What Kind of Year Will It Be?
I’ve been thinking about the new church year and what it can mean for each of us. The truth is, some years slip past like sand through our fingers. Other years leave a deep and holy imprint on our lives. The difference? How we begin them.
I want to invite us to pause for a moment. It’s tempting to treat the turn of the church calendar like just another date—another set of programs, meetings, and Sundays to fill. But I believe this is a holy opportunity to think prayerfully and intentionally about where God is calling us.
When we move into a new season casually, we risk drifting along rather than being led by the Spirit. Scripture reminds us to “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and God will establish your plans” (Proverbs 16:3). This means we don’t simply “see what happens” but seek God’s wisdom about what we hope this year will bring—in our own lives and in the life of our church.
In the months ahead, I want us to focus on three things:
1. Growing in Faith — Providing spaces to learn more about our faith, explore hard questions, and encourage one another in our spiritual journeys.
2. Serving with Compassion — Seeking opportunities to meet needs, both within our church family and in our community and beyond.
“…I believe this is a holy opportunity to think prayerfully and intentionally about where God is calling us.”
For me, this begins with questions like, what kind of person do I want to become by the end of this year? What steps can I take to grow in love, faith, and service? How can I be more open to the needs around me? Those same questions apply to our church: what kind of congregation do we want to be a year from now? How can we deepen our worship, widen our welcome, and strengthen our witness?
3. Building Connection — Nurturing relationships so that no one feels alone, and everyone knows they matter.
These aren’t “extra” things—they are the heartbeat of what it means to be the church. But they won’t happen by accident. They will happen because we choose them, pray about them, and work toward them together.
Let’s enter this year not with a shrug but with expectation. God has great things in store for us. Our role is to walk into them with open hands and willing hearts. May we look back a year from now and see the fingerprints of God all over our life together.
Let’s begin—on purpose!
EDITOR:
PHOTOS: Dave Cross
Jisselle
WELCOME JORDAN MCDANIEL!
We are very excited that our search for the long-awaited Director of 20s & 30s (part-time) has come to fruition. This is something we have been working toward for several years now. It was an identified priority of our strategic plan, and we budgeted for it in the approved FY26 budget. After careful discernment, we have selected Jordan McDaniel for the role.
Jordan comes to us with a seminary degree (but not ordained) and a heart for discipleship and building community. He has worked in various church settings across the country and now lives in Brooklyn with his spouse, Caleigh.
Dr. Michael Bos Senior Minister
COVER: Blessing of the Animals
photo by Jisselle Tavarez Fernandez
Staff for this Issue
Karla Fritsch
Jordan McDaniel
A WORD FROM OUR EXECUTIVE MINISTER FINDING LIFE IN THE BARREN PLACES
By Dr. J. Elise Brown
I recently returned from one week in Santa Fe, New Mexico. It was a very different summer than last year when I walked the Camino and then went to Armenia and Georgia. This summer I spent a beautiful, quiet week in Santa Fe relishing the music, art and beauty of this special part of the country.
As I drove from Albuquerque to Santa Fe, I was struck by the barrenness of the landscape—the dry earth, shrub trees and cacti dotting the horizon. It was stark, but beautiful. While it appeared there wasn’t much life in this desert terrain, I quickly realized there were all sorts of plants, birds, insects and animals living in what appeared to be lifeless terrain. I just had to look a bit more closely…not be too quick to pass on by.
“We can experience aspects of life we might otherwise miss.”
Wait. Pause. Pay attention. Listen. Such simple practices…but in committing to doing these practices life can take on a whole new and unexpected quality. We can see things we wouldn’t notice. We can experience aspects of life we might otherwise miss. Imagine what could happen to our relationships, our work, our spiritual life, our openness to God at work within us if we just did these simple practices every day…
Wait. Pause. Pay attention. Listen.
Wait. Pause. Pay attention. Listen.
When I did those simple practices, I saw so much life slowly emerging all around me. What appeared to be barren was actually teeming with life…just in different forms than I am accustomed to seeing.
As we move into the fall season, and the autumn colors slowly appear on the horizon, I pray you can practice these simple steps in your own life. Who knows what you might see, experience and learn? Who knows what God might be unfolding in your life?
