Outreach Committee

Outreach Committee Mission Statement:
In recognition that others may not have the spiritual or practical benefits shared by the congregation of St. Mary's, we believe that we have an obligation to actively reach out to others. Thus the mission of Outreach is to provide opportunities for spiritual growth to those outside of the congregation, and to do our best to address specific cases of hardship, repression or suffering in our community, and in the world at large.

In order for Outreach to be effective, we must first acknowledge Christ's commandment that we love one another and ensure that members of the congregation have their needs met and that they feel needed, loved and accepted. This will allow the Church to grow as a family, and encourage members to become engaged in outreach and other Church activities.

In keeping with our Mission Statement the Outreach Committee meets monthly to recognize our parish family needs and expectations.

We also have a goal of increasing parish membership. In support of this goal, the Committee makes efforts to develop our Church’s "profile" in the local community. To this end, we sponsor a variety of events, including:  

Concerts: At St. Mary's we love our music. On January 16 we will host the WSO String Ensemble

Fashion Shows: These very popular events are always a sellout. This year, the "Spring Fling" date is May 11 (with dinner).  The Fashion Show features our own parishioners as models... The "Belles of St. Mary's" . Fantastic as always and great door prizes.   And we will also hold a Fall Fashion Show (luncheon) on Saturday October 22.

Dinner Events:  There's nothing like a church supper, delicious & cheap!  Come and enjoy the ambiance at "Maria's Place." Pasta Supper January 22. Pot Luck Supper March 27. Food Fair April 16.  Steak Dinner June 11.

Victorian Tea: Experience the elegance.  Tea, sandwiches, treats, crafts, prize draws. Victorian Dress optional. Dates to follow.

Annual Parish Picnic starts with a worship service on our beautiful front lawn.  As always, this "friends & family day" is packed with fun for all ages with games, prizes, BBQ, pot luck salads, etc. Please join us June 12

Annual Blessing of the Animals worship service on our front lawn  This service attracts pets and their people from across Essex County. Each pet receives a blessing & a treat during the Parade of the Animals. This very special service is held in September

It is our hope that our work is accepted and supported by you.  Join us in celebrating our St. Mary's.  Hope to see you soon!