Fr. Harrison's Letter for July 31, 2016

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!