Dear Hearts,

After seven Sundays away from the parish, I will be back in my usual and customary place and role this Sunday, July 31st.  In addition to morning services at 8 and 10 a.m., we'll gather for Communion and a Potluck supper at 5 p.m. under a pavilion at Jacob's Beach -- weather permitting.  At this writing, NOAA is forecasting a chance of rain and thunder at 5 p.m. on Sunday.  Please bring a salad, side dish, entree or dessert to share:  Beverages and paper goods will be provided,

I am so grateful for your hospitality and support for the clergy who were with you during my study leave and vacation.  The Rev.s Jane Stickney, Kent Smith and Anne Richards all felt well-received; and I hope that during your sabbatical from my preoccupations, you gained insights and perspectives that you will share with me.  Of course, I will also want to catch up with you on your summer so far.

I am also grateful for the leadership of Senior Warden Pat Daunic, Parish Administrator Pat Wakefield, Junior Warden Susan Shackford, Music Director Mark Sullivan, our Altar Guild, Sexton Sheward Hagerty, and all of you who asked how you could help them, while I was away.  I hope you got a chance to try something new; if not, it's not too late! 

Our new Sunday School Director, Laurie Varley, has been busy organizing for Vacation Bible School.  In addition to the great bulletin board by the steps to the Sunday School rooms, she has added new bulletin boards, and all are looking splendid.  Check them out!  Speaking of V.B.S, you can find more information and registration here; just scroll down to the bottom of the page.  Called "Deep Sea Discovery: God is With Us Wherever We Go," this looks like a great approach to learning, crafts, games, fun...and oh yes, the all important snacks!

While I was away, I was still worshiping with you.  Indeed, I got to sit in a pew (or chair) and experience worship led entirely by others -- a rare and welcome change from my usual responsibilities.  Some of you share with me your experiences while traveling and even bring back a service bulletin.  Mine are from Sewanee's University Chapel in Tennessee, and parish churches in Alexandria, VA; Milwaukie, OR; Provincetown, MA: and Providence, RI. 

Shakespeare-on-the-Green begins this Wednesday, August 3, and runs through August 7.  So, don't be surprised if you see some Gentlemen (and ladies) of Verona, and other folks in dramatic apparel, coming in and out of the Parish Hall this week.  Our Sunday School rooms serve as dressing rooms for the cast. 
Grateful for the time away,
and glad to be home
where I belong,
with you,

​Harrison+
YFNR
p.s. reports from Indianapolis are that Guilford swimmers, including our own Alex Mayo, are having great success.  Alex's main event is on Sunday; go, Alex!

Dear Hearts,

There was no escaping the sad news of this past week -- not even in the boondocks of Estacada, Oregon where I'm staying with my brother and his wife, doing Sewanee homework, and visiting friends and family.  The gun violence in Minnesota, Louisiana and Texas is deeply troubling.  Our Presiding Bishop Michael Curry cuts to the core of the issue:  such violence to the "image and likeness of God" does violence to all of God's children -- to all of us.  You can watch his message and join him in prayer here.  In her letter, Bishop Laura Ahrens adds to the Prayer Book's resources to which she turned when her Morning Prayer became "mourning prayer."  You can read it here.

After a week like this, Sunday worship does not seem optional to me.  Fortunately, in the Rev. Anne Richards,you will have a skilled pastor, preacher and spiritual guide with you for the next three Sundays.  After serving in the Diocese of New York, Mother Anne had a distinguished ministry at St. Mark's Church New Canaan.  Anne+ is staying in the rectory and will be available by appointment through the parish office. 

While you all gather together for worship, prayer and mutual support, I will be doing the same in Oregon and keep you and our collective response in my prayers.

Next weekend, July 15-17, the Guilford Art Center's Craft Expo will come to the Green.  Christ Church will offer lemonade, iced tea and cookies on Saturday, July 16.  You can help with this ministry of hospitality and welcome by signing up on the information table.  And remember, on Sunday July 17, the Craft Expo does not open until after worship; your parking place will be available!

Our new Sunday School Director, Laurie Varley, has posted an announcement and on-line sign-up for Vacation Bible School.  You can find it here; just scroll down to the bottom of the page.  Called "Deep Sea Discovery: God is With Us Wherever We Go," this looks like a great approach to learning, crafts, games, fun...and oh yes, the all important snacks!

The news from Camp Washington:  There's still time to register for camp this summer!  Spots are still available in camps for ages 7-16.  Financial aid is available from the camp and the discretionary fund.  See the details here.

Please consider signing up to serve "Lemonade Under the Balcony," following the 10a.m. service.  As the name implies, this is a simple opportunity for conversation over lemonade, or whatever cool beverage the hosts choose to serve, and maybe a plate of simple treats, served on a card table under the choir loft..
with love and prayers from Oregon,

Harrison+
YFNR

p.s. The latest issue of GTO: Glad Tidings Online is available by clicking here. It includes details about parish leadership in June and July while I am on study-leave and vacation.