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Dear St Clement’s family,

Thank you for the warm welcome on Sunday! It was such a pleasure to sing and pray, and to celebrate the Eucharist together. Welcoming Joshua into the household of God and celebrating a baptism on my first Sunday was the icing on the cake!

I am learning just how active our parish is---both around the building and in the community. Last week I met Larry, Joanne, Lynne, and a number of other volunteers who work diligently to maintain and upgrade the St Clement’s property and gardens. I was never short of a cup of coffee with generous offers from parishioners visiting the office throughout the week and a special breakfast with the Men’s Bible Study (‘ROMEOs’) at Cora’s on Friday morning.  

Yvonne came in specially on her day off to welcome me on my first day and to teach me how not to set off the alarm. Deacons Elizabeth and Peggy, and altar guild members Wilna and Kath, have been a constant source of wisdom, gentle instruction, and good humour. Lynley made the first week so joyful with his signature improvisation during Sunday’s service and his thoughtful planning of music. 

Some of you have been asking what I’m expecting from my first year at St Clement’s. There are a number of things, of course: to study and read scripture together; to support and pray for one another; to celebrate all that is good in our lives and in our neighbourhood. Chief among these priorities, though, is my desire to get to know the people of St Clement’s and Lynn Valley and to get to know the land. 

So here’s my invitation to you in this second week of being your priest: Let’s get to know each other and let’s get to know the land on which we live, work, and play. 

Maybe you have a spot where you love to picnic? Perhaps there’s a trail or pathway you walk every week? Do you have a favourite coffee shop or a group of people you get together with from the parish? I’d love to join you!

I will be phoning and emailing through the parish list in the coming days to reach out and connect with members. If you’d like to connect with me sooner rather than later, please don’t hesitate to call, text, or email. My contact information is listed below.

Warmly and with every good wish,

Helen+

Cel. 236-888-4938

Email. helen@stclementschurch.ca