Schedule Change Notes

Morning Prayer, Tuesday Bible Study, and Tuesday Afternoon Prayer Service are all on hold until late January 2023. Also, there will be no 8:00AM service at St. Mark's on January 1st.

Wedding Watch Event, December 30

You are cordially invited to attend the wedding (via Zoom) of Joseph Lenow and Rhody Mastin, on Friday, December 30 at 4:30pm in the evening in Ticknor Parish Hall. A covered dish dinner to follow the service. Please bring your favorite holiday entree, salad, or dessert. Any questions please contact Lillie Barrett at garylillie502@gmail.com.

Don't Forget Your Pledges!

As we prepare our final budget for next year, we're finding that our number of pledges from across the parish is not where we're used to being at this time of the year. If you plan to support the ministries of our church next year, please remember to submit your pledges as soon as you're able (and remember that even if you're set up for a monthly recurring payment, we need a new pledge for 2023)! Without these commitments, we're not able to plan ahead for our ministries in the coming year—and we've got some great things planned. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our parish staff, and remember that you're able to adjust your pledge at any point in the coming year if your ability to contribute changes. Thanks for your support!

Outreach Committee - Thank You

The Outreach Committee wishes to thank everyone who generously gave their time and treasure for the Christmas dinner distribution last Saturday so that others would have a blessed holiday. We had a great turn out of volunteers and were able to feed over 260 people including 90 children.

Greening the Church, December 22nd 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 garylillie502@gmail.com.

Brunch with St. Nick, December 10

This year, we once again welcome St. Nick back to our parish for Brunch with St. Nick! On Saturday, December 10 at 10AM, we'll be gathering to hear about the real Santa Claus and celebrate this festive season with crafts, games, and of course food! For more information, contact Sharon McGlaughlin at sharon.mcglaughlin1692@gmail.com.

Sponsors For The Messiah Sing

The annual Messiah Sing is fast approaching on December 18 at 4:00pm! In anticipation of this beloved St. James tradition, we are looking for individuals, families, and businesses who are interested in sponsoring the event to help defray the costs of compensating the incredible musicians who will be joining us for this performance. Are you interested in sponsoring the event or know someone who is? Please email Justin at justin.caithaml@icloud.com for more information! Thank you in advance for your support of music ministries here at St. James!

Advent Wreath Making and Christmas Tree, November 27

Get your house ready for Christmas! After our 10AM service November 27, we will have Advent Wreath-making kits and greens available in Ticknor Hall, so that children and adults alike can bring the tradition of the Advent wreath home as we prepare for the Nativity of our Lord. We will also be setting up and decorating the great tree in our parish hall. Some Christmas cookies and refreshments will be on hand—join us for this festive celebration!

Thanksgiving Basket Distribution - Thank You!

Thank you to everyone who generously gave their time and treasure for the Thanksgiving dinner distribution last Saturday so that others would have a blessed holiday. Your generosity allowed us to feed over 260 people including 98 children. In addition, the very generous donation of gift cards by the Women of St. James' ensured that each child could be provided a Christmas gift.

Thanksgiving Day Service, 10:00AM

St. James' Parish will have a Thanksgiving Day service on Thursday, November 24 at 10:00am; bring wine or any other food or drinks for a Thanksgiving blessing!

New Women's Advent Study, Saturday Mornings on Zoom

     In the ancient world, something extraordinary happened when God's people gathered to worship him. It was more than just singing; it was time to fully embody praise to God for who he is and what he had done. In the Book of Psalms, there are seven Hebrew words that are translated into the English word "praise," each of which represents a different aspect of what it means to truly praise God.
     In this four-session video Bible study, based on the book Holy Roar, by Chris Tomlin and Darren Whitehead, pastor Darren Whitehead shares insights on how to deepen your practice of praise by uncovering the true meaning behind each of these Hebrew words, and Chris Tomlin shares how those insights take shape in the stories behind many of his worship songs.
     Please join Deacon Michelle Doran and Brenda Boucher as they facilitate this Advent Study based on the music of Chris Tomlin. The first session will be Saturday, November 26 at 8:30am via Zoom. The next meetings will be Saturday, 3, 10 and 17 of December. For more information, and the Zoom link please contact Brenda at totheskies@msn.com. Please see the related attachment.

