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This Week At St. Mary's in April 20, 2026
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
Each year after the dust settles from Holy Week and Easter, the priests and bishops of the Diocese of New York gather together for a brief time of retreat. The venues have changed from year to year, and some were, shall we say, a little rough around the edges. Last year we settled on Cedar Lake Estates outside Port Jervis and liked it so much that we returned this year a second time. At its core is an old camp dating to 1929, but in recent years it has been thoroughly restored and upgraded to a beautiful spot for retreats like ours as well as swanky weddings.
It is always such a pleasure to be with my brother and sister priests of our diocese for more than a liturgy. I feel so blessed to labor amongst my fellow workers in the vineyard who are so intelligent, committed, and passionate about our shared vocation. We were joined by Linda Etim, who delivered our plenary workshop on crises of all kinds and how we as clergy can meet them from a scriptural and theological perspective. We also had free time to enjoy nature or participate in a variety of sports and excellent food!
The time with our bishop is always thoughtful, and the truth is spoken in love and safety. The theme that bubbled up in many of the small groups we were broken into was "rebuilding trust between clergy and their diocesan leadership." Bishop Heyd has gone a long way already in that direction, and we thanked him for that. The diocese has been completely restructured around serving our communities. I am eager to begin to work with our new Canon for the West of the Hudson, the Rev. Nicole Hanley. She is in the process of leave-taking at her parish and will start her new duties in June. She is eager to get to know Tuxedo and St. Mary's.
Our participation in the life of the broader church is vitally important, and I feel so blessed to represent you and this incredible community out there in the world.
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in March 27, 2026
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
A few weeks ago I mused upon the backstage workings at the Metropolitan Opera. I did so from the perspective of just how many hands it takes to make something beautiful happen. Once again, as I anticipate Holy Week, I think about how this is the most intense time of year when it comes to staging multiple "productions" in short succession. Unlike Christmas, the liturgies of holy week vary dramatically in look, form, music, theme, etc. Though different, they all form parts of a whole, a liturgical "Ring" cycle, if you will.
The Day of Resurrection is the destination, but getting there offers a more powerful and whole way to take in all the joy on that day. If you haven't experienced these liturgies, I highly recommend them to you. Picture it: we will move from the palm-strewn streets of old Jerusalem, to the judgment hall, to calvary, and to the tomb. Finally, when it looks like the darkness has prevailed, we are vividly reminded that it did not, and can not. Please join us on the pilgrim road to the cross.
Blessings,
Father Rick
Easter Flowers & Music
Two of the delights of Easter at St. Mary’s are the lovely Easter lilies and beautiful music that fill the church on Easter Sunday. If you would like to be part of this tradition and honor/remember someone special on this great festive day, please make a donation using the envelopes in church or online. You may also send a check to St. Mary’s (memo line Easter Flowers). Names of all those remembered/honored that are received in the office by Tuesday, March 31st, will appear in the Easter bulletins and the following Sunday as we enjoy the lilies for two weeks. |
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This Week At St. Mary's in March 19, 2026
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
There has been a great deal of buzz and some drama in the Anglican Communion since Dame Sarah Mullaly was designated as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, in a line stretching back to 597, with St. Augustine of Canterbury being the first office holder. Her official title is: The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Sarah Mullaly, Primate of All England and Metropolitan. While she has no direct authority in our province, the Archbishop of Canterbury is considered one of the "Instruments of Communion" which bind together the Anglican Communion. The other three are the Anglican Consultative Council, the Primates' Meeting (our Presiding Bishop is a member), and the Lambeth Conference, which periodically gathers all of the Anglican bishops from across the globe to Lambeth Palace to confer, converse, and otherwise hobnob.
Not surprisingly, in all this time, no woman has served in this capacity, and Archbishop Sarah's elevation from her previous post as Bishop of London was the cause of consternation among many in conservative parts of the Church, especially in Africa. Threats were made about a schism, but thankfully cooler heads have prevailed and this has been walked back.
Our own Bishop Matt attended a service of induction at St. Paul's Cathedral in London earlier in the year, and Bishop Shin will represent us at the enthronement at Canterbury Cathedral on the Feast of the Annunciation, Wednesday, March 25. On that day, I will offer the Holy Eucharist at 10am with special intention for Archbishop Mullaly, and later that evening at 6pm, we will host a watch party at the rectory. Please bring something to share--the theme is "All things British".
Blessings,
Father Rick |
Sunday School Position Open
The Sunday School Teacher is a paid, part-time role (4 hours per week) that reports to the Rector and is accountable for delivering engaging, age-appropriate, Bible-based lessons, fostering a safe and welcoming spiritual environment, managing the classroom, building relationships with children and parents, and supporting church activities, all while embodying Christian principles and ensuring Christian formation through teaching God's Word. Key duties include lesson planning, leading interactive activities (crafts, music, skits), maintaining discipline, managing childcare assistants, and communicating with parents.
Here is the link to the full position description. Please apply and/or send any questions to info@stmtux.org.
Easter Flowers & Music
Two of the delights of Easter at St. Mary’s are the lovely Easter lilies and beautiful music that fill the church on Easter Sunday. If you would like to be part of this tradition and honor/remember someone special on this great festive day, please make a donation using the envelopes in church or online. You may also send a check to St. Mary’s (memo line Easter Flowers). Names of all those remembered/honored that are received in the office by Tuesday, March 31st, will appear in the Easter bulletins and the following Sunday as we enjoy the lilies for two weeks.
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This Week At St. Mary's in March 12, 2026
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
I once saw a cross section diagram of the Metropolitan Opera House. As big as it looks from the audience, it is even more vast in the back of the house. There is a fascinating and mostly unseen world of people working together to make the magic happen for us, the audience. And while church is not an entertainment, there is certainly some degree of crossover in this regard. As you well know, we have an already robust schedule of "regularly scheduled" liturgies and events. Add to that occasional offerings, such as our book group, and things that just happen without warning and with urgency, like funerals.
This week we happen to have two funerals (non-parishioners) in close succession. Both include a full casket in the church, which is a first during my tenure at St. Mary's. We do our best to provide beautiful and meaningful services for families in these circumstances. But like the opera house, much more goes on behind the scenes to ensure that all goes to plan.
So much goes into a week like this. There are often many phone calls and emails answered by Aoife, and music carefully planned by Sheldon. The liturgy and readings of each service are also thoughtfully prepared. And many other volunteers take care of details and extend hospitality to our guests. This is not to mention the confidential pastoral care that also occurs. All this is to say that this has been a very full and emotionally taxing week, and I am so very grateful for each of you who are helping me to help others in their time of grief.
Blessings,
Father Rick
Easter Flowers & Music
Two of the delights of Easter at St. Mary’s are the lovely Easter lilies and beautiful music that fill the church on Easter Sunday. If you would like to be part of this tradition and honor/remember someone special on this great festive day, please make a donation using the envelopes in church or online. You may also send a check to St. Mary’s (memo line Easter Flowers). Names of all those remembered/honored that are received in the office by Tuesday, March 31st, will appear in the Easter bulletins and the following Sunday as we enjoy the lilies for two weeks. |
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This Week At St. Mary's in March 5, 2026
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
War has once again erupted in the perennially volatile Middle East. The locum of three of the world's major religions, it is always, as you well know, under pressure. When hostilities commenced, a group of Episcopalian pilgrims were stranded in Jerusalem. Thankfully, they have all made it home safely. But for the many who call this region home, disaster and uncertainty are their constant companions. Even fellow majority Muslim countries are not immune from potential attack by Iran.
