We welcome all into our facilities (whether you have been here before or are seeking a worship home) for in-person worship, meetings and gatherings.

As Episcopalians, we are members of the world-wide Anglican Communion. At times we are referred to as’ that church started by Henry VIII so he could get a divorce’. Come visit and you’ll find out there is much more to us than a cranky old ancestor. Theologically some suggest we are progressive – instead we think of ourselves as keen on social justice issues, fairness, justice and equality for all folks. Worship-wise, or liturgically as we refer to it, we have a well-defined service that includes scripture readings, hymn singing, praying, preaching and sharing holy communion.

The only way to know if we are a good fit for you, is to try us out. We welcome all and pressure none. The most important thing is your relationship with God and we encourage you to find the place where it will grow most fruitfully. For more information about St. Paul’s, its ministries or anything else, feel free to email the rector, Karen Lewis at rector@stpaulslansing.org or contact our parish office at 517-482-9454.

Blessings to you and yours,
Karen+

January 19, 2025

Dear All,

Yikes!!! The Michigan grayness is getting to me! Is it challenging to get up in the morning for you? I certainly struggle rolling out of bed in the dark. Perhaps when the sun comes up earlier it will make it easier. Given the weather and the political situation and the wildfires in LA and the war in Israel and confusion over a ceasefire, one certainly can justify falling into a slump.

So, if I were to ask you, “Are you okay?” How would you respond? We live in chaotic, destabilizing days and if you were to respond ‘okay’ I might wonder if you need a gut check. It certainly is okay to not feel okay these days. I suspect most of us do.

When in a emotional slump, what do you do to feel the joy and hope once again? I listen to classical music or read a book that is entertaining (which means it doesn’t require me to think too much) or watch a Hallmark movie. I seldom turn to prayer at these times. It is though I don’t even have the energy for prayer. Sometimes reading the psalms of lament helps. Psalm 55 is one of my favorites. Perhaps you did not know that it is okay to yell at God – to let God know you are unhappy with the situation – that life sucks at times – and you want God to do something about it. When I was in seminary, several of us would head over to the shores of Lake Michigan at night and howl our unhappiness at the moon and God. We certainly felt better afterwards even though the situation hadn’t changed. So, if you choose to howl, just make sure you pick the right time and place.

Switching topics . . .

. . . I encourage you if able, to donate to one of the many credible organizations doing good work out in Los Angeles. Lives have been lost, thousands of homes and businesses destroyed, animals displaced, and people left homeless. Episcopal Relief & Development is providing assistance to folks in that area as several Episcopal churches have been destroyed. There are many animal rescue organizations gathering up the animals that have been displaced. Perhaps you might give to one of those.

. . . Next Sunday is our Annual Meeting following the 10:00am worship service. This is our annual gathering to hear about the state of the church; to elect new Vestry members and delegates to our Diocesan Convention; and to enjoy each other’s company. Your presence is of great value as you are a valued member of St. Paul’s. Please sign up and let us know you are coming and what dish you will bring to our great church potluck!!

. . . Lent starts late this year, March 5th, which means Easter will be late this year, April 22nd. Staff has already started planning for Lent and possible formational opportunities for you to participate in. One will be to join us four Tuesday evenings on Zoom to learn about the invisible, oft-forgotten person of the Trinity. Another opportunity will be a church-wide book study with discussions held at coffee hour on Sundays.

Until next week, be good to yourselves and say your prayers. Blessings, Karen+

Advent I: – December 1 – 10:00am – Worship & Holy Communion

Advent II/St. Nicholas Sunday – December 8 – 10:00am – Worship & Holy Communion

Advent III – December 15 – 10:00am – Worship & Holy Communion

Advent IV – December 22 – 10:00am – Worship & Holy Communion

Christmas Eve – December 24 – 7:00pm – Christmas Music and Service

Christmas Day – December 25 – 10:00am – Worship & Holy Communion (In-person only)

Baptism & Holy Communion – December 29 – 10:00am

Epiphany Lessons & Carols & Ante communion – January 5 – 10:00am