Parish Leadership Workshop, Sunday, November 20

Let's say this up top: this isn't just a meeting about being on the Vestry! There are so many ways we can contribute, and so much work to do in testifying to the coming of God's Kingdom and serving the poor. If you want to get a better sense of what our church's ministries are and where you might fit in, this meeting is for you! If you have an idea for a ministry that we might undertake together, this meeting is for you! (And yes, if you're interested in serving on the Vestry, this meeting is for you!) We'll be meeting during our Adult Forum time, after the 10:00am service on November 20. See you there!

Amazing Grays Luncheon, November 2

     The Amazing Grays are invited to lunch on Wednesday, November 2 at 11:30 am in the Parish Hall. This is our first in-person gathering since the pandemic. We have a special mystery chef who has promised a menu that will be a delight to the senses.
     Come and greet our chef, share a great meal followed by a short program. Of course, there will be lots and lots of conversation. Please RSVP to the church office by Monday, October 31 so that we know how many are planning on coming.

All Saints' Chili Cookoff - November 6

Whether you're a chili traditionalist or an experimental chef, this is your chance to feed the parish and bring glory to your favorite recipe! Come prepared with a steaming pot of chili on Sunday, November 6, and we'll eat it together after the 10am service to celebrate the Feast of All Saints. Bring your "A" game!

St. James' Trunk or Treat, October 30

On Sunday, October 30, we will have a Trunk or Treat event. We need you to decorate your trunk or back of your car for Halloween and pass out candy. You can sign up to participate at the following link: bit.ly/3Cru28a. We would like about 26 participants. We plan to have a grill with hamburgers and hot dogs. Hours - 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. Please contact Paula at pkay621@aol.com or Sharon at sharon.mcglaughlin1692@gmail.com for more information.

All Saints' Memorial - November 6

On All Saints' Sunday (November 6), we will continue the ancient practice of praying in worship for those who have died. Please notify the church office of the full name of your friend or family member whom you would like to be included by Monday, October 31st.

Coffee Hour Signup

We need volunteers to sign up for an occasional Sunday to bring a few food items to set out on a table, make the coffee, and then wrap up any leftovers after everyone has enjoyed the fellowship. The sign-up sheet and the instructions are located on the bulletin board outside the Parish Office, or you can call the Parish Office at 410-867-2838 and ask to have your name(s) added to the list for a specific date. A sign-up sheet for November is on the bulletin board. Thank you for enabling our fellowship!

Root Beer / Coke Float Social and Health Clinic, October 9

On October 9, Giant Food in Edgewater will offer vaccinations for the Flu, COVID, Pneumonia and Shingles. Luminis Health will offer free screenings. Boost your immunity for the winter and get one or more jabs and reward yourself with a float. For additional information please see the event flier: bit.ly/3yntTBB.

The Blessing of the Animals, October 2

As part of our observance of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, we will once again be holding a Blessing of the Animals outside at the Labyrinth on Sunday, October 2 at 4:00pm. Bring your beloved pets for a spritz of holy water, and give thanks for the non-human creatures that God has put in our lives!

The St. James’ Parish Social Club (20/30s Group), September 22

     It's time for a night out! Join us on September 22nd (and normally the fourth Thursday of each month) at 7 p.m. at Jesse Jay’s Latin Inspired Kitchen, for fellowship and fun! For more information, please contact Fr. Joe+ at joe.lenow@stjameslothian.com.

Flower Arranging Class, September 17

Lillie Barrett will be teaching a flower arranging class on Saturday, September 17 at 9:30 a.m. in the Ticknor Parish Hall. You will learn how to arrange altar flowers as well as a basket arrangement. There will be a $25 fee to cover expenses. To register, please contact Lillie Barrett at garylillie502@gmail.com.