Regardless of our individual feelings on the motives or methods of this aggression, how do we as Christians respond? The first thing we do is pray. We pray for an end to violence, for the breaking of the cycle of revenge, for the innocent, for the helpers, and for the dead. After that, we can act. Shouting down the black hole of social media does no one any good, but you can contact your elected officials to make your voice heard. Finally, we can give. I have personally made modest donations to the American Friends of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem (which encompasses the entire Middle East) and to the hospital of the Order of St. John, of which I am an active member. I encourage you, in your faithfulness and in this season of Lent, to do the same.
Blessings,
Father Rick
Sunday School Position Open
The Sunday School Teacher is a part-time role (4 hours per week) that reports to the Rector and is accountable for delivering engaging, age-appropriate, Bible-based lessons, fostering a safe and welcoming spiritual environment, managing the classroom, building relationships with children and parents, and supporting church activities, all while embodying Christian principles and ensuring Christian formation through teaching God's Word. Key duties include lesson planning, leading interactive activities (crafts, music, skits), maintaining discipline, managing childcare assistants, and communicating with parents.
Here is the link to the full position description. Please apply and/or send any questions to info@stmtux.org.
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This Week At St. Mary's in February 27, 2026
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
One of the things that drew me to the Episcopal Church was a sense of feeling part of something much bigger and more ancient than I ever had before. If you look just below the surface, you will find many diverse customs and traditions that come down to us through the ages and which do not receive much attention from the average person. One of these traditions is the observance of ember days, which, unless you have been a seminarian, you may never have heard of.
Ember Days are four sets of three days (Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday) in the Roman Catholic and Anglican Churches, traditionally observed with prayer, fasting, and abstinence to thank God for nature’s gifts and pray for vocations. They align with the changing seasons: spring (after Ash Wednesday), summer (after Pentecost), autumn (after Sept. 14), and winter (after Dec. 13). These are also times when traditionally seminarians write to their bishops to keep them informed of their studies and general progress. It is an old-fashioned custom, and I wonder how they do it now. My bishop expected a formally written letter in the mail and on time.
But turning back to thanking God for nature's gifts (and our part in them), I will remind you that our lenten book group has started up on Wednesday nights at 6pm at the rectory. We are reading "The Garden Against TIme — In search of a Common Paradise" by Olivia Laing. The author weaves a rich tapestry of her own experience in gardens with other theological, philosophical, and historical threads. Much more than just a book about gardening, it explores our place in creation and our longing for paradise in a rich and painterly way. I invite you to join us — it's not too late!
Blessings,
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in February 19, 2026
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
Though it lacks the fanfare of Easter or the tender warmth of Christmas, the liturgy for Ash Wednesday ranks among my favorites because it cuts right to the heart of our sinful nature and need for constant repentance and return to God's love. Dispensing with the usual overture to liturgical worship, Ash Wednesday gets right to prayer: Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made..." Nothing. No one. And God made everything. Does this mean that almighty God is incapable of hate? And if we are created in his image, why are we so expert at it?
Indeed, throughout centuries of war and strife, nations and peoples have trumpeted that "God is on our side!" They aren't wrong. Regardless of what either side is fighting and dying for, God's heart is breaking in the midst of it all, because God is Love.
We see all around us outright war, nation against nation, as well as domestic strife on a scale that I know I never thought I would see. It is easy to retreat into a place of perpetual outrage or to throw our hands up in resignation. But neither of those extremes are what the Church, the bride of Christ, is called to do, and Ash Wednesday puts that into sharp focus.
We, who have been sealed by the Holy Spirit and marked as Christ's own forever, know that our time is short. We know that we cannot "fix" the world or overcome sin; only God in the fullness of time can do this. But--we are not powerless. On Ash Wednesday, leaders across the Christian family have "confess[ed] before the rulers of this world the great Name of thine only Son." The Roman Catholic Cardinal of Newark led masses on Ash Wednesday inside ICE detention facilities there. A judge in Illinois ruled that detainees there must be allowed to receive the Blessed Sacrament, and our own Bishop, Matthew Heyd, led NYC clergy in surrounding One Federal Plaza in peaceful prayer.
As St. Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians: NOW is the time. NOW is the day of salvation. We are dust and unto dust we will return, but until then, beloved, it's up to us.
Father Rick
Administrator and Sunday School Positions Open
St. Mary's-in-Tuxedo is seeking to fill two open positions, Parish Administrator and Sunday School Teacher. We will consider candidates who are interested in filling one or both positions together.
The Sunday School Teacher is a part-time role (4 hours per week) that reports to the Rector and is accountable for delivering engaging, age-appropriate, Bible-based lessons, fostering a safe and welcoming spiritual environment, managing the classroom, building relationships with children and parents, and supporting church activities, all while embodying Christian principles and ensuring Christian formation through teaching God's Word. Key duties include lesson planning, leading interactive activities (crafts, music, skits), maintaining discipline, managing childcare assistants, and communicating with parents.
The Parish Administrator is a part-time role (14-16 hours per week) that reports to the Rector and provides general office support to the staff, committees, and congregation, in order to support the ministries and mission of St. Mary’s. This work includes, but is not limited to: data and records management, phone and email support, supplies and vendor management, communications work, managing use of church space by parish and outside groups, supporting church ministries and committees, and collaborating with volunteers. The Parish Administrator will be a resource person for both members and non-members, and a welcoming and responsive presence in our church’s office.
Here is the link to the position descriptions. Please apply and/or send any questions to info@stmtux.or
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This Week At St. Mary's in February 13, 2026
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
Lent is fast-approaching, and you will notice a number of changes in our common life of worship as a result. This season of fasting and penitence begins next Wednesday, February 18. We will have two services to mark Ash Wednesday at the usual 10am and additionally at 7pm. The later service will include music. On the first Sunday in Lent, we will begin the service by praying the Great Litany, which draws on ancient texts, but was first published in English in 1544. Indeed, it was the first English-language rite prepared by Archbishop Thomas Cranmer. Other changes will include the liturgical color, the reading of the decalogue (or the ten commandments), and the service music.
On Wednesday evenings beginning on February 25, please join us at the rectory at 6pm for a potluck dinner and discussion of the book, The Garden Against Time, In Search of a Common Paradise by Olivia Lang.
As the weather (hopefully) warms and we begin what is sure to be a big spring cleanup, Lent is similarly a time when we can do some inward and spiritual cleanup as we prepare ourselves for the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ on Easter Day.
Blessings,
Father Rick
Administrator and Sunday School Positions Open
St. Mary's-in-Tuxedo is seeking to fill two open positions, Parish Administrator and Sunday School Teacher. We will consider candidates who are interested in filling one or both positions together.
