Bishop Andrew’s Visitation – Bishop Andrew will be visiting the Parish this coming week.  On Wednesday, January 17, there will be a noon mass followed by a tea in the undercroft.  Later that day, at 7:00 p.m., an Evening Prayer service will be held followed by a reception, at which time Bishop Andrew will update us on the situation in his diocese.  Please plan to attend either or both of these events!


Epiphany II
 
As we approach the Second Sunday after Epiphany, we are called to reflect on the manifestations of God's glory and the revelation of His divine purpose for each of us. Our readings from Romans 12:6-16a and the beginning of St. Mark’s Gospel guide us in understanding the significance of this season and how it pertains to our lives as faithful Christians.
 
In his letter to the Romans, St. Paul speaks about the diversity of gifts bestowed upon us by God. Each of us has been given different gifts—whether it's prophecy, serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, or showing mercy. These gifts are meant to be used for the building up of the body of Christ, the Church, and this parish. Paul emphasizes the importance of using these gifts in harmony and love, contributing to the well-being of the community of believers.
 
In Saint Mark's Gospel, we witness the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. This act marks the beginning of Jesus' earthly ministry, and it's a moment of great significance—a divine revelation. As Jesus emerges from the waters, the heavens are opened, and the Spirit descends upon Him like a dove. Then a voice from heaven proclaims, "Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." This event signifies the unveiling of Jesus as the Son of God, the Messiah—the ultimate manifestation of God's glory and love for mankind.
 
The baptism of Jesus serves as a model for us. As He was empowered by the Holy Ghost for His ministry, we too are empowered by the Spirit through our unique gifts to serve God and others. Just as Jesus received affirmation from the Father, recognizing Him as the beloved Son, we are affirmed in our faith as beloved children of God, each uniquely gifted and called to serve His purpose.  During this time of year when many are reflecting on renewal, ask how you can utilize your God-given gifts to help our church further the Kingdom here on Earth.
 
During this Epiphany season, let us heed Paul's call to embrace our gifts, using them with sincerity, love, and dedication for the edification of the body of Christ. Let us also remember the revelation of Jesus as the Son of God and strive to reflect His love and grace in our lives, becoming a light that shines brightly for all to see.

Fr. Deacon Chris
 
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

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Services and Events

Sunday Services, 7:45 AM, 9:00 AM, & 11:15 AM (for online participation for the services go to: https://www.facebook.com/saintsofscotland/ )

Sunday School at 10:30 AM

Wednesday, January 17, Bishop Andrew’s Visitation: noon mass followed by a tea in the undercroft; 7:00 PM, an Evening Prayer service will be held followed by a reception, at which time Bishop Andrew will update us on the situation in his diocese.  Please plan to attend either or both of these events!

Monday, January 22, 2024 Vestry meeting, 7:30 PM, church undercroft, important for all vestry members to be in attendance

January 28, 10:00 AM Combined Service followed immediately by annual meeting of the parish.  If you may not be able to attend, please fill out a proxy or email your proxy to the Rector or the Senior Warden.

Each month parishioners provide food for the Christ House food bank and things needed for babies and infants to the local crisis pregnancy center. St. Andrew & St. Margaret parish has a long history of helping others in the community.  Please take a look at the lists below and, if you can, please provide some of the needed items.  You can also help by donating money  through the secure donation button in this e-letter by selecting Charity & Mercy in the drop down menu on the donation page. Your help is needed. Thank you.
 
Food Donations 
Please help this month with a food donation if you are able. Christ House is very thankful for the food we provide to them each month. Please also buy low sugar cereals (and not the kid's types that have lots of sugar).  Current needs include the following:
• canned meats (chicken, corned beef, spam)
• peanut butter
• jelly
• tuna
• canned vegetables (corn, green beans - (regular and low sodium)
• individual fruit cups (low sugar)
• canned fruit (low sugar)
• cereal (low sugar)
• pasta (regular and gluten-free)
• instant potatoes
• Macaroni & cheese kits
• Coffee, cooking oil, flour, sugar

List of Needs for MaRIH Center (crisis pregnancy center)
MaRIH Center with its all volunteer staff provides help to mothers-to-be and mothers in need.  If you can provide some of the items that are needed, please do so. (You can leave the donations where the food for the food bank is collected on the pew in the undercorft.)

Especially Needed
 In Bold and  * are a critical need.

Diapers (sizes newborn, 1, 2, 3, 4*, 5*, & 6*)
Lovies
Baby wipes*
Diaper rash ointment
Winter Clothing: 0-3 mo*, 3-6 mo*, 12-18 mo*, 2T*
Baby shampoo
Baby blankets*
Bibs
Formula: Simulac Advance Formula*
Formula: other but not recalled
Wash clothes
Hooded towels
Grocery gift cards*
 
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Our mailing address is:
St. Andrew & St. Margaret of Scotland
1607 Dewitt Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22301-1625