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St. Martin-in-the-Fields
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Thanks for joining us! Check out the links below for the sermons, articles, and other interesting information that made you click over from our Instagram account. Then, have a look around to see what else is here. We'd love to see you on Sunday morning or at weekday worship!

Worship is hybrid: limited in-person and live-streamed. Please see our service schedule.

Worship Services

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Clergy and Staff

Meet our clergy as well as music, office, and worship staff.

We are excited to welcome you to St. Martin-in-the-Fields!

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Connect

Stay connected with St. Martin-in-the-Fields!

Sign up for St. Martin's weekly newsletter, Field Notes, sent each week on Thursday afternoon. You can also join other lists for specialized cont…

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Music In Your Neighborhood

Music in Your Neighborhood weekly outdoor concerts returns this year in May and June with SIX concerts and weekly rotating food trucks! Join us for evenings of music, food, and community in collaboration with Artcinia

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Featured Events

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The Choristers

The Chorister program of St. Martin-in-the-Fields offers children from the second grade upwards a thorough and enjoyable musical education in a safe and effective learning environment. In line with the Royal School of Church Music’s Voice for Life program, Choristers learn not only about music and singing but also about music theory, history, languages, maths, science and much more.

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LIFT: Living In Faith Together

Welcome to LIFT: Living In Faith Together!

For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them. (Matthew 18:20)

LIFT (Living In Faith Together) is an invitation to interg…

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POWER Local Organizing Committee

The Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields is a founding member of Philadelphians Organized to Witness, Empower, and Rebuild (POWER), a faith-based community organizing project that includes over 40 interfaith congregations throughout Philadelphia and more throughout Pennsylvania.

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News:

Who is the Subject of Your Verbs?

Who is the Subject of Your Verbs?

Posted April 12, 2022 In your relationship with God, who is the subject of the verbs, and who is the object of the actions? For example, God loves me. God is the subject and I am the recipient of the love given. Our secular environment relentl...
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Support Easter Brass Musicians!

Support Easter Brass Musicians!

Posted March 31, 2022 For many, Holy Week & Easter are not the same without the music tradition so deeply rooted in the Episcopal and Anglican church. We welcome donations to our Music Fund with "Easter Brass" in the memo to fund the Brass mus...
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Holy Week for the Whole Family

Holy Week for the Whole Family

Posted March 29, 2022 We are 24 days into the 40-day Lenten journey. In this second half of Lent, our focus begins to shift towards the solemnity of Christ's Passion. To guide our families through the stories and questions of Holy Wee...
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Music Notes - The Fourth Sunday in Lent, Year C

Music Notes - The Fourth Sunday in Lent, Year C

The penultimate Sunday in Lent sees our choral music reflect on the importance of the bread of heaven in our communion motet by César Franck, and connection with Christ through the blessed sacrament of the Eucharist in our Offertory Anthem by It...
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Help Refugee Resettlement Ministry Support an Afghan Refugee Family

Help Refugee Resettlement Ministry Support an Afghan Refugee Family

The St. Martin’s Refugee Resettlement Ministry is working with an Afghan family who came to the United States in October, escaping the Taliban takeover. Since then, they have been living in temporary housing in University City—close to the Ch...
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Music Notes - The First Sunday of Lent, Year 5C

Music Notes - The First Sunday of Lent, Year 5C

Posted March 4, 2022 Welcome to a special Lent edition of Music Notes. Last week, we heard close to if not over 100 “alleluias” both in our liturgy and in our music. At the end of the services, Dubois’ Toccata used every stop on the or...
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Resources for Reflection and Growth this Lent

Resources for Reflection and Growth this Lent

Posted March 1, 2022 The Book of Common Prayer invites us to a Holy Lent on Ash Wednesday: “I invite you, therefore, in the name of the Church, to the observance of a holy Lent, by self-examination and repentance; by prayer, fasting, and self...
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Music Notes - The Seventh Sunday of Epiphany, Year C

Music Notes - The Seventh Sunday of Epiphany, Year C

Welcome to the third edition of Music Notes, our new weekly blog discussing the music which supports our weekly worship services. This Sunday sees the return of our greatly missed choir who have been on hiatus since before Christmas due to the Om...
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Music Notes - The Sixth Sunday of Epiphany, Year C

Music Notes - The Sixth Sunday of Epiphany, Year C

Welcome to the second edition of Music Notes, our new weekly blog discussing the music which supports our weekly worship services. This Sunday is the last Sunday our wonderful section leaders will sing alone as February 20 sees the return of our ...
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Music Notes - The Fifth Sunday of Epiphany, Year C

Music Notes - The Fifth Sunday of Epiphany, Year C

Welcome to the first edition of Music Notes, a new weekly blog discussing the music in support of our weekly worship services. Music Notes will be included in Field Notes and available on our website. Each week we will explore the history, contex...
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Celebrate Candlemas!

Celebrate Candlemas!

Feb. 1, 2022 This year, celebrate Candlemas at home! Candlemas is a beautiful holiday full of rich traditions and nods to ancient customs. Candlemas takes its name from the candles carried into the Temple during Jesus’ presentation ...
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St. Martin's Seeking Part-Time Financial Administrator

St. Martin's Seeking Part-Time Financial Administrator

Posted January 25, 2022 The Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields is seeking a part-time Financial Administrator to manage the bookkeeping, payroll, reconciling and reporting for our church office. The position is for up to 18 hours per week. ...
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COVID Update from the Rector - January 2022

COVID Update from the Rector - January 2022

Posted January 5, 2022 During January 2022, St. Martin's will continue in-person worship, although we strongly recommend that you be fully vaccinated and boosted if you attend in-person. We have always operated on the honor system, an...
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Britten on the Boat

Britten on the Boat

Posted December 21, 2021 BBC Radio 4 produces a podcast called “Soul Music” which I adore. Each episode takes one song and collects personal vignettes about how that song influenced a person’s life. For example, the episode featuring U2...
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Blessed Baking Update for 12/3

Blessed Baking Update for 12/3

Posted 12.2.21 From Blessed Baking Ministry leader Jane Good: Happy Thanksgiving! I hope all of you were with or at least Zoomed with your loved ones. I am so thankful for all of you. I love to see you and catch up on Fridays and...
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In Silence

In Silence

Posted November 9, 2021 For ten years silent meditation has been offered at St. Martins every weekday morning. Starting with Sharline Fulton, Lucretia Robbins and myself, the group has welcomed all sorts of folks over the years waning and waxing...
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Sought

Sought

Posted November 2, 2021 Jesus teaches us, “The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls; on finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it.” (Matthew 13:46) At Morning Prayer on All So...
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A Q&A with Carol Horne Penn, Chair of the Properties Committee

A Q&A with Carol Horne Penn, Chair of the Properties Committee

Posted October 27, 2021 We joined Carol Horne Penn in conversation about St. Martin's Properties Committee, its ongoing work and accomplishments, and goals for the near future. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your profess...
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St. Martin's Day 2022

St. Martin's Day 2022

At St. Martin's, Stewardship season is an invitation to reflect on our resources as gifts from God, and resolve to give a portion back to God. The Feast Day of St. Martin of Tours is an annual occasion at St. Martin's to celebrate what God has...
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Remembering Walter Wallace, Jr.: A Vigil and A Call to Act

Remembering Walter Wallace, Jr.: A Vigil and A Call to Act

On the first anniversary of the police killing of Walter Wallace, Jr, the POWER Live Free Campaign will join the "Standing in Solidarity for Racial Justice" Vigil at the Unitarian Society of Germantown to honor the life of Mr. Wallace, and to cal...
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Episcopal 101

Episcopal 101

The Rector will be offering his Introduction to the Episcopal Church class called Episcopal 101 on three Wednesday evenings from October 20 to November 3 at 7 p.m. on Zoom. The class will give you a general introduction to the belief, practices a...
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October Evensong

October Evensong

Join us for the first Choral Evensong of the program year! This evensong (night prayer set to music) is led by Director of Music Mr. Tyrone Whiting and sung by the Choir of St. Martin's. The Rev. Dr. Reed Carlson, an Episcopal priest and Assi...
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Why Jesus?