The Sunday School Teacher is a part-time role (4 hours per week) that reports to the Rector and is accountable for delivering engaging, age-appropriate, Bible-based lessons, fostering a safe and welcoming spiritual environment, managing the classroom, building relationships with children and parents, and supporting church activities, all while embodying Christian principles and ensuring Christian formation through teaching God's Word. Key duties include lesson planning, leading interactive activities (crafts, music, skits), maintaining discipline, managing childcare assistants, and communicating with parents.
The Parish Administrator is a part-time role (14-16 hours per week) that reports to the Rector and provides general office support to the staff, committees, and congregation, in order to support the ministries and mission of St. Mary’s. This work includes, but is not limited to: data and records management, phone and email support, supplies and vendor management, communications work, managing use of church space by parish and outside groups, supporting church ministries and committees, and collaborating with volunteers. The Parish Administrator will be a resource person for both members and non-members, and a welcoming and responsive presence in our church’s office.
Here is the link to the position descriptions. Please apply and/or send any questions to info@stmtux.org |
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From the Rector
Dear Friends,
What a winter it has been so far. We had a stunning Christmas season as usual, and the annual meeting went off without a hitch. Thanks to all who make it look effortless--which we all know it is not! I am looking forward to working with Jane as Senior Warden, and Scott as Churchwarden, as well as our new and continuing Vestry members as we seek to spread God's love and steward our historic church.
With all that has been accomplished so far, Pete and I are going to take a little break. We will be away next week visiting friends and family. We will fly to Atlanta, where we will spend time with our goddaughters, whom we haven't seen since they moved away from Philadelphia a few years ago. We will then drive to Charleston, SC, where parishioner Paula has so kindly offered us a room in her apartment. We are looking forward to exploring all that historic city has to offer.
Please welcome the Rev. Ronnie Stout-Kopp, who will be returning to St. Mary's to cover the services. Fr. Ed will be available for any pastoral needs that may arise in my absence. We will return on February 6th.
Blessings,
Father Rick |
Annual Meeting
Our Annual Parish Meeting was held on Sunday, January 18, at 11:30am, in person in Bentley Hall. The Vestry provided a sumptuous spread. At the meeting, we conducted the annual business of the parish and elected a Churchwarden (Scott Mullins) and Vestry members (Jock MacKinnon, Larry Bull, Rob Person, and Agnes Turner). We also reviewed the progress of our parish over the past year and goals for the future. Special recognition was given to outgoing Senior Warden, Lili Neuhauser. Here is the link to watch the meeting and review the budget and committee reports. |
Administrator and Sunday School Positions Open
St. Mary's-in-Tuxedo is seeking to fill two open positions, Parish Administrator and Sunday School Teacher. We will consider candidates who are interested in filling one or both positions together.
The Sunday School Teacher is a part-time role (4 hours per week) that reports to the Rector and is accountable for delivering engaging, age-appropriate, Bible-based lessons, fostering a safe and welcoming spiritual environment, managing the classroom, building relationships with children and parents, and supporting church activities, all while embodying Christian principles and ensuring Christian formation through teaching God's Word. Key duties include lesson planning, leading interactive activities (crafts, music, skits), maintaining discipline, managing childcare assistants, and communicating with parents.
The Parish Administrator is a part-time role (14-16 hours per week) that reports to the Rector and provides general office support to the staff, committees, and congregation, in order to support the ministries and mission of St. Mary’s. This work includes, but is not limited to: data and records management, phone and email support, supplies and vendor management, communications work, managing use of church space by parish and outside groups, supporting church ministries and committees, and collaborating with volunteers. The Parish Administrator will be a resource person for both members and non-members, and a welcoming and responsive presence in our church’s office.
Here is the link to the position descriptions. Please apply and/or send any questions to info@stmtux.org. |
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This Week At St. Mary's in January 23, 2026
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
By all reports, "snowmageddon" 2026 is on its way and naturally will begin in the wee hours of Sunday morning. We are well-stocked, and our generator was just serviced last week. I hope you are prepared as well. Please reach out if there is anything you need.
Having survived the Blizzard of '78, I am not terribly concerned. I also have a zero snow days record to keep. Once in New York, a heavy snow fell on a Saturday night. The next day, I donned my heavy cloak and parson's hat and ventured out. It was beautiful and practically deserted. A passerby asked to take my picture in the middle of Fifth Avenue with the Flatiron in the background. It was an era before you could just share a picture, so unfortunately I don't have a copy.
We've been through this before, so you know the drill. Above all, play it safe. The 10am Sunday service will take place in person, but also know that it will be live-streamed here, so you won't have to miss out on Sunday worship if you decide to stay home. Bundle up!
Blessings,
Father Rick |
Annual Meeting
Our Annual Parish Meeting was held last Sunday, January 18, at 11:30am, in person in Bentley Hall. The Vestry provided a sumptuous spread. At the meeting, we conducted the annual business of the parish and elected a Warden (Scott Mullins) and Vestry members (Jock MacKinnon, Larry Bull, Rob Person, and Agnes Turner). We also reviewed the progress of our parish over the past year and goals for the future. Special recognition was given to outgoing Senior Warden, Lili Neuhauser. Here are links to watch the meeting and review the budgets and committee reports. |
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This Week At St. Mary's in January 14, 2026
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
This coming Sunday, January 18, please make every effort to be in church and afterward attend our annual meeting in Bentley Hall. Once again, members of the vestry will be providing a sumptuous brunch for one and all.
At the meeting, we will be presented with the budget that the vestry has adopted for 2026, as well as with reports from various committees, the music department, and the rector. And, very importantly we will elect one churchwarden and three vestry members. We have some very talented newcomers and returnees on the slate.
We will also say a proper thank you to those whose terms have reached their limits or who will not be seeking reelection. Outgoing vestry members include: Calvin DeMond, who has served previously, was on the search committee, and currently heads up our live streaming, and Inger Grüterich, who has also very ably headed up our Stewardship committee. Senior Warden Lili Neuhauser has reached her term limit at three consecutive terms, and before that, she served as a vestry member as well as a member of the search committee that called me to St. Mary's. Needless to say, we have made quite a few memories and have a lot to celebrate. I am deeply grateful to all, and will have more to say on Sunday. See you in church!
Blessings,
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in January 8, 2026
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
On January 10, the Episcopal Church will observe the feast of St. Aelred of Rievaulx. In 1134, Aelred became a monk at Rievaulx Abbey, a Cistercian monastery in what is now North Yorkshire. A talented author, theologian, preacher, and diplomat, Aelred rose to become abbot of Rievaulx from 1147 until his death in 1167.
As well as being an inspirational monastic leader, Aelred was also a prolific author. His writings include saints’ lives, histories, guides to monastic life and theological works. He is best known for his book On Spiritual Friendship, which presents an ideal of friendship that people still find inspirational to this day.
"No medicine is more valuable, none more efficacious, none better suited to the cure of all our temporal ills than a friend to whom we may turn for consolation in time of trouble, and with whom we may share our happiness in time of joy." — On Spiritual Friendship
Of all of the saint's accomplishments, it is fascinating that his treatise on human friendship is what survives best in the modern imagination. This is probably because of the human condition and the timeless need we all have for such relationships. I think it is also poignant in our community particularly, as I have witnessed countless examples of the love and deep care that friends have for each other here. We are truly blessed in this way.
