Exploring the Hymns of Lent

An 11-year-old girl from our Spanish-speaking congregation, granted asylum but now separated from her deported father, needs our continued support as a parish family cares for her and navigates her legal and emotional needs.

The CarePortal Ministry at St. Mary Magdalene & St. Martin connects our church with families in crisis, allowing us to share Christ’s love through practical help, compassionate presence, and the generous support of our community.

This week, we’re invited to remember that God’s love never lets go—and to let go of what doesn’t last so we can return to what truly matters.

This Sunday, we reflect on what it means to return to the heart of God—moving from distance to intimacy with the One who has never stopped loving us.

This Sunday’s reading from the prophet Amos begins with a simple question from God: “What do you see?” Amos answers, “A basket of summer fruit.” But what follows is anything but sweet.

In Galatians 6, Paul calls us to move from bold belief to bold action—sowing for the Spirit by bearing one another’s burdens and building a community where no one is left behind.

Sing Out This Summer with Your Favorite Hymns!

A faithful reading of Galatians 5 invites us to reject fear-based, exclusionary interpretations and instead embrace life in the Spirit as a path of love, freedom, and community transformation for all people.

This Sunday, as a community of faith, we come together at The Episcopal Church of St. Mary Magdalene and St. Martin to celebrate Pride Sunday. This is a special day where we recognize and honor the LGBTQ+ community, reaffirming our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and love. The Episcopal Church has a proud history of supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Since the 1970s, The Episcopal Church has been at the forefront of advocacy for inclusion and equality. In 1976, the General Convention declared that "homosexual persons are children of God who have a full and equal claim with all other persons upon the love, acceptance, and pastoral concern and care of the Church." This pivotal declaration laid the groundwork for the Church's ongoing commitment to equality. Over the years, The Episcopal Church has continued to affirm the dignity of every human being, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Our liturgy is a celebration of God’s love for all people, and this Sunday, we will sing hymns that reflect our inclusive values. Among these hymns is "Draw the Circle Wide" by Mark A. Miller. This beloved hymn invites us to open our hearts and extend our circle of love, compassion, and acceptance. The lyrics remind us of the power of inclusivity, urging us to "draw the circle wide" and "no one stands alone." Other hymns to be sung include "There's a Wideness in God's Mercy," which reminds us of the boundless love and grace of God for all creation; "All the Colors of the Rainbow" by Carl P. Daw, celebrating diversity and the beauty of God's creation; and "I Am the Bread of Life," which brings us together in unity and spiritual nourishment. Join us this Sunday as we celebrate Pride Sunday with open hearts and open arms. Let us come together in worship, song, and reflection as we continue to strive for a world that reflects God’s love and justice for all. We look forward to rejoicing with you in this special service. Welcome, all, to a place of belonging and hope.