GRATITUDE SUNDAY IS COMING
November 16 is going to be an inspiring and pivotal time for our community. We need to learn to “gratitude our way forward.” Life moves fast, but gratitude slows us down enough to notice God’s blessings and step into the future with hope. Gratitude isn’t just a reaction, it’s a direction—a way of walking that changes how we live, give, and serve. When we let thankfulness lead the way, we find ourselves moving toward generosity, joy, and deeper faith. Let’s make this year a journey shaped by gratitude, one step— and one act of kindness—at a time.
— Dr. Michael Bos on behalf of the Gratitude Sunday Team
EXPLORE FAITH / EXPLORE MARBLE!
Whether you’re new to Marble, new to faith, curious or ready to become a member—this community is for you. Join us after Worship for casual gatherings at various times throughout the year to ask questions, explore faith, and learn more about who we are. You are welcome here! To learn more, please contact Kim Sebastian-Ryan (KRyan@MarbleChurch.org or 212-686-2770), or on Sundays talk to someone wearing a red carnation.
Dr. J. Elise Brown Executive Minister
In the Marble Spotlight
COFFEE HOUR
Sundays | 12:15-1:15pm
After Worship on Sundays, come down to the Labyrinth Room for a warm and welcoming time of fellowship. Enjoy refreshments, connect with new friends, and learn about upcoming programs and ways to get involved at Marble. Don’t forget to save the dates for the special Coffee Hour events below and stay tuned for more!
• Welcome Back Sunday, September 14
• Special Mini Coffee Hour before Hymn Sing, September 28
• Fall Festival and Build-a-Thanksgiving Bag, October 26
SUNDAY SANCTUARY TOURS — DISCOVER MARBLE’S (his)STORY!
Fourth Sunday of Month | after Worship
Take a closer look at the beauty and history of Marble Collegiate Church! Join us for a guided tour that reveals the rich heritage, stunning architecture, and breathtaking windows that make our space so special. You’ll uncover fun facts, visit areas not often seen, and gain a deeper appreciation for the church’s legacy. It’s a wonderful way to connect more deeply with Marble. We look forward to exploring with you! Note, dates subject to change
MEET THE BOARD
Sunday, September 28 | after Worship
Please join us for these opportunities to meet various Elders and Deacons immediately after Worship in Peale Parlor and on Zoom. Visit briefly and bring your questions.
EXPLORING YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS
Tuesdays, September 23 & 30, October 7
6:15pm, In Person
Thursdays, September 25, October 2 & 9
12:00pm, Zoom
What are your spiritual gifts? You may think you don’t have any—but you do! Every one of us has been given gifts from God to enrich our daily lives, serve our neighbors, and deepen our faith. Join us to uncover your own spiritual gifts (even the ones you didn’t know you had), explore what Scripture teaches about them, and discern how to use your gifts to live with greater faith and purpose. Led by Dr. Elise Brown Register at MarbleChurch.org.
WALK THE LABYRINTH
Wednesdays, September 17, October 8
November 12 | 5:00-6:30pm
Feed your spirit with this walking meditation. A facilitator will be available to help guide you and answer questions, while allowing you the space to walk in your own way, at your own pace. Note, dates subject to change, please call to confirm.
IN-PERSON TEA TIME WITH KIM
Wednesday, October 8 | 12:00pm
Give yourself an afternoon break of tea and music. Wear your fascinators, gloves and enjoy the food and fun. Cost: TBA. At 1:00pm, enjoy the sounds of the Marble pipe organ during a 45-minute performance. Free admission. All are welcome! Hosted by PrimeTime.
FEEL BETTER NOW, LIVE BETTER LONGER: NUTRITION FOR PAIN RELIEF AND LONGEVITY
Thursday, October 9 | 6:30pm
Join Marble’s Plant Positive Fellowship and Plant Powered Metro New York for an empowering talk and Q&A with Lillie Rosenthal, DO, an NYC-based physiatrist who uses an evidence-based approach to nutrition and lifestyle to relieve pain and optimize health and well-being. In the Labyrinth Room. More details at MarbleChurch.org.
