CELEBRATING THE BELOVED COMMUNITY

This week, we celebrate the difference being made by our Beloved Community Ministry, whose leadership has been a beautiful witness to St. Gregory's commitment to inclusion.



On Saturday, June 20th, the Beloved Community brought St. Gregory's together for a joyful Juneteenth Freedom Celebration honoring freedom, community, and hope. The evening began with a moving worship service and a wonderful performance by the Resurrection Steel Band Orchestra, followed by food, music, dancing, and fellowship in Harris Hall. A heartfelt thank you to Meals with Meaning Catering for the delicious meal, to those who generously donated to make the celebration possible, and to everyone who attended, contributed to the potluck, or lent a hand.

This past Sunday, our Beloved LGBTQ+ Ministry, a welcoming space within the Beloved Community for LGBTQ+ members and allies alike, sponsored a Pride Month Commemoration marking 50 years of inclusion in the Episcopal Church and giving thanks for God's love that welcomes all. The 10 a.m. Choral Eucharist was made especially meaningful through music thoughtfully curated by Tim Brumfield, who was joined by the Schola Cantorum and cellist Aziz Sapaev in a program of hymns composed by LGBTQ+ artists. Members of the Beloved LGBTQ+ Ministry helped lead the service, and the flowers adorning the altar were given with love by Christine West and the Reverend Christian Carroll in honor of the occasion.

The Beloved LGBTQ+ Ministry also hosted Coffee Hour, where their care was evident in every detail, from the beautiful decorations and centerpieces to the artfully displayed food.

Beyond these celebrations, the Beloved Community also offers Sacred Ground classes a few times each year, currently in session, providing space for honest dialogue and learning around race and faith.

None of this would be possible without the leadership of Cyndi Bloom and Robb Rusinko, whose dedication carries the Beloved Community throughout the year. A heartfelt thank you to them and their team for the creativity and hard work behind both of these meaningful events.

St. Gregory's is an inclusive community, and we are deeply grateful for the work of the Beloved Community, including our Beloved LGBTQ+ Ministry, and for all those who have generously supported the ministry and its mission. Thank you for making such a difference here at St. Gregory's.