News from St. John's

Greetings to Members and Friends of St. John’s, Near and Far,
 
The Vestry gathered on September 19 to discuss the life of St. John’s, covering everything from our finances to managing the tasks that keep our doors open and welcoming to both new and familiar faces.
 
St. John’s has a long and rich history in Boonton, and we deeply appreciate the members who, even after moving away or being unable to attend in person, remain connected with us. We delight in greeting the people who join us in person.
 
We’re delighted to announce that Robert Gangewere is back to lead our music program, with Christian Carozza alternating Sundays as our organist. We also want to extend our gratitude to Wyatt Sikora, who has moved on to other opportunities after contributing his musical talents to our services.
 
Joan and Debbie have been working diligently to prepare the Wilson House for rental and get the Rectory ready for sale. We’re happy to report that the Wilson House has been rented to a wonderful family who is engaged in local ministry. Additionally, we are renting the Parish Hall on Wednesdays to another religious group active in the community.
 
Sharon Liparini and Sandra Lee Schubert will be attending the School of Ministry: Worship Leader training this Wednesday and again in October. You are welcome to join them—registration is open until Monday, September 23. Learn more here: School for Ministry: Worship Leader Training
 
Across the diocese, many churches are facing challenges due to a shortage of clergy and declining attendance. Our Vestry, along with the diocese, is considering how best to respond. You can read more about these conversations in The VOICE Online: Who Will We Be in Ministry Going Forward?
 
Every week, St. John’s opens its doors for the Saturday Luncheon Social, where local faith communities provide a meal for our neighbors. This Saturday, St. John’s is hosting, and we’ll be serving tacos with a side of fellowship! Want to lend a hand? Join us at 11 a.m. in the Parish Hall to help with setup, serving, and cleanup. Lunch will be served from noon to 1 p.m. Even if you’re not volunteering, you’re welcome to come by and enjoy a meal!
 
Our Sunday morning prayer service is at 9:30 a.m. for the remainder of September. Starting October 6, we will return to our winter schedule with services at 10:30 a.m. We’re excited to welcome Canon Wright that day for a special visit.
 
We are actively seeking fun ideas for fundraisers and volunteers to support the work of the church. Many hands make light work! If you have suggestions or are interested in volunteering, please email us at admin(at)stjohnsboonton.org.
 
Prayer List 
If you’d like to add someone to the parish prayer list or request the removal of a name, please contact Kathy Cascone at mailto:casconek(at)yahoo.com
 
Communication 
Staying informed is especially important during times of transition. Here are some ways to stay connected:
- If your email changes, let Sharon Liparini know so you can continue receiving parish announcements.
- Visit our website, Facebook page, and other social media channels for updates. (Reach out to Sandra Lee Schubert if you’d like to assist with posting photos and events.)
- Subscribe to [The VOICE Online](https://dioceseofnewark.org/e-news), the diocesan newsletter published every other Wednesday, to keep up with news, events, and features from around the diocese.
 
Save the Dates:

• Saturday, September 21 – St. John’s hosts the Saturday Luncheon Social.
• Thursday, October 3 (7–8:30 p.m. on Zoom) – Vestry Leadership Essentials with Dr. Rochelle (Shelly) Stackhouse, Senior Director of Programs for Partners for Sacred Places. This session will focus on transitioning older sacred places with a community-minded approach. Wardens, Treasurers, and Vestry members are encouraged to attend. Learn more.
• Sunday, October 6 – We return to our winter schedule with a 10:30 a.m. service, welcoming The Rev. Canon Andrew R. Wright, ThD.
• Sunday, October 13 – 10:30 a.m. service with The Rev. Dr. John P. Mitchell.
• Sunday, October 20 – 10:30 a.m. Morning Prayer with Deacon John Van Dine.
• Sunday, October 27 – 10:30 a.m. service with The Rev. Canon Margo Peckham Clark.
• Friday and Saturday, November 8–9 – The 150th Annual Diocesan Convention. This year’s theme is “Diocese of Newark: Yesterday, Today & Forever – Learning Our Past, Embracing Our Present, and Inviting You into Our Future.” Click here for the PDF