Renee Marie (Sweeney) Larson

February 6, 1962 ~ November 29, 2025

Renee M. Larson, 63, of Township of Washington, passed away, Saturday, November 29, 2025 at her residence. 

Renee was a beautiful soul; both inside and out, and will forever be missed. She had the ability to make anyone she met feel loved and seen. Whether that be; raising her kids, caring for her family and friends, her many volunteering projects, or helping out a stranger; deeply loving and caring for others was one of the greatest joys of her life. Those who had the privilege of ever attending a party, event, or holiday will tell you her ability to host was unmatched. Everything was carefully thought thru down to the smallest of details (such as her signature bowls of candy and snacks spread throughout the house). Her beauty and radiant smile could light up any room, and her kindness and laughter could brighten even the hardest of times. She taught us so much, and we feel comfort in knowing the best parts of her will live on forever.

Repose of the Soul Service for Mark Nelson ~ December 21, 2024 at 10 AM

On December 21st, as we continue our journey through Advent, we will gather at Christ Church Cathedral to remember and honor our dear friend, Mark Nelson, on what would have been his birthday. In this season of waiting and hope, we come together to commend Mark’s soul to God’s eternal care.

At 10:00 AM, Fr. George Stamm will celebrate a Repose of the Soul service, offering prayers of remembrance and thanksgiving for Mark’s life, his kindness, and the impact he had on all who knew him. As we reflect on his life, we are reminded of the hope we share in Christ—that death is not the end, but a transition into eternal life with God.

In this sacred time, as we prepare for the coming of Christ, we find comfort in knowing that Mark now rests in peace, surrounded by the light of God’s love. Please join us as we gather in prayer, finding solace in the assurance of eternal life.

Advent: A Time of Expectation and Hope in the Episcopal Tradition

As we enter the season of Advent, the Episcopal Church invites us to embrace a time of waiting, hope, and preparation. Derived from the Latin word adventus, meaning “coming,” Advent is a season to prepare our hearts for the birth of Christ at Christmas and to anticipate His return in glory. It’s a time to slow down, reflect, and deepen our spiritual lives in a world that often rushes forward.

The Episcopal Church offers resources to help us live into this season with intention. Here are some highlights for Advent 2024:

Devotional and Educational Materials:

1.Journeying the Way of Love: Advent Curriculum and Calendar

These resources explore the first chapters of Luke’s Gospel and offer daily practices for engaging with the Way of Love: turn, learn, pray, worship, bless, go, and rest. Perfect for individuals, families, or small groups, they are available in English, Spanish, and French.

Learn more

2.Living Well Through Advent 2024

This daily devotional focuses on the theme “Practicing Peace With All Your Heart, Soul, Strength, and Mind”. Available as a free PDF download, daily email, or printed booklet, it includes Spanish versions as well.

Download here

3.Forward Movement Advent Resources

Forward Movement provides materials such as Jay Sidebotham’s Advent calendar and other devotionals to support your spiritual journey.

Explore resources

4.Advent Word

Join a global community in daily prayer and reflection through this online Advent calendar inspired by lectionary readings. Each day features a new word to meditate on and share with others.

Participate here

5.Advent and Christmas Digital Invitation Kit

For those seeking to share the spirit of Advent with others, this kit offers printable and digital resources to promote special events and services. Materials are available in English, Spanish, and French.

Get the kit

Living the Advent Tradition

Advent calls us to a holy pause—a time to listen for God’s voice amid the busyness. Through practices like lighting the Advent wreath, praying the collects, and engaging with Scripture, we root ourselves in the ancient promises of God while preparing for Christ’s light to break into our lives anew.

This season is not just about personal reflection but also about preparing our communities to receive Christ. How can we extend the hope, peace, joy, and love of Advent to those who need it most? As Episcopalians, our liturgies and traditions guide us to hold space for both longing and praise, teaching us to live in the tension of the “already and not yet.”

Advent is a gift—a holy invitation to prepare, reflect, and embrace hope. May this season draw us closer to God and one another as we await the coming of Emmanuel: God with us.