Stained Glass Window Restoration

We have been concerned for some time about the condition of the stain glass windows. Fortunately, we have received a generous donation to make their restoration possible. On about September 7 & 8th the second window on the north side (the Baptism Window) will be the first to be removed and taken to the restoration studio in Virginia. In its place will be a white sheet of plywood. It will take several months to be returned. Then, the two windows at the altar (St. James and St. Paul) will both be taken at the same time, after Christmas. Again, several months before their return. The remaining windows will be restored in place at the church. This includes the clear windows and the transom windows over the doors. This project was approved by the Vestry and is expected to take about a year. Questions may be addressed to Chair of the Buildings and Grounds Committee, Jim Cheston - jamescheston@yahoo.com.

Welcome to the new Church School Year 2022-23!

     On September 11th, we will kick off Sunday Church School at St. James’ Parish at 9 a.m.! You can register your youth online at stjameslothian.com/cf_registration. Once you submit the form, you will receive a confirmation email.
     We want to welcome back all returning children and those who are attending for the first time! We look forward to sharing the journey of our faith with the children and building a strong foundation of community and friendship. Please be sure to visit the classrooms, introduce yourselves to the leaders, and fill out the registration form (either online or a hardcopy) so that we can plan for your children.
     As has been our practice over the years, we will also schedule times of fellowship for the children (youngest to grade 5) and youth (grades 6 through 12). The activities are published monthly in the parish newsletter (The Shell) and on the parish website.

Sunday Church School - Calling Volunteers!

The Christian Formation Committee is looking for volunteers to assist with Sunday Church School Atriums, youth group gatherings, and other activities. Some training and lots of love are required... the rewards are many! For more information on how you can help, please contact Sharon McGlaughlin at sharon.mcglaughlin1692@gmail.com.

Children's Ministry Position

St. James', together with the other parishes in the area, is now advertising for a part-time Regional Children's Minister for Southern Maryland. If you know someone who might be a good fit for the position, please send along the job advertisement, available at bit.ly/3yG1PZc. We're very excited about the position, and thank you for your help in bringing the perfect person to this ministry!

Hymn Sing, August 28

Following our 10am service on August 28, we'll be having a hymn sing in the church! Come prepared with a list of your favorite songs from the Red Hymnal or the Renew Hymnal. We're trying to get a sense of the music that this parish loves, so even if you can't make the hymn sing, please send your list of favorite songs to Fr. Joe and Justin at joe.lenow@stjameslothian.com! Please remember to bring a mask for the hymn sing.

St. James' Fall Kickoff, September 11th

On Sept. 11 following our 10am service, we'll be having our Fall Kickoff Picnic! Our plan is to make this a big celebration that can gather the whole community together—adults and children; those who are members of the parish, and friends and newcomers from our broader community. We'll have food, games, music, even a bounce castle! The parish will be providing the main course for our cookout, but we need help! Two things you can do: First, this will be a wonderful time for our parish family to gather together, but we're also hoping that we can see ourselves as hosts for our whole community. We'd be very grateful if members of the parish could bring a side dish or dessert to make this a true feast! Second, we're looking for a few people with grills and the means to transport them to the church so we can keep the burgers and hotdogs (and a vegetarian option!) coming. We'll see you there, and bring a friend!

2022-23 Church School Registration Form

St. James' 2022-23 church school registration form is now available online. You can download/print the form from the following link: bit.ly/3pbd5sd.

Photographers, We Need You!

Whether you're a professional photographer with thousands of dollars of gear or just a lover of photography with a good iPhone, we need you! We're in the process of redesigning our website, and need high-quality photos of our worship, parish life, and time together. If you've got photos from the past few years, or if you'd be interested in taking some photos for our new webpage in the months ahead, please reach out to Fr. Joe at joe.lenow@stjameslothian.com!

COVID Update - Masks Optional

Case rates in our area have risen in the last week to a "Medium" rate of community transmission - the yellow zone (nyti.ms/3uwekW1). Masks remain optional in worship, but are highly recommended especially when singing.

