Vestry Corner ~ August 2024

Here at the coast, August is the time when we get to relish in the full heat of the summer. It's also the time we try to take advantage of any last-minute summer fun gatherings with friends and family before the seasons change. Take time to pause, reflect, and appreciate. We are officially entering the second half of the year. We have many things to be thankful for, and our community is the heartbeat of our Parish. Thank you for all you do.

St. James Parish downtown will be buzzing with children's laughter during Vacation Bible School August 5 - 8. Any last-minute volunteers are always welcome. We love involving all generations in Vacation Bible School. Our children will strengthen their relationship with Jesus, and we hope you will come and meet a few new faces in our Parish.

Recently Perry Hall received a new Air Conditioning unit, as the last one was over 20 years old. We are thankful to keep our beautiful building up and running during these hot months.

The Vestry has our annual summer retreat August 9-10th. We will spend time in fellowship, and also discuss the future needs and growth of our church. The Tricentennial is also a large focus as we plan for a long celebration leading up to November 2029. Please speak up if you would like to be involved.

Many families around New Hanover County will start school back in mid-August. And we are proud to report your donation of over 60 book bags went to the Episcopal Farm Worker Ministry to help send their children back with all the essentials. Thank you. Keep an eye out for school buses as they will make their August debut soon.

Save the date for September 8th as we will all gather again downtown. This year, Welcome Sunday will be a wonderful celebration for all ages and generations of our Parish family.

We have opened up the registration for the Parish Family Retreat at Camp Trinity, it will take place September 27-29th. Last year was a wonderful weekend filled with all ages, we hope you can join us here in 2024. Check out more details within the Grapevine.

Blessings to all for a healthy and safe summer.

Alex Murchison - Senior Warden

Rachel Colonna - Junior Warden