Immerse yourself in the heart of our chapel community. Our newsletter delivers a dose of inspiration and connection, featuring upcoming events, insightful spiritual reflections, the latest community news, and exciting updates on our chapel projects. Discover what's resonating with your fellow members this season – see their thoughts below.
Dear friends of the Chapel,
The Chapel opens for yet another season. This sacred space sits in the midst of Sconset, cottages to side and front, the Casino to another side, surrounded by gardens that offer us a break, a place to be, to ponder, to pray, even for children to play or families to picnic. Holy spaces like the Chapel and gardens are an invitation to pause for joy and possibly enter deeper places in our lives, our world. Sacred spaces have long stood for the refreshment of all that is human, for the correction of some aspects of life, reminding us to root into the Holy Other One we call God. A Christian holy space reminds us we are so beloved, that in Christ, God has made holy our very being. We are beloved.
The world laps over us with all sorts of messages and measures. Children are so often measured by their academic skills, their native intelligence, perhaps their athletic skills or the way they appropriate manners or don’t. Adults so often create measures of beauty, of financial status, of symbols of success or the solidness of their marriages, their intimacies. Richard Rohr has noted that we seem so often to amass honor or shame, what we would call ego possessions, personal commodities that we can lose or gain. The best we display and the worst we hide out of sight. Life can grow so fragile in these places. Maybe Sconset is one such symbol, maybe not.
The Chapel, this little piece of Sconset, means to disrupt that outlook. Here there is only the measure of God’s care, love of us, freely given, freely embraced, freely learned and freely imitated. Here we stop to listen to our lives, lay them gently into God’s care, to hear the sacred stories as God reveals God’s love and life orientation. Here we listen to one another, help children find this rhythm in their lives. Here is a place to share generously what is of value to us, be it story, family, hope, faith, care extended beyond the self, prayer. Here we weave the reign of God into our lives, patiently.
As we open the Chapel again this season, we hope you will find rest and renewal for yourself and the gift of a deeper life orientation. Whether you are here for the season, for a briefer stay or a special occasion, we hope you will use this space as a gift from God who seeks your company. Join us in prayer, study or service to those we are only coming to know. Receive what you need, add what you can. Above all, welcome home.
In Christ’s love,
The Rev. J. Carr Holland III
Dear Friends of the Chapel,
We look forward to another summer together with you full of grace, worship and cheerful labor on our Chapel mission. Even now, the temperatures are creeping up on the island and the daffodils will soon be making their annual show. And soon after that, we look forward to sharing a pew with you at 18 New Street!
Here are some important dates for your calendar:
• First Communion and Healing service in the Garden,
Thursday, June 11 at 8:00 AM
• First Protestant service, Sunday, June14 at 10:30 AM
• First Catholic Mass, Sunday, June 28 at 8:45 AM
Our Childrens’ Program will be in full swing this summer—if you have kids or grandkids, make sure you save these dates for our Children’s programming: July 12, July 26, August 9 and August 30.
We have so much to be grateful for! The Rev, Carr Holland will return for his 13th summer with us in this, our 143rd year. His leadership and spiritual guidance is so important to us, as he baptizes our youngest, officiates at the marriages of our children and blesses our friends and family who have departed. Many thanks to our many generous supporters and volunteers. Your financial support enables our mission to thrive. Our volunteers are always there, often unseen, maintaining the Chapel and its gardens, arranging flowers, preparing our communications, ringing the bells, managing our finances, greeting us before services, reading the lessons and studying and recommending island non-profits for our important Outreach mission. My predecessor, Elizabeth Queally said it so well last year that I am honored to repeat the closing of her Spring letter: “We are deeply thankful to all who give their time and talents. The Chapel truly serves as the heart of village life, and is made possible by the warmth and spirit of our community. Everyone is welcome here.” Amen.
Faithfully, Jamie Holt
Dear Friends in Christ,
As another summer begins on the beautiful island of Nantucket, I am filled with gratitude and anticipation for the weeks ahead. Before long, we will once again gather for the celebration of Sunday Mass at Sconset Union Chapel—a moment each week that anchors our time here in prayer and in the presence of the Lord. I look forward to being with you throughout the season. Although I am not able to be present every Sunday, I am grateful for the faithful support of the Jesuits from Boston College, who help ensure that the Eucharist remains at the heart of our summer worship. Our parish’s longstanding relationship with the Chapel Community continues to be a true blessing. It reflects something deeper than cooperation—it is a witness to our shared faith in Jesus Christ. As the Psalmist reminds us, “How good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity” (Psalm 133:1).
In the midst of the activity and rest that summer brings, may we remain rooted in Christ—attentive to His Word and open to the grace offered through the life of the Church. Each Sunday is not simply part of the weekend, but an invitation to encounter the Lord more deeply. The celebration of the Holy Mass is the heart of that encounter. As the Second Vatican Council teaches, the Eucharist is “the source and summit of the Christian life.” From it, we are strengthened and sent forth to live our faith with greater clarity, charity, and purpose each day. Be assured of my prayers for you and your families during this summer season.
God bless you all!
Fr. John Murray, Pastor St Mary-Our Lady of The Isle
The Outreach Committee’s work depends on the steady and faithful generosity of the Chapel community. Contributions given through special collections, seasonal appeals, and year-round giving allow us to partner with island organizations that serve families facing food insecurity, housing challenges, medical hardship, and unexpected crises.
This generosity is not occasional—it is consistent. It reflects a shared understanding that living on Nantucket brings both beauty and economic complexity. Because of this support, the Outreach Committee is able to collaborate with trusted island partners who are on the front lines of service.
Often, outreach begins with conversation—after a service, during a committee meeting, or over coffee. Someone shares a concern about an island family or a nonprofit facing strain. From there, action follows. This culture of attentiveness ensures that outreach is responsive and grounded in real relationships.
Outreach is not about recognition—it is about service. The community trusts the committee to steward resources wisely and to build thoughtful partnerships across Nantucket. By listening first and collaborating with established organizations, the Chapel community ensures that support reaches those who need it most in effective and dignified ways. This collaborative spirit amplifies impact and strengthens the island as a whole.
The work of supporting Nantucket’s most needy is never finished. Needs evolve, seasons change, and challenges emerge. Yet because the Chapel community remains engaged and generous, the Outreach Committee can continue its mission with confidence and hope.
Sarah Russell & The Outreach Committee


