Parish Office Telephone No. (914) 949-2874   Fax No. (914) 949-1202 Grace Episcopal Church / La Gracia 33 Church Street, White Plains, NY 10601 Monday to Friday 9:00 AM — 3:00 PM   Clergy and Staff   The Rev. Judith Lee, Interim Rector The Rev. Adolfo Moronta, Associate Priest, ext. 14  The Rev. Deacon Martha Jane Dunphy, Deacon Ms. Maria Campos, Secretary, ext. 10, mcampos@gracechurchwhiteplains.org Mr. Peter Roberts, Director of Music, ext 18 Mr. Arturo Ortiz, Director of Music, La Gracia Ms. Marilyn Castillo, Vocalist, La Gracia Mr. Taurino Juarez, Sexton, ext.13   Vestry Members   Joseph Gallo - Sr. Warden Malik Bradford - Jr. Warden Hilary Fleming - Treasurer Sorraya Sampson Elliot - Clerk   Malik Bradford, Sorraya Sampson Elliot,  Hilary Fleming, Karen Odom, Marisol Ortega, Amy Auld Owens, Michael Heffner, Charlotte Roberson, Daisy Calderon, Trisha McGuinness

The Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany February 16, 2020 8 AM &10 AM Rite II BCP 355 Prelude: Deep River Traditional Please stand Hymn: LEV&S 196 Leaning on the Everlasting Arms The Opening Acclamation Celebrant: Blessed be God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit People: And blessed be his kingdom, now and for ever. Amen. Collect for Purity Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen. Gloria S 277 Collect O God, the strength of all who put their trust in you: Mercifully accept our prayers; and because in our weakness we can do nothing good without you, give us the help of your grace, that in keeping your commandments we may please you both in will and deed; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. THE WORD OF GOD Please be seated The First Lesson Deuteronomy 30:15-20 Moses said, “See, I have set before you today life and prosperity, death and adversity. If you obey the commandments of the Lord your God that I am commanding you today, by loving the Lord your God, walking in his ways, and observing his commandments, decrees, and ordinances, then you shall live and become numerous, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land that you are entering to possess. But if your heart turns away and you do not hear, but are led astray to bow down to other gods and serve them, I declare to you today that you shall perish; you shall not live long in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to enter and possess. I call heaven and earth to witness against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Choose life so that you and your descendants may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and holding fast to him; for that means life to you and length of days, so that you may live in the land that the Lord swore to give to your ancestors, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob.” The Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Psalm 119:1-8 1 Happy are they whose way is blameless, * who walk in the law of the Lord! 2 Happy are they who observe his decrees * and seek him with all their hearts! 3 Who never do any wrong, * but always walk in his ways. 4 You laid down your commandments, * that we should fully keep them. 5 Oh, that my ways were made so direct * that I might keep your statutes! 6 Then I should not be put to shame, * when I regard all your commandments. 7 I will thank you with an unfeigned heart, * when I have learned your righteous judgments. 8 I will keep your statutes; * do not utterly forsake me. The Epistle 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 Brothers and sisters, I could not speak to you as spiritual people, but rather as people of the flesh, as infants in Christ. I fed you with milk, not solid food, for you were not ready for solid food. Even now you are still not ready, for you are still of the flesh. For as long as there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not of the flesh, and behaving according to human inclinations? For when one says, “I belong to Paul,” and another, “I belong to Apollos,” are you not merely human? What then is Apollos? What is Paul? Servants through whom you came to believe, as the Lord assigned to each. I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. The one who plants and the one who waters have a common purpose, and each will receive wages according to the labor of each. For we are God’s servants, working together; you are God’s field, God’s building. The Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Please stand Sequence Hymn: LEV&S 218 Jesus Loves me, This I Know The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ According to Matthew 5:21-37 Jesus said, “You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, ‘You shall not murder’; and ‘whoever murders shall be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will be liable to judgment; and if you insult a brother or sister, you will be liable to the council; and if you say, ‘You fool,’ you will be liable to the hell of fire. So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift. Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are on the way to court with him, or your accuser may hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away; it is better for you to lose one of your members than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away; it is better for you to lose one of your members than for your whole body to go into hell. “It was also said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.’ But I say to you that anyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of unchastity, causes her to commit adultery; and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery. “Again, you have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but carry out the vows you have made to the Lord.’ But I say to you, Do not swear at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. Let your word be ‘Yes, Yes’ or ‘No, No’; anything more than this comes from the evil one.” The Gospel of the Lord Praise to You Lord Christ. Sermon: The Rev. Dr. Chip Graves Please stand The Nicene Creed BCP 358 J2A Prayers of the People Read by Aaron Woodberry Please join us as we pray for the Church and the world For the love and kindness from God, let our sins be washed away. Let us pray to the Lord. Lord give us strength. For our priests, Father Chip and Father Adolfo, and for our past priests that brought Grace to where it is today. Let us pray to the Lord. Lord give them guidance. For all the leaders of the world. Let us pray to the Lord. Lord help them make the world a better place. For the Westchester community we pray for a safe environment where people can be their true selves. Let us pray to the Lord. Lord give us protection. For the people with the skill set to grow and provide us with food. Let us pray to the Lord. Lord give them good weather. For the good Earth, God has given us, give us the ability to prevent climate change. Let us pray to the Lord. Lord give us wisdom to change. For those who are traveling, let them learn new things and have new experiences. Let us pray to the Lord. Lord grant them curiosity. For those who can no longer take care of themselves and for those struggling to get by day to day. Let us pray to the Lord. Lord give them peace and comfort. For those we now name silently or aloud (please name those in your prayers currently). Let us pray to the Lord. Lord place your healing hands upon them. For those who now live with God in his eternal kingdom, especially those we now name either silently or aloud (please name those in your prayers at this time) and for all the saints who’ve gone before us. Let us pray to the Lord. Lord thank you for their presence on earth and in heaven. The Confession BCP 360 Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor. Silence. Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen. Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen. The Peace BCP 360 Please be seated Announcements The Offertory Walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself for us, an offering and sacrifice to God. Offertory Anthem: I’ve Got a Robe Aaron David Miller Offertory Hymn: LEV&S 162 Come by Here THE HOLY COMMUNION Eucharistic Prayer A BCP 361 Celebrant: The Lord be with you People: And also with you. Celebrant: Lift up your hearts. People: We lift them up to the Lord. Celebrant: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. People: It is right to give him thanks and praise. Sanctus and Benedictus David Hurd The Lord’s Prayer BCP 364 At the Breaking of the Bread Alleluia, Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us. Therefore let us keep the feast, Alleluia. Agnus Dei David Hurd The Invitation BCP 364 Anthem: Be A Candle of Hope Becki Slagle Mayo Hymn: LEV&S 220 We Are Climbing Jacob’s Ladder The Prayer of Thanksgiving BCP 365 Sending forth of the Eucharistic Visitors: In the name of this congregation I send you forth bearing these holy gifts, that those to whom you go may share with us in the communion of Christ’s body and blood. We who are many are one body because we share one bread, one cup. Amen. Blessing May Christ, the Son of God, be manifest in you, that your lives may be a light to the world; and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be among you, and remain with you always. Amen. Hymn: LEV&S 226 Mine Eyes Have Seen The Glory Dismissal Postlude: Prelude and Fugue in C Major Böhm ________________________________________ Ministers of the Liturgy Celebrant: Rev. Dr. Chip Graves Assisting Priest: Rev. Adolfo Moronta Organist: Peter Roberts St. Nicholas Choir Eucharistic Visitors: Eileen McClean Lector 8AM: Brinda Bradley 10 AM: Priya Kumar, Rohan Kumar Intercessor: Aaron Woodberry Altar Minister 8AM: Brinda Bradley 10 AM: Lauren Reid, Andrea Spencer Acolytes10AM: Jean Chambers, James Heffner, Eric Woodberry, Aaron Woodberry, Harrison Richards, Ivana Richards Ushers 10AM: Margaret Bloomfield, Delroy Chang, Bob Soso, Shirley Spencer Jean Wilson Coffee Hour Host: Team 2 Ushers