ILLUMINATE – FALL DAY RETREAT
Saturday, October 11 | 10:00am-2:30pm
Marble and Christ Church NYC invite queer folk and allies to withdraw from normal rhythms and connect in celebration of queer spirituality. This retreat, held at Christ Church (524 Park Ave), will be themed around self-expression and self-exploration. Through workshops, worship, moments in meditation, and a conversation with a special guest (TBA), participants will illuminate new ways in which they embody God’s image in their lives. Stay tuned for registration information.
VISIT MARBLE’S ONLINE GIFT SHOP AT MARBLEGIFTSHOP.COM
Seasonal Gift Items • Spiritually Uplifting Books Apparel • Jewelry • Household Goods
Proceeds further the mission of Marble.
For more events, please see pages 9, 11 & 12.
PRIMETIME TAG SALE
Friday & Saturday, October 10 & 11
9:30am-2:30pm
Our spring sale, Second Chance Saturday, was such a success that we’re having another one! This time, it will be two days. Discover an unexpected treasure or give a fresh start to something previously owned and loved. Donations of items in good condition welcome by September 21. Stay tuned for more details and types of donations desired (no books).
SERMON IN SONG & BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS
Sunday, October 12
To celebrate the Blessing of the Animals, during Worship The Marble Choir will present a special Sermon in Song: Benjamin Britten’s Rejoice in the Lamb. Written in 1943, this vibrant cantata sets the poetry of Christopher Smart, who praised God through all creation—including cats, mice, flowers, and musical instruments. The work captures the playful, tender, and profound ways animals and nature reflect divine joy.
OPEN HOUSE NEW YORK & SPECIAL ORGAN CONCERT WITH MICHAEL T. C. HEY
Sunday, October 19 | 12:30-4:00pm
Marble is excited to once again take part in this annual citywide celebration. Open House New York (ohny.org) highlights the city’s rich history, culture, and architecture. Bring a friend and discover Marble, from the soaring spire and incredible history to the intricate interior details, including our stunning stained-glass windows. It’s a true city landmark. We’re also thrilled to bring back, by popular demand, a special organ concert featuring our talented Director of Music, Michael T.C. Hey, and our magnificent pipe organ!
50 YEARS OF 12-STEP RECOVERY BOOK SIGNING
Tuesday, October 28 | 6:30pm
Dr. Adrienne Sprouse, Marble member, introduces her new book—a groundbreaking exploration into addiction recovery, drawing upon her extensive medical expertise and rich experience with the 12-Step program. It is also a personal narrative of Adrienne’s journey from living with an addict family to pursuing a medical degree later in life. The book concludes with motivational essays designed to inspire and encourage readers on their own paths to recovery.
Cuddly and cute, or not, bring your pet to our annual Blessing of the Animals after Worship in front of the church on 5th Ave. All kinds of animals, including stuffed animals, are welcome. Photos can also be blessed if your pet doesn’t travel well. This is also a fun way to connect to the neighborhood and broader community.
The Sanctuary will be pet free, so if you are allergic or not a fan of our furry friends don’t be alarmed. All pet lovers are welcome to watch the 11:00am service with their animals in the Labyrinth Room (downstairs).
CALL TO PRAYER
Monday, November 3 | 10:00-10:45am
Join members of the Prayer Ministries of Marble on Zoom for a time of prayer and reflection for peace for our country and the world. Link will be available at MarbleChurch.org/calendar.
ENVISIONING THE FUTURE OF THE INTERFAITH MOVEMENT
Saturday, November 8 | 9:30am-4:00pm
Join The Temple of Understanding uniting leading interfaith organizations for this symposium at Marble as part of their 65th Anniversary. Together, in solidarity and collaboration, we will shape a path forward for a more just, compassionate, and united world. Details and registration at templeofunderstanding.org/65thanniversary-celebration.
2026 Mission Trip to Vietnam & Cambodia
Please see page 10.
WHY I CAME…WHY I STAYED…
Over the years, I’ve been privileged to hear so many meaningful stories about what brings people through our doors, and what encourages them to stay. Whether someone grew up in church or is coming for the first time, that first step can be filled with many different emotions ranging from scary to comforting. That’s why I want to share real stories about showing up, staying, and finding belonging. I hope you’ll see a little of yourself in these stories and know that we are here for you – however you come through the front door.
