and hospitals. This very important ministry is in need of yarn (baby yarn or 6/6.5 mm) or gift cards from Michaels, Joanne's or any place that sells yarn. Donations can be left at the Parish Office. Thank you for your help.

Vacation Bible School, June 22nd-26th

Vacation Bible School will be hosted by Friendship United Methodist Church this year. VBS will be June 22nd-26th from 9 AM-noon, and is open to kids from age 3 through 5th grade. Many volunteers are needed to make this a successful event.

REGISTRATION and VOLUNTEERS: to register your child for VBS or to sign up as a volunteer and to see what help is needed go to www.groupvbspro.com/vbs/ez/fumcvbs.

Senior Recognition Sunday, May 31st

On Sunday, May 31st at the 9:00am service, we will be recognizing all graduating high school and college seniors.

If you have a graduating senior, please email Dawn+ at dawncampbell@stjameslothian.com and state whether they would like to receive a Book of Common Prayer or a Bible as a gift. Please also include in the email a short biographical statement about your graduating senior, accomplishments and future plans.

Reading Camp South County at St. James' Parish July 27-31!

The camp is a week-long, tuition-free summer program for children who need a "boost" to help them improve their reading skills and will include 15 hours of reading instruction alongside fun activities such as swimming, arts and crafts, and games. A nutritious breakfast, lunch and snacks will be served daily.

Paula Davis has agreed to coordinate the camp, but volunteers are needed! Current or retired teachers are invited to contact Paula for more information about how they can help to provide the reading instruction from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM each day. The program ends at 4 PM, so teachers (who are able) as well as other adult and youth volunteers will be needed to assist with the afternoon activities.

For more information about this exciting program, or to volunteer, please contact Bill Ticknor+, Paula Davis and Nancy Horkan at southcounty.md.readingcamp@gmail.com. Reading Camp South County is part of The Reading Camp Network.

Come Sing With Us!

Singing in the choirs offers the opportunity for very enjoyable fellowship, and the music contributes greatly to our Sunday Worship experience. If you have any calling to this important ministry, but have held back because you think "they already have so many," or "they probably don't need me," or "I'm not a good singer," please think again! We do need you!

For more information on how you can participate in one of the choirs, please contact Parish Music Director, Michael Ryan at mryansings@verizon.net, or speak with any of our choir members. We would love for you to join us!

Pie Baking Workshop, May 9th

One for You and One for Us! - Are you a person who is hesitant to make a pie crust and pie filling? Why not join us on Saturday, May 9th at 9 AM in the Parish Hall Kitchen for a Pie Baking Workshop. At this workshop, you will be making a pie to bring home and one to donate to the Spring Dinner. We will be making fruit pies. All you will need are the ingredients for the crust and the filling and the desire to bake a homemade pie. If you are interested, please contact Kelly Richard at akellyrichard@aol.com; she will give you a list of ingredients to bring. Persons with experience baking pies are welcome and encouraged to join us.

Project Prom Dress 2015

Saturday, April 11th from 9 AM - noon, the senior high youth will be giving dresses to girls in the community who may be in need. The senior high youth are collecting gently used and cleaned prom style dresses, as well as accessories and shoes. The senior high youth believe this is a terrific opportunity to recycle prom dresses and to minister to a need in the community.

Please drop off your donations in the Parish Hall. If you have no clothes to donate, we are accepting cash donations to help cover the cost of additional dresses, accessories, and shoes. Cash donations will also contribute to purchasing prom tickets to six high schools.

Sports and Drama Camp - Registration Open

Registration for South County Churches Partnership's Sports and Drama Camp (July 13th-17th) has begun! Sign up now! Spaces are limited! Registration for participants and volunteers can be done online here: eventbrite.com/event/15913039329/.

Clothing Mission

We are now accepting spring and summer clothing. Please drop off clean, gently used clothes in the clothing room downstairs in the education building. Big thanks to Leslie Clark, and Laura McGowan who are assisting with this ministry! If you would like to help, please contact Taylor Milbradt at tayfm@aol.com.

