In order to explain how being a member of St. Paul’s has transformed my life, I need to explain my religious roots. I was raised in the Roman Catholic church, brought my children up there, and was consistent in my weekly attendance. I was a “good” Catholic but not very engaged in my faith.
I eased slowly into membership at St. Paul’s when my husband, Kurt- a cradle Episcopalian, began to attend when our children were grown. I first attended social events and was impressed with the warm welcome I received. I began to attend Sunday services once or twice a month as I grew tired of worshiping alone, especially since the church I attended tended to be impersonal. Once or twice grew into weekly attendance. It was around this time that I realized that St. Paul’s is more than a church, it is a true community. We care about each other all week, not just for an hour on Sunday. We share joys and sorrows. We encourage each other to explore our faith. As a result, I found something I didn’t know I was missing, a richer spiritual life.
I am involved in two ministries, Altar Guild and Altar Bread. Preparing the altar in the quiet of the church is a simple but satisfying task. I joined Altar Guild after being asked to by a member. I am so glad she did. I volunteered to be a baker. Those who know me were surprised to hear that I wanted to do this, I am not known for my baking abilities. I wanted to challenge myself a bit, to try something new. An experienced baker graciously mentored me in this. These two ministries are a small way for me to give back to a community that has given me much.
I eased slowly into membership at St. Paul’s when my husband, Kurt- a cradle Episcopalian, began to attend when our children were grown. I first attended social events and was impressed with the warm welcome I received. I began to attend Sunday services once or twice a month as I grew tired of worshiping alone, especially since the church I attended tended to be impersonal. Once or twice grew into weekly attendance. It was around this time that I realized that St. Paul’s is more than a church, it is a true community. We care about each other all week, not just for an hour on Sunday. We share joys and sorrows. We encourage each other to explore our faith. As a result, I found something I didn’t know I was missing, a richer spiritual life.
I am involved in two ministries, Altar Guild and Altar Bread. Preparing the altar in the quiet of the church is a simple but satisfying task. I joined Altar Guild after being asked to by a member. I am so glad she did. I volunteered to be a baker. Those who know me were surprised to hear that I wanted to do this, I am not known for my baking abilities. I wanted to challenge myself a bit, to try something new. An experienced baker graciously mentored me in this. These two ministries are a small way for me to give back to a community that has given me much.