We have some fabulous music planned for our Christmas Eve services. On December 24, at the 6:00 pm service, the Saints & Singers Choir will lead the festive music, including an anthem called A child is born. At 10:30 pm, join the St. Michael’s Singers in 30 minutes of familiar carols and anthems, followed by our festive 11:00 pm Eucharist.
December can be a difficult month for those who have faced the loss of a loved one or who have experienced hardship associated with this time of year. For some, the Christmas season is one of sadness or loneliness; for others, it is hectic and stressful. If you need an escape from the cheery Christmas tunes and busy atmosphere of the season, you are invited to come to our Longest Night service (also known as Blue Christmas) on Tuesday, December 21 at 7:00 pm.
It must be a scary time for the Afghan refugees coming into our city at this time. They know little about us, and are in need of everything – housing, jobs, help with language, with riding the bus, with doctor appointments, with school, with housewares and warm clothing. Thankfully, there are agencies that have opened their hearts to them, helping them navigate through these difficult waters.
A Young People’s Lessons & Carols will be presented on Saturday, December 18, at 4:30 pm. We are grateful for parishioner and associate clergy the Rev. Bob Macauley, who will preside at the service; for organist Hannah Brewer who will play Advent and Christmas hymns for all to sing; and for the children and youth who will read the appointed lessons foretelling the coming of the Christ Child.
During this time of transition, we are very fortunate to have the Rev. Karen Tiegs serving on Sundays as presider and preacher. The St. Michael’s Vestry and staff, aided by some very capable volunteers, have taken steps to be sure the parish’s needs are covered.
On Sunday, November 14, the Advocacy Action Committee will be in the courtyard, (or on the porch in front of the Nativity Hall if it rains), with letters asking our members of Congress to support the Keeping Girls in School Act (H.R. 4134/S.2276) . This bipartisan bill calls on our government to continue investments in quality and equitable education, and promotes girls’ empowerment and economic security around the world.
The Bishop of Oregon, the Rt. Rev. Diana Akiyama presided at the 9:00 am service on Sunday and then stayed to answer questions.
Our rector of 12 years, The Rev. Christopher Craun, announced last week that she was offered—and accepted—a position as Missioner for Thriving Congregations with the Diocese of Oregon.
Looking for a way to celebrate Halloween this year that doesn’t involve handing out candy? Tune in at 7:00 pm on Sunday, October 31, as our Halloween Harpsichord & Organ Spooktacular is live-streamed through our channels. Or come watch it in person – with a mask, of course, and a costume if you wish! There will be scary poems by Edgar Allen Poe, Louise Erdrich, and others read aloud between creepy and “spooktacular” organ and harpsichord pieces, played by Hannah Brewer. It’ll be a frightful night to remember!
Several of my recent sermons here in the transition from summer to fall have revolved around the theme of prayer – sometimes concrete practices, sometimes more general reflections. I sometimes wonder if it’s wise to preach about prayer, because inevitably the topic will bring up many questions and conversations, and it can feel more nurturing to address these in small groups or other settings tailored specifically for new learning and growth. I’m reminded of this when someone remarks after a sermon, “Oh, I’ve been praying all wrong!” or “I’ve never had an experience like that!”
Sunday Worship Schedule
7:30 – Spoken Traditional language (Rite 2 with no music)
9:00 – Traditional Service with Choir
11:00 – Inclusive Language with Choir
1:00 pm – Misa en Español
© 2025 St. Michael & All Angels
