Vestry Corner ~ May 2023

The preparation for Holy Week and Easter is long, as it should be. Lent prepares us to receive the Resurrection. Now we move forward with thanksgiving. A small group of MoM just returned from Glory Ridge. The goal was to help prepare the grounds for the upcoming summer youth group missions. Glory Ridge is a multi-denominational Christian camp in western North Carolina that emphasizes a combination of service work and worship. We at SJP are so fortunate to have access to Glory Ridge and Trinity Center. In serving others, we serve ourselves.

The SJP Outreach Committee met last month with the Vestry. As a member of St. James, you can be proud of how far your service to others extends. When parishioners present opportunities, the Committee responds. Areas of past support continue. This year’s Outreach assistance has been expanded to Eden Village “tiny” homes, the Northside Grocery Cooperative, 2Share, and additional funding for Rise Against Hunger. Each month in the Grapevine there is a spotlight on an Outreach organization, look for opportunities to share your time and talents. The extent of Outreach service is only limited by the amount of funds available.

Which brings us to another service opportunity. Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity is organizing a “Unity Build” for next Fall to address the critical need for affordable housing in this region. The Build will consist of two new homes located in Castle Hayne. St. James along with 10 other churches has been asked to be involved. The fundraising goal for the two homes is $120,000.00. To learn more about the Unity Build, please visit capefearhabitat.org/buildforunity/. Before a commitment is made, we need to assess the desire of our parish family. Do you want SJP to support a Unity Build? Are you willing to contribute your time and/or your money to a Unity Build? To respond visit stjamesp.org/blog/unitybuild..

What a joy to celebrate our growing parish family at the end of April. Bishop Rob Skirving visited for a special Sunday afternoon service. We celebrated an adult baptism, and the confirmation and reception of 19 members. It was a beautiful service and witness to God’s work and presence in our community.We are all looking forward to another season of worship and fun at Mount Lebanon Chapel. Services will start on May 28th. An opening celebration for all ages is scheduled for June 4th at 4pm. Bring a side or dessert to share, we’ll provide the main course and beverages. There will be live music, a bouncy house, and a great chance for fellowship. We look forward to seeing you there!

-Leslie Jarrett (Senior Warden) & Alex Murchison (Junior Warden)