Assistants: Team 3 Assist Nursery Care: available during 10AM Service ________________________________________ Grace Church Prayer List: We hold the following people in prayer: Lee Aldrich, Bernice Burton, Gloria Chang, Cynthia Cole, Kimberly Corselli, Inez Dale, Carol DiGilio, Vincent Doria, Bill Dunphy, Cathy Dunphy, Sandra Esannason, Laura Fields, Sid Fromm, The Rev. Lisa Graves, Kat Graves, Lydia Green, Sylvia Howard, Linda Heusser, Jackie Jansky, Ivy John, Paul Nair, Evgeniy Kaufman, Nellie King, Peshotan, Kotval, Tim Lewis, Manoris Long, Donna Louis, Paxton Louis, Dorothy Lynch, Janice Moore, Brianna Parkinson, Selena Perry, Gladstone Reid, Leroy Reid, Renee Reid, Uriel Reid, Charlotte Roberson, Al Sargent, Sonia P. Smith, Norman Stanton, Susan Stanton, Dominick Vita, Natasha Vodyanitskaya, Ray Williams Calvary Hospital: Verna Brown Cedar Manor, Ossining: Robert Auld The Grove at Valhalla: Susan Stanton Serving in the Armed Forces: Kenny Duffy, Denny J. Edmondson, Christopher P. Halstead, David Packer, Sgt. Christopher Vigliotti, Gunnery Sgt. Les Yearwood Please contact Sandy McAllister if you would like to place someone’s name on our prayer list. If you have a family member or loved one on our prayer list, please provide our office with emergency contact information. ________________________________________ Birthdays Feb. 16th Joyce Sampson, James Heffner Feb. 18th Daryl Graves Feb. 20th Lauren Reid Feb. 21st Nathalia Gerring, Lawson Roach Feb. 22nd Velda Collymore, Anaiz Reynoso Roberts Anniversaries Feb. 20th Susan & Norman Stanton ________________________________________If you are visiting with us for the first time, we welcome you to Grace Church! Our liturgy is found in the Book of Common Prayer. Our communion is open to all baptized Christians. Please take the time to fill out one of our visitor cards which the ushers have available. Your presence is a blessing to us; may our worship together be a blessing to you. ________________________________________ The Right Reverend Andrew ML. Dietsche, Bishop The Right Reverend Allen Kunho Shin, Bishop Suffragan The Right Reverend Mary Glasspool, Assistant Bishop The Reverend Dr. Chip Graves, Rector The Reverend Adolfo Moronta, Associate Priest Peter Roberts, Director of Music of Grace Church Juan Carlos Abreu, Director of Music of La Gracia Donna Louis, Youth Ministry Coordinator Maria Campos, Administrator Taurino Juárez, Sexton The Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany February 16, 2020 33 Church Street White Plains, New York 10601 www.gracewhiteplains.org 914-949-2874 VESTRY Michael Heffner, Senior Warden Daisy Calderon, Junior Warden Hillary Fleming, Treasurer Irene Alves, Clerk Class of 2020: Daisy Calderon, Hillary Fleming, Michael Heffner Class of 2021: Irene Alves, Sorraya Sampson Elliott, Eileen McClean Class of 2022: Daniel Corsanego, Edythe Horne, Charlotte Roberson Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God’s love in Christ through our life together and our service to the wider community. All are welcome.

The Winter 2019 Angelus

GRACE CHURCH of the Episcopal Diocese of New York IGLESIA LA GRACIA De la Diocesis Episcopal de Nueva York ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2019 STAFF The Reverend Dr. Chip Graves, Rector / El Rector The Reverend Adolfo Moronta, Associate Priest / Sacerdote Asociado Peter Roberts, Music Director Grace Church / MOsica de Grace Juan Carlos Abreu, Music Director La Gracia / Mt:mica de La Gracia Donna Louis, Youth Ministry Coordinator / Coordinadora del Ministerio Juvenil Maria Campos, Administrator / Administradora Taurino Juarez, Sexton / Jefe de Mantenimiento VESTRY MEMBERS Joseph C. Gallo, Senior. Warden Michael Heffner, Junior Warden Hillary Fleming, Treasurer Sorraya Sampson Elliott, Clerk Class of 2019: Trisha McGuinness, Charlotte Roberson Class of 2020: Hillary Fleming, Michael Heffner Class of 2021: Irene Alves, Sorraya Sampson Elliott, Eileen McClean ANNUAL MEETING HELD JANUARY 26, 2020 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Annual Meeting January 26, 2020 Agenda Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Call to Order and Opening Prayer Report of the Nominating Committee and Opening of the Polls Hymn and change of venue to the Parish Hall Hillary Fleming: Treasurer's Report for 2019 Presentation of the 2020 Budget Joseph C. Gallo Senior Warden's Reflection The Rev. Dr. Chip Graves Rector's Report The Rev. Adolfo Moronta Report on La Gracia Joseph C. Gallo Recognitions and Thanks Sorraya Sampson Elliott Announcement of the Election Closing Prayer Table of Contents Annual Meeting: January 26, 2020 Page Number Agenda 1 Table of Contents 2 Ballot for Elections 3 Finance Report & 2020 Budget 4,5 The State of the Church: Overview Reflection of the Senior Warden 6,7 Rector's Report 8,9 Report of the Associate Priest 10,11 La Gracia 12,13 Statistical Report 14 Building and Grounds 15 Technology/Communications 16 Stewardship 17 Worship Altar Guild 18 Acolyte Ministry 19 Ushers 20 Lectors 21 Grace Church Choir 22 Christian Foundation Sunday School & Rite 13 23 Youth Programs & J2A Advocacy / Community Partnerships Advocacy Committee 24,25 Partnership with Lifting Up Westchester 26,27 Parish Life Pastoral Care 28 The Welcoming Committee 29 S.A.G.E. 30 ECW 31 Book Club 32 Walk of Grace 33 2 Grace Church Annual Meeting January 26, 2020 Ballot Candidate for Senior Warden Vote for One (1) (Two-Year Term) Michael Heffner Candidate for Junior Warden (One-year term) Note completing unfinished term Daisy Calderon Vote for One (1) Candidates for Vestry Vote for four (4) Note* (3 for 3-year terms, 1 for 2-year uncompleted term) Daniel Corsanego Edythe D. Home Charlotte Roberson Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Ministry/Committee: Finance Chair: Joe Gallo Co-Chair: Hillary Fleming Members: Carlos Munoz, Kevin Richards, Michael Heffner Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019) In 2019, we made an effort to share monthly reporting with everyone who has responsibility for managing a budget. The same reports that I share with the Vestry at monthly meetings are the ones each budget manager receives. This was another step in creating financial transparency that began in 2018 with publishing a pledge tracker in each bulletin. A notable achievement was La Gracia exceeding its pledge goal of $15,000. La Gracia pledges reached close to $21,000 (up from $15,000 in 2018). This is the result of Fr. Adolfo's partnership with Daisy Calderon and other La Gracia lay leaders to educate and encourage the La Gracia congregation about stewardship and the purpose of pledging. Challenges continue to be a significantly insufficient cash flow in the face of rising costs to run Grace/La Gracia. We entered 2019 with a large planned deficit and ended 2019 worse off. The unfinished business of 2019 is the same as the unfinished business of 2018... identifying a way to offset our negative cash flow and establishing a plan to replenish and grow our endowment. Where we hope to be in December 2020: (1-3 goals for 2020) · Protected endowment fund established · Growth in Grace (i.e. membership, programs) · Additional Revenue Streams What resources we will need to get there: · Financial and Legal Expertise · Creativity and Volunteers 2020 Budget - Voted on By Vestry 12.23.19 2020 Budget 2019 Budget 2019 Actua Is Pledge Income Grace $ 250,000 $ 310,000 $ 256,296 Pledge Income LaGracia 20,000 15,000 20,787 Loose Plate Offerings 45,000 35,000 66,595 LUW Rent/Utilities 116,000 116,000 115,916 Office Rental 6,600 0 0 Parish Hall Rent 25,000 20,000 36,637 La Gracia Grant 8,000 8,000 8,000 Fundraisers 5,000 10,000 735 Diocesan Clergy Grant 66,000 55,278 55,278 All Other Income 40,000 25,000 80,426 TOTAL INCOME 581,600 594,278 640,670 Withdrawals from Savings 232,270 173,712 200,000 TOTAL RECEIPTS 813,870 767,990 840,670 Church Operations 309,000 272,910 280,689 Clergy 301,200 299,400 286,966 Music 62,820 53,000 56,423 La Gracia 24,300 19,300 20,219 Other 5,950 6,750 11,762 Rectory 19,700 19,700 19,372 Office 90,900 96,930 116,591 TOTAL EXPENSES 813,870 767,990 792,022 Profit (Deficit) 48,648 Highlights · We finished December with a much higher pledge intake of ($34K) than what I predicted during our 12/23 Budget conference call ($22K). · Total Revenues were $46K higher than planned, thanks to in-kind donations from Cappelli, Parish Hall rentals, unexpected bequests and very high loose plate offerings. · Altar Guild is 100% self-funding ($8K). 5 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Senior Wardens Report 2019 was a year of anticipation with many goals needing to be examined and implemented. I would like to take this opportunity to summarize some of the major accomplishments shepherded by the guidance of our new rector, Father Chip Graves. Accomplishments for 2019 · Installation of New Rector. In 2019 the Vestry was able to call a new rector in Father Chip Graves. He was installed the summer of 2019 by Bishop Glasspool with the assistance of the Diocese and much work by Grace parishioners. n The Grace Rectory. Several repairs and updates were made to the rectory. Through the efforts of the Vestry, Buildings and Grounds, chaired by Walter Simon and several dedicated members, the windows were replaced, waterproofing of the front of the property, and painting of the interior and exterior were completed. Several rotted areas were repaired, putting the rectory in good shape. n Grace Church historical records were organized and preserved by Clyde Hicks and his committee. Based on the hard work of this committee and their recommendations, the Vestry approved the storage of documents going back to the 1800's with the Diocese. Under the safekeeping of the Diocese, the documents are always available for Grace to retrieve, but they are protected by the policies and procedures of professionals at the Diocese. The documents still are Grace's records and available to Grace. · The Grace parish elevator was finally repaired and put into service. The original budget of this project exceeded $350,000. Through the rekindling of our relationship with Mr. Louis Cappelli, the project was completed at no cost to Grace. Many thanks to Mr. Cappelli who has agreed to act as our property consultant at no cost to Grace. · The organ has had several maintenance and repairs completed under the guidance of William Biles and other parishioners. The Vestry has taken the recommendations of this committee and has established a separate fund with our financial advisors. Through fundraising efforts spearheaded by Eileen McClean, the Vestry has established this fund. With the market producing double digit returns, the Vestry voted to take these funds and invest them in high yield markets. The Vestry felt this to be a sound philosophy as these funds are for future enhancements to the organ (not standard yearly maintenance) that are not anticipated to happen for at least three years. This plan will exceed $ 300,000 to accomplish this vision. 