September 22, 2025

Dear Beloved Community,

This past weekend was full of good things at St. Mary’s. On Saturday evening, we gathered for our first Emmaus Way: Celtic Service, celebrating the feast of St. Ninian. Ninian lived in the late 4th century and is remembered as the first Christian missionary to Scotland. Trained in Rome, he journeyed back across Britain and then by small boats over rough seas to reach the land of the Picts. Travel was dangerous and uncertain, but Ninian was determined to bring the light of Christ where it had not yet been known.

He built a stone church at Whithorn – the “Candida Casa,” or White House – that became the first Christian community in Scotland. His faith was never a private matter; it was lived, shared, and embodied in the fellowship of worship, teaching, and service. Ninian reminds us that faith always draws us together into community, even when it takes effort, risk, and sacrifice.

On Sunday, we heard Jesus tell the parable of the shrewd steward in Luke 16. However we interpret this puzzling story, one truth shines through: God cares how we use what has been entrusted to us. Our time, our talents, our treasure – all are meant to be put to work for God’s kingdom.

That’s why next weekend’s Ministry Fair matters. I hope you’ve enjoyed hearing the ministry minutes these past weeks – just a glimpse of all the ways St. Mary’s lives its faith. But here’s the truth: a church doesn’t run itself. It takes all of us.

Whether you have been at St. Mary’s your whole life, or whether you just found your way here recently, your participation is key. Your gifts – whatever they are – help make St. Mary’s a place where Christ’s love is known and shared.

So come to the Ministry Fair. Ask questions. Explore. Join in. Just as Ninian crossed seas to build Christian community, and just as the steward was called to make wise use of resources, we too are called to bring our faith to life – together.

See you there!