July 21, 2025

Beloveds,

Sunday morning began in joy as we welcomed Lucas Tripp into the household of God through the sacrament of baptism. There’s nothing quite like a baptism to remind us who we are and why we gather – renewing our shared promises to grow in faith, to support one another, and to walk in love. Lucas may be small, but his baptism was a big reminder of the grace and joy that bind us together.

Later in the morning, about fifteen St. Mary’s folks showed up along the route of Big Nick’s Ride for the Fallen. We didn’t say any formal words, but we offered blessings nonetheless, scattering holy water on each motorcycle as it passed, hundreds of them, each carrying a story, a memory, or a prayer. Canon Kelly O’Connell led the blessing effort in her new black leather-ish stole, bringing spirit and style to the morning. Many thanks to Jean Fahey and Jean Larivee for organizing our presence at this sacred and powerful event.

During the week, I often glance out my office window and see parishioners tending the plants around the church, watering, weeding, nurturing. It’s a quiet but powerful image of what it means to be the Church: a community of care, attention, and commitment. Just like those gardens, our life together depends on showing up and tending what we’ve been given.

And yes, it’s summer – beach days, visitors, travel, and slower rhythms – but I hope you’ll keep making time for church. I miss seeing you when you’re away, and I know others do too. Church is where we reconnect not only with God but with each other, and every Sunday matters.

Next weekend brings a special reason to show up. St. Mary’s longtime parishioner Alexander Theroux has just published his 25th book – a lively, witty, and delightfully opinionated collection of essays entitled American Candy. Please join us on Sunday, July 27 at 11:30 a.m. in Walden Hall for a celebratory book talk. Charles Calhoun will interview Alex, who will also read from the book, answer questions, and sign copies. First-edition signed copies will be available for $40. Alex, a Cape Cod treasure and twice-nominated National Book Award author, brings insight and humor to topics ranging from lobster fishing to monks, hate mail, and, of course, candy. You won’t want to miss it.

I’ll be on vacation from Saturday, July 26 through Friday, August 1. I’m hoping this time away offers a bit of perspective and a chance to refill a near-empty well. I’m praying that a little space and rest will make room for renewed vision, energy, and grace as we look ahead to the fall.

Faithfully,