Parish Demographics

The congregation of St. Mary's Parish is essentially a microcosm of the county. There are over 200 families or living groups, with over 400 communicants, a majority of whom are still active in the work force; retired people who actively contribute to parish life; and an increasing number of children and teenagers. The congregation is relatively stable, although there is some reflection of the turnover which occurs in the military and college communities.

Despite its deceptively rural location, the parish exhibits considerable urbanity and diversity. As in the county at large, occupations include professionals -- engineers, realtors, lawyers, doctors, teachers, government workers, college faculty and staff -- as well as self-employed farmers, builders, small businessmen and watermen.

Because the parish is almost surrounded by tidewater, its recreational preferences are water-oriented (sailing, fishing, crabbing, cruising), but congregational interests range from sports to crafts, antiques, needlework, reading, music, art, gardening, bicycling, flying, horseback riding, even wine making. (The Blessing of the Vineyard of one parish family has become an eagerly anticipated parish event each spring.)
 
 
 

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