Why Jesus?

Posted September 28, 2021 In preparation for my forum session on evangelism, I asked myself a simple question: “Jarrett, why Jesus?” As a teacher and leader, I thought I should have “an account of the faith that is in me.” (1 Peter 3:1...
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Migrants

Migrants

Posted September 21, 2021 The scenes in Del Rio, Texas, of Haitian migrants huddled under a bridge upset me in many ways. I have a long history with Haiti and my heart went out to these desperate and vulnerable people seeking safety and we...
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Join Refugee Resettlement Ministry to Welcome new Afghan Neighbors

Join Refugee Resettlement Ministry to Welcome new Afghan Neighbors

Posted September 8, 2021 Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it. —Hebrews 13:2 St. Martin's Refugee Resettlement Ministry (RRM) is partnering with...
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Welcome to LIFT!

Welcome to LIFT!

September 7, 2021 Something new is beginning at St. Martin's. Something that is welcoming and nourishing to ALL in the Body of Christ. I am thrilled to bring you LIFT: Living In Faith Together. Beginning 9/26 , we will offer a new way to...
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Stand with Afghan Refugees

Stand with Afghan Refugees

Posted August 31, 2021 Today, Presiding Bishop Michael Curry issued a press release highlighting ways to stand with Afghan refugees as conflict within Afghanistan continues to destabilize living conditions. You can take action in the followi...
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Generation to Generation

Generation to Generation

Posted August 31, 2021 As we emerge from the hottest summer ever recorded and look forward to the cool breezes of the Fall, my thoughts turn to the future of our planet. Year after year, we are breaking records for global temperature and we ar...
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St. Martin's New Office Assistant

St. Martin's New Office Assistant

Posted August 30, 2021 Beloved Members and Friends of St. Martin's, We're excited to welcome a new member of our staff at St. Martin's! On Tuesday, August 31st, Noor Diskan will join our team as our new Office Assistant. Born and raise...
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Permeable Self

Permeable Self

Posted August 24, 2021 A married couple of medieval scholars advised my senior thesis in college. Professor Barbara Newman and Professor Richard Kieckeffer are experts on medieval saints and mystics and great supporters of my interest in Jo...
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Choristers Open Rehearsal

Choristers Open Rehearsal

Do you know a child who loves to sing? Do you want to offer your child a FREE comprehensive music education? Then sign up today for the Chorister program at the Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, Philadelphia! Led by our new British Director ...
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Support On-the-Ground Earthquake Response in Haiti

Support On-the-Ground Earthquake Response in Haiti

Posted August 17, 2021 Over the weekend, Southern and Western Haiti were hit by a major earthquake, and with Tropical Storm Grace moving through the Caribbean, many face dangerous conditions amidst damaged infrastructure and severe weather. ...
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Wade in the Water

Wade in the Water

Posted August 10, 2021 On Sunday, August 15, at the beginning of the 10:30 a.m. liturgy, we will be baptizing Gavin McNair, a teenager who attends St. Martin's. Gavin requested full immersion baptism, saying, “This is the most importan...
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​SUPPER with Summer at St. Martin's

​SUPPER with Summer at St. Martin's

Come to the Table with SUPPER A free, home-cooked meal for the whole community. We're thrilled to host our first SUPPER in 18 months at St. Martin's! This edition of SUPPER is hosted in conjunction with Summer at St. Ma...
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Masks Up!

Masks Up!

Posted August 3, 2021 My message this week is an update on our COVID protocols as the staff and I keep an eye on the resurgence of COVID fueled by the Delta variant. In short, we're bringing back a universal mask requirement for all indo...
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Congratulations to Natalee Hill!

Congratulations to Natalee Hill!

Posted July 2, 2021 Beloved Members and Friends of St. Martin's, With a profound mix of pride and heartbreak, I must announce that our beloved Associate for Communications and Administration Natalee Hill has accepted a new position at St....
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Music in Your Neighborhood - Music from South America

Music in Your Neighborhood - Music from South America

Music. Food. Community. We're working with our partner Artcinia to host five concerts, one on each Wednesday evening in June ( This concert has been postponed to July 7 ). Each concert will have its own musical theme and a different fo...
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Solace and Strength

Solace and Strength

Posted June 23, 2021 “God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ: Open our eyes to see your hand at work in the world about us. Deliver us from the presumption of coming to this Table for solace only, and not for strength; for pardon only...
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Church Dedication at our partner parish, Church of the Crucifixion

Church Dedication at our partner parish, Church of the Crucifixion

Posted June 22, 2021 For most of the pandemic, one of the projects of RRM is the weekly Diaper Drive. On Fridays, in the St. Martin’s parking lot, a group of us has been collecting diapers to take to South Philadelphia for immigrant famili...
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POWER Pilgrimage for Education Funding

POWER Pilgrimage for Education Funding

STILL SEPARATE AND UNEQUAL: 100% FAIR FUNDING NOW!

Join us for a statewide, multi-site action in support of Governor Wolf's proposed budget that includes 100% Fair Funding for PA schools! Philadelphia's pilgrimage will take place on Monday, June 21, 2021 at 12:00 p.m. We will gather and start our walk at Samuel Gompers School (5701 Wynnefield Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19131) and journey to Merion Elementary School (549 S Bowman Ave, Merion Station, PA 19066).

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Guest Rector's Note:

Guest Rector's Note: "Grace to Receive" by William (Bill) Jacobsen

Posted June 3, 2021 In November of 2015, I was diagnosed with a genetic disorder called alpha-1anti-trypsin deficiency which affects the lungs and/or the liver. In my particular case, the only hope for survival was a liver transplant. Afte...
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Messages from the Border

Messages from the Border

Posted June 3, 2021 Last weekend, Tanya Regli (parishioner and St. Martin's Refugee Resettlement Ministry leader) began a two-week volunteer placement at the U.S./Mexico border in El Paso, Texas. The opportunity came about while she was doing ...
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Community Organizing Skills Training Opportunity

Posted June 2, 2021 Three trainings and an Action Opportunity. St. Martin’s Community Organizer from POWER, Lilah Saber, will be training St. Martin’s Local Organizing Committee (LOC) in the basic skills of faith-based community organ...
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Music in Your Neighborhood - From Bach to Coleman for String Quartet

Music in Your Neighborhood - From Bach to Coleman for String Quartet

Music. Food. Community. We're working with our partner Artcinia to host five concerts, one on each Wednesday evening in June. Each concert will have its own musical theme and a different food truck will come in for your dining pleasur...
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Leg 3, Eco-Challenge: Industrial Highway and On Into Delaware

Leg 3, Eco-Challenge: Industrial Highway and On Into Delaware

Posted May 27, 2021 This week's Rider Reflection for the annual PA IPL Bike Ride is from Climate Action Team member, Andrew Reumann-Moore. The original version of Andrew's post appeared on the PA IPL 2021 Bike Ride blog and is shared with...
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Music in Your Neighborhood - June Concert Series

Music in Your Neighborhood - June Concert Series

Music. Food. Community. We're working with our partner Artcinia to host five concerts, one on each Wednesday evening in June. Each concert will have its own musical theme. Each week a different food truck will come in for your dining ...
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“It Ain’t no Copenhagen!” - But Biking in Philly Can Still be Beautiful

“It Ain’t no Copenhagen!” - But Biking in Philly Can Still be Beautiful

Posted May 20, 2021 This week's Rider Reflection for the annual PA IPL Bike Ride is from Jess Ballenger. Last weekend Barb and I were unable to join the Sunday group ride, so on Saturday we decided to get in some miles on one of our...
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New Around Here?