6 · Finances have been constantly monitored with several options being tested to improve our positions. We have had the Cappelli organization fund several projects. The Bedell Fund has granted us just under $ 200,000 to make repairs such as painting the exterior church railing, remodeling the kitchen and bathrooms in the rectory, repairing the driveway, and several other projects. With the help of Lifting Up Westchester, we were successful in winning a grant to update the air conditioning and repair to the roof of the Parish Hall building. We have received bequests that exceed $ 200,000 and continue to look to movie companies to rent space from Grace. Goals for 2020 · Revise investment goals and indexes · Continue to monitor and maintain the properties · Continue fundraising events and sources of income · Develop a five-year plan to return to a break-even budget · Reestablish our mission of being a welcoming church to all · Continue to be transparent regarding the finances of Grace · Strength our advocacy and outreach missions I have always felt that Grace has never retreated from a challenge. When Grace is faced with a challenge, they have always reached deep and come to fulfill what it sets out to do. I am confident that the new leaders will continue to see the vision and move forward to accomplish these goals. I thank all for your confidence and support and hope you will continue this with the new leadership. 7 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 The Rev. Dr. Chip Graves Over this past year, I have worked closely with our vestry, ministry leaders, and many parish members. I cannot thank all of you enough for all that you've done to support me and this parish this past year. I came to Grace Episcopal Church in late January of 2019. My initial focus was to fulfill the primary points expressed to me by the search committee and vestry to include a focus on our worship, pastoral care, administration, community relationship between Grace and La Gracia and growth in parish membership and spirituality. I'd like to briefly share about each component. During each Sunday Fr. Adolfo and I work with Peter Roberts (the choir) and those assisting at the altar to ensure a solid worship experience. And we will continue, striving to improve. Our sermons focus on how the Gospel message of the day connects to our contemporary lives in which we live. In order to enhance our worship, we have implemented several things. First, we heard you wanted more hymns from Lifting Every Voice and Sing. Therefore, we have added them. We heard that you adore traditional services; therefore, we brought back the Requiem Mass, the Lessons and Carols and the Great Litany later this spring 2020. In addition, we have added a Rite 1 worship at 8:00 AM on Sunday and we are developing a new weekly Sunday afternoon Mass with Jazz Music, derived from our National Cathedral in Washington DC. Regarding Pastoral Care, I'd like to thank Sandy McAllister and her pastoral care team for all the work they do, visiting our home-bound members, unable to attend Sunday worship. In addition, Fr. Adolfo and I meet weekly with parishioners in need - at church, at home, at hospitals, at rehab centers and much more. I'd also like to thank Melanie Jackson and UTO members for stepping up from time to time helping with folks in need. Regarding Administration, I've worked closely with Maria Campos, trying to enhance our communication with all leaders and members at Grace Church. As we all know, Grace Church is an active place, literally engaging the White Plains community twenty-four-seven. We have developed a 12-month master working calendar, allowing leaders to know of projects to come. We are also developing a several hundred-page policies and procedures manual allowing for smoother operations in the future. Regarding the Building of Community between Grace and La Gracia members, we continue bilingual worship services. I meet regularly with La Gracia leaders for their input and insight. We have added La Gracia members to our vestry, and we continue to invite members from both Grace and la Gracia to attend each other's events. And lastly, we have focused on developing fundraisers that benefit both memberships, not just one or the other. 8 With regard to growing the church, we have done many things. One, I have followed up personally with newcomers, inviting them to private consultation in my office or at some convenient location in town. Two, we developed a new weekly Coffee Hour after 8 o'clock Mass, allowing our newcomers to get to know our regular members. Three, we have developed a new weekly Women's Bible Study, which has attracted many new women to our church. Four, we have developed a weekly video of our Sunday worship service on Facebook and therefore, we now have over 200 new people watching our service each week. Five, we are developing several new and exciting community events, events that will likely generate interest for newcomers. There is more to come. There are areas in which we can improve. First, we need more member participation in a few areas. We need volunteers to support our Sunday School teachers, the Altar Guild, serving on the altar and Pastoral Care. We gave out participation slips for you to fill in and give back to us. Please consider this. If you have interest, please let us know. These positions are essential to our church. I would be remiss, if I did not mention the white elephant in the room - our financial situation. In this past year we had some very positive financial news; several grants, a large bequest, Grace increased their non-pledge giving and la Gracia continues to grow their pledge and plate; however, we retain a very large deficit. Our large deficit is not insurmountable but must be addressed. Our deficit did not begin this past year but has been a trend for many years. Unless we stop this trend, Grace Episcopal Church will not have another 200 years. Therefore, our leadership is going to be proactively engaging this matter. We have begun a visionary process in order to determine our parish priorities and how to fund them. The priorities will come from you, the church members. Therefore, we ask you to participate. This process is a delicate dance that encompasses both the willingness to invest in new things allowing for growth, while at the same time, being willing to right size our expenses in order to live within our budget. As we move forward in this financial visioning process, we will follow some guidelines in order to ensure a positive outcome. First, all members are invited to these meetings. Second, we will focus on the future and not the past. Third, we will not focus on blame but possibilities. Fourth, we will be proactive; there will be a tangible outcome. Fifth, we will discuss with respect to one another's views. Sixth, we will be transparent. I look forward to this process and our enhanced community outcome. In closing, I want you to know that I truly love Grace Episcopal Church, rich in so many ways. God bless all of you, thank you for your support and I look forward to our continued blessings in 2020. God Bless, Fr. Chip Grace /La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report 2020 Associate Priest: The Rev. Adolfo Moronta Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievements, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019). 