St. Mary’s provides home for synagogue

On Sunday, April 10, the Philipstown Reform Synagogue and St. Mary’s Episcopal Church of the Highlands in Cold Spring worshiped together in a joint service led by Father Shane Scott-Hamblen and Rabbi Helaine Ettinger. It was the second time the congregations have worshiped together.

Father Shane Scott-Hamblen offers communion (photo provided)
Father Shane Scott-Hamblen offers communion (photo provided)

The St. Mary’s parish house has been home to the Philipstown Reform Synagogue for the past five years. “The church members and Father Shane have made our congregants feel that the parish house is our spiritual home,” said Cathy Duke, the synagogue’s president.

Rabbi Helaine Ettinger shares the Torah scroll (photo provided) 
Rabbi Helaine Ettinger shares the Torah scroll (photo provided)

“This warmth and welcoming attitude and our work together not only represents the best of what it means to be a religious congregation but also the best of what it means to be American citizens in one of the most beautiful towns in our country. We recognize and honor our common spiritual bonds.”

Following the service, both congregations enjoyed a brunch in the parish house.

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