March 21, 2020

A message from Myra Noustens, our friendly neighborhood family therapist and fellow parishioner:
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Just Breathe

Yes, we are all going thorugh a troubling time where things tend to feel different and uncertain. Though there are many things out of our control at present, there are also many things that we CAN and SHOULD do to take good care of ourselves mentally and physically.

1. Turn off the news, cell phones, and social media. Take time to reboot yourself and detach from it all. There is such a thing as too much information!

2. Start a hobby. Here at the Noustens' ranch, we are sewing, working on puzzles, and taking deep breaths. 

3. Practice mindfulness. Focus on 5 things that you see, 4 things that you hear, and 3 things that you smell. Stay focused on the moment and BREATHE.

4. Get a good night's sleep and eat right. We all know that binge eating rises during times of stress. Try eating a smoothie with fresh fruits and spinach for breakfast; at least you're starting your day off better.

5. And most importantly, JUST BREATHE. Take your time and BREATHE again. As Christians, we are all aware that God Has This and he will not plop us in the valley of the shadow of death. He states in Psalm 23 that he will lead us through this.

My prayers and love goes out to you all,
Myra D. Noustens, MSW, LCSW

Sunday Services and Weekly Programs, Events, and Groups
While all in-person events are cancelled until further notice, we are providing alternative ways of praying and being together. The gates of the church may be locked, but you can virtually attend church. We may be "socially distanced," but we do not have to be liturgically isolated.

For example:
Sunday's worship will be livestreamed at 8:00 am here: http://www.facebook.com/staugmet/ 

You can also watch it at any time thereafter. Our Spanish mass will also be livestreamed at this same site, but at 9:30 (also available any time thereafter). 

Weekday Morning Prayer is also available "live" at 9:00 am, Monday-Friday.

Kate Smith will also post a brief video utilizing our "Lent in a Bag" kit. You can find it on the St. Augustine's Facebook page once a week. Check it out and be sure to share your thoughts and insights in the comments.

Collect for the Sick
Heavenly Father, giver of life and health: Comfort and relieve thy sick servants, and give thy power of healing to those who minister to their needs, that those suffering from COVID-19 and all those for whom our prayers are offered may be strengthened in their weakness and have confidence in thy loving care; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
- Book of Common Prayer, p. 260