New Around Here?

New to the Episcopal Church? Thursdays, June 10, 17, and 24 at 7 p.m. - Hybrid Are you new to the Episcopal Church and curious about what we believe, how we worship and what we stand for? The Rector will offer an introductory seminar on the...
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Help Gaza

Help Gaza

Posted May 19, 2021 First things first in my Rector’s note for today; I am appealing to you for financial donations to Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City through the American Friends of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem . The courage...
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The Holy Spirit: birthdays, gifts, and fire

The Holy Spirit: birthdays, gifts, and fire

May 17, 2021 Dear parents and families, Get ready to see a lot of red this week! The Day of Pentecost is this Sunday, May 23. Pentecost officially takes us out of the Easter season. Many Christians do not understand the significance of ...
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Pentecost activities for families

Pentecost activities for families

Pentecost is often referred to as "the birthday of the Church" because we recognize it as the day when the Holy Spirit descended from Heaven and breathed life into the apostles. The apostles now had the authority to baptize and began to spread th...
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COVID Safety Policy for Sunday, May 16, 2021

COVID Safety Policy for Sunday, May 16, 2021

Posted May 14, 2021 The CDC announced new guidance on Thursday, May 13 pertaining to masks and distancing for fully vaccinated individuals. The new rules did not address houses of worship and we have not yet heard from our Bishop about how t...
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2021 Annual Meeting

2021 Annual Meeting

Join in to celebrate the reimagining and resiliency of our community over the past year, discuss plans for how we will continue to reopen the property in the fall, and confirm our Vestry and Diocesan Convention delegate voting*. You won't want to...
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Wherever your relationship is going, a tandem will get you there faster

Wherever your relationship is going, a tandem will get you there faster

May 12, 2021 The forecast on Mother’s Day promised drizzle, and the temperature was colder than usual for spring. Oh boy, I thought, classic Ballenger biking conditions! Last Sunday we joined several other cyclists for a Philadelphi...
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Loving What is Passing Away

Loving What is Passing Away

Posted May 11, 2021 My dad and I had a funny moment of connection a few years ago. A pilot for Trans World Airlines for 30 years, my dad retired just before the venerable airline closed down for good. He literally wears his ambivalence about T...
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Took a Risk, Said a Prayer

Took a Risk, Said a Prayer

Posted on May 5, 2021 Some of you know that my mother is in declining health. Recently, I was with her in a hospital room as we waited for discharge and transportation. Transitions are stressful and confusing so this was a time of heightened...
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So Many Ways

So Many Ways

Posted April 28, 2021 The GPS app on my phone gave me three routes to reach the retirement community where a member lives. As I am well known for my distracted driving, the faithful app continued to update my options as I went. I arrived safel...
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​Nominating Committee is Seeking Nominees

Posted April 22, 2021 In preparation for the Annual Meeting in June, the Vestry is seeking nominees for Vestry and Representative (Delegate) to Diocesan Convention. We need four nominees for Vestry and three for Convention. Eligible nominees a...
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The Verdict and the Ongoing Commitment

The Verdict and the Ongoing Commitment

Posted April 21, 2021 April 20, 2021 was a tense day for me and for many of you. I waited for the verdict in the trial of Derek Chauvin with a tight knot in my stomach and jangly nerves throughout my body. When the guilty verdict was announc...
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Where do we find peace?

Where do we find peace?

Posted April 19, 2021 Dear parents and families, After another traumatic week, I alternate between glazed-over and heartbroken. Another mass shooting. Another week of gun violence in Philly. Another life lost to police brutality. Another, an...
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St. James School Service Day

St. James School Service Day

Service Day at St. James School! They are asking for help in their raised bed gardens, neighborhood clean up, and organizing the Welcome Table. Masks are required and social distancing will be in effect. Bring your own water bottle. All are welco...
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Risen, Wounded Body

Risen, Wounded Body

Posted April 14, 2021 Last week your clergy participated in a Zoom meeting with Chantay Love, the Director of EMIR Healing Center in Germantown. EMIR (Every Murder is Real) is a healing ministry for families affected by violence. Chantay c...
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Week-long Earth Day Challenge

Week-long Earth Day Challenge

Posted April 12, 2021 Join the St. Martin's community this year as we serve as faithful stewards of God's creation by participating in our Earth Day Challenge. You are invited to post photos of yourselves and your families participating in t...
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Earth Day Sunset Compline

Earth Day Sunset Compline

Join St. Martin's Climate Action Team for a Sunset Compline Walk in the Wissahickon for Earth Day. We'll meet at 6:00 p.m. at Valley Green Inn to start our walk. Parishioner Sue MacQueen will lead the walk and the Rev. Barbara Ballenger will lead...
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Looking for Helpers in Holy Week

Looking for Helpers in Holy Week

Posted April 1, 2021 Dear parents and families, One of the things that tends to make people uneasy about Holy Week is its overwhelming nature. There is simply so much to absorb beginning with Palm Sunday (which has two dichotomous section...
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Holy Week is in the Details

Holy Week is in the Details

Posted on March 31, 2021 Why walk with a condemned man through torture, rejection, abandonment, humiliation, and a horrific death when Easter Sunday is so much more fun? It is a fair question. Another, equally righteous question is this; “...
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"A death so foretold"

Posted March 29, 2021 “There had never been a death so foretold.” - Chronicle of a Death Foretold by Gabriel Garcia Marquez Dear parents and families, Holy Week is similar to the anticipation of getting a shot: it make...
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Climate Justice and Jobs with POWER

Climate Justice and Jobs with POWER

A Community Conversation with Rabbi Julie Greenberg of POWER POWER's Climate Justice and Jobs team works at the local and state levels to build racial and economic justice on a livable planet. POWER's Climate team works right at the int...
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Look Away?

Look Away?

Posted on March 23, 2021 On Sunday, the High School Youth Group and I prepared the cross we will use during Holy Week for our Stations of the Cross. (Detail at right) Using a beautiful plywood cross built by Marty Baumberger as our canvas,...
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“Come Back to Life” this Easter

“Come Back to Life” this Easter

Posted on March 17, 2021 “Come Back to Life” is our theme for our Easter celebration this year. We believe that the Resurrection sets us free from sin and death to live lives in an unbreakable, sustaining, and loving relationship...
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A Litany for the One-Year Anniversary of COVID

A Litany for the One-Year Anniversary of COVID

Posted March 15, 2021 This is our Prayers of the People Litany for the one year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic. We will use this on both Sunday, March 14 and Sunday, March 21, 2021 God Our Loving Creator, your will for all people ...
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Carmela and Her Children Are Free!

Carmela and Her Children Are Free!

Posted March 11, 2021 Dear friends, “ Ms. Apolonio Hernandez is not a deportation priority” There is no feeling like a prayer being answered. Today, after nearly 40 months in sanctuary, we are able...
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Meet Our New Sponsored Family in Haiti

Meet Our New Sponsored Family in Haiti

Posted March 10, 2021. The following update came in from Beyond Borders, introducing us to the new family our donation to the Family Sponsorship Program is empowering.

I am so grateful to you and the people of St. Martin's for so generously sponsoring another family in Haiti. It means more than I can say -- especially in these extremely uncertain times. I’m pleased to introduce you to the Exilus family...

