Who, you might ask, was St. Martin?
Born in the 4th century in what is today Hungary, Martin became a soldier in the Roman army. The legend that is best known about him that defines our ethos here, is that one day Martin was going about his duties when he was approached by a homeless man who asked for help. Martin drew his sword and cut his own cloak in half to provide warmth for the man. Generosity and compassion go to the heart of what we understand it means to follow Jesus.
We are not doctrinaire or judgmental. In fact, like Martin who is both the patron saint of soldiers and conscientious objectors, we believe and respect that there are many diverse paths to God. Ours is a big tent with plenty of room for differing opinions and beliefs. Our particular way is the Episcopal Catholic path, whereby reverent and lively worship grounded in the weekly Eucharistic, is paired with compassionate acts for anyone in need, whether inside our membership or outside of it.
Another thing that was distinctive about Martin was that he took seriously the importance of spiritual disciplines, to the point that he formed more than a few monasteries in France. Today, we continue to believe in the power of meditation and prayer, healing and study.
Every Sunday morning, we have an adult discussion group at 9:30 a.m. in between the two services. Periodically, especially during the seasons of Advent and Lent, we gather for mid-week study and prayer. Please check out our parish calendar for what is going on now.
Worship with us and you will be surrounded by children who are a crucial part of our faith community. We encourage families to worship together and to form the habit of worship in the lives of their children. A weekly program known as the “Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” is offered for the children, as well as youth group and confirmation for teens.
We are all on a journey of faith. When we say St. Martin’s is inclusive, we honestly mean that everyone is welcome here. Diversity is not just something accepted, but also appreciated here. In fact, our differences make our life together fun, honest and deep and reflects our understanding of the reign of God. All of us are needed to be whole.
We hope you will feel the Spirit of God in this place and in us. We would love it if you would want to share in faith with this community. Please do not hesitate to talk with me if you have questions, concerns or ideas.
Joyfully yours in Christ,
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