Parish Summer Lunch - Sunday, July 17th

Covid transmission rates are now "low" again, so to thank our parishioners for their generous support of the recent Spring Dinner & Festival, the Women of St. James' Parish (WSJP) will provide an informal oyster/ham lunch for parishioners on Sunday, July 17th after the 10 AM worship service. The menu will be a little different from our typical Spring Dinner menu (oysters, honey ham, corn on the cob, coleslaw). There will be no charge for the dinner; however, we will welcome contributions of desserts for our dessert table. For more information or to volunteer to help, please contact Lillie Barrett at garylillie502@gmail.com. See you on July 17th!

Coffee Hours are Back!

     Coffee hours after our 10 AM Sunday worship services have returned! Simple food items are always welcome contributions on Sunday mornings; just leave them on the counter in the kitchen. (Put your name on any dish you’d like returned and remember to pick it up!)
     We also need one or two volunteers to sign up for an occasional Sunday to bring a few food items to set out on a table, make the coffee, and then wrap up any leftovers after everyone has enjoyed the fellowship. The sign-up sheet and the instructions are located on the bulletin board outside the Parish Office, or you can call the Parish Office at 410-867-2838 and ask to have your name(s) added to the list for a specific date. Right now we have openings for July 31 and most of August. Thank you for enabling our fellowship to begin again!

COVID Update - Masks Optional

After a brief spike in case rates, Covid transmission is back at "Low" in Anne Arundel and Calvert Counties—the green zone. For this reason, masks remain optional in worship, but are recommended when singing.

COVID Update - Masks Recommended

Our rate of community transmission of Covid in Anne Arundel and Calvert counties were bumped up to "High" — the red zone. While we have not yet returned to requiring masks in worship, they are highly recommended for all congregants. Let us show our love for our neighbors by sacrificing our comfort for them, and masking up to keep one another safe!

Calling all 2022 Graduates

If you have graduated from High School or a higher level of learning, we would like to honor your achievements. Please provide your name, name of the school and level of education completed (ex: High School) by emailing the church secretary at secretary@stjameslothian.com and Fr. Joe Lenow at joe.lenow@stjameslothian.com.

Many Ways to Help with the Parish Spring Dinner on May 21st

       Many have volunteered to serve at our Spring Dinner, but we have a few spots still open. YOU can sign up to help with this Sign Up Genius link: signupgenius.com/go/20F0B4DA8A72CA6FF2-spring.
       If you can’t serve that day, plan to come and eat or pick up a couple of dinners curbside! That will help us too!
       Many have donated generously for the cost of dinners for some of our neighbors (send a check to St. James’ Parish with “Spring Dinner-neighbors” on the memo line).
       Your donated garden plants, jewelry, and attic treasures can be brought in anytime the week of the dinner. URGENT - We also need homemade spies and cakes, as well as packaged brownies and cookies (in groups of two to six) for the Bake Shoppe the day of the dinner. Please note if nuts are included.

Coffee Hour Sign-up!

Coffee hours are returning after our 10:00am Sunday worship services! Simple food items are always welcome contributions on Sunday mornings; just leave them on the counter in the kitchen. (Put your name on any dish you’d like returned and remember to pick it up!) We also need sponsors to sign up each week to host by setting the food items out on a table and cleaning up after everyone has enjoyed the fellowship. The sign-up sheet for April is now on the bulletin board outside the Parish Office—or you can call the Parish Office at 410-867-2838 and ask to have your name or the name of your group put on the list for a specific date. Thank you for volunteering to enable our fellowship to begin again!

Easter Holiday Food Baskets, April 9th

       St. James' Parish and Friendship United Methodist Church will continue our partnership to provide groceries for Easter dinners to approximately 60 local families in need on Saturday, April 9th, from 7 – 10:30 a.m.
       Please consider donating your time to help with this worthwhile mission! For additional information, to volunteer, or to identify a family in need, please contact Cindy Carrier at bccarrier@comcast.net
       Thanks for supporting this important ministry and helping to provide holiday meals to those members of our community in need.

