An Open Letter from Rev. Clarence, 6/20/21

Dear Members and Friends of St. James,

On this 4^th Sunday after Pentecost, on Father’s Day 2021, as well as on this first day of summer, I send you greetings. What joy it was again today to see so many old faces, but also to greet new faces at Eucharist, new students at Tufts and new neighbors!  All attendees at Eucharist continue to observe strictly the guidelines set by our diocese and the City of Somerville, so that we maintain the health of parishioners and visitors alike.  While we cannot offer you a live recording of today’s  joyous celebration of the Eucharist, I can share with you my meditation, attached. [See separate post]

My report is brief, for during summer month, as in pre-Covid-19 days, many activities are placed on hold.  I do, however, ask that you direct your attention to the following:

• Community Service organizations meetings have resumed: AA on Tuesdays and Fridays.
• The first in-person Vestry Meeting since reopening will take place on Sunday, 27 June, following Eucharist.  Following our parish’s intention, Vestry Meetings are open to everyone.  This first meeting is essential, as we plan how best to move forward after so long a period of absence.  Any item which you may wish to be placed before us, should be forwarded to me by Wednesday, 23 June, in order that it be placed on the agenda.
• Music today was and Sunday next will be provided by a parishioner and violinist of neighboring St. John’s Church – Arlington, a parish in our deanery.  We are grateful to Mr. Steptoe for this ministry.  This is in keeping with my intentions that we invite and offer opportunity to young people to participate in our liturgy, that we celebrate talent of all kind among us.
• May I remind you that, being fully vaccinated and obliged to be “the masked priest,” I am available for in-person pastoral visits.   

I bid you pray always for those in our parish, as well as those others known and unknown to us, who participate in the ministry of scientific research and healing of illnesses that impact community. 

The Collect for 4 Pentecost:
O Lord, make us have perpetual love and reverence for your holy Name, for you never fail to help and govern those whom you have set upon the sure foundation of your loving-kindness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.  Amen.

May the peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord; and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be with and remain with you and those whom you love this day and for ever. Amen

Your fellow traveler in The Way,
CEB+