Ashley Malesky

This message shares concerns about nationwide funding cuts leading to severe food scarcity, as witnessed firsthand by Lynn Kokolus through the Second Harvest food bank. Fresh produce donations have dwindled, forcing a reliance on canned goods, and the situation is creating significant hardship for families. Parishioners are encouraged to contact legislators, donate food, and join in prayer as the church collects and blesses offerings for the food bank.

Mo. Laura shares a simple but profound moment from a grocery store conversation, where a cashier reminded her, “We can be glad each day for another day of life.” That unexpected comment turned her ordinary morning into one filled with gratitude and joy. She encourages us to remember daily that life itself is a gift from God and to give thanks for the breath in our lungs and the life in our hearts.

SMo. Laura reflects on the comforting power of prayer, inspired by the beloved hymn Sweet Hour of Prayer, which will be sung this Sunday. She shares how prayer offers not only a way to express our concerns to God but also a moment of rest and grounding amidst life’s busyness. Whether in the quiet of morning or before sleep, prayer reminds us we are never alone—God is always with us.

Summer may be a quieter season at church, but St. Margaret’s is still full of joyful energy, with teens filling the building in musical rehearsal and movement. While many activities are on pause, two important updates remain: the prayer list is being refreshed by July 16, so members are encouraged to update any names, and on July 20, Canon Missioner Barbara Harrison Seward will visit for the first time to preach and celebrate—an event not to be missed!

Summer may be a quieter season at church, but St. Margaret’s is still full of joyful energy, with teens filling the building in musical rehearsal and movement. While many activities are on pause, two important updates remain: the prayer list is being refreshed by July 16, so members are encouraged to update any names, and on July 20, Canon Missioner Barbara Harrison Seward will visit for the first time to preach and celebrate—an event not to be missed!

In this heartfelt reflection, Mo. Laura highlights the power of the week’s collect prayer, which calls us to love God and one another with sincerity. She suggests that many of the world’s problems might be eased if we truly embraced this love, caring deeply for others’ well-being. Acknowledging our human limitations, she encourages us to pray for the grace—even just the desire—to live more lovingly, even if only for a moment.

Amid growing global and local tensions, Organist-in-Residence Dodd Lamberton invites us to find peace through music by playing Song of Peace (Chant de Paix) each Sunday in July. This gentle piece offers a moment of quiet reflection and prayer for peace near and far. Mo. Laura encourages all to join in this intentional practice and consider using prayers from the Prayer Book (pp. 814–816) as we seek calm and unity in a troubled world.

St. Margaret’s is experiencing exciting changes again this summer! Alongside the warm welcome of Iglesia Luz de Esperanza, who now worships with us on Saturdays, we’ve made our space more inclusive by removing the front pew to accommodate those with walkers or wheelchairs. With updates like these—and the return of Poor Man’s Gambit this fall—our church continues to grow as a vibrant and welcoming community.

The world has always been marked by war and violence, but Christians are called to actively pursue peace and justice through actions like volunteering, donating, activism, and prayer. Despite acknowledging the sorrow and pain, it’s crucial to consciously choose joy amidst darkness by recognizing the beauty around and within us, and by embracing the happiness that Jesus’ presence offers. Ultimately, the pursuit of joy is a choice that helps in navigating a difficult world.

On June 3, St. Margaret’s held the funeral of beloved parishioner Jane Norelli, who was just weeks away from her 100th birthday. Jane was known for her long-standing presence at the church, her love of food (though not cooking!), her organizational talents, and her lifelong love of hats. Her memory and contributions to parish life brought forth joyful and touching stories that continue to remind us of the deep history and community spirit of St. Margaret’s.

Also, don’t miss the Bach at Noon concert series resuming on June 10 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Allentown—featuring Carissimi’s Jephtha, a moving musical retelling of a biblical tragedy.