THE JOYFUL AND SPIRIT-FILLED MAY AT ST. GREGORY'S

What a joyful and Spirit-filled month May has been at St. Gregory's. Throughout the month, our parish family has gathered together for meaningful moments of worship, celebration, fellowship, and renewal. From Mother’s Day celebrations to Confirmation Sunday and the Bishop’s visit on May 10, May has been filled with blessings and the movement of the Holy Spirit. These moments are just a few of the many ways God’s grace has been present in the life of our church this month.

Our Confirmation Sunday service was especially memorable as we welcomed Bishop Greg Rickel to St. Gregory’s. Surrounded by family, friends, and our church community, members of our congregation were confirmed, received, and renewed their baptismal covenant in a beautiful celebration of faith, hope, and commitment.

Then, on Sunday, May 17, during the 10 AM service, we celebrated another milestone moment in the life of our parish as four infants were baptized and twelve of our children received Holy Communion following their participation in the Communion Retreat. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Teri Heemstra-Hernandez for her dedication in organizing and leading the preparation classes and retreat for our children and families. It was a glorious day for all who attended.

Looking ahead to this Sunday, Pentecost Sunday on May 24, we invite our parish family to join us as we celebrate the gift and power of the Holy Spirit together. During the 10 AM service, we will also pause in gratitude and remembrance as we honor those who gave their lives in service to our nation, as well as those who continue to serve in the armed forces today.

Later that evening, we will gather for the final Choral Evensong of the Easter season — a beautiful and reflective service marking both Pentecost and the Ascension of Our Lord. We also offer our sincere thanks to Timothy J. Brumfield and the Choir of St. Gregory’s for sharing such inspiring and world-class music throughout the year.

As May comes to a close, we look forward to gathering once again for our annual Beach Eucharist Celebration on Saturday, May 30, at 5:30 PM at Red Reef Park as we kick off St. Gregory’s Summer Series.

We also look ahead with joy and anticipation as we prepare to welcome The Reverend Mary Ellen Cassini, D.Min. as Assistant to the Rector beginning June 1. We are excited for Rev. Mary Ellen to join our parish family and look forward to the many opportunities ahead for the congregation to meet and welcome her.

As we celebrate these meaningful moments in the life of our congregation, we give glory to God and offer our heartfelt thanks to each of you for continuing to make such a difference in the life of our parish community.