WELCOME STATEMENT
St. Andrew's in the Valley is a caring, vibrant, open and diverse parish welcoming all, regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, gender expression, nationality, ethnicity, marital status, physical or mental ability, political stance or theological perspective.
PRESIDING BISHOP'S PRIDE MONTH STATEMENT HONORS LGBTQ EPISCOPALIANS:
June 12, 2019
Presiding Bishop Michael Curry today offered the following statement:
"Jesus said: "I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you should also love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." (John 13:34-35)
In my years of ministry, I have personally seen and been blessed by countless LGBTQ sisters, brothers and siblings. Dear friends, the church has in like manner been blessed by you. Together with many others you are faithful followers of Jesus of Nazareth and his way of love. You have helped the church to be truly catholic, universal, a house of prayer for all people. You have helped the church to truly be a reflection of the beloved community of God. You have helped the church to authentically be a branch of the Jesus Movement in our time.
Your ministries to and with the church are innumerable. I could speak of how often you lead our Vestries, and other leadership bodies in the church. I could speak of how many of you organize our liturgies of worship, lift our voices in song, manage church funds, teach and form our children as followers of Jesus, lead congregations, ministries and dioceses. But through it all and above it all, you faithfully follow Jesus and his way of love. And in so doing, you help the church, not to build a bigger church for church's sake, but to build a better world for God's sake.
During June, Americans and people around the world observe Pride. Today, as we mourn the 49 people who were murdered at the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando three years ago, I am mindful that Pride is both a celebration and a testament to sorrow and struggle that has not yet ended. Especially this month, I offer special thanks to God for the strength of the LGBTQ community and for all that you share with your spouses, partners and children, with your faith communities, and indeed with our entire nation."
WEDNESDAY TEA AND EUCHARIST:
Wednesday Tea is back! Wednesday 7/17 in the Valley House at 10 :00. There will be a celebration of the Eucharist immediately following at 11:15.
The youth of the parish will be participating in a Work Day at the Episcopal home in July. Details under the "Ministries" link above.
