Dear Friends,
Our Bicentennial Weekend was a great success and brought us together as one community united in worship, love, and service of our Lord Jesus Christ. So many people joined us from all over the world, and some made the journey to New York to be with us in-person; it was a true ‘homecoming.’ We had over 11,000 unique livestream views over the Bicentennial Weekend – Saint Thomas Church is clearly touching peoples’ hearts. The concert with the Choir of Men and Boys and the Saint Thomas Brass was uplifting, and the choir made a thrilling sound over three special services. The Organ Recital captivated people; the Noble Singers, joined by our Probationers, sang for the first time together at a choral service. The receptions after Thursday and Sunday’s Eucharists were truly joyful. The Exhibition inspired many people. The Gala was reported to have been one of the best in New York for many, many years, and it exceeded all our expectations. After expenses, the Gala raised over half a million dollars for our Bicentennial Annual Appeal. Bill Haas proved to be a wonderful honoree, and received several standing ovations. His customary humility meant that he put Saint Thomas first in his acceptance speech. We also raised $45,000 for the St. John Eye Hospital Group, and you can add to that by making a one-off gift and writing Eye Hospital in the memo line of your check, or the notes box on-line. The videos, so beautifully crafted by Blake Martin and his team, were both inspiring and touching, and you can see them below.
So many people worked so hard to make these four days truly memorable. Thank you to our hard-working staff and volunteers who went the extra mile. Although I should not attempt to name people, I do want to thank our florists, Erik and Carlos who provided the most elegant flower arrangements in church and for the Gala.
Over the three special services, our preachers offered very different, reflective, and complimentary sermons. It was so good to be honored by the presence of our Rector Emeritus, Fr. Andy Mead, and Canon Nancy Mead, who came to all our Bicentennial weekend events.
Thank you for being part of this wonderful parish!
Affectionately,
Your priest and pastor,
Carl
Resources
After the 10 a.m. Mass last Sunday – the Wardens with the Bishops and Clergy; many of us were wearing for the first time the Bicentennial Red Copes donated to the parish by Michael Huffington.The Manhattan Borough President named October 12, 2023 Saint Thomas Church Appreciation Day!
