While summer rightly brings a slower pace and a lighter schedule, here at Nativity it’s definitely a season full of new opportunities and some great growth. Take a look.
Summer Message Series
It has become our custom to turn to what we call “summer format” when it comes to our weekend messages in July and August. In this format I offer only a brief homily at the proper time during Mass and then, following Mass we offer the message. This gives me somewhat of a break from preaching every week and the congregation a break from me. It also allows them to hear from some other voices. Additionally, we can use the summertime to explore themes that don’t always easily emerge from the Lectionary.
We’re embracing the season with not one, but two summer message series designed to meet parishioners right where they are—whether that’s in the pew or on the beach with their earbuds in. Both series will be lighter, and a little more relaxed, but still packed with meaningful content to help people grow in their faith.
Kids and Student Programs
The parish is buzzing with excitement (and a little glitter) as Vacation Bible School gets underway. It’s one of our favorite weeks of the year as kids discover faith through music, games, storytelling, and, well, fun. Meanwhile, our middle school students will be heading into “Camp GO.” It’s a summer camp with a mission mindset—faith in action, fun included.
Mission Trips & Service Projects
Adults, young adults, and high school students will be out on mission this summer, traveling to serve communities in need near and far, and growing in their faith along the way. Across three trips, missionaries are stepping into the mission field in Kenya, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic. For the first time, we have three other churches joining Nativity on these trips.
Locally, we’ve opened up the Poppleton Recreation Center, just in time for summer programming, providing a space for young people and families in West Baltimore to connect, stay active, and build community. And of course the half-dozen local partners we work with throughout the year, like Franciscan Center, My Sister’s Place, and Helping Up Mission, will continue to provide plenty of service opportunities all summer long.
The Wonder Campaign: Next Steps
Thanks to the support of so many parishioners, we’re moving forward with the Wonder Campaign. This summer we’re taking the next big step—hiring a general contractor—bringing us closer to “shovel in the ground” in the next couple of years. Stay tuned for updates as we continue to dream, design, and, eventually, dig!
A New Book in the Works
We’re also excited to share that work has begun on a new book project. While it’s still early in the process, we’re drawing from everything God has been doing in and through our church over the past few years. We hope it will inspire and equip other churches—and encourage our own parishioners—to take bold steps in faith.
Summer Cleaning & Care
Behind the scenes, summer is also a time for refreshing and renewing all our spaces—kids and student rooms, lobbies, worship areas, and storage rooms are all getting attention. It’s not just good stewardship, its actually part of our commitment to excellence and hospitality, making sure our campus is clean, welcoming, and ready for the fall season ahead.
And it will be here before you know it, so make the most of the summertime!