2020 marks my third year in this vibrant and diverse parish. During these three years a lot has happened. I have had the opportunity to work with very gifted rectors and an Interim (Rev. Richard Kunz, Rev. Judith Lee and now Rev. Chip Graves), I have by my side an incredibly talented and gifted committee of leaders who work closely with me. During 2019 I was involved in the life of the parish through many of its ministries, namely Eucharistic celebrations, preaching, funerals, pastoral care, various meetings, special activities, and the connections made with many of you. I have been working closely with Fr. Chip. We meet every week where we plan together the activities of Grace/La Gracia. I continued to make pastoral visits in homes and hospitals for both Grace and La Gracia. Father Chip and I met regularly with Sandy Gadsden McAllister, Chair of the Pastoral Care Team, to schedule monthly visits. I did 2 baptisms, and 2 weddings. Every Thursday at 12:05 pm I presided over the healing service and preached the first Sunday of every month for both the 8:00 am and the 10:00 am service, and when Father Chip was away. During Lent I was personally blessed for the third year in a row to be able to offer "Ashes to Go" at the train station from 6:00 AM until early afternoon. There I had the opportunity to pray, talk and offer ashes to more than 150 people. This was also an opportunity to reach those who were not our parishioners and let them know about Grace/La Gracia and the different services and ministries we have. We had a successful "Toy Drive" during December for Grace/La Gracia. Through this activity we not only collected toys to be given out to all the children, but we also received gifts cards and special gifts for all the youth of the church. The toy drive was an event that brought both ministries together as one. Unfortunately, on June of 2019 Fidel, the gentlemen I met in our Soup kitchen who was fighting his addiction to alcohol and who returned to Mexico with the help of many of you, died. I must say that Fidel helped me reaffirm the reason why I became a priest. I originally thought that my mission with Fidel was to help him, through a relationship with God, be cured of his alcoholism and recover to have a full and happy life. But God had a different plan. God's plan was for me to help Fidel to be healed — to find God, to be reunited with his mother, and to die in peace. I have learned two things from this experience. First, that no matter how hard I try as a priest I am not always going to get the outcome that I expect. Second, that we never know what a little bit of kindness can mean to those we care for. One of my most successful projects of 2019 was the School of Lay Leaders which I developed for La Gracia. The objective of this program is to empower our lay members to assume leadership positions in the church. Instructions include topics such as: The Bible, liturgy, spirituality, preaching, Church History and the Book of Common Prayer. The School meets twice a month with an average attendance of 20. 10 I feel blessed that we have had many so positive results within the Latino Ministry including increased attendance, renewal of their spiritual lives, increased stewardship and involvement in the life of Grace/La Gracia. In all, it is the blessing of the Lord towards this church that has allowed Grace/ La Gracia to get to where we are. I am grateful to Grace/ La Gracia for allowing me to do what I love the most - ministry. Goals for 2020 1) Continue to be a bridge between the English and the Latino ministries of this church. 2) Work closely with our Rector. 3) Keep contributing to the spiritual growth of the congregation. What resources we will need to get there: The overall support of the members of the parish. 11 Grace /La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 La Gracia The Rev. Adolfo Moronta Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievements, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019). Four of my main goals for La Gracia have been spiritual growth, building a strong community, church growth and increased participation in stewardship. All four have been accomplished throughout my three years with the Latino ministry. Spiritual growth has been achieved through a combination of elements: The Holy Eucharist, Bible Study, weekly Prayer Group meetings and retreats. When I preside for the Latino ministry any liturgical service participants get the opportunity to connect with the Lord through prayer, music and the sermon. These are all essential tools needed so people can establish a connection with the Lord, allowing them to go back to their homes touched by God and revitalized. To help create a strong community, we provide a series of activities such as lunch served every Sunday to all who attend the Eucharist. It is there that people get to know each other and create strong bonds of friendship and brotherhood. Additionally, we do a series of activities outside of the church such as Prayer Group meetings every Wednesday in the homes of parishioners, Bible Study, barbecues in the summer time, Posadas (in December) and once a year La Gracia does a major trip to a religious setting where we get the chance to come together as one community in Christ. In 2019 we went to the Shrine of the Divine Mercy and 110 attended. Stewardship: we have increased giving from a little over $5,000 a year to $33,000. This has been a result of the combined efforts of Charlotte Robertson, Cynthia Brown, Daisy Calderon and me. We still have a long way to go, but we are already seeing a positive improvement. Church Growth: the increase in attendance of La Gracia is a result of several factors: 1) our strong spiritual Sunday Eucharist 2) Prayer Group meetings which are an excellent way to gain new parishioners since the person hosting a specific Prayer Group meeting usually invites family members and friends who usually end up attending our Sunday Eucharist; 3) word of mouth. On July 26, 27 & 28 La Gracia held its annual retreat called Life in the Spirit Seminar. The Life in the Spirit Seminar (LISS) is an invitation to make or renew a deep personal commitment to Jesus Christ in openness to the Holy Spirit and His gifts. The retreat included speakers from both New York and New Jersey and was accompanied by joyful and spiritual music, prayer times and small group meetings where the participants shared their point of views, asked questions and formed a small community. Around 80 participated in this annual retreat which has an objective to: 1) Begin, renew or deepen a relationship with Jesus, 2) Motivate parishioners to a fuller participation in Parish Life, 3) Develop greater appreciation of Eucharist, 4) Deepen prayer life and 5) Increase study of Scripture. For the third consecutive year in 2019 we also had our annual fundraiser and the Toy Drive. The fundraiser is an event that not only celebrates the independence of Mexico and other Latin American countries, but also is a cultural festivity where those present will have the opportunity to see the national 12 dances from Mexico and Peru and Central American countries. In these three years this activity has raised over $6,000. We had a successful Toy Drive during December for Grace/La Gracia and more than 250 toys were received. These were distributed after the 10:00 AM and the 12:30 PM services. The toy drive was an event that brought both ministries together as one. Another three pluses in 2019 were 1) the relationship established between La Gracia and the Centro Hispano (Hispanic Center). This center offers a series of services and programs that highly benefit the Latino parishioners of La Gracia. 2) The Thursday service at 7:30 PM which has been quite successful and is very convenient for those parishioners who cannot make it to our Sunday service, it has an average attendance of 30-40. 3) The members of La Gracia who joined the Advocacy committee led by Michael Heffner. Besides the above, 2019 has been the year to empower our leaders. For this purpose, I developed one of my most successful projects of 2019 which was the School of Lay Leaders. The objective of this program is to empower our lay members to assume leadership positions in the church. Instructions include topics such as: The Bible, liturgy, spirituality, preaching, Church History and the Book of Common Prayer. The School meets twice a month with an average attendance of 20. Additionally, members of La Gracia have participated in different workshops and activities sponsored by the Diocese. I have sent groups of parishioners to different workshops such as: "I Want My Church to Grow." They also have attended the "Escuela Biblica de Liderazgo" of the Diocese. Additionally, 7 parishioners traveled to the Kanuga Conference Center in North Carolina to participate in the "Nuevo Amanecer Conference." Nuevo Amanecer is a conference that takes place every two years, where many successful lay and ordained leaders from the Latino Ministries of the Episcopal Church gather together in one place to learn and share their experiences. Nuevo Amanecer has various workshops and conferences that are offered to provide additional training to all those involved in Latino Ministry. I am also working to create strong ties between the Latino Congregations of the area: St Peters of Port Chester, San Andres in Yonkers, San Marcos in Tarrytown and San Bartolomeo in White Plains. Every year we have a series of joint activities including the Stations of the Cross during Lent, our Advent retreat, and a Healing Eucharist. From time to time, we visit and preach in each other's congregations. This shared ministry has been very beneficial to all of us since we not only create ties between our congregations but also, we get to share with each other our plans, challenges and needs. Where we hope to be in December 2020: (1-3 goals for 2020) 1. We want to continue to increase our Spanish-speaking membership. 2. Continue to hold special worship services that are also community gatherings (such as the celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the Posadas and our weekly Prayer Groups In the homes of our parishioners. 3. Have a major retreat during the summertime. 4. Continue to integrate and motivate La Gracia's members in all the major activities and ministries of Grace/La Gracia. What resources we will need to get there: 1. The commitment of the attendees of this ministry and the overall support of the Parish. 2. Funding. 