— Kim Sebastian-Ryan, Director of Membership & Connecting
Michele Wong McSween
The year was 2000. I had a dream job that brought me to New York City. I was about to be married, and I was ready to find a church where I could raise my future children. Having grown up in the RCA church founded by my great-grandfather in Sacramento, California, church was more than a place of worship; it was an extension of my family, filled with aunties, uncles, cousins, and friends who were like family. To find something like this in NYC seemed impossible.
My mom suggested I visit Marble Collegiate Church. When I first stepped through the majestic doors, I was met with warm, genuine smiles. The music was uplifting and familiar. Sitting in the pew, I felt calm and peaceful, like I had been coming there for years. Dr. Caliandro’s gentle voice and relatable message drew me in, and I knew—I found my new home.
Jay Johnson
An invitation from a friend brought me through the doors of Marble back in 1992 when I was searching for a church home. Its reputation for excellence in ministry and music, with messages and melodies that lingered in the mind long after Worship ended, kept me coming back weekly for more nourishment of the soul.
Ministry, music and outreach have always been essential church elements for me, yet there’s another aspect of Marble that has become more important to me with each passing year: the people. Any church is just a physical structure without the individuals who gather inside, and my experience at Marble has been made all the richer by getting to know so many incredible people from myriad places and backgrounds. One of my great joys has been capturing the
Over the years, Marble became an important part of our lives. My boys were born and baptized there, sang in the choirs, participated in Sunday School, Youth Group, Christmas Pageants, and countless memorable moments that shaped who they’d become. Marble became our anchor, our place to reset after a busy, overwhelming week. It gave us a joyful space to reconnect and remind us of what truly matters: family, faith, and community.
People often ask me how I raised such compassionate, kind young men, and my answer always leads me back to Marble. It is the foundation that nurtures our faith, teaches us to love and serve, and fills our cups, just when we need it most.
I show up and stay because Marble is more than a church. It’s my home—and there’s no place like home.
diverse smiles of the Marble family as a volunteer photographer for Marble’s Media Ministry.
This strong sense of community is what keeps me coming back to Marble and it’s why I choose to attend services and events in person whenever possible. In a time when we’re so hyperconnected online yet seemingly disconnected in person, I find it meaningful to experience the power of community and faith in real time under one roof: to hear the inspiring messages and melodies resonating through the Sanctuary, to feel the collective energy of voices lifted in song and prayer, and to engage with others face-to-face and be part of a spiritual community that thrives on human connection. Marble feels like home.
Michele Wong McSween
Jay Johnson
Reflections from the Editor
By Karla Fritsch
Once upon a time, a youngish woman boarded a Greyhound bus in Iowa to begin a 24-hour trip that would change her life in profound ways. To keep her company, she had a tan, stuffed monkey attached to her gray leather theatre bag. Her multiple suitcases and boxes were stowed below. She was finally moving to New York City, following the impossible dream she had held close for decades.
Reflecting on that journey 35 years later, I find it hard to recognize the girl within me who had the courage to make that move. I remember back then thinking about Indiana Jones taking his leap of faith in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. I had belief that God was leading me down a certain path so I could also take a leap of faith across the chasm of 1000 miles.
There were so many blessings in that leap and there have been so many changes since then. NYC has changed. For starters, no more subway tokens or phone booths, and the Times Square area isn’t as dirty and scary, or unique. I’ve changed. In so many ways I found my voice and although the life I’m living is different than the dreams that brought me here, I have since reconnected to the writer and photographer that had been part of me as early as grade school. Also, now my hair has a lot of natural “highlights” in a certain shade of gray.
Change is part of life. As we travel through the years, there are things we shed, things we pick up, ways we evolve. However, lately I’ve realized that in the process, I’ve allowed parts of my core authentic self to get knocked off or I’ve neglected them so much they’ve withered.