COVID Update - Masks Optional

As of this week, Anne Arundel County has now had two weeks with a new case rate consistently below 7; our new case rate is now 5.1, down from a high near 170 in mid-January. As a result, Episcopal churches throughout the Diocese of Maryland are beginning to relax some of their Covid restrictions. This Sunday, 3/20, we will begin by making masks optional in our Sunday services. We will, however, maintain a section of the church where masks will be required, and may need to return to requiring masks in worship if case rates rise again.

Spring Dinner 2022 - Save the Date!

The Women of St. James’ will be hosting a Spring Dinner on Saturday, May 21, 2022! We are excited about it, but it takes the entire parish to pull this off! The dinner will feature ham and oysters, and we also plan to have a bake table, plants, children’s activities, attic treasures, and jewelry. We will also be looking for donations to provide complimentary tickets for some of those in our community who may wish to attend but don’t have the financial resources. Look for more info as we plan our first dinner in two years!

Hand Painted Easter Eggs for Sale

     Once again, Barbara Howard's beautiful hand painted wooden Easter Eggs will be on sale beginning Sunday, March 6th. Proceeds from these beautiful eggs, which are offered for only $10 each, support the St. James’ Parish Community Assistance Program. Through your generous support, we hope to top last year’s contribution!

Bishop's Search Committee Listening Session at St. James'

On Sunday, March 20, 2022 from 2-4pm, a listening session in our search for the next Bishop of Maryland will be held at St. James'. This session will allow Episcopalians from throughout Southern Maryland to gather together and offer feedback about the qualities for which we should be searching in our next bishop. We ask you to RSVP for this here: bit.ly/3hUzJS9.

Youth Group Ice Skating - Save the Date

Save March 6, 2022 date for Youth Group Ice Skating! Further details to follow. Any questions please contact Sharon McGlaughlin at sharon.mcglaughlin@gmail.com or Paula Davis at pkay621@aol.com.

New Women's Study - "Walking Home: From Eden to Emmaus"

     Saturdays in Lent beginning March 5 at 08:30 through April 30 (omitting the weekends of Palm Sunday and Easter), Brenda Boucher and Deacon Michelle Doran+ will lead a new Saturday morning study specifically for women. Walking Home: From Eden to Emmaus by Margaret Guenther retells the "walking stories" of Scripture and unpacks the truths they reveal about spiritual life.
     The spiritual life is oftentimes about putting one foot in front of another, always on the way, never home, until crossing another new threshold. However, the point of all our walking is getting home, as this splendid author illustrates in this reflective work. If you are interested, please email Brenda Boucher at totheskies@msn.com.

New Date for Women's Weekend 2022

Come join the Women's Weekend - Reconnecting and Regathering: God Makes All Things New. The new date is February 25 - 27, 2022. Register online at www.claggettcenter.org.

Youth Confirmation

On February 20 after our 10am service, we'll be holding an interest meeting for our Youth Confirmation class, which will be meeting on Sundays this Spring. Come join us, learn more about this sacrament — and bring a friend!

Souper Bowl Sunday - February 13th

     On Sunday, February 13th, 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 or 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 food and monetary donations in large soup bowls. The donations will support SCAN.

Choirs & Music - Come Sing with Us!

     Maybe you're a member of the choir of long standing, or maybe you've never sung with the choir before and want to give it a try. The St. James’ Parish Choir is open to everyone – we're just excited to gather together and lift our voices in worship!
     Practices are currently on Thursdays at 7 p.m. in the Music Room and on Sundays at 9 a.m. in the church before our 10 a.m. worship service. We are currently wearing and singing in masks at all times based on diocesan guidance. We hope you’ll join us!

Men's Breakfast and Bible Study, January 15

The St. James Men's Breakfast and Bible Study will resart January 15 at 8 am at the Dockside Restaurant in Deale Md. We will meet monthly on the third Saturday. Please join us!