13 2019 Statistics Register of Services - 2019 Sunday Holy Eucharists: 134 Weekday Holy Eucharists: 202 Private Administrations of Holy Communion: 105 Sunday Attendance Total: 12,847 Average Sunday Attendance: 267 Record of Baptisms in 2019 Ethan Jeremiah Black Jessie Joaquin Crafts Jacob Mendoza Duque Josiah Marlon Jayden McCalla Kassie Munoz Sandalee Ilena Koran — Rose Harrison James Simoglou Record of First Communions in 2019 — None (0) Record of Confirmed in 2019 — None (0) Record of Marriages in 2019 Miguel Angel Batista Rosas and Maria Eugenia Candelas Flores Steven Patierno and Amy MacPherson Steven McDermott and Taylor Zirpolit Funerals Held at Grace Church in 2019 Corine Addison Bradley Edward R. Hewitt Gloria E. Hewitt Marcelina Rivas Romero Gregory Carl Theodore Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Ministry/Committee Buildings & Grounds Chair: Walter Simon Co-Chair: Nate Hogan Members: Bill Biles, Bob Soso, Joyce Sampson, Arlene Grant Project Specific Members: Michael Heffner and Teri Surgent Committee Resource; Taurino Juarez Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019) We were successful is securing $173,000. in outside funding to address a series of needed improvements in the rectory, sanctuary and parish hall. The Bedell Fund provided $100,000 and $73,000 was provided by the City of White Plains and Westchester County through the efforts LUW. The second boiler is in the process of being brought back into operation; but, additional upgrading of the unit is still required. Significant investment in roof repairs were made; however, pointing and/or replacement of the stonework of sanctuary and the repair of the organ remain major challenges. Where we hope to be in December 2020: (1-3 goals for 2020) 1. Every organization to have neat and secured space for their items. We have a significant amount of storage space in the parish hall building that is poorly utilized. We started the process of space organization in the basement and will continue to process to the first and second floors. Unused items are being discarded and additional shelves are being built. However, the Buildings and Grounds Committee requires additional help to complete this and other projects. 2. Upgrade second boiler. 3. Selectively re-point critical areas of stonework that contribute water penetration into the building. What resources we will need to get there: Goal 1. Requires some funds from the B&G budget. The major resource needed is volunteer labor. Goal 2. Requires additional funding. Goal 3. Very careful management and allocation of B&G funds to achieve this goal. What is actually needed is additional capital spending to complete the project. It is a stretch objective to complete all the necessary repointing without it. 15 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Ministry/Committee: Technology/Communication Chair: Michael Heffner Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019) · Boosted the audio quality from our video source in the library. Will roll out additional sound bars as needed. · Worked with church member Wayne Elliott on streamlining our phone system (and expect to reduce the annual cost to the church by upwards of $8,000.00). · Work to continue to improve our live-streaming capacity (for the benefit of shut-ins and those who can't physically be at services/events). Our Facebook presence has been expanded considerably. Where we hope to be in December 2020: (1-3 goals for 2020) · Get a reliable Wi-Fi signal in place (for the guest network and the private network). Wayne Elliott is expected to play an expanded role in this initiative. · Continue to work on broadening our social media footprint. What resources we will need to get there: $3,000.00 annual budget and Volunteers! We need folks who are interested (no prior skills required). I will train you. 16 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Ministry: Stewardship Chair: Charlotte Roberson Co-Chair: Cynthia S. Brown Members: Daisy Calderon, Jim Brown, Elizabeth Carden Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019) The theme for 2019 was "New Beginnings". Father Chip Graves, ordained in 2019 as the Rector of Grace/La Gracia Church, has concentrated on the priorities set forth by the search committee, vestry and parish community. In terms of stewardship, he stressed creating a welcoming community, growing our parish, and the meaning of "being a good steward". Pledged Income for 2019: $304,279 Income Received Pledged $276,549.73 Unpledged $ 41,805.00 Loose Plate $ 25,023.31 Total $343,378.04 Where we hope to be in December 2020 (3 goals for 2020) · 10% increase in new members n 10% increase in realistic pledges · 10% increase in the number of fundraisers in 2020 What resources we will need to get there: n Year-round stewardship program · Additional parishioners volunteering for church functions · Pledging members reviewing their quarterly statements and fulfilling their pledges 17 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Ministry/ Committee: Altar Guild Chair: Brinda Bradley Members: Jo- Ann B. Boylan, Brinda Bradley, Gloria Chang, Lyris Cooper, Haydee DeLeon, Edith Gonzalez, Melanie Jackson, Sandy McAllister, Carol Mitchell, Ruth Theodore, Shirley Spencer, Audrey Taylor. Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019) · Maintain Altar Guild teams to provide preparation and clean up for all liturgies and all other functions in the church. · Order all supplies and maintain all vestments and linens for all church services. · Six members of the Grace/La Gracia Altar Guild signed up for the New York Altar Guild Workshop on Saturday, October 5, 2019, sponsored by The New York Altar Guild, Inc. The 3 members from La Gracia did not attend. · Extending a working relationship with La Gracia to establish a team to provide preparation and clean up for liturgies and functions held in the church. Where we hope to be in December 2020: (1-3 goals for 2020) · Maintain the Sacristy as a spiritual place, in preparation for worship · Establish Altar Guild teams from La Gracia to provide preparation and clean up for liturgies unique to La Gracia · Recruit new members to the Altar Guild What resources we will need to get there: · Cooperation of all organizations who use the Sacristy to return all items where they belong and not leave various articles all about. · I have schedule training for La Gracia Altar Guild members in February 2020 18 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] At Large: Ashley Elliot, Christopher Elliot, Uriel Reid, Shirley Spencer, Dana Walters Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019) The purpose of the Grace Church Acolyte is to aid and assist the clergy and congregation in prayer, praise and worship. This ministry is open to all youth of Grace Church starting around age 7, as well as adults of all ages. Our acolytes serve at both the 8:00 and 10:00 Sunday services, as well as various holiday services throughout the year, and their presence is an integral part of the service. In 2019 our group consisted of 34 acolytes, 24 youth and 10 adults, as well as 5 members at large This year, Kaylee Owens went off to college, and we are so grateful for her many years of dedication and service. Sam Brown began college this year as well, and we are blessed that he attends locally and is able to continue joining us on the altar. Our 3rd college freshman, Nikolas O'Hanlon chose to join us as a new member this year, and we are lucky to have him. A special thank you to Janine Daughtry who stepped up to serve in a moment of need, and also helped to organize monthly schedules behind the scenes. We look forward to having new and returning youth join us in the coming year and want to remind everyone that all are welcome! Where we hope to be in December 2020: (1-3 goals for 2020) 1. We hope to offer acolyte training on a quarterly basis. 2. We hope to add more adult acolytes to our ranks, and to have more adults licensed as Eucharistic Ministers. 3. We hope to continue to merge our practices with the acolytes who serve LaGracia, so that our bilingual services flow seamlessly and are fully inclusive. What resources we will need to get there: We appreciate the support of the parish, and anyone who is willing to give of their time once a month to serve at the altar of God. 19 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Ministry/Committee: Ushers Chair: Andrea R. Spencer Members: Please see below Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019) · We continue to serve Grace Church in the capacity of Greeters every Sunday and on special occasions such as Funerals and special events. · We are continually looking to recruit new Ushers due to vacancy from retirees. Ginger Waters and Paxton Louis have been ushering for over 30 plus years combined and have expressed that they would like to retire, once we have their replacements. We would like to give a big thank you for their many years of service. Where we hope to be in December 2020: (1-3 goals for 2020) · We hope to complete the Active Shooter training for all our Usher teams and assign roles to specific Ushers in each team. · We would like to continue to work closely with the Eucharistic Ministry, Acolytes, Altar Guild, Lay Eucharistic Ministry and Clergy to help streamline the flow of our service. · Later in the year we hope to have new training and review of procedures. What resources we will need to get there: Resources will be determined as per needs. Members: Team 1 - First Sunday of the Month Jane Washington-Captain, Carmen Greenidge, James Henderson, Maria Lewis, Matthew Reid, Camille Worrell Team 2 - Second Sunday of the Month Ginger Waters—Captain, Paxton Louis, Olivet Williams, Hillary Fleming, Lisa Daley Team 3 - Third Sunday of the Month Delroy Chang- Captain, Bob Soso, Al Sargeant, Shirley Spencer, Jean Wilson, Margaret Bloomfield Team 4 - Fourth Sunday of the Month Michael Heffner—Captain, Gloria Chang, Jo-Ann B Boylan, Giovanni Green, Andrea Spencer Team 5 - Fifth Sunday of the Month Sam Brown, Anna Kristina O'Hanlon, Nikolas O'Hanlon, James Heffner, Michael Heffner 20 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Ministry/Committee: Lay Readers Chair: Ray Williams/Michael Heffner Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019) · Added new voices as readers at the Sunday and Special Services. · Working with the Usher Guild to make sure that readers have access to the portable podium (where necessary) — and that substitutes for absent readers are found prior to the beginning of services. Where we hope to be in December 2020: (1-3 goals for 2020) · Welcome any interested readers. What resources we will need to get there: · Training on how to best use the microphones (for voice projection). 