The Sconset Children’s Chapel is delighted to welcome back returning friends and greet new faces alike as we begin another beautiful season together. After four incredible years of Children’s Chapel, we are filled with gratitude and joy as we step into our fifth! This special community continues to grow in the most meaningful ways, and each gathering is a joyful reflection of God’s presence—rooted in love, kindness, and connection.
Together, we sing with joy, explore meaningful stories of faith, offer prayers, create with our hands and hearts, and deepen our sense of belonging within our cherished chapel family. This summer, our theme is GRACE—embracing kindness, forgiveness, and gratitude in all that we do.
The Children’s Program will take place on non-beach service Sundays (July 12, 26; August 9, 23, and 30), running alongside the Chapel service. Children will begin worship with their families before transitioning to “AMEN”—a space filled with music, stories, crafts, and community-building activities. While fun is at the heart of all we do, safety remains our top priority.
Children ages 3–12 are warmly invited to join. We also welcome teenage volunteers, as well as parents and grandparents of young children, to help enrich our time together. If you are interested in contributing or have any questions, please reach out to Chrissi Crampton at chrissicrampton@gmail.com.
Your presence and participation help nurture a vibrant and loving congregation. We cannot wait to gather with you and your families at Chapel this summer!

The Hospitality Committee is looking forward to another wonderful 2026 summer season.
Thanks to the generosity of our volunteers, refreshments are provided to the congregation following four scheduled Sundays this summer: July 12, July 26, August 9th, & August 23rd. We hope you will join us to meet and greet one another.
In addition, please note that our Annual Interfaith Chapel Picnic will be held on Sunday, August 2nd at the Casino. This event has become increasingly popular, so please watch for further details in the Chapel’s Eblast over the summer.
For anyone who is interested in joining the Hospitality Committee, please know that you are always WELCOME!!!
A Hospitality Tea will be held for all committee members (current & new) on Thursday, June 25th from 3-5pm.
Location: 1 Rosaly Lane (house name: Sutureself). This is an opportunity to get together and sign up in advance for summer events.
The requests are simple: brownies, cookies, savory treats, lemonade and picnic offerings.
We look forward to seeing you then and over the summer.
Deb Martin, Hospitality Chair

I am pleased to report that 2025 was a very successful year, financially, for the Chapel.
For the first time in several years, the growth in giving exceeded the increase in expenses. In fact, total giving surged by nearly 40% versus the previous year and total income rose by 23% while expenses (before Outreach grants) increased by a more modest 8%. Our Annual Appeal, for the calendar year, generated contributions of $183,000, an increase of 46% over 2024, achieving the highest level on record. The endowments appreciated more than 11%, before distributions, benefiting from a strong US stock market and elevated short term interest rates. In addition, with assistance from the endowments, we completed the much needed repair and improvements to Amen cottage, extended the Columbarium Memorial wall and, most significantly, funded $150,000 of Outreach grants to island non-profits for the 5th consecutive year. I think you’ll agree, it was a very good year at the Chapel, financially.
Our 2026 budget, approved by the Board in February, provides for the services of the Chapel, support for our staff, professionals and musicians, the care and maintenance of our buildings and grounds, and the funding of Outreach grants to organizations and non-profits serving our village and the island. In formulating the budget, we were purposely conservative on income and liberal on expenses. Our ordinary income estimate is 12% below that achieved in 2025, while the estimate for expenses is 8% higher. While we are hopeful that the growth in giving and income experienced in 2025 will continue this year, we felt it unwise to make that our base case. The growth in expenses includes increased funding for our Children’s program as well as our music budget, and an increase in our Outreach budget to $160,000, the first increase since 2020. Unlike 2025, there are no large capital projects scheduled this year. The difference between income and expenses will be funded by withdrawals from our two endowments, which started the year with a combined value of $4,715,772. Our cash position as of March 1st was $139,000, which should provide ample liquidity through the start of the Chapel season in June.
As is the case each year, our budget is based on estimates. We’re counting on your continued generosity to make our giving estimate appear much too cautious, and we’re off to a good start with our 2025/2026 Annual Appeal campaign running 26% above last year. Thank you again for your continuing support of the Chapel.
Ed Hodge
Last summer, we were thrilled to launch our very first Teen Evening at the Sconset Chapel—a gathering that began with a Sconset Clean-Up in partnership with the Civic Association, followed by pizza and time to connect. Our teens jumped right in with enthusiasm, collecting everything from discarded trash to a few unexpected treasures, and then enjoyed getting to know one another through relaxed, fun icebreakers. It was a meaningful and joy-filled evening that truly reflected the spirit of community.
We are excited to build on that momentum this summer with two upcoming Teen Evenings. One will again be in collaboration with the Civic Association, while the other will center around a scavenger hunt. Both evenings will be followed by food, fellowship, and plenty of opportunities for connection, laughter, and shared purpose.
We have tentatively scheduled these evening gatherings for Wednesday, July 22nd and Wednesday, August 26th. We hope you will share these dates with the teenagers in your lives and encourage them to join us. Stay tuned for further information and please reach out to Chrissi Crampton at chrissicrampton@gmail.com with any questions.
Our summer theme is GRACE—embracing kindness, forgiveness, and gratitude in all that we do—and we look forward to seeing this spirit come alive through our teen community.