This feast is also a special day for a friend of St. Mary's, Mother Megan Sanders. It will mark her 18th anniversary of ordination. May our friendships point the way to the divine love of God.
Blessings,
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in December 31, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
Happy new year, one and all! In his annual message (which you can read here) our Bishop wrote, "We are formed by communities in which beauty, wisdom, and transcendence accompany care, mercy, and joy." When I read that this morning, it made me proud and thankful that I get to be the Rector of just such a place. We all know what a special place St. Mary's holds in our lives and those of our families and community.
I would like to thank you for your great generosity in sharing your precious time, incredible talents, and treasure so that we don't just survive, but thrive. Despite what the world tells us, we are, little by little, a growing church. Despite the fact that many were traveling this Christmas, I nevertheless looked around and saw quite a number of new faces at the various services.
We accomplished a great deal in 2025, with more on the horizon, and I look forward to doing so with you. May God continue to prosper and bless you now and throughout the year.
Father Rick
Adent & Christmas @ St. Mary's 2025
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This Week At St. Mary's in December 11, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
God spoke through the prophet Isaiah and said, “My house will be called a house of prayer for all the peoples.” In this same spirit, the people of St. Mary’s seek to open our doors and hearts to all. We see our church as part of the bedrock of our community, and therefore believe it is a vital part of our mission to have a positive impact on all people of good will.
Continuing our multi-year restoration campaign, 2025 was marked by some major capital projects at St. Mary’s. The care, maintenance, and restoration of our historic buildings for the benefit of the entire community is a top priority, but one which also comes at a high cost. Some of our accomplishments this year include: An entirely new fire alarm system, security cameras at all points of entry, smart thermostats, and new LED lighting in the nave which provides the same warm look but requires 90% less energy to operate. We also continued with the ongoing stonework, reinstalled the Pentecost window in the chapel, upgraded our live streaming audio, and replaced costly copper downspouts. At the rectory, we replaced nine missing storm windows and one damaged casement window, and did a gut renovation of the master bath and laundry, utilizing a lot of sweat equity as well as the recycling of architectural elements from one of the grand homes of the Park. In 2026, we anticipate many more important projects, including the full restoration of the church’s iconic steeple.
It is with a spirit of hopefulness that we approach our annual appeal, knowing that the work of St. Mary’s is possible only because of your generosity. As the year draws to a close, I ask you to consider your end of year financial gift to St. Mary’s. Your donation is tax-deductible, and retirement funds are a great way to give tax-free–just ask your financial advisor. Please send a check to the church or give online.
In gratitude for your commitment to the good work of St. Mary’s, I am,
Faithfully Yours,
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in December 4, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
Advent is widely known as a season of waiting. I, myself, did not grow up in a tradition that observed the season, so I never even heard of it, not even the kitschy countdown calendars, until I was an adult. Perhaps now, with more targeted marketing, more children are eager to get their hands on a piece of chocolate every day for a month--I know I would have been! Not to fear, though, my grandmother's kitchen during the holiday season would have made the Keebler elves blush.
While there is certainly an aspect of anticipation to this season, there is also a proactive angle as well. We have only to look at the collects for the four weeks to see the theme taking shape. In essence, our instructions are: to forsake darkness and embrace the light; to heed the warnings of the prophets and forsake sin; to recognize our sinfulness and dependence on God's abundant grace; and to be purified so that our souls may at last be dwelling places of God.
In this time of growing darkness, it is important for us to take seriously and prayerfully the promise of the coming of Christ. While the revels begin and our earthly homes are decked with holly, let us also remember to ready our souls to receive the newborn king.
Blessings,
Father Rick |
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Angel Tree Gifts
Each Christmas, St. Mary’s provides a decorative bag containing gift cards, Shoprite $100 per family and Amazon $50 per child, with Winter clothing accessories donated by the students and families of Tuxedo Park School. The recipient families are all local low-income families in need of help to enjoy the festivities of the Christmas Season. If you would like to help by donating to the cost of the gift cards you may send your check to St. Mary’s at PO Box 637, Tuxedo Park, NY (memo Angel Tree) or donate online using the button below. We will recognize each donor with a special ornament on our Angel Tree. Thank you!
Sue Heywood, Outreach Chair
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo November 21, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
"All is safely gathered in, 'ere the winter storms begin." Hymn 290
We think (and sing, and pray) a lot about gathering in the harvest, sharing with others, and being thankful this time of year. While it is fitting to do so at the crowning of the year, we know that gratitude is a way of life for us as Christians. Indeed, every Sunday you will see a heading in the bulletin--The Great Thanksgiving. We do it year 'round.
But at this special time, we will emphasize and bless our shared commitment to this way of life by ingathering the financial pledges for 2026 during our "Harvest Thanksgiving" service this coming Sunday.
I am grateful for all of the time, talents, and treasure that you share with St. Mary's and our beloved community throughout the year. It is you who make this church a shining beacon of praise and thanksgiving. So, I encourage you to join us on Sunday as we bless the incoming pledges and set our faces toward the new year. If you can't make it, don't worry. You can always drop your pledge at the office or make a pledge online for 2026.
May God bless you in your generosity.
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo November 14, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
It is with sadness that I write to inform you of the death of former Tuxedo Park resident Uli Pendl. The funeral will take place at 11am tomorrow, Saturday, November 15th, here at St. Mary’s, with Father Cromey officiating.
Father Rick
Ulrich “Uli” Pendl
Ulrich Georg Pendl, age 90, a banker who spent much of his life in New York City and Tuxedo Park, died in New York on November 3, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was 90. Mr. Pendl was born on April 2, 1935, in Troppau, Czechoslovakia. He attended Schule Schloss Salem in Germany and later studied economics at the University of Munich.
He is survived by his wife, Maryvan Cruger Pendl; his sons, Philipp and Gregory; and his grandson, Benjamin. He is also survived by his brother, Martin Pendl; his sister, Angelika Pendl West, and her family; Dr. Peter and Mady Palese; and other family.
A funeral service will be held on November 15, 2025, at 11 am at Saint Mary's-in-Tuxedo, with a reception to follow at the Tuxedo Club. |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo October 24, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Friends,
Autumn is always an exciting time in Tuxedo, and in just over two weeks St. Mary’s will host our annual fundraiser—this year a dinner and auction at the Tuxedo Club. This year, Lili has curated some incredible auction items, and it is always a glamorous and fun night for a great cause. We love our church where all are welcome to come and experience the beauty of holiness, and it is our job to make sure that legacy continues long into the future. This year we are focusing in on some capital restoration projects that are in need of attention.
Many thanks to everyone who has contributed over the years. Thanks to you, we have successfully completed a multi-year, full restoration of the southwest stone façade of the church, including all new bluestone treads and railings on the grand main staircase.