A piece of that authentic Karla was the dreamer who could see a vision clearly and be able to hold on to it even when there was darkness and chaos around
WHEN YOU NEED HELP – PLEASE REACH OUT
Stephen Ministry at Marble — A one-to-one ministry that empowers lay members to provide high-quality, confidential, and Christ-centered care to those who are struggling with difficult life events. On Sundays, immediately after Worship, come to the Children’s Chapel (2nd flr) to speak to a Stephen Minister who can pray with you or provide more information. Or, please reach out to Rev. Susanah Wade (SWade@MarbleChurch.org). MarbleChurch.org/stephen-ministry.
The Marble Prayer Ministry Team is here to pray for you — Submit your requests at MarbleChurch. org on the Prayer header at top of the homepage.
and within. It feels like I’ve lost so much of the belief and vision that young woman had 35 years ago. Aging certainly contributes to that lost vision, yet part of me wants to believe that it doesn’t have to be automatic just because the years tick by. I hope that I can pick up those pieces of True Self, gather them close, and breathe life into them again.
Maybe one reason I think I’ve lost that courage to leap is because I haven’t recognized that the leaps of faith seem smaller. Getting out for a walk when my arthritic knees scare me doesn’t seem like a leap compared to moving from Iowa to NYC, but it still takes faith. Even facing the blank page before I start writing one of my columns is a leap of faith. Once I take the leap and put even a seed of an idea down, that leads to feeling my creative partnership with God, and when I get stuck, I trust that a bolt of inspiration will come.
When I look in the mirror, I can barely see that young dreamer who made her big move. Yet, maybe as Wayne Dyer says, “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” It’s not about looking in the mirror, it’s about looking within and looking around at the pieces of authenticity I want to reconnect with—and before I get too much further down the road, making the leap to grab them.
Blanton Peale Counseling Center — If you need more in-depth, professional help with mental health issues, visit BlantonPeale.org.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline — If you or someone you know are in emotional distress or suicidal crisis, call or text 988, available 24 hours.
Karla Fritsch Publications Manager
Karla, Aug 1990, just before her move to NYC
SUNDAY WORSHIP
11AM
September
October
November 2025
Dr. Michael Bos
Senior Minister, preaching
Envisioning My Year
SEPTEMBER 7
Seeing the Promised Land from Far Off
OCTOBER 5
Dr. J. Elise Brown, preaching World Communion Sunday
Sermon in Song
OCTOBER 12
Special Music & Homily, see pg 5
A Restart
OCTOBER 19
Dr. Michael Bos, preaching
God’s Calling OCTOBER 26
Dr. Julie Faith Parker preaching
The Top Three Things I’d Change in My Life
Find out what things resonated most with the congregation from the recent survey.
Part 1
SEPTEMBER 14
Part 2
SEPTEMBER 21
Part 3
SEPTEMBER 28
Sowing Seeds of Remembrance
NOVEMBER 2
Dr. Michael Bos, preaching All Saints’ Sunday
“Gratituding” Your Way Forward
Seeing What We Already Have
NOVEMBER 9
Impacting Those around Us
NOVEMBER 16
Gratitude Sunday
Finding Peace within Us NOVEMBER 23
NYC Street Closings —
Please plan ahead for your time at Marble. For details, see the Weekend Traffic Advisory at nyc.gov or call 311.
What’s Needed in the World
Hope NOVEMBER 30 1st Sunday in Advent
Love
DECEMBER 7 2nd Sunday in Advent
10:00
O’Clock Hour
SUNDAYS AT 10AM
DISCIPLESHIP IN ACTION: GROWING TOGETHER WITH CYF
Sunday, September 7
Join Brian Hampton, Director of Children,Youth & Families Ministry, and Dr. Michael Bos for a fun and inspiring look into the heart of CYF, including the vision for the year ahead. Whether you have kids or
THE PASSION OF THE PROPHETS
Biblical Scholar in Residence
Dr. Julie Faith Parker’s new series continues our progression through the Old Testament and explores the stories of the prophets. Over the next few months, we learn about the called and courageous individuals (men, women, and children!) who dare to share God’s messages with God’s people.
WHAT IS BIBLICAL PROPHECY?