March Community Assistance Fund

The Community Assistance Team helped six families in the amount of $1,761 in the month of March. A special thank you for the contributions given to the Community Assistance Fund through the sale of the Hand Painted Easter Eggs, the offering from the Easter Messiah Sing-Along and from the Lenten Suppers!

Maundy Thursday Fellowship & Service

On Maundy Thursday, April 2nd, we will have fellowship beginning at 6 PM in the Parish Hall, followed by potluck supper and we will have the Holy Eucharist in St. James' Church at 7:30 PM. The Women of St. James’ Parish would like everyone to bring a potluck dish to share; a non-alcoholic punch, coffee, tea and dessert will be provided. A free-will offering will be designated for Community Assistance Fund.

A new class of Daughters of the King is now forming

Founded in 1885, the mission of The Order of the Daughters of the King is a lay order of women committed to serve as an extension of Christ's Kingdom through daily prayer, service, and evangelism. Women who are interested in learning more about the Order are invited to attend an informational meeting at St. Margaret's Episcopal Church, Annapolis, on Wednesday, April 15, 2015, at 7 PM in the temporary classroom building.

Potential members attend a 12-session discernment class during which they learn about the Order and reflect on their personal call to service. For more information about the upcoming discernment program, please contact Pam Roth at rothsbythebay@verizon.net. For more information about the Order, you may also contact St. James' Parish Daughters, Linda Rines at linda.rines@comcast.net or Pamela Blyth at pamblyth@aol.com.

Crosses for Palm Sunday

Crosses for Palm Sunday will be made in the Parish Hall kitchen on Saturday, March 28th at 8:30 AM. Everyone is invited to help!

Lenten Program Session #5, March 25th

Please join us for our 2015 Lenten Program, HOSANNAH: A Spiritual Journey Through Holy Week, session #5:
From Death to New Life.

6:00 PM Fellowship, 6:30 PM Potluck Supper, 7:30 PM Program

No 5:30PM Service on 3/22 and 4/5

There will no 5:30PM service on:
March 22nd, please join us for the Messiah Sing-Along beginning at 4:00PM in St. James' Church.
April 5th, please join us at the 6:30AM sunrise service (Labyrinth at St. James'); 8:00AM (St. Mark's Chapel); 9:00AM or 11:00AM (St. James' Church).

Lenten Program Session #4, March 18th

Please join us for our 2015 Lenten Program, HOSANNAH: A Spiritual Journey Through Holy Week, session #4:
Friday.

6:00 PM Fellowship, 6:30 PM Potluck Supper, 7:30 PM Program

Easter Basket Time!

St James' Parish and Friendship United Methodist Church will continue our partnership on March 28th to provide groceries for Easter dinners to 70 local families in need. We hope you will generously donate your Time on Saturday, March 28, from 7 AM to 10:30 AM Treasures (cash donations or a ham in the Parish Hall refrigerator by March 25th) and/or Talent (join us for a fun time loading grocery bags and sharing stuffed and chocolate bunnies). For more information or to identify a family in need, please contact Linda Rines at Linda.Rines@comcast.net.

Lenten Program Session #3, March 11th

Please join us for our 2015 Lenten Program, HOSANNAH: A Spiritual Journey Through Holy Week, session #3:
Thursday Night.

6:00 PM Fellowship, 6:30 PM Potluck Supper, 7:30 PM Program

February Community Assistance Fund

The Community Assistance Team assisted 6 families in the amount of $1,700.00 in the month of February. We also used our South County Churches Energy Assistance Group (SCCEAG) funds helping 1 additional family with their fuel bill in the amount of $650. We always appreciate the support we get from out Parishioners in order to help our neighbors in need.

Lenten Program Session #2, March 4th

Please join us for our 2015 Lenten Program, HOSANNAH: A Spiritual Journey Through Holy Week, session #2:
Holy Week Begins!