Don’t wait to get your tickets, as we anticipate a sold-out event! You can get individual tickets or even captain a table for eight to ten. And if you cannot come, please consider donating tickets back to us so we can share them with deserving folks. May God bless you in your generosity and love of His church.
Father Rick
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo October 15, 2025
From the Stewardship Chair
Dear Friends,
Our Stewardship campaign is a chance to reflect on the many ways that we are connected to each other. Our theme this year focuses on the stories we tell and the ways we are called to share our words, our actions, our love, and our joy with the world. This year, with all that has been going on in the news, in our homes, schools and offices, and ever-shifting economic forecasts, the one constant has been the connections we have formed here in our church.
Our stories bring us together. Each of us has a story to tell, a reason why we found this congregation and continue to participate. Each of us has dreams, ambitions, and great ideas, just as each of us has hardships and moments of difficulty. One of the joys of our Good News is that we can bring our whole selves and our story, to this place, to these people and receive the support, encouragement and praise that we need.
We will be hearing so many stories in our campaign this year. Each of them focuses on the inspiration they receive from God and how their soul transforms those inspirations into art, music and words. This same process happens in you as you seek ways to share your gifts from the inspiration and blessing you have been given.
With this letter, I am sending campaign material for you and for the spread of the word of St. Mary’s. Each hour spent volunteering, each good idea that you have, each dollar that you donate is transformed through prayer and Grace into ministry and mission. We could not be an example of love and compassion in our community without your many and various gifts. Please return your pledge cards by Harvest Thanksgiving Sunday, November 23rd, so that we may include them in our ingathering and bless them.
Tell out my soul! The Greatness of the Lord!
Spyros Konitsiotis
Stewardship Chair |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo October 10, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Fellow Parishioners,
Greetings from London, where Pete and I have finished up the first day of the NY-London Link pilgrimage. The London Link pairs parishes in the dioceses of London and New York, and we are excited to be meeting the clergy and people of St. Giles-in-the-Fields this coming Sunday for worship and fellowship.
Today started off with a history lesson, brief prayer service, and tour of the King’s Chapel Royal at Savoy, which, as we learned, predates the famous hotel by about 700 years. The chapel is also home to the Royal Victorian Order. It also has a close link with New York, as its silver was sent to our cathedral for safekeeping during WWII, which is commemorated in one of the “new” windows that replaced seven which were destroyed by a bomb during the war.
After that, we took a 20 minute walk to St. Paul’s Cathedral, where we were greeted by one of the canons who gave an in-depth tour for about an hour before heading next door to the old deanery, present-day home of the Lord Bishop of London. We were shown upstairs, where we were warmly greeted by the Right Honourable and Right Reverend Sarah Mullally, Archbishop of Canterbury-designate. She took a moment to speak with each of us, and could not have been more genuine and down-to-earth.
We were then treated to a delicious luncheon, and my table mate was the Right Reverend Lusa Nsenga-Ngoy, Bishop of Willesden. There are currently six bishops serving the Diocese of London, with one vacancy. After lunch, Bishop Nsenga-Ngoy gave a presentation in which he explored striking a balance between nostalgia (often for a past that we ourselves do not remember) and complete amnesia. He also explored in a theological way how time is perceived by different cultures, and how that can inform how we approach ministry. It was a rich presentation that I will be digesting for some time to come.
Pictures from today and throughout the pilgrimage will be on St. Mary’s Facebook page shortly. Cheerio for now.
Father Rick |
Sunday School Has Resumed |
The formation of children is a critical part of our mission. Service in church helps them learn about responsibility, charity, and self-sacrifice. Children are welcome to participate in our programs and/or attend church services with their parents. Under age 5, there is a a fun childcare program. Children ages 5 to 12 are welcome to attend Sunday School. Those 10 and older are encouraged to participate in the service as acolytes or readers. Please speak with Father Rick or call the church office at 845.351.5122 for more information. |
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Outreach Appeal
The Episcopal Charities grants that we applied for in April on behalf of the Food Pantry and Helping Hands (homeless support) were turned down due to insufficient funds for the number of applications they received; however there was much praise for the work and acknowledgement of the need.
Therefore these two fine organizations need to do more fundraising on their own — see flyers below for two upcoming events — we would be grateful for your support.
The Outreach Committee is also looking to sponsor the Food Pantry event at the Plentiful Sponsor level of $2,500. We are hoping to raise $1,500 from your donations and $1,000 will come directly from Outreach funds. Please drop a check by the church or donate online; indicate Food Pantry or Helping Hands in the memo line.
Sue Heywood, Outreach Chair
Pete Datos, Food Pantry board member |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo October 3, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Fellow Parishioners,
As we sit in the New Orleans airport awaiting our delayed departure—thanks, Newark—I have a few moments to put together some thoughts about this week. New Orleans is famous for its ghost tours roaming around the French Quarter, iconic cemeteries, and just about everywhere else. Indeed, the dean of the cathedral warned us about a particular spot near the chapel that is especially paranormally active.
This trip was a “ghost tour” of sorts for me. With only a handful of friends left living in New Orleans, this visit was more about memories than reconnecting with people. We came down a couple days early for some personal time, and wandered around the old haunts, conjuring memories of people and places past.
This nostalgia inspired both my preaching and teaching at the conference. While at the cathedral, I really felt surrounded by the “great cloud of witnesses” and focused my words on the theme of mentorship. We all stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before us, and I think that priests feel this especially.
I had time to really think and write about the priests who helped form me, from my earliest days as an acolyte to the present, and to feel grateful for them. A friend pointed out that we take the best of those people and integrate them into our own beings. What a wonderful way to think of sanctity and to celebrate and continue the legacies of our mentors, especially those who have gone on to their reward.
I learned only last night that a lay mentor who had a huge impact on my early formation in the Episcopal Church had recently died. While not a complete surprise, it nevertheless came as a shock. Among many other things, he taught me how to be a thurifer, something I relished. Just a few days ago, while preparing to serve once again in that capacity, I found the very thurible he had donated to the cathedral tangled and covered in dust on the bottom shelf of a cupboard. I took it out, untangled the chains, and cleaned it off for its first swings of incense in a very long time. I could almost feel him with me.
The next time you attend a service, imagine the solitary priest you see not just as an island unto himself, but as enfolded by the many souls that have nurtured and continue to shape his own.
In the words of the divine praises: Blessed be God in his angels and in his saints.
Father Rick |
Sunday School Has Resumed |
The formation of children is a critical part of our mission. Service in church helps them learn about responsibility, charity, and self-sacrifice. Children are welcome to participate in our programs and/or attend church services with their parents. Under age 5, there is a a fun childcare program. Children ages 5 to 12 are welcome to attend Sunday School. Those 10 and older are encouraged to participate in the service as acolytes or readers. Please speak with Father Rick or call the church office at 845.351.5122 for more information.
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Outreach Appeal
The Episcopal Charities grants that we applied for in April on behalf of the Food Pantry and Helping Hands (homeless support) were turned down due to insufficient funds for the number of applications they received; however there was much praise for the work and acknowledgement of the need.
Therefore these two fine organizations need to do more fundraising on their own — see flyers below for two upcoming events — we would be grateful for your support.