21 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Ministry/Committee: Grace Church Choir Chair: Peter Roberts Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2020) The Grace Church Choir is comprised of volunteers, professional singers (section leaders), and college students (music majors), when needed. This group is dedicated to enriching and illuminating the gospel through song and instrumental playing. The choir is committed to maintaining a varied repertoire: From English cathedral music to Taize chants, spirituals, jazz, and music from the folk traditions. Our goal is to complement the readings and to celebrate the Gospel's message of Love, Hope and Deliverance. Our youth choir, the St. Nicholas Choir, consists of children ages 6-15. This choir meets after church and performs on the third Sunday of the month for the monthly family service. This choir also seeks to maintain diversity in the selection of music for worship. Both the adult Choir and the St. Nicholas Choir did an exceptional job in 2019. In December 2019, the choirs performed a very moving service of Lessons and Carols to usher in the Christmas season. Over the summer, the adult Choir sang beautifully at the installation of the Rev. Chip Graves the newly appointed rector of Grace Church/ la Gracia. Other notable services included a service to honor the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, services to celebrate Black History Month, a service of remembrance in November featuring the Faure Requiem, and services performed throughout Holy Week and the Easter season. I am pleased to report that the St. Nicholas Choir is expanding their repertoire, to include both new music repertoire and movement. The St. Nicholas Choir is now integrating the shadow screen to further illuminate both music and the text. Where we hope to be in December 2018: (1-3 goals for 2020) One goal for 2020 is to continue to expand the choir repertoire. Moving forward I would like to perform more contemporary works, as well as works written by women and African American composers. I will continue to focus on finding music appropriate and suitable for the St. Nicholas choir. My goal is to continue to expand their repertoire to make the experience of singing in a choir meaningful for them. What resources we will need to get there: The Choir is currently on an austerity budget. As such any new music purchased last year, was gifted. Also because of the austerity budget musicians and instrumentalists who previously were hired to perform for special services were not invited. Going forward, I am hopeful that the choir will continue the fund-raising efforts begun in 2019. Through fund raising and with the largesse of individual donors, I am hopeful that the adult Choir and the St. Nicholas choir will be able to purchase new music to expand their repertoire and guest musicians will be invited to perform 22 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Ministry/Committee: Youth Christian Education: Sunday School, Rite 13, Journey to Adulthood (J2A) Chair: Donna Louis Members: Teachers: Linda Gallo, Lyndsey Wall (Lambs); Leigh Burton, Andrea Lacourciere- MacLeish (Primary); Michael Heffner, Cynthia Sangurima-Brown (Intermediate); Donna Louis, George O'Hanlon (Rite 13); Lauren Reid, Rudye Breach (J2A) Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019) Our program is based on a holistic teaching approach comprised of faith instruction, involvement in service to the Church (acolytes, choir members, ushers, lay readers), service to the community and fellowship. We achieve these objectives through our class meetings, events combining our classes and participation in worship service and community service projects. The youth education program has had a strong first half of the school year. In addition to our individual class meetings, we have achieved fellowship through our all Sunday school bread baking event, a well-attended and enthusiastically enjoyed bowling outing, a very successful Christmas pageant and extensive participation in the acolyte, choir, ushering and lay reader programs and ongoing participation in Grace's Kitchen. Last year's move to have Rite 13 and J2A meet during the regular Sunday Church meeting time, in order to address inconsistent attendance, has been successful for Rite 13. We have decided that for J2A members, we will have a once a month meeting on Sunday late afternoon/evening over a dinner. This will help to address schedule conflicts our high schoolers have with meeting earlier on Sunday. Technology enhancements continue in our classrooms, and we have also installed a bell outside of the hallway door entrance to the classrooms, to facilitate entry into the area, while at the same time maintaining security. Where we hope to be in December 2020: (1-3 goals for 2020) We continue to pursue our ongoing goal of growing our Youth Education program. This includes communicating with new parishioners with children, encouraging our existing families to bring friends and to educate our broader Grace community on our education program and objectives. We also attempt to recruit new teachers through personal contact, bulletin announcements and in-service announcements. A second goal is to continue to innovate our program to make it more exciting for our members. These include increased use of technology, combining events with other Church youth groups and soliciting ideas from parents, parishioners and clergy. What resources we will need to get there: Our greatest asset and greatest need is continued support from the Grace Church community. We appreciate the trust you place in us to teach your children. We depend on your support of our activities, our budget and our strong desire to enhance and expand our program. As you become aware of children whose families might be interested in our program, please send them our way! 23 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Ministry/Committee: Advocacy Committee Chair: Michael Heffner Co-Chair: Sorraya Sampson Members: Katy Toolin, Daisy Calderon, Walter Simon, Daniel Corsanego, Mary Baker, Linda Heusser, Giovanni Green, Priscilla Read Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019) · Hosted 3 forums in 2019/Early 2020: Advocacy Forum - April 7th (11:30 am) Met in the library (25 in attendance). Fr. Adolfo Moronta spoke about specific experiences of members of La Gracia with immigration issues to help the Grace community see that the threat of ICE and deportation is very much an issue within our church, not just in the surrounding community. Fr. Hilario Albert (Priest-in-Charge) spoke about the involvement of St. Peter's in Port Chester with immigration issues to give us ideas as to how Grace/ La Gracia might become involved. Daisy Calderon and Daniel Corsanego shared personal stories. Advocacy Forum — November 3rd (11:30am) Met in the parish hall (85 in attendance). Grace Church-La Gracia was fortunate to have four esteemed panelists join us on Sunday, November 3 for a lively discussion on a broad range of topics. Mayor Thomas Roach, County Legislator Alfreda Williams, White Plains Police Chief Joseph Castelli and Sergeant Madelin Cano were our featured speakers. Mayor Roach established that the City of White Plains is tacitly (if not officially) a "sanctuary city" defined by its protection of citizen's rights in all of it interactions. U.S. government officials are never contacted in the case of citizens finding themselves in the custody of the police (he did qualify that anyone committing a crime should not expect to enjoy this protection). County Legislator Williams echoed the mayor's comments by stating that Westchester County shares a similar policy. She further established that there are a number of existing organizations that serve as advocacy resources that would partner well with Grace-La Gracia. Chief Castelli and Sergeant Cano were uniform in creating a sense of unity that binds the police force with the interests of Grace-La Gracia. Understanding that houses of worship are potential targets for acts of violence, Chief Castelli shared suggestions for action plans that Grace-La Gracia will likely pursue. Sergeant Cano (who is bilingual) added a layer of openness to the Q&A session as some members in the audience were more comfortable posing questions in their native language. The panel's willingness to stay for the full meeting (and after for some individual conversations) was a solid statement about their commitment to the idea of working with Grace-La Gracia as we move toward growing our advocacy initiative. This was a very productive step that is likely to be followed by more forums (some were suggesting that we take the meetings to the church — rather than the parish hall - to gain a wider audience). 24 Census Sunday 2020 - January 12th Father Chip and I met with County Executive George Latimer and his team in November and learned that Grace Church/La Gracia can play an important role in the upcoming Census as a "trusted voice in the community". A new school to ease overcrowded classrooms. A new road to ease overcrowded commutes. There are many ways the 2020 Census can shape your community. The results collected once a decade, help determine how billions of dollars in federal funding flow into states and communities each year. (https://2020census qov) Karen M Barnes, Partnership Specialist - U.S. Census Bureau will be joining us (during announcements) at the 8, 10 and 12:30pm (in Spanish) Services to address concerns, answer questions and share how we can be involved. (Event summary) We had a very productive Census Day at Grace/La Gracia this past Sunday. Karen Barnes and 2 of her partners from the Census Bureau were at each of the 3 services. Presentations were made during announcements (-7 minutes) and then they made themselves available to discuss the Census completion process (9 questions) and job opportunities ($23 per/hr. in Westchester County)/volunteer opportunities. All were very pleased with the outcome. The translation service at the 12:30pm service was invaluable. Grace Church/La Gracia continues to shine as a trusted location/voice in our community Where we hope to be in December 2020: (1-3 goals for 2020) · Making plans to host a film event in the Spring (with content that addresses advocacy) · The expansion of the breadth of advocacy coverage to include the environment and advocacy for the aged (in nursing homes/assisted living facilities). · More forums. What resources we will need to get there: More members! 