6:00 PM Fellowship, 6:30 PM Potluck Supper, 7:30 PM Program

CANCELLED: 5:30 PM Holy Eucharist for March 1st

Due to inclement weather, snow and ice the remainder of the day, the 5:30 PM service has been cancelled.

Lenten Program Session #1, February 25th

Please join us for our 2015 Lenten Program, HOSANNAH: A Spiritual Journey Through Holy Week, session #1:
From Paul's Perspective

6:00 PM Fellowship, 6:30 PM Potluck Supper, 7:30 PM Program

Hand-painted Wooden Easter Eggs

Once again, Barbara Howard's beautiful hand-painted wooden Easter Eggs will be for sale during the Lenten Dinners and the Coffee Hours beginning March 1st. Proceeds from these beautiful eggs, which are offered for only $10 each, support the many important ministries of the St. James' Parish Outreach Committee. Through your generous support, we hope to top last year's contribution! For additional information, please contact Barbara Howard at kbhoward@comcast.net.

CANCELLED: St. James' Parish Pancake Supper for February 17th

After careful deliberation and inspection of parking lots and sidewalks, and due to freezing temperatures that will cause icy conditions this evening, we have decided, as have other parishes, to cancel the Pancake Supper for the safety of parishioners and guests. We are sorry to have caused any disappointment.

Potluck Lenten Suppers

The Lenten program begins on Wednesday, February 25, and will be held each Wednesday evening through March 25th. The last will be held on Maundy Thursday, April 2nd. Each week fellowship begins at 6 PM in the Parish Hall, followed by a light supper and an informative presentation entitled, "A Spiritual Journey through Holy Week." This year, rather than providing soup for everyone that attends the program, the Women of St. James' Parish would like everyone to bring a potluck dish to share. A nonalcoholic punch, coffee, tea and dessert will be provided.

Diocesan Meeting, Wednesday, February 11th

On Wednesday, February 11^th from 7 PM - 8:30 PM a diocesan meeting will be held at St. James' to discuss the current events regarding Bishop Heather Cook. This meeting is open to all clergy and laity, and is being held to allow clergy and members of our churches time to express their feelings, ask questions, and get information to share with their congregations. Bishop Eugene Taylor Sutton will be present to address questions and concerns. Please join us in the parish hall for this time of fellowship, prayer, and discussion.

You can read Bishop Sutton's January 13^th pastoral letter to the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland at the following link: latestnews.episcopalmaryland.org/?p=68.

For those outside the parish planning to attend, click here for driving directions.

St. James' Youth - if you plan to attend the meeting, the youth will meet at 6 PM for pizza and a pre-meeting discussion. If your youth is interested in joining the conversation, please notify Dawn+ at dawncampbell@stjameslothian.com prior to the meeting.

January Community Assistance Fund

In January, the Community Assistance Fund was able to help 12 families in the amount of $3,493. In addition we gave $500 to the SCCEAG Fund at Johnson Oil and were able to fill the fuel tanks of two additional families. Most of the people needed help with lot rent, electric and fuel bills. In addition, we helped a homeless family with three children’s stay in an Annapolis motel for four nights and in an unusual situation we were able to help a family get back on their feet by assisting with an extremely necessary dental procedure. We feel blessed to be able to help our neighbors in need and appreciate your support.

Souper Bowl Sunday, February 1st

On Sunday, February 1st, millions of Americans will tune in to the Super Bowl football game. There will be parties with abundant food, friendship and fellowship. At the same time, there will be other people worrying about staying warm, finding shelter and a warm meal. Please join young people around the country as they demonstrate God's love by loving their neighbors through the Souper Bowl of Caring. St. James' Parish Youth will be standing at the doors after the service collecting donations in large soup bowls and will later do a "Supermarket Sweep" to purchase groceries for the needy. Please support their efforts - Thank you!

