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Blessing of the Animals Oct. 10
Bring your best friend — or your favorite stuffed animal. St. Andrew's Episcopal Church holds its lighthearted, non-denominational Blessing of the Animals on Saturday, Oct. 10 at 11 a.m. outdoors on the church plaza; in case of rain the service moves to the parish hall. Dogs, cats, rabbits, birds and other friendly animals are welcome, and so are their humans. For those whose animal friends prefer to stay home, stuffed animals are invited too. The brief gathering celebrates the companionship, joy and unconditional love that animals bring. Live animals should be accompanied by an adult and kept on leashes, bridles or other appropriate restraints. St. Andrew's is at 135 Lafayette Street; call the church office at 781-631-4951 for more information.
Church shines purple for domestic abuse awareness
Drive past St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in October and you may notice it glowing purple. Purple is the color associated with Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, and St. Andrew's is using its visible presence to bring attention to an issue that often remains hidden behind closed doors. Throughout October the church will devote its worship services, sermons and prayers to raising awareness about domestic abuse and the challenges faced by those experiencing it.
"The entire month will be devoted to observing Domestic Abuse Awareness," said the Rev. Clyde Elledge, rector of St. Andrew's. "We will have our sermons and prayers address the reality of domestic abuse in our society. Our hope is to break the silence around what is, in many circles, a taboo to speak about. We also want to be helpful in offering ways out of abusive situations."
Domestic abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, psychological and financial. Because it often happens privately, those experiencing it may feel isolated or unsure where to turn.
"Sometimes the first step toward getting help is simply knowing that you are not alone," Elledge said. "We hope St. Andrew's can be a place where people know they can turn for compassion, understanding and resources."
All are welcome at St. Andrew's services, at 8 and 10 a.m. The church is at 135 Lafayette Street, Marblehead; for more information, call 781-631-4951.
Rummage sale moves to Oct. 3
The storm claimed another casualty: Saturday's rummage sale. St. Andrew's Episcopal Church has postponed its Fall Rummage Sale, originally scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 26, due to the forecast storm, and rescheduled it for Saturday, Oct. 3, with the same hours of 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The popular sale features clothing, jewelry, home goods, vintage treasures, toys and holiday decor, and the $5 Stuff-a-Bag sale will be held at noon at the rescheduled event. All proceeds directly support St. Andrew's missions and ministries. Donations are no longer accepted; parking is free on-site and nearby, and the sale is fully accessible. The church is at 135 Lafayette Street; for updated information, visit standrewsmhd.org/home/rummage-sale/ or call 781-631-4951.