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A Year of Lent

A Year of Lent

Posted March 10, 2021 Worn down by a year of pandemic, I have found that I want to hear less from myself and more from scripture. Like all of us, I maintain a constant inner dialogue of self-talk and coaching that often bleeds over into pray...
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Nomadland and the Voice of Grace

Nomadland and the Voice of Grace

Posted March 3, 2021

"To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul; my God, I put my trust in you; Let me not be humiliated, Nor let my enemies triumph over me." - Psalm 25

Stop reading this Rector’s Note and immediately watch the movie Nomadland. Frances McDormand is absolutely brilliant in her portrayal of a grieving widow named Fern caught on the wrong side of the low-wage economy.

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Lost is Scary Place to Be

Lost is Scary Place to Be

Posted February 23, 2021 With my father away flying for the airline or the Air Force Reserve, my mother was often left to wrangle three small children through public spaces. When my sisters and I were five, three, and one years old, Mom resort...
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Introducing Anne Alexis Harra

Posted February 22, 2021 Dear Parents, I’m very pleased to introduce you and your family to Anne Alexis Harra, our new full-time minister for children and youth. Today is her first day at St. Martin’s. You can send her a welcome email...
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A Letter to St. Martin's Families

Posted February 22, 2021 Dear friends, God is good all the time . All the time, God is good . Hi there! My name is Anne Alexis, and I am bursting with joy at this new journey we are about to take together! I am the new Children & ...
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The Gratitude Trap

The Gratitude Trap

Posted on February 10, 2021 You are probably tired of my constant recommendation to “Start with Gratitude” when you are beginning to pray. I hold to that advice and I have learned that is more complicated than it first appears. S...
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Relationship and Care

Relationship and Care

February 4, 2021 On a frigid Sunday morning in January, James Kent and the Rev. Jarrett Kerbel found John sleeping in the exterior stairwell that leads to the church school. The low temperature that night was 21 degrees. John was bundled up ...
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Prepare Ye the Way for Lent

Prepare Ye the Way for Lent

February 3, 2021 Last week, a new member of the church asked me to discuss ways to observe Lent. I was overjoyed to have that conversation, and I extend an invitation to all of you to plan your Lenten practices with me or with the Rev. Barba...
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Love for Enemies - Matthew 5:43-48

Love for Enemies - Matthew 5:43-48

January 28, 2021 You’re familiar with the old written law, “Love your friend,” and its unwritten companion, “Hate your enemy.” I’m challenging that. I’m telling you to love your enemies. Let them bri...
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Update on the Beneche Family in Haiti

January 22, 2021 We recently received some good news from our Community Engagement partner, Beyond Borders : To everyone at St. Martin-in-the-Fields, Thank you for your generous sponsorship of the Beneche family. When your sponsorsh...
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Who God Gives You

Who God Gives You

January 20, 2021 I saw an opportunity to be affirming and I took it. In response to the spree of executions late in the Trump administration, my friend Patti from high school posted on Facebook her opposition to the death penalty. After &lsqu...
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Celebrating MLK Day with Children and Youth

Celebrating MLK Day with Children and Youth

January 19, 2021 Dear Parents, This note is coming a day later than usual, as the office was closed to observe the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday yesterday. The day is an important reminder that we should weave his message ...
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New Sanctuary and Immigrant Justice

New Sanctuary and Immigrant Justice

A Wednesday Evening Community Conversation On Zoom - please register below for the link New Opportunity for Faith in Action! Join special guest Blanca Pacheco, Co-Director of The New Sanctuary Movement (NSM) of Philadelphia, in a conversa...
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Love Includes Accountability

Love Includes Accountability

January 14, 2021 “Jesus looked straight at him with love and said, ‘You need only one thing. Go and sell all you have and give the money to the poor, and you will have riches in heaven; then come and follow me.’ " ~ Mark 10:21 Polite so...
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MLK Weekend 2021

January 13, 2021 There are a variety of ways for you to honor and celebrate the legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. this coming weekend. Please join in these events to worship, learn, and act. Union of Black Episcopalians...
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The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration in Word and Music

The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration in Word and Music

St. Martin's, in partnership with Christ Church & St. Michael's Episcopal Church in Germantown, invites you to join us for readings of the Rev. Dr. King's words, music, and prayers. Music led by Aaron Graves. Watch on YouTube.com/StMartinEC...
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Hellos and Farewells at St. Martin's

Hellos and Farewells at St. Martin's

January 13, 2021.

The new year comes with a few staffing changes. We’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you and farewell to those who’ve helped us weather this pandemic, and welcome our new staff members.

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Faith in the Ruins

Faith in the Ruins

A Rabbi, a Pastor & a Priest Convene a Conversation about America Post 1/6/21 The clergy of The Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill, Germantown Jewish Centre, and St. Martin's Episcopal will host a conversation about who we are as a countr...
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The Stones Would Cry Out

The Stones Would Cry Out

January 7, 2021 "I tell you, if my disciples were silent, the stones would cry out," said Jesus to the Pharisees. (Luke 19) The disciples were hailing Jesus as "the King who comes in the name of the Lord" on his triumphal entry into Jerusal...
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Pray for the Nation

Pray for the Nation

January 6, 2021 [Updated January 15, 2021] Ongoing Opportunities to Pray for Our Nation Please continue to pray for one another and our nation. We have several upcoming opportunities for you join in prayer with us. Compline and Pra...
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New Year Good News at St. Martin's

New Year Good News at St. Martin's

January 6, 2021 The rush of the holiday season may have temporarily obscured it, but there have been good things happening at St. Martin’s! Here’s some of what we hadn't shared yet: Daniel Cooper hired as Associate for Audio ...
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New Year, New Books

New Year, New Books

January 6, 2021 Along with whatever resolutions you may (or may not) be making as the year begins, this is a great time to add to your reading list. Here are three of my favorite books of 2020. Each work of nonfiction is highly accessible an...
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New Year and Epiphany

New Year and Epiphany

January 4, 2020 If you’re like me and put up a freshly cut tree for Christmas this year, its drooping branches are a reminder that Christmastide is ending, and the time to pack away the decorations is drawing near. The Christmas season...
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Christmas Lost and Found

Christmas Lost and Found

December 23, 2020 We are all feeling a great sense of loss this year around our typical Christmas traditions: gathering with family, big choral worship, and much more. The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel reminds us in this week's Rector's Note that ...
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Mark and Movies

Mark and Movies

A Virtual Bible Study with the Rev. Hal Taussig Wednesday evenings in January 2021 from 7-8:30 p.m. on Zoom A four-week introduction to the Year B Gospel readings of the Gospel of Mark will combine viewing three movies, one graphic nove...
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Mourn with Those Who Mourn

Mourn with Those Who Mourn

December 16, 2020. This week, our country passed a grim marker - 300,000 people lost to COVID-19. As the Rev. Jarrett Kerbel set up a memorial to those lost, he was reminded that we are called to pray with those who rejoice, and those who mourn. This way of prayer opens us to our interconnectedness in Christ.

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The O Antiphons - A ritual for the final week before Christmas

The O Antiphons - A ritual for the final week before Christmas

December 14, 2020 The season of Advent features so many great rituals for counting down the days to Christmas in meaningful ways. Ever since my kids were little, we have used a Jesse Tree to mark each day of Advent with a little symbol t...
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2020 Christmas Letter

2020 Christmas Letter

December 10, 2020 “The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.” ~ John 1:5 Dear Friends, Repeat these words from the Gospel of John gently in your heart and you are praying. Repeat these ...
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Advent Bonfires & Buskers

Advent Bonfires & Buskers

Fridays, Dec. 4, 11, & 18, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. Gather in the warm glow of a bonfire for conversation and love music with the Rector, the Rev. Jarrett Kerbel, during Advent. All ages are invited for a regular Friday bonfire starting at 4:30 p.m...
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Something Good is On the Way: Meditations for Advent

Something Good is On the Way: Meditations for Advent

Wednesdays, December 2-16, 2020, at 7:30 p.m. on Zoom.

