In the scheme of things, St Stephen’s is a relatively small parish. But it’s a small parish with a large impact that belies its size, and extends well beyond the boundaries of Timonium, Maryland.
Each week I watch as our clergy and pastoral care staffs make their weekly pilgrimages to bring comfort and spiritual guidance not only to members of the parish, but to many who have no affiliation at all with St Stephens.
On Tuesdays they’re off to Glen Meadows, a retirement facility in Glen Arm, where they serve communion to a faithful following of residents.
Wednesdays it’s downtown to the Joseph Richey Hospice for their weekly team meeting and a chance to provide individual visits with their residents. On the way home there’s a weekly stop at Union Memorial Hospital for a Eucharist service in their chapel, and, often, visits with patients.
And, for good measure, three times a month there is an additional Eucharist on Wednesday afternoon at Brightwood/Mays Chapel Ridge.
Thursdays it’s off to Lorien Mays Chapel and Lorien Columbia for communion services; and beginning in November, Broadmead in Cockeysville will be added to their itinerary.
Just to be sure they’re not bored, they have a list of home bound parishioners that receive regular calls and visits, very often serving them communion as well as offerings of friendship and fellowship.
St Stephen’s is truly blessed to have such an energetic clerical and pastoral care staff. I spread my eagle’s wings to salute Fr. Guy, Fr. Rhae, Fr. Mike, Deacons Michael and John, Subdeacon Wiley, Director of Pastoral Care Happy Riley, and retired (at least officially) former Director of Pastoral Care Annie Hawkins. ISAAC
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