25 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Ministry/Committee: Lifting Up Westchester Liaison: Linda Gallo Members: Joseph Gallo, Walter Simon, Barbara Wiggins Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019) Grace Church continues to avidly support the work of Lifting Up Westchester (LUW). Many parishioners-young, mature, new and longtime members- faithfully serve those who utilize the services of Grace's Kitchen on federal holidays. Parishioners continue their practice of faith by providing sustenance for guests by serving and bringing those special "extras" for those who are greeted with genuine smiles and graciousness. By serving, it gives Anna the day off to enjoy a holiday. Twice annually, Grace Church parishioners hear the call to assist two programs of LUW. The Summer Camp by providing gift cards so children who attend (many who live in shelters) the opportunity to attend camp and perhaps learn to swim or build upon the vital knowledge of how to swim. In 2019, Grace Church provided 96 gift cards for camper swimsuits, enough for each camper. Christmas saw Grace Church providing 77 gift cards in grocery bags to be distributed to those who might not be able to have a personal holiday. Happily, each of those grocery bags went to families of our youth programs. Each year, Grace has increased its generosity in its outreach to people receiving services through LUW. It is significant to note that ECW has also contributed Christmas gifts to the women of Samaritan House. Because 2019 was the 40th anniversary of the founding of what is now known as Lifting Up Westchester, its founders were honored and recognized at the annual gala. The Board of Directors are grateful to those who not only had the vision of outreach who also lived the vision. The Board of Directors hopes that this relationship continues for at least the next 40 years. There are new programs to support Westchester County residents whose needs transcend the acute. New programming includes outreach of services during Grace's Kitchen hours and beyond. LUW staff will be available to advise about services needed (food, shelter, medical services, etc.) extending through 4:00 PM, Monday-Friday. New housing coordinators and counselors are the support network for residents who have moved from LUW shelters to their own housing. This support has already ensured that a very small recidivism rate is successful. Because of generous donations, the Youth Services programs, (Summer Camp, Mentoring, STEM programs, etc.) continue to grow, reaching more students. Through cooperation and collegiality, Grace church and LUW have worked to improve the kitchen and Samaritan House facilities. Future projects are being planned. 26 Where we hope to be in December 2020: (1-3 goals for 2020) Goals for 2020 include: · Continued communication and relationship and support of LUW programming · Increase in volunteering with the Community Outreach of LUW n Exploration of financial grants to enhance the facilities utilized by LUW programs · Continued financial support of programs meeting the needs of Westchester County citizens whose need are not only short term but long term as well. What resources we will need to get there: The most important resource is mutual communication and support from both LUW and Grace Church. 27 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2019 Ministry/Committee: Pastoral Care (Eucharistic Visitors) Chair: Sandy Gadsden-McAllister Members: Marie A. Barrow; Cynthia R. Cole; Lisa A. Daley; Sandy Gadsden- McAllister; Arlene Grant; Judith A. Hutton; Eileen McClean; Cecelia E. Peagler; Carolyn Rogers; Joyce C. Sampson; Audrey A. Taylor; Raywald A. Williams Where we are now (December 2018): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2018) During 2018 ten Eucharistic Visitors administered 196 communions to approximately 7 parishioners on a monthly basis. Each visit consists of communion being given to parishioners, bringing greetings and information from the parish to ensure that they are kept current with the happenings at Grace Church. Any correspondence issued during the month, particularly the Angelus are given to the parishioner. On the 4th Sunday of each month, Eucharistic Visitors participate in a healing service. The card ministry of Pastoral Care distributed or mailed 182 cards to parishioners; birthday, sympathy, get well and thinking of you. We accomplished most of our goals for 2018; We held a successful retreat for Pastoral Care on March 17, 2018, Co-sponsored with the Diocese of NY Eucharistic Ministers Training on April 21, 2018, created a procedure for maintaining the names on the prayer list. Where we hope to be in December 2018: (1-3 goals for 2019) 1- Refine the maintenance process for adding and maintaining names on the prayer list. 2- Revisit establishing a telephone ministry that focuses on prayer 3- Redefine when and how we do the monthly healing service 4- Schedule quarterly meeting and another Pastoral Care Committee retreat (invite other parishes from the area) What resources we will need to get there: More members on the Pastoral Care Committee, budget for purchasing cards and postage for the card ministry. Funding for hosting a Pastoral Care Retreat that includes inviting other parishes in the area. Respectfully Submitted Sandy Gadsden-McAllister, Chair, Pastoral Care Committee 28 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Ministry/Committee Welcoming Chair: Sylvia Simon Team Leaders Gloria Chang, Carole Lashley, Jane Washington Team Members: Laura Auld, Carmen Antoine, Leigh Burton, Cynthia Brown, Pettie Griffith, Judy Hutton Augustina Kumar, Nicole Mangum, Trisha McGuiness, Kassie Munoz, Susan Porcino, Monique Reynolds, Barbara Santos, Erika Santos, Katy Toolin, Lyndsey Wall Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019) We began the year undecided about the direction of the committee. After discussion, we decided to create four teams consisting of five members on each team to assist volunteer hosts. Ideally, a team only needs to assist once a month. This structure has lessened the workload for each member and has provided a much more collaborative and supportive environment. We continue to host special events, celebrations and discussions. We try to encourage everyone to attend coffee hour Fr Chip and Taurino have implemented a coffee hour after 8:00 AM service. Parishioners really appreciate this addition Where we hope to be in December 2020: (1-3 goals for 2020) 1. 1 Continue to fine-tune the new team structure, Recruit a new chairperson. 2. Encourage more parishioner to volunteer to host. 3. Would like to add focused discussions during coffee hour on various topics of interest to parishioners. What resources we will need to get there: While we receive some donations, they are minimal, so we hope the vestry will continue to financially support the committee. We welcome ideas and/or suggestions for improvement and enhancement of this important mission. 29 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Ministry/Committee S.A.G.E (Seniors at Grace Episcopal) Chair: Marie Barrow Members: Elsie A, Bernice B, Jo-Ann B, Jo B, Carole C, Harvey C, Barbara G, Dorothy L, Uriel R, Al S, Heather S, Shirley S, Joyce P, Cecile F, Sylvia H Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019) S.A.G.E continues to meet monthly and to discuss different topics and issues based on our needs and interests. We have been fortunate to have Father Chip and Father Adolfo be a part of many of our monthly meetings. They have shared prayers, given communion, done sing-a-longs and actively participates in many of our topics. Our meetings are lively with generous sharing of ideas and experiences. We have prayed laughed cried and supported each other as we share, listen and tell our stories. Sadly, we have lost a few members due to illness and relocation. We miss them dearly but wish them all the best. Luckily, we have gained new members. Some are able to be with us each week while others make surprise visits based on health issues. Where we hope to be in December 2020: (1-3 goals for 2020) Our goals are to continue to have: 1. Monthly meetings 2. To continue full and active participation from most of our members 3. To complete our S.A.G.E Directory What resources we will need to get there: We need continued reservation of the library on the first Wednesday of each month from 1:30 PM-3:00PM 30 Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Ministry/Committee: Episcopal Church Women Chair: Melanie Jackson Members: Irene Alves, Laura Auld, Marie Barrow, Gloria Chang, Cynthia Cole, Edythe Horne, Judith Hutton, Carole Lashley, Trisha McGuinness, Joyce Pickering, Monique Reynolds, Andrea Spencer, Shirley Spencer, Audrey Taylor, Jane Washington and Melanie Jackson Where we are now (December 2019): Achievements: · In January 2019 we had a holiday party at Via Garibaldi Restaurant, 21 women of Grace attended. (Jan. 2020 party saw an increase to 33 women and included women of La Gracia). · Coordinated the Spring ($923.98) and Fall ($451) United Thank Offerings · Easter Raffle- proceeds went to monetary gifts for our high school graduates · Father's Day Breakfast and Coffee Hour · Outing to Westchester Broadway Theater to see "On Your Feet." · Contribution to Hurricane Dorian Relief · Donation to Lifting Up Westchester in memory of our departed sister Cecilia Peagler. · Holiday raffle and collection of toiletries for the women of Samaritan House. 