The Outreach Committee is also looking to sponsor the Food Pantry event at the Plentiful Sponsor level of $2,500. We are hoping to raise $1,500 from your donations and $1,000 will come directly from Outreach funds. Please drop a check by the church or donate online; indicate Food Pantry or Helping Hands in the memo line.
Sue Heywood, Outreach Chair
Pete Datos, Food Pantry board member |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo September 26, 2025
From the Senior Warden
Dear Fellow Parishioners,
I am inspired, inspired by all of you! When I see all the good works that are generated by you our congregants and the greater community, it is truly inspiring. Through our worship, the sermons we hear about love and service, and the many creative ideas that you all bring to our outreach, pastoral care, and fellowship, we are a vibrant, thriving community.
It has been especially important to me this year as there is so much angst and dread in the world around us, that we have a church full of generous, loving, creative people who find new ways to seek and serve Christ in all people. We are making a difference in our community, we are changing the world.
Our annual campaign this year asks us to share two big things with our congregation. Firstly, we are asked to share our gifts. Those ideas and talents and passions that God has planted inside you are grown in your generous heart to be shared with the world. Secondly, you are asked to share your story with us and with the world around you. That is how we grow God’s kingdom and cast the net wider.
Soon you will receive a letter from the Stewardship Chair with the materials you need to consider your pledge or promise to share your time, talent, and treasure with us. In these coming days, I invite you to pray, to listen, and to continue sharing yourself with our community in the many ways that you do.
Tell out my soul! The Greatness of the Lord!
Lili Neuhauser |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo September 18, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
As Christians we are story tellers. We have an ancient narrative, one that describes the beginning of time and the relationship between God and God’s Creation. We see this story grow through the prophetic tradition until our story recounts the life and gifts of the Son of God. But the story doesn’t end with the Resurrection just as it did not end with the Cross, it continues on in each of us today as we encounter and are transformed by the Good News.
Luke’s Gospel is bookended by the animated story-telling of two women named Mary. Early in the Gospel, Mary the mother of Jesus, tells us of her encounter with the Divine who informs her that she will bear a child who will change the world. She proclaims her joy: “Tell out my soul! The Greatness of the Lord!” At the end of the Gospel, another Mary, Mary Magdalene, visits the tomb to discover it empty and receives instructions from the Risen Christ to go tell the others. She carries this Good News with jubilance to the Disciples.
What is your Good News; the idea, dream, challenge placed in your heart by God, that needs to be shared? What is the ministry to which you are called which will change the world, sharing your talents, gifts, and love with your neighbors?
Our Stewardship Campaign this year focuses on these stories – the ones inside you, the ones you are still writing, the ones we tell about those who have gone before us. We are all a part of this ongoing narrative – the ongoing Creation. As you pray about how you will share your gifts with us this year, think about how God is calling you to tell out your soul, to spread the Good News far and wide. Hear the stories that we share weekly throughout the campaign that relate the creative spark in us with the ways in which we are called to serve God and love our neighbor.
Tell out my soul! The Greatness of the Lord!
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo September 12, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
A number of people have remarked how quickly this summer seems to have gone by. I hope that everyone had a chance to get out and enjoy life and return refreshed and ready for another program year.
Please join us this Sunday, September 14, as we get things started for another year. Our wonderful Schola will be back in full force to lead us in the musical praises of God, and our Sunday school will officially begin as well.
As you may know, with the departure of Jennifer, Sunday school is in a time of transition. I am deeply committed to this vital ministry to our youngest members, and want to see it continue to grow and thrive. In the near future, I will be relying on parents to help with the coordination and planning. We still have our young teachers on hand to administer the lessons and do the crafts.
Looking forward further, we will be developing a job description for the position of Children and Youth Minister for St. Mary's. This person does not need to be ordained, but must be passionate about teaching religion and values, along with the traditions of the Church, to the children. They are growing up fast, and soon we will also need to tailor our program to youth, which is exciting indeed.
Please pray for us as we continue to discern the future of the ministry to children and youth at St. Mary's.
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Sunday School Resumes this Sunday |
The formation of children is a critical part of our mission. Service in church helps them learn about responsibility, charity, and self-sacrifice. Children are welcome to participate in our programs and/or attend church services with their parents. Under age 5, there is a a fun childcare program. Children ages 5 to 12 are welcome to attend Sunday School. Those 10 and older are encouraged to participate in the service as acolytes or readers. Please speak with Father Rick or call the church office at 845.351.5122 for more information
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo August 22, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
In many ways, yesterday was just another Thursday at St. Mary's. Contractors chiseled and sawed away on our endless stonework restoration, the finishing touches were put on a new state-of-the-art fire alarm system, arborists cut down four massive dead oak trees at the rectory, and we were visited by a number of church office "regulars." Sunday bulletins were dutifully printed, phones and emails were answered. Just a usual day, except that it was also Jennifer's last day in the office as my assistant. We even acted like it was just a usual day: getting things done, laughing, scheming, until one o'clock when we said our emotional farewells. On behalf of everyone at St. Mary's, I would like to say one more big thank you to Jennifer for all that she has added to our common life in the last two years, and best of luck in the future (click here for photos of last Sunday’s thank you to Jennifer).
On a completely unrelated, yet important note, it seems that someone mistakenly picked up the rector's prescription glasses at coffee hour last Sunday. They were last seen on the corner table in Bentley Hall. If you have them or know of their whereabouts, I would greatly appreciate their return, as I have difficulty reading print without them. They are Warby Parkers with a frame that has brown on top and blue under the lenses.
Blessings,
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo August 14, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
Almost two years ago, I was at my wit's end trying to find someone to fill the position of administrative assistant in the church office. It had to be someone local, who understands this community, as well as someone adept at office work. There was very little interest until Aoife suggested to Jennifer that she apply, since she had so enjoyed the job and the hours were perfect for someone with children in school. Happily, Jennifer did apply, and the rest is history.
I have really enjoyed working with Jennifer over these last few years. She has been a very helpful and affable companion in the unique work atmosphere of a church office. She always rises to the occasion and has helped me navigate my way through more than one difficult situation. Jennifer also possesses a quality that I prize, a can-do attitude. If she was unfamiliar with something I requested, she'd sure enough figure it out. The odyssey of switching over from diocesan payroll to our own provider was probably the foremost example.
When we were searching for a leader for the Sunday School program, Jennifer volunteered to take it on. She did marvelous things preparing lessons and crafts that successfully drove Christian formation for our youngest members, and the program is now thriving.
I will certainly miss Jennifer and especially our long commiserations about being part of "Gen X" and how different things are for her children today. Our biggest complaint was about the feckless pronouncement of snow days when the slightest flakes were in the air. We shared many laughs, and even a few tears. I'm certain that the dogs will wonder where she went, especially Emmy, who was always at Jennifer's feet under the desk. I am truly blessed for the time we had to do God's work together and pray for his blessing on Jennifer and her family as they begin a new chapter in South Carolina.
A special coffee hour in her honor will be held this Sunday, August 17th, after church and her last day in the office will be August 21st.
