The Interchange
The Interchange features articles of interest submitted by parishioners along with messages from the priest and senior warden. It also includes critical information about what is happening in the parish, diocese and The Episcopal Church (TEC) generally. To submit content to be featured in The Interchange visit the Parish Communications page.
Meandering with the Interim: Advent and Expectations
Early in my ordained ministry I had an opportunity to gather with colleagues and discuss ministry. Of course what else would we talk about?
Holly Jolly Brawley!
Our Outreach Ministry Team came out in joyful force to decorate our first ever entry in Holly Jolly Brawley!
Annual Meeting Announcement
Join us as we review 2023, ratify our by-laws, elect Vestrypersons and Diocesan Convention delegates and approve the 2024 budget developed by the Finance Committee and affirmed by the Vestry.
A Message from Chris+
Dear Parishioners & Community,
Yesterday was a difficult day around the campuses of St. John’s and Sacred Heart. Two incidents happened with Manna Meal clients. Our Bishop, the President of the Manna Meal Board, the Pastor and Principal at Sacred Heart and the Mayor have all been involved.
“Grow Church” is Underway!
In early October, Beth Marquart and I gathered with several others from around the diocese at St. Matthew’s on the Hill. The first in a series of retreat weekends, Grow Church is a two-year program offered by the Diocese of West Virginia and the Diocesan Church Development Institute (DCDI).
New Parking and Landscaping On the Way!
As we enjoy our newly painted and carpeted interior there are some exciting plans coming in early 2024 for the exterior of our building.
Knitters Knitting
The Barbara Knight Memorial Knitting Group met on a recent Saturday morning at Robin O’Brien’s home. This group meets weekly, please contact Mary Ann Deison or Robin O’Brien for details.
License to Serve: Renew by December 31, 2023 for Eucharistic Ministers, Formation Leaders, Lay Eucharistic Visitors & Vestry persons
Those licensed and who wish to remain licensed, must apply for and complete educational requirements to serve beyond December 31, 2023. Vestry persons, due to their leadership roles, are also required to complete educational requirements.
Reports from The 146th Diocesan Convention
The 146th Convention in Martinsburg, after an action packed, prayerful and playful 2.5 days, included a confirmation at the historic Morgan Chapel and wrapped with the ordination of 8 Deacons, thanks be to God!
Acolyte Training
Acolyte Master Landon Palmer held training sessions for an incoming class of acolytes and continuation training for another. Playing with fire was very popular, we can’t wait to see them serving at the Holy Eucharist.
Message from Mary: Calendars, Alternatives...
As our respective calendars flip to November, we are reminded of the activity dense timeframe before us
Meandering with the Interim: All In
Jesus says, give me your heart and the rest will follow. Are you “all in”?
Episcopal 101: Sundays November 5-26
Chris+ is offering this course for those Saints of John seeking baptism, confirmation or reaffirmation during Bp. Cowden’s December 17 visitation.
27th Annual RCCR Beans & Cornbread Dinner
Most every West Virginian loves beans and cornbread!
Outreach: Holly Jolly Brawley Christmas Tree
Holly Jolly Brawley is one of the most popular Christmas events in Charleston, kicking off the holiday season. For the first time, St. John’s is going to have a tree!
St. Ambrose Choir Update
We’re sure you’ve noticed the choir stalls filling up and there’s room for several more! If you’d like to become a member of our choir please check in with Chris Brown, our Choirmaster.
Pastoral Care Ministry
It is my pleasure to tell you about the work of our Pastoral Care Ministry Team, a team of Saints who respond to the needs of our congregation through a ministry of prayer, greeting cards, meal delivery and Lay Eucharistic Visitation (LEVs).
Discernment: What Comes Next?
On behalf of the Discernment Committee, I am pleased to share that the Vestry has voted to approve our Parish Profile, which means that the search for our next rector is officially underway.
Seek Love Serve: Angels on Earth
Our September 24 th Adult Forum hit very close to home for my family and me. The speaker was Joan Carroll, Education Coordinator for Kanawha Valley HospiceCare. She was also the home nurse for mom when her health declined and has a connection with other parishioners.