In this month’s message, Mo. Laura reflects on how autumn naturally draws our hearts toward remembering loved ones who have passed. As All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days approach, she encourages us to take time to honor both our love and our grief, celebrating the hope of resurrection. She invites parishioners to submit names for the November 2 All Saints service by October 22 so they can be included in the Necrology list.

In this month’s message, Mo. Laura shares a cautionary story about a recent email scam that used her name and church information to deceive a friend into sending money. She warns that scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often using fake email addresses and personal details gathered online to appear legitimate. Mo. Laura urges everyone to stay vigilant—never send money or personal information without confirming directly with the person—and reminds us to be “wise as serpents and gentle as doves.”

Mo. Laura shares a reflection from Bonnie Jean Baron about the excitement and meaning of back-to-school season, blending memories of her teaching years with her continued passion for lifelong learning. Bonnie describes her journey from being a K-8 teacher to taking online courses, including theological studies, and celebrates the joy of new educational opportunities. Mo. Laura closes with a prayer for schools, teachers, and students, encouraging growth, wisdom, and fresh beginnings.

Mo. Laura shares a reflection from Bonnie Jean Baron about the excitement and meaning of back-to-school season, blending memories of her teaching years with her continued passion for lifelong learning. Bonnie describes her journey from being a K-8 teacher to taking online courses, including theological studies, and celebrates the joy of new educational opportunities. Mo. Laura closes with a prayer for schools, teachers, and students, encouraging growth, wisdom, and fresh beginnings.

Mo. Laura shares that she’ll be taking some time off between August 18–29, though she’ll still be present for Sunday services, Wednesday gatherings, and emergencies. She highlights upcoming events, including a Monday evening Bible study featuring Amy-Jill Levine’s books, and the St. Margaret’s Day weekend with a Poor Man’s Gambit concert on November 14. She encourages everyone to check the weekly “Coming Up” list for updates and to get tickets early.

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!