ECW – Christian Growth & Fellowship

Every woman who attends St. Mary’s Church is a member of our Episcopal Church Women (ECW), so if you’ve never been to a meeting, or participated in an activity, don’t be shy. We’ll give you a warm welcome and guarantee you’ll find friends here. Pick up your copy of the events brochure in the narthex or parish hall.

In a change from previous years, we offer ECW programs on the second Tuesday of each month, November through April. Our meetings begin at 11 a.m. with Father Wright who celebrates the Holy Eucharist in the chapel. Immediately following, we share a light lunch in the Parish Hall and hold a brief business meeting before the program.

Interest in Foyer Groups has waned over the past few seasons, and we are considering how to revive active participation in these fellowship building experiences. Look for a renewed and refreshed model of “mixers” in the 2024-25 season.

Mark your calendar for this year’s ECW programs:
We’ve planned our programs so that all the women of St. Mary’s feel welcomed to spend time together to share in fellowship and to continue growing our faith and commitment to Jesus Christ our Savior as we support our parish.

November 14: “A Gem of a Tree”
Local Artist Greta Birnbaum will demonstrate how to repurpose your
favorite loved, but unused, costume jewelry to create a uniquely personal,
glittering Christmas tree for your table. Greta is an imaginative and exciting
teacher who will inspire you to “shop your closet” to ferret out your own forgotten gems when you return home.

December 9, Saturday 2-4 PM
Each ECW hostess sponsors an elegant, themed table in the Parish Hall to entertain her guests. This year’s theme is “Gifts of the Spirit.” With delectable scones, savory and sweet treats, the afternoon tea is a foretaste of the 12 days of Christmas. There may be a traditional pantomimed sing-along, a “surprise” visit from Santa and an impish elf to enliven the party.

January 9: A presentation by Golden Paws Assistance Dogs
This is a local organization that promotes independence for combat-wounded veterans, first responders and children with life-changing disabilities. Founded in 2012, Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs are highly trained by skilled handlers. As part of its training, each dog spends time with its handler in service projects to the community. Despite the cost of training, boarding and maintaining healthy dogs, there is no cost for the individuals they ultimately serve. This meeting is open to men as well as ECW members.

February 10:The PennyWise Fashion Show
By popular demand, we’re bringing back this charitable event. St. Mary’s parishioners and friends generously donate gently used and new fashionable clothing and accessories to our thrift store. Many donated items are so lovely that we are proud to showcase the quality of goods available in our shop; and what better way than to strut the runway, wearing boutique clothes that are affordable while having fun in the process! Proceeds from PennyWise are traditionally split between St. Mary’s Outreach Commission and the church general fund. Tickets for this event will go on sale in January.

March 12: Our Faith Journeys
Lent is the perfect time for us to share our life experiences through the prism of our faith in Jesus Christ. Volunteers will read the stories of their Christian walk to stimulate discussion from the group. Whether you choose to be a silent listener who is seeking or one who is ready to share, spoken participation is voluntary.

April 9: Hats in the Garden
St. Mary’s parishioners Linda and Steve Burdette are former owners of a thriving gardening business. They have volunteered and worked extensively on the Flora Linda Gardens at St. Mary’s, and will discuss ideas to replant and remake our garden space into a verdant oasis for contemplation and prayer. It’s a perfect way to try out your Easter bonnet and to welcome spring.