17 Shower totes filled with various items were assembled and donated. We have begun a "visioning" process which includes looking at our values as individuals and as a group. We will also look at our past and where we are now so that we can clarify our purpose and create a vision statement for the future. Challenges: · Developing a vision and ways in which to fulfill our vision. · Providing a variety of activities which connect to our vison, make a difference and enrich our spiritual lives. · Increasing membership and attracting younger women. Unfinished business: · We are continuing the visioning process. Where we hope to be in December 2020: (1-3 goals for 2020) We hope to have completed our visioning process, clarified our purpose and developed a mission statement for the future. We want to explore ways to carry out the mission in meaningful and relevant ways. We would like to fellowship with the women of La Gracia on a regular basis. As always "We aspire to be a God spark-shining and sharing the love of Christ." (from A Vision for Episcopal Church Women). What resources we will need to get there: · The continued commitment of our current members. · New members. · The continued support of our parish, Vestry, Associate Priest and Rector. 31 Grace Church Book Club Now in its 21st year, the Grace Church Book Club was launched in 1999 with Toni Morrison's story of Beloved. Over 160 books and five films later, the Grace Church Book Club is still going strong. Recent book selections to date have included: 2018-2019 An American Marriage by Tayari Jones The Art of Hearing Heartbeats by Jan-Philipp Sendker Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue Chariot on the Mountain by Jack Ford Fear by Bob Woodward The Other Einstein: A Novel by Marie Benedict We are Called to Rise by Laura McBride When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi 2019-2020 Becoming by Michelle Obama Eleanor and Hick by Susan Quinn Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng Flight Behavior: A Novel by Barbara Kingsolver Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J.D. Vance The Immoralists by Chloe Benjamin Invisible: The Forgotten Story of the Black Woman Lawyer Who Took Down America's Most Powerful Mobster by Stephen L. Carter Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens Films: Angela's Ashes, The DaVinci Code, Eyes Beyond Seeing, White Oleander, The Help Special Honors: In January 2003, Grace Messiah presented the book club with a special copy of Cane River signed author, Lalita Tademy. Book Club Library: If you've ever thought, 'I'm going to read that book club book one day,' we've made it extra easy—we've built a library within a library. Select book club books donated by members are available on a first-come first-served basis on the top left bookshelves in the church library. To check out a book, simply find and sign the appropriate sign-out sheet in the marked binder shelved with the books. When you've finished, simply return the book to the bookshelf Mission: Our mission is simply to create a social connection through shared reading that is enriching, enlightening and entertaining. Founding, Past and Current Members: Irene Alves, Jean Marie Angelo, Laura Auld, Mary Baker, Barbara Biles, Barbara Brown, Verna Brown, Norene Bueti, Dr. Valencia Carroll, Carole Carter, Karen Finkbe, Ella Fitzgerald, Vilma France, Linda Gallo, Arlene Roberts Grant, Rev. Gawain de Leeuw, Linda Heusser, Louise Holsapple, Dorothy Jackson, Ray LaVigne, Joan Lemond, Dr. Barbra McCune, Trisha McGuinness, Dr. John Mitchell, Karen Odom, Mural Patrick, Margaret Broomfield Parkinson, Ann Post, Angie Poulos, Monica Powell, Lorraine Reid, Cynthia Sangurima-Brown, Monica Scantlebury, Christine Scott-Deutsch, Francoise Simon, Sylvia Simon, Phyllis Shwedo, Jennifer Telford, Katy Toolin, Jane Washington We welcome new members! Join us every month or just for one meeting. If you're interested or have a suggestion for a good read, contact Karen Odom at karenodom@yahoo.com or 914.523.7693. Submitted by Karen Odom Grace La Gracia Episcopal Church Grace Church is a diverse congregation committed to a common life sustained by worship. We bear witness to God's love in Christ through our life together and our Service to the wider community. All are welcome! "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." [2 Corinthians 5:17] Annual Report: January 2020 Ministry/Committee: WALK OF GRACE Chair: Arlene Roberts Grant Where we are now (December 2019): (Achievement, challenges, and unfinished business of 2019) The Walk of Grace project is your opportunity to play an active role in beautifying our church grounds. Parishioners have the special opportunity of engraving the pathway stones along the front and side of the church. The net profit from Walk of Grace donations are used to maintain and enhance the grounds surrounding the church. To date, the Walk of Grace project has received 42 donations. After engraving expenses, net proceeds of roughly $6,400 have made the following gifts possible: n Landscape Upgrade with mature evergreen, perennial and annual plants · Urn Planters n Sprinkler System installation Where we hope to be in December 2020: (1-3 goals for 2020) Additional donor support will allow us to make further enhancements and address a number of maintenance issues presently under consideration: · Repair/repaint fencing surrounding the church. · New security gate in rear adjacent to park · Shift Walk of Grace layout (near benches) for a continuous flow of engraved names · Replace damaged concrete benches at church entrance: Whole sections of concrete have broken off due to the elements and, as a result, the supporting steel frame is what you're actually sitting on! What resources we will need to get there: To date, proceeds from the Walk of Grace project have nearly been exhausted. We encourage you to consider participating in the project by donating a full stone beginning at $400, a half stone starting at $225 or for $100 you can engrave 1 name on a group stone along with four other donors. Engravings can be in memory of a loved one, in thanksgiving of family or in celebration of a family event. Each stone is approximately 2 feet wide and placement along the Walk of Grace is on a first come, first serve basis. We're hopeful many of you will choose to participate in the project so that, ultimately, the Walk of Grace will reflect the diversity of our Grace/La Gracia congregation. As each section is completed the Walk of Grace becomes a beautiful mosaic of the engraved names of those we love and an attractive representation to our larger White Plains community. We thank you in advance for your support and look forward to strolling along the Walk of Grace with you in memory, thanksgiving or in celebration! 33

Restoring hope to Westchester County’s men, women and children in need by providing them with food, shelter and support– and lifting them to greater self-sufficiency with dignity and respect. Vision Statement Lifting Up Westchester respects the dignity and full potential of every individual. We assist those struggling to overcome the challenges of poverty, homelessness, hunger, health and education. We work with men, women and children as they create their own unique path to a more fulfilling, healthy and independent life. Striving to never turn anyone away, we enlist the generosity of a caring community through donations and volunteerism. https://www.liftingupwestchester.org/our-mission-vision/

Clips from Recent Concerts - 2016/2017 Season https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUm1TV3BnaE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWohxaB6yDQ&feature=em-subs_digest About DTMusic http://dtmusic.org/ Downtown Music at Grace is a non-profit performing arts organization located in the heart of White Plains, NY, a small city located a half hour north of New York City. Downtown Music was founded in 1988 by Timothy Lewis, Music Director and Organist of Grace Church. The mission of Downtown Music is to provide an oasis of art and culture in the heart of White Plains. The organization's current programs include Noonday Getaway Concerts, half- hour concerts taking place on Wednesdays at noon; Weekend Discoveries , which are full length concerts taking place on Sunday afternoons or Saturday evenings; Concerts on Tour, our outreach program consisting of 30+ concerts annually in nursing homes, hospitals and rehabilitation centers; and Downtown Music’s Arts-In-Education Program, a series of three concerts specially designed for schoolchildren in grades K-12. Downtown Music’s roster of artists features high-quality professional musicians who enjoy the opportunity to make music in an intimate, beautiful setting. Many of our artists have performed at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, and major international venues. Resident Ensembles Our three resident ensembles enable Downtown Music to offer a more diverse program of music. Downtown Sinfonietta is composed of professional musicians from the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and other major New York ensembles, and performs several concerts throughout the season. Downtown Music Chorus features 16 professional singers, drawn from the ranks of New York’s finest choirs. West Point Brass, a small ensemble of eight players, is called on for special celebratory performances throughout the season. Guest Artists Downtown Music provides a prestigious showcase for professional musicians, 70% of whom return often to perform. Guest artists include internationally-recognized artists and local professional performers across a wide spectrum of musical talent. Noted for its diversity of programming, Downtown Music stars have included Mariachi Real de Mexico, the Voices of Ascension, several members of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, as well as jazz great Jay Hoggard.