Words From The Warden
The past few weeks have been filled with meaningful events and activities at St. Luke’s. Following Sunday services, we hosted a series of presentations. Greg Sharkey shared valuable insights into various methods for making charitable donations, including the use of donor-directed accounts. In addition, Ginny Sharkey and Ashlin Caravana guided us through an exercise centered on gratitude, engaging both our hearts and minds. They each read excerpts from a beautiful poem, inspiring us to meditate on the things for which we are grateful.
Alongside Bill Wilken, Jean Schelhorn, and Tom Bancroft, I facilitated a discussion regarding our parish’s capital needs, focusing especially on the campaign to fund the replacement of the Parish House window. Bill offered a moving reflection, reminding us that it is now our turn to care for these historic buildings, just as previous generations did before us. These cherished structures require ongoing love and maintenance, a responsibility we all share. Our stewardship campaign began with a moving video about Esther and continued with heartfelt stories from Ashlin Caravana, Ginny Sharkey, Bruce Westall, Cherie Holland, and Sarah Leavell, each highlighting St. Luke’s positive impact on their lives. These stories brought both joy and reflection to our community.
If you have not yet returned your 2026 Stewardship Campaign pledge card or 2026 Capital Campaign pledge card, please do so at your earliest convenience. Contributions can be made online or, for those who prefer, by mailing them through the USPS, as I do.
On Sunday, the vestry hosted a Coffee Hour featuring hot chocolate and an Advent wreath-making event led by Celste Nichols and Sarah Leavell. By all accounts, it was an enjoyable and engaging activity for those who attended.
St. Luke’s was well represented at the Thanksgiving service on Sunday evening, November 23, hosted by the United Church of Granville. The event featured an ecumenical choir, prayers, and a homily delivered by various village ministers. In total, eleven parishioners from our congregation attended. After the service, attendees enjoyed a generous selection of pies, making for a delightful and festive conclusion to the evening.
The men of St. Luke’s have organized a sidewalk cleaning schedule to ensure snow is cleared from the steps throughout the winter months. Additionally, they are planning several future events, so please stay tuned for more information. If you missed out on purchasing a wreath from them, you missed a treat—the wreaths were truly beautiful!
Congratulations go to Michele Layman, Mary Lucas-Miller, Michelann Marlow, and the entire Turkey Trot committee for organizing another outstanding event. We also celebrate the contributions of St. Luke’s members who participated and assisted. Well done! On Sunday, Pastor Julia mentioned that her toes and fingers had finally warmed up after the event—an amusing testament to the day’s brisk weather.
With Black Friday and Cyber Monday behind us, the busyness of shopping and holiday gatherings is in full swing as we approach December 25. There are Christmas cards to address, notes to write, and before we know it, New Year’s Day will arrive. Amidst this flurry of activity, I ask for your help—let us slow down, sit quietly, and wait together. Taking time for stillness and reflection is often overlooked, but it is just as important as our busy and productive pursuits. I invite you to join Liz Weiser on Wednesday mornings for a time of
Peace,
Henry Zaborniak, Senior Warden