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo August 6, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
Last Thursday the priests of our deanery met for lunch with Bishop Matt Heyd at a restaurant in downtown Chester. This lunch had been planned for a while, and we were all prepared to discuss mission priorities, especially the proposed new system for calculating each parish's "Common Mission Share" aka the assessment to the diocese. We did those things, and even shared a few laughs, but something else broke into our fellowship.
The bishop apologized because his phone was ringing, and he was having to excuse himself from our conversation frequently. He explained that this was because the daughter of a priest of our diocese had been detained by federal agents. We were shocked.
Yeonsoo "Soo" Go, the daughter of the Rev. Kyrie Kim, was detained outside Federal Plaza in Manhattan after attending a routine hearing. Go is in the US legally on a visa that is extended to family members of religious workers. She has been here since 2021, graduating with honors from Scarsdale High School and currently attending Purdue University in Indiana. She was attempting to convert her visa, which is set to expire at the end of December, to a student visa in order to complete her studies. She was flown to a Louisiana prison, where more than one thousand like her are being held. Thanks to the swift action of our bishop and other faith and government leaders, as well as national media attention, Go was released after five days and reunited with her mother.
At least two other local Episcopalians, one a member of St. Bartholomew's, White Plains, and the other a member of St. Mary the Virgin, Times Square, are also in ICE custody. In this case, both are asylum seekers. Efforts are underway to secure their release as well.
Our Bishop has spoken clearly: "the illegality and cruelty of weaponizing our immigration courts and upending due process are evil. We’ve participated in lawsuits around faith institutions serving as sanctuary. Courts were sanctuary, too — until this year. We will continue to speak and advocate as well as be present for those who are in danger."
The clergy of this diocese are very well attuned to the frightening situation that many of our people are in. We are working closely with diocesan officials and other faith and community partners to "...strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being." (BCP 305)
Blessings,
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo July 31, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
In some ways, the summer is a season of slowing down and enjoying leisure time. In others, the whirl of life goes on unabated. Many of you know what it is like to maintain an older home, so you won't be surprised to learn that the upkeep, maintenance, and restoration of the church property is a year-round enterprise.
I am happy to report that a journey that started five years ago has come to a successful completion. The restoration of the many steps leading to the entrances of the church and office is finished, and the railings have been reinstalled. Naturally, in the process, we have discovered a number of other pressing needs, mostly involving the infiltration of water during storms. We are investigating that and looking for a solution as quickly as possible.
The intrepid Hristos has just installed nine new storm windows on the rectory, a process that began back in December! Our energy efficiency should improve significantly. And the reduction of noise from Route 17, the railroad, and the Thruway is greatly diminished, for which Pete and I are very grateful.
Also in the rectory, work continues on the gut renovation of the master bathroom. It was last renovated by Mrs. Cromey in the 1990s and was not functional for current and future needs. I performed all of the demolition by myself, which was very satisfying. Mrs. Chin has lent us her carpenter, who is doing an amazing job. She has also very generously donated enough historic, salvaged tile from the Hoffman castle to do the whole project. We are really looking forward to the completion of the project.
In the church complex, PN Alarm will begin installing a brand new fire detection system in August. The current system was installed over thirty years ago, and is in real need of replacement. As with everything else, the technology has evolved significantly over the years, and the new system will be far more serviceable. We will receive a grant of $10,000 from the diocese towards this project.
As you can see, the excitement never ends with historic buildings. There is, of course, much more on the horizon, but I'll leave it here for now. Happy summer!
Blessings,
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo July 10, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
I recently saw a quote from Bishop Mariann Budde on social media. The bishop asks, "What is the faithful task that is before us today?" We know that being disciples of Jesus is a lifelong vocation, not just something nice to do on Sunday mornings. Each day we step out into the world, and no matter how mundane our "to do" list is for the day, there is always something faithful to be done--a helping hand extended, a promise kept, and showing up are just some examples.
I would like to invite you to think about being faithful in the long term and how your witness can go on after you leave this earth. Please join me in welcoming James Murphy, Director of Major Gifts and Planned Giving for Episcopal Relief and Development, as he talks to us about "Making a Planned Gift". Planned or legacy giving is an important aspect of your personal stewardship and can take many different forms such as a bequest in a will, a Trust, life insurance beneficiary, a charitable gift annuity, and many other opportunities.
Jim will be with us on Sunday, September 7 after the service in Bentley Hall. I hope to see you there.
Blessings,
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo June 26, 2025
From the Rector
At yesterday's weekday service, we observed the Nativity of St. John the Baptist (transferred from June 24). St. John is a critical part of the story of salvation for us Christians. Even from the womb, he praises God. We know this from the story of the Annunciation, when Mary goes to visit her cousin, Elizabeth who says, "As soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy." (Luke 1:44)
When he was grown, John went into the wilderness, filled with the grace of God. People came from all over to hear his message of repentance and the forgiveness of sins. Many were also baptized by him, most notably Jesus himself. Throughout his ministry, people asked whether John was the messiah, a question he always flatly denied.
John was the prophet foretold by Isaiah who was the voice crying out in the wilderness to prepare the way of the Lord; lift every valley, bring the hills low and make straight a highway for our God. Like St. Mary, St. John the Baptist is important in his own right, but at the same time always points us toward Jesus. In John's case, his witness points us to Jesus' ministry of renewal of life, repentance, and reconciliation, whether willing or forced, that formed the bedrock of a faith and of a nation. And I thought about the final triumph of freedom, however imperfect, that we in our time are called to enhance, expand, and defend, remembering at what cost it came.
Blessings,
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo June 19, 2025
From the Rector
Today marks two unique observances, one religious and one more historical in nature. They don't always coincide, but this year June 19th marks the feast of Corpus Christi across the Church catholic, as well as the celebration of Juneteenth here in the United States.
Corpus Christi is the feast of the Body of Christ. It is observed in some Anglican churches, though a proper collect and set of readings are not prescribed in the Book of Common Prayer. However, one can make it work by using "Various Occasions 5: Of the Holy Eucharist," but that's getting into the liturgical weeds. In other, more uniformly Catholic countries, it is a national celebration of great solemnity and pageantry. In 2015, Pete and I had the opportunity to experience the feast in all its glory in the cities of southern Spain. The faithful set up devotional altars around the churches, and homes and businesses compete to see who can put up the grandest displays. And the parades are nothing short of other-worldly. It was truly awe-inspiring to witness a people's outward and intense devotion to our Lord.
Juneteenth, on the other hand, is specific to our country, and has been celebrated since 1866. Its name is a reference to June 19, 1865, the day of the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation and the end of chattel slavery in the United States. Sadly, it got little recognition outside of the Black community until recent times. Since 2021, it has been observed as a national holiday here, as well as a regional holiday in parts of northern Mexico.
As I thought about the convergence of these seemingly disparate observances, I wondered how one might inform the other. My first thought was of bodies--a body given, bodies taken. I thought of sacrifice, whether willing or forced, that formed the bedrock of a faith and of a nation. And I thought about the final triumph of freedom, however imperfect, that we in our time are called to enhance, expand, and defend, remembering at what cost it came.
