Spring Letter to the St. Aidan’s Community from Steve Hatfield
Dear Friends of St. Aidan’s Chapel,
I write as the pleasures of the summer to come are apparent everywhere. The hydrangeas that grace the Chapel grounds at St Aidan’s are showing strong signs of renewal as the buds get set to bloom in time for our 105th season. The rectory is being refreshed for its seasonal occupants; vestments, altar furnishings and linens are being cleaned and shined; the gardens lovingly tended. Our community will gather again to worship together in the embrace of Christ’s love and teachings, with open minds and welcoming hearts.
One of our goals this year is to encourage everyone to access frequently our Website at www.staidanschapel.org. Timely and important information regarding our clergy, secular leadership, volunteering and giving opportunities, community outreach efforts and convenient announcements (weather!) are available there. It’s the now the “go-to” information source for all things St. A’s!
The resumption of one outdoor service at 9:00 a.m. will continue beginning on June 26 and continue every Sunday through September 11, 2022. Pleased with the positive experiences of the lawn setting over the past two years, the Standing Committee has decided to continue the outdoor schedule this year as well. Given that the Covid virus is still amongst us, the safest path is to gather outside. Pray for fine weather again this summer!
Our community will again be led by Vicar Rev. Mike Dangelo. He will be joined this summer by three clergy who know our Chapel well: The Rev. Noah Van Niel, The Rev. Kit Lonergan, and The Rev. Canon Arlette Benoit Joseph. Joining this esteemed group will be The Rt. Rev. Carol Gallagher, currently serving as Regional Canon in the Diocese of Massachusetts. We welcome Rev. Carol to Smith Neck Road and look forward to her call to service.
The generosity of the St. Aidan’s community was evident once again last year and on behalf of the Standing Committee, I thank you for your ongoing financial support. Your contributions allow us to maintain the Chapel, support our clergy, the rectory, landscaping and other projects going forward.
Additionally, our sound financial position enables St Aidan’s to assist the Greater New Bedford area. In 2021 we were able to donate $38,000 to local institutions, an important expression of Christ’s love among us. I encourage you to continue your financial support of our ministry, either weekly or annually. Please send donations c/o Karyn Campbell, 191 Smith Neck Rd, Dartmouth MA 02748.
The magic of St. Aidan’s would not be possible without the tireless efforts of our volunteers. Thanks to everyone whose activities will shape the season ahead. As the summer unfolds, you will be hearing about more ways in which you can become involved. From ushering to providing the flowers that grace the altar weekly, everyone has a key role to play. I thank you in advance for offering to make St. Aidan’s special.
I look forward to seeing you this summer. If you have any questions, concerns or suggestions, please feel free to reach out to me. My email address is sfhatfield@comcast.net and my mobile phone number is (617) 733-9688.
On behalf of the entire Standing Committee and with all my best,
Stephen F. Hatfield
Chairman, Standing Committee