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

Dear Members and Friends of St. James,

What joy it was this morning to welcome at Eucharist so many of you, together with such an appreciable number of new faces! It is my hope and fervent prayer that the time will yet come, when even more of our parish family will feel comfortable with public worship. All guidelines set in place by our bishops, the City of Somerville, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts were observed, which will remain in place until further instructions from our Bishop-diocesan. As a reminder, no pre-registration is required for in-person worship, although we continue to request that worshippers sign in, indicating contact information, in case of notification by an attendee of illness. All present today indicated that they had been vaccinated according to protocol.

An FYI: At the request of some who were present this morning, I shall continue to post my thoughts of the day. However, I shall so do only following, no longer prior to, celebration of Eucharist. I do so, not that one must prepare for a weekly quiz, but rather that we include, at least in this small way, those who are unable to be physically present. It is my hope, encouraged by the Diocese, that St. James will also acquire the technology and develop the skills which will allow us to be even further inclusive of members and distant friends.

As a people of hope, we open again our doors to all who would walk with us in ministry.

Let us pray:

Collect of the Day:
O God, from whom all good proceeds: Grant that by your inspiration we may think those things that are right, and by your merciful guiding may do them; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

For Joy in God’s Creation
O Great Creator, who has filled the world with beauty: Open our eyes to behold your gracious hand in all your works; that, rejoicing in your whole creation, we may learn to serve you with gladness; for the sake of him through whom all things were made, your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

For those engaged in the ministry of healing:
O merciful God, giver of life and health, send your blessing, we pray, upon all who are engaged in the ministry of healing. Grant that they be compassionate in their care for the sick and afflicted, fearless in their efforts to promote the health and well-being of the people in this and other lands, and be strengthened by your grace, for the sake of Him whose Cross is the pledge of victory over all powers of evil, even your Son our Savior Jesus Christ. 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+