Consider ordering the book, Behold: The Siasconset Union Chapel for $75. We have a new selection of ornaments designed by Jenny Johnson who has captured several Sconset scenes and scenes inspired by the Chapel and its beautiful needlepoint. The ornaments will be available for sale, finished and in kits, complete with yarn and canvas. They will be available after Sunday services.
Prices: Kits are $100. Finished ornaments $150
All proceeds go to the Chapel outreach programs.
Email sconsetchapel@gmail.com for more information.
There are many things we are thankful for at our beloved Chapel. The board of trustees works diligently to oversee the chapel's operations, finances, and mission. Our committees are thoughtful in managing our finances, the maintenance of our beautiful grounds and columbarium areas, buildings and preservation, communications, events, hospitality, and pastoral support.

Nantucket food pantry bags will be available in the Chapel every Sunday during the season.
Please take one, fill it up with the suggested items on the list in the pocket of the bag, bring it back on Sunday or drop it off on porch of Amen.
At Siasconset Union Chapel, we welcome all who seek spiritual connection, community, and renewal. Our doors are open to residents and visitors alike, offering services in both Protestant and Catholic traditions throughout the summer season. Join us in this historic sacred space where generations have gathered for prayer, music, reflection, and fellowship.
The Chapel is a special and highly sought after place for an island wedding.
Choosing it for your marriage ceremony brings your family and friends into our Christian community. To learn more about the practice and policies concerning marriage and eligibility, please visit our website, sconsetchapel.org/sacraments.
We encourage Chapel worshippers, their families, year round and seasonal Nantucket residents and property owners, as well as frequent visitors to the island to reserve the Chapel at least eight months ahead of the brief June to October season in which they wish to marry. The fee for a wedding generates funds for building and garden maintenance.
Brides and grooms wishing further information should first review the website (above), then contact Mary Will, Chapel Reservationist at marylathropwill@gmail.com with questions about availability and assistance concerning steps forward.


Everyone anticipates the Sconset Chapel beach services. Especially the dogs who greet each other! Children enjoy the freedom to play in the sand while their parents listen to the waves break as the background for Rev Carr Holland’s message. Beach services will be held on July 6 and 20, August 3 and 17 and September 7. The services on July 20 and August 17th will include Blessing of the Animals. The Rev Carr Holland leads the prayers with musical accompaniment while the ocean is our backdrop .
This is an opportunity to worship in comfortable attire surrounded by friends, house guests, children, and of course dogs! Dont forget your beach chair.
We are grateful for the following gifts In Memory Of:

Dear friends of Sconset and the Chapel . It is once again that glorious time of year. Getting ready for summer in our Little piece of heaven on earth. For our 15 week Chapel season, we need 60 volunteers. Two volunteers to welcome and greet everyone and two to do the assigned readings each Sunday. If you would like to participate in these ministries, please email me at: irishpoet3gamail.com and let me know the dates you will be available. I will be back in Sconset mid May and will be in touch with all of you shortly.
Thank you, Catherine Saynor.
irishpoet3@gamil.com
Come help us make the chapel bell ring out over Sconset every day at noon. We marvel at how lucky we are to have this little piece of paradise in our lives. For a short time we can be with family and friends who share this common bond. I look forward to scheduling docents and bell ringers old and new. These volunteers represent our passion for the village, the community and our Chapel. Bell ringers are needed everyday at noon except Sunday and the docent program is Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 10-noon. Please contact Stephanie Hodge: shodge3857@gmail.com
We extend a warm welcome to all who visit our doors. The chapel is located in the heart of Siasconset village, a short walk from Main Street. Our congregation embraces newcomers with open arms, and we invite you to join us for worship, community events, or simply to enjoy a moment of quiet reflection in our historic sanctuary.
