Welcome Sunday at Saint Barnabas on Sunday, September 8, was a joyous celebration of community and inclusivity. It was centered around the theme “Continuing our Journey in Abundance, Wonder & Joy,” inspiring all in attendance as we listened to each other’s stories. Our parish hall was filled with happy faces sharing a delightful breakfast before our welcome forum started. It was a meaningful opportunity to kick-start the program year and embrace new faces, renew friendships, and strengthen the sense of belonging within our community.
The Rev. Dan Burner opened the event and expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome he’s received over the past six months as our interim rector. Moved by the community’s generosity and deep sense of Christian fellowship, he praised the congregation for its dedication and the spirit it has cultivated and closed with a nod to this year’s theme, “Continuing Our Journey in Abundance, Wonder & Joy“. Click the video below to see all the highlights:
Saint Barnabas has long been a place of warmth and belonging, where everyone is welcome. Parishioner Chelsea Stanton shares her personal story, offering a glimpse into the meaningful connections that have drawn her to this faith community. Through her experiences, she highlights the deep bonds and shared journeys that make Saint Barnabas a spiritual home for so many.
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“My husband and I have been coming to Saint Barnabas since 2018, and we have two young children, one seven and one three. In a conversation with Sarah Peterson, I shared what Saint Barnabas means to me—it’s like a village. Sarah told me something that resonated: `The village is there for you; you just have to enter.’ I found this statement so powerful because there’s a space for you if you’re entering to gain a deeper understanding of scripture, grow in your faith, find peace, develop a sense of community, or heal your wounds. I believe I’ve received all of these things in abundance.
What initially drew me into this village were the sermons. The first sermon I attended moved me to tears. It brought me such peace and clarity on things I had been wrestling with in my mind, and I felt compelled to keep coming. Since then, I’ve continued to receive so much from Saint Barnabas—not just through the sermons but also through meaningful conversations with the reverends, whether in small groups, large groups, or one-on-one. The contemplative life here is interwoven with our time at Saint Barnabas. I’ve participated in quiet days and Wednesday meditation, which have given me the opportunity to pause, connect with God, and move forward with intentionality. I believe these practices have transformed the way I live.
The collaborative faith formation here—building community, being heard, listening to others, and growing in the wisdom of our shared community—has been incredibly powerful. When I was speaking with Sarah, I reflected on why my family has become so deeply embedded in this village. My husband serves on the vestry, we attend church every Wednesday, we’re here on Sundays, we participate in all the events, and we go to Chapel Rock. Two aspects, in particular, have anchored us here: the intergenerational community and the overwhelming love surrounding Saint Barnabas. One story that captures the power of this intergenerational community happened on a Wednesday when my son, Vance, who was only one and not yet verbal, was on the playground. He stood, staring longingly at the swings. I was watching curiously nearby when an older child noticed him, picked him up without a word, and began to swing him. That child was soon called away to play in the grass, and Vance’s swing slowed. Another child saw him and came over to push him again. This happened several times until a parent with a child of a similar age came over, placed his child in the adjacent swing, and pushed them both. That parent took Vance out of the swing when it was time to go inside. It was such a powerful moment to witness the community care for each other in such a simple yet profound way.
The second aspect that deeply touched our hearts is the immense love surrounding this place. One story in particular brings tears to my eyes. My daughter, Ellie, and I were in the car, and I had just bought her a special art project. I encouraged her to work hard on it and give it as a gift to someone. I suggested a person, and after some thought, Ellie said, ‘I’d really like to give this to Aunt Jennifer.’ We have an Aunt Jennifer we rarely see, so I was surprised. I asked Ellie why she wanted to give it to her, and she replied, ‘Oh no, I mean the Jennifer we call Aunt at Saint Barnabas.’ She was referring to Reverend Jennifer. It was such a powerful moment for me because it showed how Ellie feels about this community—it’s family to her. The fact that she chose the word “Aunt” revealed the depth of connection she feels here. For our family, entering this village has brought us joy, wonder, love, and abundance. And I am so grateful for it.” – Chelsea Stanton
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Rev. Robert Berra encouraged the congregation to reflect on how they can continue to nurture the essence of St. Barnabas by sharing their stories and excitement. He emphasized the theme of “Continuing the Journey in Abundance, Wonder, and Joy,” urging everyone to embrace curiosity and a discerning heart. As the church searches for a new rector, he reminds the community that everything they need is already present and asks them to consider how they can grow, serve, and deepen their faith in the year ahead.
Browse the photo gallery below for some highlights of the event:
