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A Message from the Interim Rector, Mother Katrina

Communication changed a great deal during the pandemic. There were far fewer face to face conversations and many more conversations taking place in front of screens as we turned to Zoom and other on-line platforms. The uncertainty that gripped each day, as well as the continual need to adapt to changes, left us unsure how to connect to each other. As most of us move away from the isolation—remember there will always be those who are ill or chronically homebound—it’s a good time to pay attention to how we are communicating. If you have ideas about how Christ Church can communicate better, let a Vestry member, me, or the Wardens, Ed Sarzynski and Mark Smith know. And remember communication requires everyone to do their part, by asking questions, reading material, listening well, and being aware of what you need. Meanwhile, below is a list of times when you should contact the clergy. During the day from Monday through Thursday, you can reach me at the church office: (607) 722-2308. For emergencies, after hours, please call me at (410) 410-1653. Important to note, the previous email used by Mother Elizabeth, which is her account, is no longer in use. Email to the main office will be forwarded to me as appropriate. You are welcome, too, to send email to me directly at klgrusell@gmail.com. Friday is my Sabbath day.

When to Contact the Clergy

There are many occasions when clergy can be of enormous help to individuals and families, sharing joys and sorrows, and offering spiritual support during crises. Here are some of the times when you should contact clergy.

Before going to the hospital
When we know about a hospitalization, clergy and lay visitors will call on parishioners to offer help, friendship, prayers and sacraments. Hospitals do not notify churches of hospitalized parishioners. As soon as you know about a hospitalization, please call the church office or have a family member call.

When there is a death in the family, or if death is imminent
The church is thanked for its ministry to the dying and to mourners perhaps more than for any other service it renders. Upon a death, please call the clergy first, prior to making any arrangements. The sooner the clergy are called in, the more helpful they can be in bringing you, in one of life’s most painful moments, pastoral support and an awareness of God’s love. Clergy guide those in mourning through the planning process, and should be consulted prior to setting a date, time, or location for funeral services. Remember, too, that parishioners are encouraged to pre-plan arrangements and can contact the clergy to do so.

When you wish to make a confession
You have an absolute guarantee that your confession, when given to a priest in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, will not be repeated to anyone by the clergy. Much strength for living comes by the unburdening of one’s guilt to a fellow human being who can give you the wonderful assurance of God’s love and forgiveness.

When a parishioner becomes unable to attend church
Whether due to illness, injury, or the infirmity of age, arrangements can be made for visits by clergy and Lay Eucharistic Visitors as part of our regular visitation program.

When a baby is born
The birth of a baby is one of God’s greatest miracles. Prayers of thanksgiving and a blessing upon the child and the parents are appropriate immediately following a birth.

When you decide to be married
Whether you are planning to be married at Christ Church or elsewhere, your clergy can help enrich your preparation for marriage by joining with you in conversations as you look ahead to your life together. You should start discussing plans for the wedding day as far ahead of time as possible. If you would like to be married at Christ Church, please speak with the office before deciding upon a date.

When alcohol or drugs become a problem for you or someone you love
The alcohol or drug dependent person is ill and needs help, just as a person with any illness needs help. Clergy can support individuals and the family, finding the best and right kind of assistance.

When you would like to talk about a difficult decision
The big decisions in life are so important that they should be talked about and prayed through. Your work, getting married or divorced, a change in jobs, are all included. Your clergy can bring new light to the situation and stand ready to discern the matter with you in confidence, friendship, and prayer.

Worship Services

Election Eve Prayer Service

Sunday Worship Service

Join us at Christ Church Sunday at 10:00 a.m. for Holy Eucharist.

This service will be live-streamed via YouTube at 10:00 a.m. and available for playback within 24 hours.

Weekday Worship

Holy eucharist at Noon in the Lounge.
Masks are encouraged as COVID continues to spread in Broome County.

Crucifer & Lay Eucharistic Minister Training

Deacon Kay and John Endress will be training anyone interested in becoming a crucifer or lay eucharistic minister (chalicist) October 23 following the 10 a.m. service. Youth and adults are encouraged to consider serving in these ministries.
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Rosary

Rosary will meet on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 4:30 p.m.

Upcoming dates are as followed:
October 25th
November 8th
November 22nd

For your Prayers

Funeral for Elizabeth Stevens

It is with sadness that we announce the death of Betty Stevens on Saturday, October 15. Betty was a faithful attender of the 8:00 am service and participated in the life of Christ Church for forty-five years. Her good nature, care for all she met, and genuine kindness will be missed by many. Betty’s funeral will take place on Thursday, October 20 at 10:00 am at Christ Church with burial at Chenango Valley Cemetery to follow. Calling hours are Wednesday, October 19 from 4:00-6:00 pm at Chase Funeral Home, 737 Chenango St, Port Dickinson. Please hold Betty’s daughter, Amy, in your prayers, as well as her step-daughters, Connie and Cindy, and the rest of Betty’s family and friends.

Prayer List

In the week ahead, please pray for comfort and healing for: Annie, Barbra K., Don, Ellen, George, Jeanette, Joell, Katelyn, Kathy, Sally, Shea, Tricia, and Judy.

Outreach

FALL RUMMAGE SALE HUGE SUCCESS

This year the church made $4,780. Hearty thanks to Rick Pescatore and his team of amazing volunteers, Barb Stanton, Gene Stanton, Zack King, Chris Mitchell, George Cummings, Vicki Hilecek, Xan Juel, Ed Sarzynski, Sue Sarzynski, Bob Rose, Julie Guditis, Joan Taylor, Diane Button, Antonia Jans, Kevin Shea, Jim Ehmke, Jim Davidson, Maria Sharp, and Susan MacLennan.

Winter Warmth Project

Once again we will be collecting scarves, gloves, and hats to hang on our outdoor railing. These items are currently available at most dollar stores for $1.25. Last year over 300 sets were taken, not including the sets placed on our railing by members of the community. Each year our winter warmth project and the community's awareness for this ongoing outreach program grows. Any donations you can make will be greatly appreciated!

Katie's Closet

We are currently looking for volunteers for a couple of hours each month to help with the clothing closet. If you are interested please contact Rick Pescatore, Diane Button, or the church office. Thank you!

Announcements

Donations

Christ Episcopal Church remained and remains present to our congregation and the broader community in this time of pandemic. We thank all who have supported our work and worship and ask for your ongoing contributions that we may remain a positive presence in the lives of many and in caring for one another.

You can donate via our website at www.christepiscopalbing.com/donate/. You can now click donate to send your pledge or other special donations. You can donate specifically to CHOW, Katie's Closet, the Rector's Discretionary Fund, Organ/Bells Repair and Upkeep.

A big THANK YOU to those who already have!

Christ Church Amazon


When you're shopping on Amazon, go to smile.amazon.com and list "Christ Church Binghamton" as your charity of choice. The Church will receive .5 % of your purchase!

$744.24 has been given to Christ Church from your Amazon purchases since its program began. THANK YOU for designating Christ Church to receive these proceeds. Every little bit helps.

Sunday Servers

Reader Schedule

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Chimer Schedule

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Vestry Greeter and Lock Up Schedule

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A Word From Your Senior Warden

NO WORDS NEEDED

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Despite the changes around us we are a Church and a community that stands together in faith despite adversity. We feel fortunate to have each other during these difficult and uncertain times.
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