NEWPORT, VERMONT – “Resting in the Spirit” is a non-traditional, non-doctrinal worship project underway at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church funded in part by a grant award. Beginning in 2018, the Northeast Kingdom church began offering a monthly, midweek opportunity for community members—regardless of religious or non-religious affiliation—to engage in spiritual practices of music, prayer, listening, and silence. A meal provided by St. Mark’s parishioners precedes or follows services, and childcare and homework assistance are available during services. The grant, announced in May 2018, is a match of up to $2,100 of the congregation’s contribution.
About the Alleluiafund. Because of your generosity in 2017 and 2018, the Alleluiafund exceeded its goal. This means, not only did we meet our predetermined commitments to Rock Point Camp, Rock Point Property, and various local and global outreach ministries, but we were also able to provide additional funding for many more things that make you say, “Alleluia!” The Alleluiafund supports vital ministries that are beyond the capacity of our diocesan budget, and every dollar raised goes directly to selected ministries. Historically, the selected ministries have included Rock Point Camp, Rock Point Commons, and various other outreach ministries agreed upon at each year’s Annual Convention. In 2019, we agreed to focus on Rock Point, Rock Point Camp, and ministries related to the priorities set by our Presiding Bishop and the General Convention, which include reconciliation, evangelism, and creation care.