Sunday, September 14
ELIJAH AND JEZEBEL: A ZEALOUS PROPHET AND A FIERCE QUEEN
Sunday, September 21
ELISHA – THE UNDERAPPRECIATED PROPHET WHO INSPIRES JESUS
Sunday, October 19
HOSEA – BLAME, SHAME, AND HOPE
Sunday, October 26
AMOS – THE A IS FOR ANGRY
Sunday, November 9
Prayer Circle
SUNDAYS AT 10:00AM
Join us for this time of prayer and music. The Circle is always open – all you need is a willing heart. We meet in the Children’s Chapel (2nd floor, access via elevator/stairs off 29th St Lobby) or on Zoom. On All Saints’ Sunday, November 2, we meet in the Labyrinth Room and on live stream, there won’t be a separate 10:00 O’Clock Hour that day.
Afternoon Prayer
TUESDAYS AT 4:00PM
Wind down your day with a brief time of sharing and prayer. Join us via Zoom (call or video). Get link at MarbleChurch.org.
not, this is a great opportunity to discover how you can be part of CYF’s vibrant community and how it fits into the life of the church, its importance, and the opportunities it offers for all of us to engage, support, and grow in faith.
ISAIAH – PERHAPS THE BIBLE’S MOST COMPLICATED BOOK (AND THAT’S SAYING SOMETHING!)
Sunday, November 16
ISAIAH’S WIFE (?) – THE MYSTERIOUS FEMALE PROPHET IN ISAIAH
Sunday, November 30
Sunday, September 28
Karen Ford, New Executive Director of Housing Plus
Sunday, October 5
Jane Clementi, Tyler Clementi Foundation
Sunday, October 12
Annalisa Plumb, City Harvest
Small Groups
Being part of a Small Group is a wonderful opportunity to grow spiritually and connect in a deeper way with others at Marble. For details and to register, visit MarbleChurch.org.
Exploring Your Spiritual Gifts
Led by Dr. Elise Brown Please see page 4
Caring for Community
Stephen Ministry will be hosting a series of Small Groups from October through May. Stay tuned for details.
Walk the Labyrinth
For upcoming Labyrinth walks, see page 4 Learn more at MarbleChurch.org/labyrinth.
10:00 O’Clock Hour –Join us in person in the Labyrinth Room or live stream. Check the website for details. If you miss a session or want to see it again, view at MarbleChurch.org/Watch.
Annalisa Plumb
Jane Clementiz
Karen Ford
Dr. Julie Faith Parker
CYF CORNER
CYF: FAITH, FRIENDS & FUN AWAIT!
By Brian Hampton
As the new school year begins, I’m excited to invite families who are new to CYF to come check us out— and to warmly welcome back those returning to this special community of families and friends. Whether you’re brand new or have been part of CYF for years, this is a place to walk together on our spiritual journeys, support one another, and live out kindness and compassion every day.
At the heart of CYF is discipleship—learning, growing, and walking through life together with kindness. We believe everyone’s spiritual path is unique, and CYF is a place where all questions are welcomed, all voices are heard, and all gifts are celebrated. We show up for each other and for the world around us.
If you’re considering joining us (or returning), there are so many wonderful things about CYF—too many to list! But here are some core highlights:
Childcare: We’re happy to provide childcare during Worship. We want you to enjoy your time in church while our infants and toddlers enjoy theirs in our nursery.
Sunday School: Christian Education thrives here at Marble. Led by our gifted teachers, Sunday School classes meet at 10:00am. Kids (Pre-K through 6th Grade) enjoy a fun, hands-on way to explore Bible stories, lessons, and meaningful activities.
Choirs: Music is a big part of CYF. Led by Joel Esher, our Children’s Choir (Grades 2–6) and Youth Choir (Grades 7–12) welcome kids and youth at all skill levels. Singing together is a beautiful way for children and teens to grow spiritually, express themselves creatively, and feel connected to our church family.
Youth Group: Our Youth Group is a vibrant, welcoming space where faith meets real life. Led by Sarah Sanou, our 7th–12th graders meet after Worship for honest conversations, thought-provoking lessons, service projects, fundraising efforts, and fun activities.
Being Part of the Marble Church Family: Being part of CYF also means being part of our entire church family. Kids and teens are always welcome in Worship—whether singing, greeting, or simply being present. They’re also encouraged to join All-Church Events, Outreach Projects, Coffee Hours, and more. There’s so much to be a part of, and we love doing it together with everyone! There’s so much more to discover at CYF. Way more than this article allows. So come join us (or continue your journey with us!) and find out. Let’s step into an exciting new church year together.
