We welcome our parish community back to St. Thomas the Apostle Church as we begin to reopen our church for liturgy and prayer. Although the number of people who can gather for Mass in one setting is limited due to safety precautions, there is a sense of community again whether we are present in church or participating through streamed Masses and private prayer.  In this last full month of summer, we encourage you to take some time to enjoy the beauty of this season and the wonder of creation all around us.  God’s gift to us demands care and responsibility.

We suggest having a family meeting to decide what steps you can take to care for our earth. Or bring it up as an intentional conversation topic with friends and neighbors. Price Chopper is ending the use of plastic bags and encouraging you to bring your reusable bags and totes—and they will help you pack them. Stop in the Gathering area and pick up a CLYNK bag to return your disposable bottles and cans to Hannaford to benefit our parish. We have used the money collected to fund our water projects in Africa, to provide gift cards for food banks, and tote bags for use at food banks. Say “No” to single use plastics. Monitor your use of water. Shop the farmers’ and local markets. Make updating yourself on the effects of climate change as part of your summer reading.

Creation Care Team contacts: Jeanne Schrempf or Marie Myer