Dear Brothers and Sisters, on August 15th, the Church celebrates the feast day of the Blessed Virgin Mary, honoring her unique role as the mother of Jesus, the Son of God, which places her above all other saints. As we reflect on her obedience and faithfulness, we are invited to ask for her prayers, just as we would ask for the prayers of our friends and family, while striving to emulate her devotion to God’s will.

When I was much younger, a priest friend introduced me to the Prayer of the Optina Elders from the Optina Monastery in Russia. I fell in love with this simple, humble, and inclusive prayer, and I still recite it every morning, as it reminds me of the role I might play in others’ distress.

Though it’s still summer and many are on vacation, we’re already planning for the fall. This letter includes previews of upcoming events and volunteer opportunities. Please keep an eye on the “Coming Up” list each week and mark your calendars. Highlights include a call for volunteer readers for Sunday services, a gift card sale with orders due September 15, and the Boscov’s Friends Helping Friends event on October 22. Additionally, there will be a potluck picnic on September 7 at 4:00 PM, and a special celebration for St. Margaret’s with a Celtic music concert on November 15-17.

The author reflects on their childhood question of what they wanted to become and suggests, in the current social and political climate, that we consider what we want our country to be, seeking divine guidance and voting accordingly. They then shift focus to St. Margaret’s Church, inviting the community to ponder and pray about its future growth and direction, while honoring its historical milestones.

Last night, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump was shot in the ear at a rally in western Pennsylvania, in what is being treated as an assassination attempt; while he appears to be OK, another bystander was killed, and several others were critically injured. Please pray for Mr. Trump, those affected, and for our nation to avoid further violence and division.

Father Jon Stratton shared a pastoral message reminding us that Jesus calls us to stand firm and lift our heads even during difficult times, promising to show up and support us as we strive to build a more loving and respectful community.

Although summer may seem like a time to relax, the church remains active with numerous events and responsibilities, such as feeding the hungry and organizing important meetings about diocesan reunification. Please take note of upcoming events, including Bishop Kevin and Bishop Audrey’s Town Hall Meetings on July 9 and 15, Ellie Escher’s music camp performance on July 12, and food blessings and a service at Legend of Allentown on July 14, while I take short vacations throughout July, August, and September.

Summer is here, and while you may be traveling, remember you can still join St. Margaret’s services via our Sunday livestream on Facebook at 9:00 AM. Also, don’t miss Ellie Escher’s music camps on July 8-12 and August 5-9, featuring free performances by talented teens on the Fridays at 6:30 PM—everyone is welcome!

From June 23-28, deputies from across the Episcopal Church will gather in Louisville, KY for the 81st General Convention, where they will make important decisions for the church, including the election of a new Presiding Bishop to succeed Michael Curry. Please keep all the deputies and bishops in your prayers, asking for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and wisdom in their deliberations.

Our dear brother George Allport passed away on May 29. His daughter wrote a touching obituary that highlights his adventurous, service-filled, and loving life, including his military career, deep commitment to faith and family, and his impact on many through his kindness and leadership.

Our parish thrives on community effort, and we urgently need volunteers to help esure we have backups in all areas, from worship roles to building maintenance and finance. Join us in maintaining the vitality of St. Margaret’s by considering one of the many opportunities to serve, knowing there will always be training and support, and remember, no one should have to do it alone—Jesus sent his disciples out in pairs for a reason!