Blessings,
Father Rick |
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Family Movie Night on The Great Lawn June 20: Return to Oz - 9pm
Click here to view larger
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St. Mary's Outreach: Tuxedo Town Summer Day Camp July 6 To August 12, 2025
Dear Friends,
In 2024, [as in previous years] St Mary's sponsored 21 children for the Town of Tuxedo Summer Day Camp at a cost to us of $17.500.00. St Mary's paid the fees and the prorated Friday trips to the White Castle, Splashdown, Bounce, Rock Climbing and Boulders Baseball. Donations covered most of this, but we finished with outreach general funds contributing $1000.00
This year's camp is very similar and runs five days a week for five weeks starting on July 6th and finishing on August 12th.Fees are $750.00 for the first child and $650.00 for any siblings. The Friday trips are prorated according to the cost of each one, amounting to a further $171.00. Most children want to do them all!!
The children love it, and the parents, who could not afford to send their children without our help, are very appreciative. We ask the parents, if they can, to contribute $200.00 for the first child and $100.00 for siblings.
This financial help is only offered to low-income families who are attending Tuxedo Schools and some in special circumstances from Sloatsburg. St Mary's is very grateful for donations of any amount to help our Outreach Program pay this year's bill! This year we have 18 children registered: fewer than usual, but not by many. The decrease in numbers, I think, is due to hesitancy in some families to allow their children to attend because of the current political situation. Very sad!
Please call me if you have any questions: 201 248 0742
Donations can be made online at www.stmtux.org 'giving then outreach' or by check, made out to St Mary's Outreach with memo 'camp'
Thank you sincerely for donations of any amount towards Summer Fun for our local children!
Sue Heywood St Mary's Outreach Chair
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo May 28, 2025
From the Rector:
I will be away on pilgrimage until June 11. Please call the office
administrator if you need assistance at (845) 351-5122. Office hours
are M-Th 9:00am to 1:00pm. If you need pastoral care during this time, please contact the Rector Emeritus, Fr Ed Cromey at (845) 351-4639. |
Bishop Glasspool Retirement Celebration
Join us at The Cathedral of St. John the Divine on Saturday, May 31st, at 10:30am, as we give thanks for the faithful and inspiring ministry of The Right Reverend Mary Glasspool, Bishop Assistant of the Diocese of New York, as she prepares for her retirement. We will honor her 45 years of service in ordained ministry, her unwavering commitment to God’s people, and the love and wisdom she has shared throughout our diocese. Eucharist service will be followed by a reception. Please RSVP below. |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo May 22, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
Despite the chilly and wet weather, the unofficial start to summer is only days away. We will kick off the festivities on Friday evening here at St. Mary's with our annual Camp Cocktails and Movie Night which will be held indoorsthis year. Please join us starting at 6pm in Bentley Hall for hamburgers, hotdogs, and all the fixings as we raise funds to send over 20 children to the Town of Tuxedo summer camp (donations of any amount are welcome). It is a great opportunity to support our local community and also a lot of fun! At 8pm, the party continues with a screening of Solo: A Star Wars Story. Please come and remember to invite your friends and neighbors.
The annual Memorial Day exercises will also be held here at St. Mary's, rain or shine. The parade steps off from George F. Baker High School at 11:30 and makes its way to the church. In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be held in the church.
Next Tuesday, please pray for traveling mercies for Pete and me as we make our way to Turkey for the "Cradle of the Church" pilgrimage. We will be covering a lot of ground, including Istanbul and the cities of the ecumenical councils to mark the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene creed. We will have many opportunities for learning and worship in some of the most meaningful sites in Christianity. One Eucharist will take place at the home of the Virgin Mary, and I have been invited to preach, which will be an honor. While we are away, please welcome back to St. Mary's Fr. Yesu Duraikannu, who will be the guest celebrant for the first two Sundays in June. Fr. Ed is available for all pastoral concerns that may arise.
Blessings,
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo May 1, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
Each year shortly after Easter, the diocese invites all of its priests to a retreat. The content and location varies from year to year. This year we were invited to the Cedar Lakes Estate in Port Jervis. "Port Jervis? I thought apprehensively." It turns out that the location was outside of the city at an old camp that has undergone major renovations. In fact, there was construction going on while we were there. It is a really beautiful place, and the food was good! (That is not always a given.)
Besides the location, it is always good to be together with fellow priests and our bishops for rest, reflection, and worship. Bishop Matt and the team he has and still is assembling have a remarkable vision for our diocese. I personally feel like the windows have been opened and a fresh breeze has been let in. Many decades of assumptions and attitudes are being examined. "Things left undone" from the past are being talked about with honesty. Financial matters are being made as transparent as possible. The diocese is being reoriented to serve the local communities and not the other way around. "The healing of the world" is starting right here at home. It is truly an exciting time and place to serve and I feel honored to be among you.
Blessings,
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo April 24, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
With sadness, the world learned that Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at the age of 88. Born in Buenos Aires as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he took the name Francis, after St. Francis of Assisi, upon his election as Pope in 2013. His pontificate was marked by his humility and commitment to the poor and outcast. As the Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni put it, [the Pope] "asked the world, once again, for the courage to change direction, to follow a path that 'does not destroy, but cultivates, repairs, protects..." A true imitator of Christ, Pope Francis did not exploit his position of power, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant.
May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, rest in peace
Blessings,
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo April 10, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
Hosanna to the Son of David! Crucify him!
The story of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem is perhaps one of the greatest reversals of fortune of all time. In a moment, the people go from hailing him as their king to crying out for his torturous death. Jesus himself knew that to re enter Jerusalem ("the city that kills the prophets") was a death sentence. And yet, he makes the journey anyway.
Imagine the intensity of the love required to offer one's life for the very people who are putting one to death. Imagine being a part of the all-knowing godhead, knowing not only what was happening in the moment, but also all that was to come. Imagine having knowledge of all of the wars, genocides and cruelties that would be inflicted by people on one another throughout history, many in your own name, and yet redeeming them all anyway.
This Sunday, we embark not just on a reenactment, but on the story of our own redemption. We will take our rightful places with the fickle crowds of so long ago who at once hail him and then condemn. We will break bread in the upper room; we will keep watch in the garden; we will witness his death on the cross. Finally, we will also bear witness to those "mighty acts" whereby we were all made children of God and inheritors of everlasting life. O come, let us worship.
Blessings,
Father Rick |
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This Week At St. Mary's in Tuxedo April 5, 2025
From the Rector
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
On Sunday, we will hear the story of the anointing of Jesus' feet by Mary Magdalene. This marks the beginning of what is traditionally called "passiontide." There are themes of joy mixed with sorrow. For example, the proper preface changes from an emphasis on overcoming sin and temptation to preparing with joy for the paschal feast. At the same time, unbleached candles will be used, and the crosses draped in funerial purple.
It is a time of intensifying anticipation of the events of Holy Week, which will be marked at St. Mary's with services each day, beginning on Wednesday. While each day is distinct, you can think of them as different movements in one complete symphony. While they can be enjoyed individually, it is ideally best to experience them as a whole.
I pray that the coming weeks will be a time of prayer, contemplation, and blessing for you all.
Father Rick |
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