Giving to the Palermo Children’s Education Fund

The Vestry, at their January meeting, decided to set aside the month of February for people to donate to the Palermo Fund. If you wish to donate, please make out your check to "St. James’ Parish" and place "Palermo Fund" in the memo. We will be sending a check on behalf of our Parish.

St. James' Parish Valentine's Day Party and Dance

St. James' Parish is hosting a Valentine's Day Party and Dance on Friday, February 13, 2015 from 6:30 PM until 9:30 PM.

Come as a single, couple or bring the entire family and plan to have a great evening of fellowship with your Parish family. An Italian dinner will be served including pasta (meat lover and vegetarian), green salad, rolls, chocolate dessert, wine and non-alcoholic punch. DJ Randy Ward from Party Pac Entertainment will provide the music, games and lots of fun. All this for $15 per person; $30 per couple; $35 for a family of four ($5 per additional family member) and children 4 and under are free.

If you have any questions or to purchase tickets, please contact Edlu Thom-Harper at Edlu.th@comcast.net.

Amish Lands Library Committee Trip, April 9th

On Thursday, April 9, The Library Committee is sponsoring a trip to see Sight & Sound's "MOSES." Cost is $175.00 per person: $75 Deposit due with reservation, final payment due by February 15th. Package includes: performance of "Moses" at the Millennium Theatre, smorgasbord meal at Shady Maple Restaurant, shopping as time allows, motorcoach transportation, taxes & meal gratuities.

For reservations & information contact Lillie Barrett at garylillie502@gmail.com.

Regional Confirmation Service, May 31st

Those individuals within our Parish, who desire to be Confirmed or Received into the Episcopal Church, will be able to go to a Regional Confirmation Service at the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Baltimore on Sunday, May 31st, at 4 PM. Our Assistant Rector, Dawn+, will be instructing our young people in preparation, and our Rector, Bill+, will be meeting with Adults for their preparation. Please contact the clergy to allow us to meet with those involved.

Diocesan meeting at St. James' Parish this evening POSTPONED due to inclement weather

Due to inclement weather and potentially hazardous driving conditions, tonight's Regional Forum to discuss the Heather Cook matter with Bishop Sutton has been postponed. Originally scheduled for 7-8:30 pm Jan 21 at St. James' Parish, the meeting will be rescheduled. If you have to venture out this afternoon or tonight, please drive safely.

Diocesan Meeting, Wednesday, January 21st

On Wednesday, January 21^st from 7 PM - 8:30 PM a diocesan meeting will be held at St. James' to discuss the current events regarding Bishop Heather Cook. This meeting is open to all clergy and laity, and is being held to allow clergy and members of our churches time to express their feelings, ask questions, and get information to share with their congregations. Bishop Eugene Taylor Sutton will be present to address questions and concerns. Please join us for this time of fellowship, prayer, and discussion.

You can read Bishop Sutton's January 13^th pastoral letter to the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland at the following link: latestnews.episcopalmaryland.org/?p=68.

For those outside the parish planning to attend, click here for driving directions.

St. James' Youth - if you plan to attend the meeting, the youth will meet at 6 PM for pizza and a pre-meeting discussion. If your youth is interested in joining the conversation, please notify Dawn+ at dawncampbell@stjameslothian.com prior to the meeting.

Food Pantry Volunteers Needed

The SCAN food pantry needs help with unloading incoming cases of food items. It is done during a week day and takes about two hours. You will be called approximately every three or four months. If you can help, please contact Lucy Arthur at donlucyarthur@verizon.net.

December Community Assistance Fund

Once again St. James' Parish helped several families in our South County Community have a little better Christmas. We were able to disburse $2,251.88 as well as SCCEAG funds in the amount of $531.82. In addition to our regular funds we were able to help a few families have any Christmas at all because generous parishioners provided extra funds for gift cards where people could pick up a few presents for their families. The Community Assistance Team wants you to know how much we appreciate your support for this very important ministry that helps our neighbors in need.