Join the Rector Jarrett Kerbel and the Assoc. Rector Barb Ballenger for some soul work this Advent, meditating on the scriptures appointed for the season. Together we will reflect, share, and pray.

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St. Martin's Hymn

St. Martin's Hymn

November 12, 2020 Did you know that we've got our very own version of a hymn about St. Martin of Tours? Every year we sing this song on St. Martin's Day. The lyrics were written by the Rt. Rev. Frank Griswold when he was the Rector of Church...
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Walk of the Holy Family

Walk of the Holy Family

Join a consortium of area congregations and your Chestnut Hill neighbors in a Christmas event that raises critical funds for the Philadelphia Interfaith Hospitality Network’s (PIHN) work in preventing homelessness and rapidly housing displaced families.

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Advent Lessons and Carols

Advent Lessons and Carols

As the days grow darker, and the church begins its annual preparations for the coming of Christ, St. Martin’s celebrates with an Advent Lesson & Carols. This service combines scripture readings with gorgeous choral music. With each reading ...
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The Great Pie Bake!

The Great Pie Bake!

November 11, 2020. St. James School's Welcome Table is providing 300 Thanksgiving Dinners this year, and we're bringing dessert!

Please sign up to bake a pie (or two, or several!) and deliver them on Friday, November 20 between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. to St. Martin's parking lot...

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Who Was St. Martin of Tours?

Who Was St. Martin of Tours?

November 9, 2020 Saint Martin's feast day is officially November 11, but we usually celebrate it as a parish on the closest Sunday. Find him in the stained glass window at the back of the church, and on the left-hand icon in the Lear Chapel....
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Ways to give in the spirit of St. Martin of Tours, our patron saint

Ways to give in the spirit of St. Martin of Tours, our patron saint

November 9, 2020 This coming Sunday we celebrate the Feast of our parish patron, St. Martin of Tours. (His actual Feast Day is annually on November 11) . It's a great opportunity to explore and celebrate the value of giving to one another, ...
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Ways to Pray During (and leading up to) Election Week

Ways to Pray During (and leading up to) Election Week

October 29, 2020. We will be with you up to and through all of Election week. Here are several ways to worship and pray with us over the next week.

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All the Feelings

All the Feelings

October 28, 2020. The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel speaks about all the feelings wrapped up in this particular week as we say farewell to the Rev. Anne Thatcher, we continue to work out our digital worship quirks, we hold in love and care...

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​Celebrating Halloween and All Saints this weekend

​Celebrating Halloween and All Saints this weekend

October 26, 2020 This weekend, Halloween will likely look and feel a bit different than usual as families negotiate the yearly ritual of candy and costumes with the current challenges of contact tracing and social distancing. On our street, ...
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Loving Presence

Loving Presence

Led by the Rev. Jarrett Kerbel On Zoom In response to the killing of George Floyd, Bishop Guttiérrez assembled the Loving Presence task force to develop a strategic plan for dismantling systemic racism in the Diocese of Pennsylvania. ...
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All Saints' Evensong

All Saints' Evensong

This Evensong will feature the music of jazz pianist Aaron Graves, who led worship under the tent this summer, along with several guest artists including vocalist Valerie Gay, Philadelphia 2020-2021 Poet Laureate Trapeta B. Mayson*, Monnette Sudl...
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Congratulations to the Rev. Anne Thatcher

Congratulations to the Rev. Anne Thatcher

October 19, 2020 Beloved Members and Friends of St. Martin's, I write to you today with a cause for celebration! The Rev. Anne Thatcher has been called to be the Rector of St. Peter's in Morristown, New Jersey. While this news is bitters...
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Rejoice! Again, I Say, Rejoice!

Rejoice! Again, I Say, Rejoice!

October 8, 2020. Gratitude is something that brings us closer to God. There is so much to be grateful for at St. Martin’s and, in his Rector’s Note for this week, the Rev. Jarrett Kerbel shares just a few of those things.

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Lift Every Vote Postcards

Lift Every Vote Postcards

October 7, 2020. Another election engagement option, shared by a parishioner, with a fast-approaching deadline: The non-partisan organization Lift Every Vote is wrapping up the last voter registration push in the country right here in Pennsylvania.

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​St. Martin's enters a partnership with Hosts for Hospitals

​St. Martin's enters a partnership with Hosts for Hospitals

October 6, 2020 Thanks to the leadership of Cathy Glazer, Judy Halesky, and the Properties Committee, our rectory apartment in Hilary House is now fitted out as a lovely temporary apartment for the Hosts for Hospitals program. Hosts for...
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Be Calm and Vote Early – Here’s How

Be Calm and Vote Early – Here’s How

October 2, 2020 So many choices! You have most likely been flooded or overwhelmed with ads and slogans over the past few weeks encouraging you to vote and the various ways to do so. And the information is changing every day. The good news fo...
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Beginning Beloved Community 2020

Beginning Beloved Community 2020

This five-week series provides an introduction to the individual and collective work of racial understanding, healing and action central to St. Martin's Becoming Beloved Community efforts.

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Keeping Sabbath

Keeping Sabbath

September 30, 2020. The Rev. Barbara Ballenger offers an Associate's Note this week on the importance of rest and worship in the week. Listen in to what is coming up for Family Worship at St. Martin's and how to join in!

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Register now for in-person Family Worship starting in October

Register now for in-person Family Worship starting in October

September 24, 2020: Music, movement, rhythm and interactive prayer make Morning Prayer come alive for all ages in our new weekly, in-person (and live-streamed) Family Worship, which debuts Sunday October 4 at 9:15 a.m. in the Parish Hall. Registration is required for in-person attendance.

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Help Fight Homelessness in Philadelphia

Help Fight Homelessness in Philadelphia

September 23, 2020 The COVID-19 pandemic has tipped many Philadelphia families to the brink of homelessness. Although some legislation has been forwarded to forestall rent payments, those payments plus late fees will ultimately be due. St. M...
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SUPPER makes donations to Face to Face and North Light Community Center

SUPPER makes donations to Face to Face and North Light Community Center

September 21, 2020: SUPPER makes donations of $2,500 each to Face to Face and North Light Community Center. While the SUPPER program has been on hold at all four sites since March 2020, SUPPER has partnered with several larger non-profits who were able to safely continue feeding initiatives...

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$3,000 grant made to Philadelphia Interfaith Hospitality Network

$3,000 grant made to Philadelphia Interfaith Hospitality Network

September 18, 2020 At the September meeting, the Community Engagement Committee approved a grant of $3,000 to the Philadelphia Interfaith Hospitality Network . The money is designated as rental and mortgage assistance with the goal of keepi...
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Episcopal Community Services Back to School Drive

Episcopal Community Services Back to School Drive

September 16, 2020 ECS “Back To School Drive” is online this year! St. Martin’s has been an active participant each year with the backpack and school supply drive for Episcopal Community Services. The need this ...
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Voter Phone Banking with POWER - Nov. 1

Voter Phone Banking with POWER - Nov. 1

Mishkan Shalom and St. Vincent’s host a virtual POWER Phone Bank. Please join for whatever time you are available.

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Voter Phone Banking with POWER - Oct. 18

Voter Phone Banking with POWER - Oct. 18

Mishkan Shalom and St. Vincent’s host a virtual POWER Phone Bank. Please join for whatever time you are available.

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Voter Phone Banking with POWER - Oct. 4

Voter Phone Banking with POWER - Oct. 4

Mishkan Shalom and St. Vincent’s host a virtual POWER Phone Bank. Please join for whatever time you are available.

