It is said that the art of handwritten correspondence is in decline, but St. Thomas' parishioner Meg Stephens is doing her part to keep the practice alive. For over four years, she has faithfully pursued a ministry of writing personal notes to parishioners who are ill, experiencing a family crisis, or simply in need of a lift in spirit. She likes to think of herself as "the Queen of the Handwritten Note"--a title she has truly earned.

It all began in 2002 when Meg was a patient in Sibley Memorial Hospital recovering from a hip replacement. Word got around the parish about Meg's recuperation, and before she knew it, parishioners started showing up with food, gifts and some warm company. "I'm pretty independent, but I was surprised how much I needed and appreciated all the help and warm wishes I received," said Meg. When she got home, she resolved to pay it forward in some way.

It wasn't too long after her recovery that a call went out to parishioners to volunteer for the Pastoral Care Committee. Meg seized the opportunity and joined the committee. Remembering the kindness of those many parishioners during her hospital stay, she decided that a note-writing ministry would be a great way for her to contribute.

Over time, her ministry has become more of a hobby than a commitment. Meg is always on the lookout beautiful and unique notepaper when she's shopping or traveling. She keeps her collection in her desk at work so she can dash off a quick and witty note to an ill parishioner when the need arises.

Parishioners who have received her correspondence often stop her after church to say how deeply it touched them. It is in those moments that Meg realizes her efforts have come full circle.

Volunteers such as Meg are always needed on the Pastoral Care Committee. For more information about how to get involved, parishioners are encouraged to contact the Pastoral Care committee online.