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+

ALL SAINTS SUNDAY

Dear St. Paul’s,

Today we celebrate All Saints! One of my favorite feasts as we take time to remember and give thanks for all who have gone before us. Thousands of folks have passed through the doors of St. Paul’s giving of their time and treasure. Today, as you wait for the service to begin, take a few moments to study the stained-glass windows and give thanks for the generosity of the saints who gave these windows to enhance our worship space. Or those who needle-pointed altar cushions or the women who gave the altar from which we celebrate communion. Our garden and parking lot; the 4Cs parking lot (which we now own) and an air-conditioned Merrifield Room – all provided through the work and generosity of the communion of saints. Their gifts and legacy live on through us today.

Our coffee hour will be our All Saints party/celebration! There will be a number of activities for you to participate in and some cider and donuts to nourish our bodies. If you would like, you are welcome to wear a costume of your favorite saint or perhaps carry a symbol associated with that saint.

I also want to remind you to vote if you have not already done so. My sense is that we will not know the results of the election for several days. The election, the wait for the results, the polarization between folks of different political parties, all contribute to the anxiety and tension we are feeling these days. As people of Christ; as people of hope; and as people who trust in our God of love and peace, it will be critical that we find a way to breath calmly and know that God will be with us at all times. As part of this weekly email, you will find several pages of prayers for your use during this time of tension. And this piece of Scripture may offer you some peace:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.—Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

Please save the date of November 16th and join us for “If Music Be the Food” concert presented by MSU music students. It is always a delight to have them among us. The concert begins at 7:00pm and the hour-long music presentation is not only delightful but also provides you a way to support the food bank at First Presbyterian Church. We encourage you to bring either a monetary donation or shelf-stable food items in support of their good work.

And yes, we are in our pledge drive season. We don’t like to talk about money in the church. Why that is I have not yet figured out. Jesus certainly spent quite a bit of time on the subject. We couldn’t survive as St. Paul’s without it. And as Dick so clearly pointed out in his sermon last Sunday, everything we do is stewardship in some way or another. How we manage our time; where we spend our dollars; what we do with the gifts God so graciously bestowed on each of us – it is all stewardship. And yes, giving back in thanksgiving from the abundance God has given us, is a good reason to pledge. But bluntly speaking, the money is necessary to keep our doors open and our services available to all either on-line or in-person. Our costs have gone up just as yours have gone up. Enough said. Please prayerfully ponder your pledge to St. Paul’s for 2025.

Let us hold each other in prayer this week as we prepare for our nation’s leadership election. We don’t know how it will end, but we do know as Christians that kindness is the most-needed quality for now. Pray for kindness; pray for wisdom; pray for courage and peace. May all of you feel held in God’s loving presence this week and next.

Blessings,
Karen+