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Voter Education at Weavers Way Coop in Mt. Airy

Voter Education at Weavers Way Coop in Mt. Airy

Sign up for voter education at Weavers Way Coop. Many shoppers come there at the first of the month. We will hand out voting information flyers, plus help shoppers register to vote and request a mail in ballot using their own cell phones and the VotesPA.com website.

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Voter Education at Weaver's Way in Chestnut Hill

Voter Education at Weaver's Way in Chestnut Hill

Sign up for voter education at Weavers Way Coop. Many shoppers come there at the first of the month. We will hand out voting information flyers, plus help shoppers register to vote and request a mail in ballot using their own cell phones and the VotesPA.com website.

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Text in the Tent

Text in the Tent

Voter Registration/Mail In Ballot Application Drive Join the Community Engagement Committee and the POWER Local Organizing Committee as we harness the power of mobile phone address books to prepare folks to vote in the upcoming election. Direc...
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Voting is our Sacred Duty

Voting is our Sacred Duty

September 9, 2020

In this week's Rector's Note, the Rev. Jarrett Kerbel talks about our non-partisan Get Out the Vote efforts, and why voter engagement is a priority for the church.

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Fall Worship Changes

Fall Worship Changes

We are thrilled to announce that beginning on Sunday, October 4, worship at St. Martin's will move live, in-person, in our buildings. These services will also be live streamed

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This Old House

This Old House

August 26, 2020

In Isabel Wilkerson's new book, Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents, she describes the United States like an old house, the foundation is full of strengths and cracks....
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Navigate New Spiritual Terrain with a Spiritual Director

Navigate New Spiritual Terrain with a Spiritual Director

August 19, 2020.

Because we all need all the help we can get right now...This week, our Associate's Note from the Rev. Barbara Ballenger tells a story of finding her way in her 20s and offers way to find support in moving forward into an uncharted future.

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Goodbye from Office Assistant Mary Button

Goodbye from Office Assistant Mary Button

August 13, 2020 Dear Friends, It’s been a whirlwind two years here in Philadelphia serving this amazing congregation as office assistant while completing coursework for my Master of Divinity at United Lutheran Seminary. I have loved g...
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My God turns my darkness into light

My God turns my darkness into light

August 12, 2020

This week our Associate Rector's Note from the Rev. Anne Thatcher is one of hope in the midst of turmoil.

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Northwest Philly POWER Voter Engagement Initiatives

Northwest Philly POWER Voter Engagement Initiatives

August 12, 2020 Two POWER congregations, Mishkan Shalom and St. Vincent's Church, are inviting the members of your congregations to join us in our Get-Out-the-Vote efforts. They're conducting training on the OutVote App so that your voluntee...
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Blessed Baking: Update August 10

Blessed Baking: Update August 10

I drove down to St. James loaded with baked goods and Leni Windle and Laura Sibson also drove down with diapers, toys, fans, etc.

James and John, two recent graduates and summer interns, helped us unload the cars.
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Swimming While White in Today’s World

Swimming While White in Today’s World

August 11, 2020

Opening Conversations about Race in Predominately White Congregations

In this two-hour workshop, participants will learn how to start and sustain conversations about being white and embracing differences. Facilitated by the Rev. Dr. Bill Kondrath and Sarah Werkman, of Visions Inc.

There are two opportunities to participate...

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The 21 Day Racial Equity Habit-Building Challenge

The 21 Day Racial Equity Habit-Building Challenge

Can change really happen in only 21 days? This pandemic has shown us that, yes it may be so. Or, at least, a solid beginning towards change can be achieved. The Rev. Barbara Ballenger tells us more about the 21 Day Racial Equity Habit-Building Challenge.

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Who Tells Your Story?

Who Tells Your Story?

The Rev. Anne Thatcher brings us the Associate Rector's Note for the final week of July, 2020. Who tells the story of St. Martin's? We hope you will! Share your stories of St. Martin's with us, so that we can share them with others.

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worship.together pauses for August

worship.together pauses for August

July 28, 2020 Online recorded worship.together services for preschoolers and their families will be taking a break during the month of August and will resume in September. Please email Rev. Barb Ballenger, [email protected] if you ...
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Meet our New Director of Music!

Meet our New Director of Music!

July 27, 2020 I am pleased to announce my hire for Director of Music in this video message. You’ll also hear from our hire themselves. Please click the play button above to view it. I want to thank Michael Martin Mills and his w...
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Tell Us Your St. Martin's Story!

Tell Us Your St. Martin's Story!

Do you have a great St. Martin's story to share? We'd love to hear it! As part of our We Are St. Martin's video, we are seeking stories that share the spirit of St. Martin's. Here are three prompts to reflect upon...

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Thank You from Beyond Borders for COVID-19 Emergency Response

Thank You from Beyond Borders for COVID-19 Emergency Response

June 27, 2020 The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel received the thank you note below from our partners at Beyond Borders for the parish's support of their COVID-19 Emergency Response. Here's the letter and an update on their ministries. Hi Jarrett...
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Worship in a Tent

Worship in a Tent

June 24, 2020

The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel's Rector's Note for the week of June 22 is an invitation to join us for limited in-person worship, starting this Sunday, June 28.

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Virtual Real Presence?

Virtual Real Presence?

June 18, 2020 The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel discusses the Episcopal theology behind our practice of Holy Eucharist, and why, when we return to limited in-person worship, we will not be returning right away to serving the Holy Eucharist.
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​Building a Racial Justice Agenda Together, as a Church, for our City and Nation

​Building a Racial Justice Agenda Together, as a Church, for our City and Nation

Our Rector, the Rev. Jarrett Kerbel, and Becoming Beloved Community team member, Justina Barrett, will facilitate a conversation about what to include and prioritize in a racial justice agenda that will guide our church community in our advocac...
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Some Notes for Annual Meeting

Some Notes for Annual Meeting

June 10, 2020 The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel talks us through how to prepare for worship and our annual parish meeting this coming Sunday, June 14. There are a few changes to how we've been doing worship up until now, so listen in for...
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New Saturday Prayer Group

New Saturday Prayer Group

June 8, 2020 A new Zoom Saturday morning prayer group is now up and running for those who miss having communal morning prayer at 8:00 a.m. on Saturdays . This is a lay-led gathering using a simplified version of the morning prayer program. ...
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Help Wire the Church

Help Wire the Church

June 2, 2020 To make sure we can include most of our members going forward we are extending our wireless system to the church and installing a live-stream video system. Our goal is to capture worship through a live stream or a recording for t...
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Special Edition: June 2, 2020

Special Edition: June 2, 2020

June 2, 2020 The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel is issuing this Rector's Note early in the week to address what we've been seeing this weekend and into the week in Philadelphia and around the nation. "As we are all deeply concerned about the...
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A Chat with the Bishop (Note the earlier time!)

A Chat with the Bishop (Note the earlier time!)

*Please Note the earlier time!*

For this week's Community Conversation, we are excited to welcome our Bishop, Daniel Gutiérrez for a time for us to join him in a virtual gathering. As we continue to journey through this pandemic together, our Bishop wants to spend time in conversation with us.