Engage – Help Others
Learn about ways you can be of service to others at Coffee Hour on Sundays after Worship, visit MarbleChurch.org/volunteer, or contact Rev. Susanah Wade (SWade@MarbleChurch.org).
2026 Mission Trip to Vietnam & Cambodia — Hold the dates for this Marble Mission Trip led by Rev. Susanah Wade and Dr. Elise Brown, November 22-December 5, 2026. We have space for 26 people. There will be an informational meeting this fall before registration opens; stay tuned.
Engagement, Volunteerism & Lay Leadership — There are many opportunities to get involved at Marble whether you are interested in giving your time long-term or short-term. Visit MarbleChurch.org/volunteer-form, so we can do our best to find the right fit for you.
Prayer Shawl Ministry — Join us as we gather for prayer and creating together to knit or crochet prayer shawls for members who are ill or homebound. All levels welcome. Monday, September 8, 5:00-6:00pm, on Zoom; Monday, September 22, 1:00-2:00pm, in person. In October, returns to First Mondays on Zoom, 5:00-6:00pm; third Mondays in person, 1:00-2:00pm. Dates subject to change, confirm with Judy Tulin (JTulin@MarbleChurch.org).
Marble Fights Hunger — We encourage you to bring canned/bottled food whenever you come to Marble. Donations benefit various organizations including Icahn House. Drop-off bins are in the 5th Ave Narthex. Monetary donations also welcome.
Brian Hampton Director of Children, Youth & Families Ministry
Engage – More Upcoming Events
For the most up-to-date information, more events and details, visit MarbleChurch.org.
ARTS MINISTRY
Victorious Living in the Promised Land is our theme as we celebrate the Arts Ministry’s 45th Anniversary! Join us at Welcome Back Sunday, September 14. Special events include Artists’ Meet ‘n Eats’ September 21 & November 9; Artist Salon: Poetry Readings with a book launch by poet Rene Navarro on October 19; and a special workshop with Mario Spouse on November 20. The Fellowship of Professional Artists and Peer Support Group meet alternate Mondays, 6:30pm on Zoom. View our various art exhibits in person on the Wall of Hope, Inspiration, and Healing outside the Labyrinth Room and at MarbleChurch. org/arts: Forever in Our Hearts – A 9/11 Tribute, September 11-30; The Transformation of Autumn, October 9-November 23. For more information, contact Mario Sprouse (MSprouse@MarbleChurch.org) or Karla Hendrick (KHendrick@MarbleChurch.org).
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
First Saturday of Month | 1:00-3:00pm
Each meeting provides confidential, facilitated conversation offering guidance, healing, and hope. Learn how to balance your life and be a Caregiver with new strength and vitality. Led by Rev. Marion Gambardella on Zoom. Contact Judy Tulin (JTulin@ MarbleChurch.org).
CHAIR YOGA
Thursdays, starts September 11 | 10:00-10:45am
Center yourself physically and spiritually with this beginner-friendly time of gentle movement on Zoom. Link at MarbleChurch.org/calendar. No registration required
GIFTS: LGBTQ+ FELLOWSHIP
Since 1992, GIFTS (LGBTQ+ In Fellowship, Tradition, Service) has been a vibrant community at Marble that celebrates and supports LGBTQ+ persons, their families, and their allies. We’re excited to join with Christ Church NYC for another ILLUMINATE Day Retreat on Saturday, October 11. Please see page 4. Stay tuned to MarbleChurch.org for more information. Questions? Please contact Mike Thurlow (MThurlow@ MarbleChurch.org, please reference GIFTS in the subject line).
THE LAST WORD Now Thyself. — Mel Brooks
PLANT POSITIVE FELLOWSHIP
All are welcome for our monthly gatherings and discussions on healthy eating and living. Our next Brunch will be Sunday, September 21 (generally second Sunday),12:45pm at Le Botaniste, 154 W. 32nd St. (near Penn Station) We gather on Zoom for our Virtual Meeting, the last Monday of the month, Monday, September 29, 5:30-6:30pm. Dates are subject to change. On October 9 we host a speaker event, please see page 4. For more info and link, email MarblePlantPositive@gmail.com or stay tuned to MarbleChurch.org and bulletins.
