It is the time of year where we are squeezing the final bits of summer out while also preparing for fall. Many of us are taking a final vacation, and also making trips to the store to buy new backpacks and pencils. Soon the weather will get cooler, leaves will turn, and classes will resume. At St. Paul’s, we are busy preparing for book groups, Bible studies, scheduling meals that will be cooked, setting up classrooms, and organizing events that will bring us together as a community. It is an exciting time of the year!
This past Sunday in church we heard words from Jesus who invites us to “be ready!” This was the perfect message to reflect on as we head into another school year. The heart of Jesus’ words invites us to reflect on how we prepare. We spend a lot of time making sure we have the right supplies for our classes. But how do we make sure we are spiritually ready?
There are so many ways to do this! Maybe you will attend the Blessing of the Backpacks to make sure your school bag is blessed for the upcoming year. Maybe you will join a new small group this fall, or lend your voice to the choir or worship band. Perhaps you’ll join us in cooking a meal for those in need, attend a Theology Bootcamp class, or join a Supper Club.
However you choose to be part of it, fall at St. Paul’s is a season of connection, learning, and growing together in faith. We invite you to join us, bring a friend, and step into this new season ready for the good things God has in store for us.
Peace, 
The Rev. Laura Di Panfilo, Associate Rector
Blessing of the Backpacks- Sunday, August 17 at 9:45 am
We will be starting the new school year by blessing backpacks, knapsacks, satchels, cell phones, or whatever you would like to bring for a special blessing for the new school year. Students of all ages are welcome to participate!
All Parish Program Year Kick-Off Brunch– Sunday, September 7 9:45 AM in the Undercroft
Kids and families and parishioners of all ages, join us after the 8:45am worship service for our annual All-Parish Program Year Kick-Off Brunch. Breakfast sandwiches will be made by our Men’s Group.
At 10:15am, all kids and their families will be dismissed to their assigned Sunday School classrooms to meet their new teachers and classmates. Parents will then return to the Undercroft for a presentation about Sunday School. This is a terrific opportunity for everyone to get to know each other and celebrate the beginning of the academic year!
There will also be an Adult Education Fair during this time where you can learn about how to get involved in spiritual formation and community at St. Paul’s.
We are looking for a few volunteers to help clean up after the breakfast. If you can help, please text Karen Viggiano at (412) 445-3260.