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The Glory of the Cross

The Glory of the Cross

May 28, 2020 Rector's Note for the week of May 25, 2020. The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel, rector of the Episcopal Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields in Philadelphia, PA, shares a re-play of his sermon from Sunday, May 24, which offers comfort in r...
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Online Morning Prayer and Annual Meeting

Online Morning Prayer and Annual Meeting

10:30 a.m. Morning Prayer 11:15 a.m. Annual Meeting At our annual meeting we'll share updates from the year, discuss plans to resume limited in-person worship, and confirm our Vestry and Diocesan Convention delegate voting. Please wat...
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Process for Resuming In-Person Worship

Process for Resuming In-Person Worship

May 26, 2020 The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel, rector of the Episcopal Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields in Philadelphia, PA, talks about where St. Martin's is in the investigation process for reopening in-person worship, and what we do and don't y...
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Sweet Sunday Bakers

Sweet Sunday Bakers

May 19, 2020 On Monday, May 18 we delivered home baked goods for over 100 family meal bags to St. James School. When we arrive, all is hustle-bustle with families and neighbors arriving to pick up Share boxes, homework assignments, and boo...
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Process Update for Reopening

Process Update for Reopening

May 19, 2020 Rector's Note for the week of May 18, 2020. The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel, rector of the Episcopal Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields in Philadelphia, PA, talks about where St. Martin's is in the investigation process for reopening ...
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Silence = Death

Silence = Death

Rector's Note for the week of May 11, 2020. The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel, rector of the Episcopal Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields in Philadelphia, PA, reflects on the stress our country is under and the way it reveals underlying inequities in o...
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Building Community During Social Distancing - The St. James School Story

Building Community During Social Distancing - The St. James School Story

7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Throughout this time of social distancing, St. James School has been able to grow its connection with their neighbors by reaching out in loving service. The Welcome Table, a neighborhood support program, gathers needed food, ...
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Holy Feast and Holy Fast

Holy Feast and Holy Fast

May 7, 2020 A Video Rector's Note for the Week of May 4. The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel, rector of the Episcopal Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields in Philadelphia, PA, discusses the experience of fasting as a new spiritual practice he has started d...
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Ongoing Acts of Generosity

Ongoing Acts of Generosity

April 29, 2020 St. Martin's continues to demonstrate its generosity in the midst of COVID-19. You can read about acts we previously reported on in our post from April 8 . Since then, here are some additional ways that St. Martin's parishi...
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Try this exercise for self-calming

Try this exercise for self-calming

April 30, 2020 In our house these are anxious days, with more than their share of melt-downs. And that's not even the kids! Steady, measured breathing can be a great way to calm down a panicky moment. Teach your family members this Take ...
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God Calls Us by Name

God Calls Us by Name

April 29, 2020 A Video Rector's Note for the Week of April 27. The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel reflects on the stories found in both the Old and New Testaments about the gift of recognizing God's voice when we are called by name.
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Family Service Project: Make Kindness Cards for Cathedral Village

Family Service Project: Make Kindness Cards for Cathedral Village

Tuesday, April 28, 2020 Wondering how to reach out to others in need, or fight back against the effects of the pandemic? Make a batch of Kindness Cards for elderly community members experiencing social isolation. Parishioner Krys C...
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Parents Connecting: Easter

Parents Connecting: Easter

Gather with other parents for prayer and support 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. via Zoom - please RSVP for the link. Being a parent is a series of awakenings to what it means to have taken on the great responsibility of bringing new life into the w...
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Seeing the Future

Seeing the Future

April 23, 2020 A Video Rector's Note for the Week of April 20. The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel reflects on a vivid image that recently came to his mind. He seeks to understand the dual meanings of the image that can be found as we also consider Mar...
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Finding the Faces

Finding the Faces

April 2, 2020 A Video Rector's Note for the Week of March 30. The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel reflects on the need for Saints as tangible faces of God's love in the world when we are in need of hope, courage, strength, and guidance.
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Holy Week for the Whole Family

Holy Week for the Whole Family

Available for download today!

St. Martin's downloadable Holy Week for the Whole Family resources invite families to experience at home the stories that lead up to Easter. This version of Holy Week for the Whole Family is designed to reflect our current practices of sheltering at home and keeping physical distance during the coronavirus pandemic.

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Race, Ethnicity, and New Testament - Final Sessions

Race, Ethnicity, and New Testament - Final Sessions

A Bible Study Series l ed by the Rev. Hal Taussig This program is meant to connect directly Bible study, the last 370 years of African American biblical scholarship, and St. Martin’s ongoing Becoming Beloved Community programming. Thi...
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Pandemic Hope

Pandemic Hope

March 25, 2020 Today's Rector's Note is offered via video by the Rev. Jarrett Kerbel. Please watch below. Below the video is the text of the poem he shared with us. Pandemic written on March 11, 2020, by Lynn Ungar What if you t...
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Empowerment in Crisis: Things you CAN do.

Empowerment in Crisis: Things you CAN do.

March 19, 2020, updated April 2, 2020* Supporting each other in the time of Coronavirus *Where to find free, nutritious food during COVID-19 Resource from the City of Philadelphia Food Drive for St. Luke's Food Pantry. We...
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COVID-19 Parish Response UPDATE: Flatten the Curve and Acts of Care

COVID-19 Parish Response UPDATE: Flatten the Curve and Acts of Care

March 11, 2020

Flatten the Curve and Acts of Care.

Above, you will see a chart that is guiding our response to COVID-19 at St. Martin’s. In a pandemic the goal is to slow the rate of spread by practicing social distancing. By taking on the acts of care that make up social distancing, we will protect our neighbors and ourselves...

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St. Martin's and St. Luke's Episcopal Churches Collaborate in Census Awareness

St. Martin's and St. Luke's Episcopal Churches Collaborate in Census Awareness

March 9, 2020 St. Luke's to Host Kickoff Event for Census Awareness Effort NW Philadelphia parishes join POWER in outreach to community St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Germantown, and the Episcopal Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields,...
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Responding to Flu, Colds, and COVID-19/Coronavirus at St. Martin’s

Responding to Flu, Colds, and COVID-19/Coronavirus at St. Martin’s

March 4, 2020 Responding to Flu, Colds, and COVID-19/Coronavirus at St. Martin’s Good hygiene is one more way we tend relationships in our church community! Our core values include, “in giving and receiving care we encounter Christ,...
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​(All the) Small Things

​(All the) Small Things

February 26, 2020 Some small acts of courtesy make me very happy. When traffic halts and patiently waits for a funeral procession to pass by. When traffic pauses to let a pedestrian cross in the crosswalk or a family load children into the...
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Building for Ministry in 2020

Building for Ministry in 2020

February 19, 2020 Parish forum on Sunday, February 9 was a powerful example of excellent lay leadership and much more. Accounting Warden Bob Allen - who is in his eighth year as accounting warden - gave a financial report describing the robust...
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Salt and Light

Salt and Light

February 12, 2020 What would you say about a parent that left the gas stove running and matchbooks all around the floor and left their children in the house alone? Some writers think that God did much the same with humanity. Why make such a wo...
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Women Connecting: Easter

Women Connecting: Easter

Saturday, April 25, 9 a.m. to 11:30.
Via Zoom video conference.

All women are welcome to this seasonal mini-retreat hosted by Wellspring. Through the gifts of silent reflection and deep listening, participants share and receive each other in the stories they tell.

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How Do I Know God

How Do I Know God

February 5, 2020 God inspired me to write this poem in Anne Ritchings and Kay Hankinson's Epiphany Wellspring series on a contemplative approach to reading poetry. The poem I wrote in response to was Mary Oliver's Some Questions You Might Ask...
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Won't you be my neighbor?

Won't you be my neighbor?

