We are a small Episcopal Church on the banks of the Rappahannock in Port Royal, Virginia. We acknowledge that we gather on the traditional land of the first people of Port Royal, the Nandtaughtacund, and we respect and honor with gratitude the land itself, the legacy of the ancestors, and the life of the Rappahannock Tribe. Our mission statement is to do God’s Will in all that we do.

Videos

Music and Noisemakers – “Earth and all stars”

From Catherine’s introduction to the Oct. 22, 2023 service:

“I am dedicating today’s service to Brad and the Choir. Aren’t we so fortunate to have music! You have noise makers.. you are going to need them. three of the hymns are about singing and then there are two about seeking God and God seeking us.”

This was apparent in our hymn of praise – “Hymn #412 Earth and all stars”, always a favorite. See the one minute video of a selection of this energetic hymn:

Prayer Service for Peace in the Middle East, Oct. 17, 2023

St. Peter’s Episcopal, Port Royal was open Tues, Oct. 17 for a prayer service, 12pm to 2pm for peace in the Middle East. The Patriarchs and Heads of Churches in Jerusalem called for this day of prayer and so we prayed in solidarity with them and others around the world who prayed for peace. We had 14 people in the church at various times. Some stayed for the entire period.

Our time together included a short prayer service at noon, other prayers at 1pm and concluding prayers at 2pm. Larry Saylor provided the meditative music throughtout the 2 hours.

The video includes Catherine’s description of the service.

There were 5 prayer stations in the windows of the church:
1. “Place your prayer into the spring of water gushing up to eternal life”
2. “The healing touch station”
3. “Prayers for Peace”
4. “Pray for peace in the Holy Land”
5. Station with water from the River Jordan and earth

Video and Photo Links
1. Video
2. Photos
3. Music by Larry Saylor – selection

Creating Pet Blessings for St. Francis Day, Oct. 4

Our Christian Education class for children, “God’s Garden” explored what is meant to be a saint, today (Oct. 1, 2023) as a prelude for St. Francis day on Oct. 4. As an example they told the story of St. Francis taming the Wolf of Gubbio. Then, they made Pet blessings with treats to give out in church to make pets happy on St. Francis Day, Oct. 4.

Three videos show packing the bags, processing into church during the first hymn, and finally handing them out during the announcements. A fun activity for all with the children gaining an appreciation for this popular saint.

1. Making Pet Treats

2 Procession to the church during “Morning has Broken”

3. Distribution of the treats during Announcements.