The Gift of Community
(By Fr. Hall)

As everyone probably knows by now, Mary and I are now the proud parents of a bouncing baby girl, who was born in the wee hours of the morning on May 22nd. A prominent person in the congregation told me the week before that “there is nothing like holding your baby in your arms for the first time.” I figured at the time that was true, but now I know for certainty that this is indeed a true statement. There is indeed nothing in the world as precious or sacred as holding your own child for the first time.

As with most “mountain top” experiences, however, reality soon appears to bring you back into the every day minutiae of dirty diapers and early morning screaming fits. I can only imagine how difficult it would be for new parent(s) without the support of a community and family to help them through the first weeks of adjusting to parenthood.

It has been a real blessing to us for the gift of community here at St. Paul’s. Many folks have been praying for us, bringing us dinners, and taking care of our dog, Max, while we were tarrying at the hospital. Most of all, everyone has been patient with the sleep deprived priest as he adjusts to new life as a father in both the spiritual and biological senses. We are very grateful to be a part of this parish community.

The gift of community truly is just that: a gift. May St. Paul’s continue to be such a vibrant and nurturing community to all those blessed children, young and old, who come through our doors needing that nurturing love and care.

Mary Hall came to discuss her experience in Campus Ministry. First, we need to be approved as a ministry presence on campus. Brainstorming involved success with food, concern to get student information for the Diocese, getting on Facebook, volunteering to serve Bum Stew Hobo Week.