February 5, 2020 A Philadelphia attorney told me about his early years as a Public Defender. Thirty years ago, this young African American lawyer would travel a circuit with a judge moving from a courtroom in town, to a courtroom in North Phil...
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Celebrating the Fruits of Generosity

Celebrating the Fruits of Generosity

January 29, 2020 The vestry passed our 2020 budget on Tuesday and we have much cause for thanksgiving to God and gratitude to our generous members. Here are some highlights: For the 9th year in a row we passed a balanced budget. We lowere...
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Lenten Retreat at Holy Cross Monastery

Lenten Retreat at Holy Cross Monastery

"Let the silence teach you" Friday, March 13, 2020 through Sunday, March 15, 2020 The retreat is currently full. Please contact the Rev. Jarrett Kerbel to be added the wait list. Our annual retreat to Holy Cross Monastery in Wes...
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The Power of a Single Voice

The Power of a Single Voice

January 15, 2020 One student can change a classroom. Starting on January 2, I devoted five days a week to teaching a class at Princeton Theological Seminary. My co-teacher and I had 13 students who participated, took the initiative, and create...
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A Christmas message from London

A Christmas message from London

January 8, 2020 Sometimes the best I can offer my beloved community comes from someone wiser than me. The Rev. Dr. Sam Wells, Vicar of the Church of St. Martin in the Fields, London, wrote the following Christmas message to his parish. He puts...
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The Week of Firsts

The Week of Firsts

December 19, 2019 Since last Friday’s ordination to the priesthood, it has been a week of startling firsts for me. First blessing, first absolving, first bread-breaking. There was my first Sunday as a priest, followed unbelievably by a first...
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The First Word, the Everyday Word, the Final Word

The First Word, the Everyday Word, the Final Word

December 19, 2019 I hope you will all take a minute to read the prologue to the Gospel of John (1:1-14) as we approach Christmas Day. These beautiful verses probably came from an early hymn of the church. I find them to be reassuring, comforti...
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Celebrating our Newest Bridge-Builders

Celebrating our Newest Bridge-Builders

December 12, 2019 This is an especially joyful week for St. Martin’s community. On Friday, we will host the ordination of the Revs. Barbara Ballenger and Laura Palmer to the priesthood. I want to encourage all of our members to attend to s...
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"Insider-ism" Sermon from December 8, 2019

"Paul writes a verse that I think is a good one to memorize, "Welcome each other as you were welcomed by Christ."

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Honey Bucket

Honey Bucket

December 5, 2019 When my parents said to me, “Grab your honey bucket, Jarrett,” what they meant was, “Go shovel manure!” And so I did. With a shovel in one hand and a five gallon bucket in the other I would limp around the meadow shove...
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It's GivingTuesday!

It's GivingTuesday!

This GivingTuesday, Support Beyond Borders in Haiti Today is GivingTuesday and we invite you to give to Beyond Borders in Haiti for their work empowering women, ending violence against women and girls, and ending child slavery. Clic...
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Interim Music Director Announced

Interim Music Director Announced

December 2, 2019 We will welcome Lyn Loewi on Sunday, January 19 Interim Music Director, Lyn Loewi is “thrilled to be joining the work and mission at St. Martin’s. While visiting with the Reverend Jarrett Kerbel last month, I was struck b...
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Living with Complexity

Living with Complexity

November 27, 2019 One sign of maturity is the ability to hold complex thoughts and feelings in tension with each other. As we grow in grace and compassion we are able to hear and hold many perspectives at once and we relinquish the impatient...
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People Who Pray

People Who Pray

My morning ritual includes a quick stop at the Wyndmoor 7/11 before worship at St. Martin’s. A creature of habit, I start each day with a small coffee and an old-fashioned donut. The clerks know me by name and what I do for a living, so they ca...
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I See an Eternal Life in Your Future

I See an Eternal Life in Your Future

The Rev. Barbara Ballenger speaks of the power of imagination, especially God's imagination, and the resulting radical hope found in God's vision for the kingdom. Listen to her sermon for the 23rd Sunday after Pentecost, "I See an Eternal Life in...
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Ordination to the Priesthood of Barbara Ballenger and Laura Palmer

Ordination to the Priesthood of Barbara Ballenger and Laura Palmer

God willing and the people consenting The Rt. Rev. Daniel G. P. Gutiérrez XVI Bishop of The Episcopal Diocese of Pennsylvania will ordain Barbara Ellen Ballenger and Laura Eileen Palmer to the Sacred Order of Priests in Chr...
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Calendar

Tuesday, 8/9 at 7:30 AM
Morning Prayer via Zoom (SM)
Tuesday, 8/9 at 10:30 AM
Bible Study via Zoom (SM)
Tuesday, 8/9 at 7:00 PM
Executive Committee
Tuesday, 8/9 at 8:00 PM
A.A. Meeting
Wednesday, 8/10 at 7:30 AM
Morning Prayer via Zoom (SM)
Wednesday, 8/10 at 10:30 AM
Spirituality of Aging (in-person)
Wednesday, 8/10 at 7:00 PM
Community Engagement (NH)
Thursday, 8/11 at 7:30 AM
Morning Prayer via Zoom (SM)

Morning Prayer via Zoom (SM)

Tuesday, August 9, 7:30 AM - 8:00 AM

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Bible Study via Zoom (SM)

Tuesday, August 9, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM


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Meeting ID: 330 189 908


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Executive Committee

Tuesday, August 9, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Work Room
Staff Member is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

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A.A. Meeting

Tuesday, August 9, 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM

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Morning Prayer via Zoom (SM)

Wednesday, August 10, 7:30 AM - 8:00 AM

Join Zoom Meeting See your Field Notes email for the Zoom link. Call in only: +16465588656,,856472224# US (New York) Meeting ID: 856 472 224 One tap mobile

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Spirituality of Aging (in-person)

Wednesday, August 10, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Wellspring at St. Martin's is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Topic: Spirituality of Aging Time: Jul 13, 2022 10:30 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Every month on the Second Wed, 7 occurrence(s) Jul 13, 2022 10:30 AM Aug 10, 2022 10:30 AM Sep 14, 2022 10:30 AM Oct 12, 2022 10:30 AM Nov 9, 2022 10:30 AM Dec 14, 2022 10:30 AM Jan 11, 2023 10:30 AM Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system. Monthly: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/tJAlcequrzwuHdT7cPfx7k6TYVcMiZVeJNjU/ics?icsToken=98tyKuCspj0pHNWStB6HRowIGo_ob-7zmGZbgqdpyxzVBTgEaVXCD9RBH7tFJt36 Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/94863617470 Meeting ID: 948 6361 7470 One tap mobile +16465588656,,94863617470# US (New York) +13017158592,,94863617470# US (Washington DC) Dial by your location +1 646 558 8656 US (New York) +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC) +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) +1 720 707 2699 US (Denver) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) Meeting ID: 948 6361 7470 Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kbOaRD3aZ

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Community Engagement (NH)

Wednesday, August 10, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Click here to view on Google Calendar.

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Morning Prayer via Zoom (SM)

Thursday, August 11, 7:30 AM - 8:00 AM

Join Zoom Meeting See your Field Notes email for the Zoom link. Call in only: +16465588656,,856472224# US (New York) Meeting ID: 856 472 224 One tap mobile

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Sermons

  • Jun 26 | Anne Alexis Harra
    Moving Forward
  • Jun 5 | The Rev. Dr. Nora Johnson
    Beatitudes for Pride
  • Jun 5 | The Rev. James H. Littrell
    Ticks in the Boxwoods
  • May 29 | The Rev. David F. Potter
    Where Do We Go From Here?
  • May 28 | The Rev. James H. Littrell
    New Every Morning

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8000 St. Martin's Lane · Philadelphia, PA 19118
215.247.7466
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Service Times

Join us online for Sunday morning worship!

  • 8:00 a.m. Traditional spoken Holy Eucharist with sermon - live streamed.
  • 9:00 a.m. Living in Faith Together: Outdoor, intergenerational worship with eucharist, immediately followed by formation at 9:40
  • 10:30 a.m. Traditional Holy Eucharist with music and sermon - live streamed.

StMartinEC.org/live

Location

St. Martin-in-the-Fields
8000 St. Martin's Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19118

Contact Us
215.247.7466

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