PRIMETIME (55+)
All are invited to our Welcome Back Lunch ($25; please pre-register) on Wednesday, September 24. Learn more about our group and plans for the coming church year. See page 4 for October 8 Tea Time with Kim followed by an organ performance. We’ll be collecting donations for our Tag Sale October 10 & 11, see page 5. November 12 is our Pre-Thanksgiving lunch ($35; please pre-register) and concert with Gary Thompson. We make our annual trip to the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and celebrate the Rockettes 100th anniversary on Tuesday, December 2, 2:00pm. Register at MarbleChurch. org. Questions? Contact Baleta McKenzie (BMcKenzie@MarbleChurch.org).
WOMEN’S MINISTRY
We’ll be present at Welcome Back Sunday, September 14, as we kick off our theme Sowing Seeds of Bravery & Joy. Our guiding scripture is: For the joy of the Lord is your strength – Nehemiah 8:10b. Meet other women and learn about our plans for the year. Join us October 18 for an outdoor event to enjoy God’s gift of Autumn. Sunday, November 2, MWM & the Music Ministry create a meaningful Hallowtide service, Sowing Seeds of Remembrance, featuring a Memorial Scroll, to remember loved ones we’ve lost. Also in November, we’ll have a Book Study on Zoom exploring a topic central to women’s lives and faith. Details and registration at MarbleChurch.org/calendar. Questions? Please contact Karla Hendrick (KHendrick@MarbleChurch.org).
10:00 O’Clock Hour, Prayer Circle & Small Groups
For information, please see Spiritual Growth and Education on page 9.
Hallowtide dove art by Patrice Donnell
HYMN SING
Sunday, September 28 | 12:30-1:15pm
Celebrate the power of community singing and join Director of Music Michael T. C. Hey with members of the Marble Choir. Gather for communal music-making featuring timeless beloved hymns. Whether you find comfort in familiar melodies or delight in discovering new favorites, this afternoon promises to reconnect with the heart of worship through song. All voices welcome!
FESTIVAL CHOIR – CALLING ALL SINGERS
The Festival Choir is our volunteer ensemble for singers to lend their voices in Worship as well as selected concerts and special programs. If you sing, read music, and are interested in auditioning for this church year, please email Music@MarbleChurch.org. Rehearsals begin on Sunday, September 28.
TUESDAY ORGAN CONCERTS
1:00pm
October 14 – Concert organist Eddie Zheng
October 28 – Director of Music Michael T. C. Hey
Please stay tuned for additional concerts.
WEBCAST SCHEDULE
Visit MarbleChurch.org or Facebook
Sundays
10:00 O’Clock Hour 11:00am – Worship
MARBLE COLLEGIATE CHURCH
1 West 29th Street (at Fifth Ave)
New York, New York 10001 212-686-2770
MARBLE ON SOCIAL MEDIA
THE CHRIST IN THE CHAPEL
How often do you pause at the Marble Chapel on the Concourse Level? Perhaps you’ve attended an event there or found a quiet moment for reflection. But have you noticed the striking painting of Christ at the altar?
This extraordinary work of art was a gift to Marble from Rev. Gregory Johnson and the artist, Walter van Oel. Recently, Greg oversaw its restoration: the canvas was re-stretched, a protective backing was added with a window revealing the artist’s signature, and the piece was placed on a new stand.
Greg’s precious friendship with Walter stretches back many years in Bali. Originally, Walter created two monumental eight-foot square paintings—one silver, one gold. He first offered those to Greg but ultimately crafted two smaller versions using his
unique technique. Greg carried them back to New York on his lap, while the originals went to a major gallery in Bali known for its interfaith exhibitions. When one of the paintings was dedicated at Marble, Walter was overjoyed to livestream the service from Bali. Today, he resides in Amsterdam, where his gallery work continues even as the Bali gallery has closed. His paintings now live in collections around the world—but one of his most meaningful works has found its home right here, in the heart of the Marble Chapel.
Walter van Oel
Rev. Gregory Johnson
