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Women's Guild

The ministry of the Women’s Guild is to serve God, the church, the community, and each other and to meet in prayerful fellowship and friendship. Every woman of the parish is a member of All Saints’ Guild and the entire Episcopal Church Women organization. Currently, more than 30 members pay $10 annually to defray the Guild’s expenses.

The Guild holds monthly meetings (September through June) featuring a program or activity. Some meetings also involve a simple “Bring a sandwich” lunch in Bristol Hall, where dessert and a beverage are provided. Favorite gatherings also include the “Giving Tree” Christmas Party in December and “Quiet Day,” a day of prayer and quiet reflection, during Lent.

The Women’s Guild supports its Outreach Program, Inreach Program, and Student Service Awards primarily through two major fundraisers. The Annual Fashion Show Luncheon (which includes a card party) is held at the Bay Head Yacht Club, a huge venue which accommodates the many summer visitors. Approximately $10,000 is made at this elegant event. In November, the beautiful St. Nicholas Bazaar takes place in Bristol Hall. The tables are decorated with white tablecloths, red ribbons and bows, and red and green balloons. Homemade goodies, handcrafted decorations, and gently used giftware fill the tables. It is the prettiest bazaar in the area and is well attended by the community, usually raising about $7,000. Additionally, the Guild hosts a small bridge party in January, which brings in $400.

The charities and organizations that are the beneficiaries of these fundraising efforts include the Bay Head Fire Company, Birthright of Ocean County, Dottie’s House, Episcopal Relief and Development Fund, National Cathedral Association, Ocean’s Harbor House, Point Pleasant Beach First Aid, Point Pleasant Fire Department, Samaritan House, Seaman’s Church Institute, St. Paul’s (Camden) Camp Faith, and St. Gregory’s Pantry.

Within the parish, the Guild presents Student Service Awards in the amount of $700 each year to young parishioners who serve All Saints in some capacity on a regular basis. Applicants for this award must be high school seniors or college students. The Guild also contributes to church needs and the Rector’s Discretionary Fund.