Dear Brothers and Sisters,
When I retired in 2017, Bishop Sean Rowe asked me to help out at St. Margaret’s Church as an assisting priest. Then, when Mo. Jane Bender retired at the beginning of October, you graciously called me to be your priest in charge. So we have had at least a little chance to get to know each other over the years.
Despite COVID doing its worst, we have managed to stay connected through the wonders of technology and the hard work of a number of people. Most importantly, the bonds of prayer for each other and for our beloved parish have been alive and well. You have never failed to respond to each other, to the needs of the community and to me.
During my two surgeries this year, I was the recipient of your kindness. With emails, phone calls, dozens of cards, flowers and gift cards, you supported me during my healing journey. When the days were hard, one or more of you seemed to know that and popped up like a flood of sunlight, with cheer and encouragement. I know from hearing your stories that I am not the only one who has benefited over the years. There is something special about St. Margaret’s and that comes from each one of you, individually and together.
“My heart will be knit to you!”
1 Chronicles 12:17
As I thought back on this year, the verse from First Chronicles came to mind: “My heart will be knit to you.” You did for my husband and me what you have done for so many: captured us and knit us into the fabric of the parish. So over the last few weeks, I knit a very long swatch of fabric with some of St. Margaret’s colors while praying for you. A tiny snippet is enclosed.
Each of you is a unique part of the sacred whole that is St. Margaret’s. And even when we get a bit raveled around the edges, there is always the strong, warm thread of love connecting us. This is what you do with your kindness, your faithfulness and your generous spirits. In this season of Thanksgiving, I give thanks to God for the people of St. Margaret’s. I give thanks for you.
Joyfully yours,
(The Rev. Canon) Laura Howell
Priest in Charge