Daytona Beach, St. Mary's

St. Mary’s Episcopal Church is a community of 386 people (264 families) whose strength evolves from a traditional style of worship. A close fellowship ensures the continuation of a vibrant and robust church family. Members are deeply committed to their faith and unite to care and to nurture the various needs of the parish family. From the fellowship of Coffee Hour on Sunday mornings to the personal and individual care given by Stephen ministers, this warmth is exhibited in the welcoming of visitors. Because St. Mary’s is a united parish, there is the sense that diversity is one of its major strengths. The fabric of St. Mary’s is woven with the thread of individuals from different socio-economic backgrounds, from different areas of the United States and from different life experiences, resulting in a colorful and strong fabric that creates the backbone of the St. Mary’s fellowship.

Along with the many strengths of St. Mary’s come some challenges and opportunities for the church family. The fabric of St. Mary’s fellowship is aging; the particular problems of a mature community are ever-present. As a well-worn fabric needs the strength of new thread, the congregation of St. Mary’s could benefit from the vitality of youthful new members to ensure a bright future for the church. An aggressive membership drive is an opportunity afforded to St. Mary’s to resolve this. Strong and clear communication is the key to success for any organization comprised of diverse members. Better communication among members, visitors, prospective new members, young people, and the larger community of Daytona Beach is another opportunity for the church family.

PAROCHIAL STATISTICS

(2011 Parochial Report)