Letter from Rev. Clarence, 5/22/2022

Dear Members and Friends of St. James,

I post as usual the homily which I delivered this morning at Eucharist. Its focus is on the Feast of the Ascension, which we observe and celebrate on Thursday of this week. That Holy Day carries personal significance, for it is the day over many decades, on which I was confirmed, ordered Deacon, and ordered Priest, all at the hands of the same bishop, the Rt. Rev. George Leslie Cadigan, of recent memory. It was the same prelate who united my wife, now late, and me in Holy Matrimony, not on Ascension Day, but exactly one week following. My homily addresses not directly my personal relationship to that Holy Day, but does challenge us to look carefully and thoughtfully at how the valedictory speech of Jesus of Nazareth, while recalling things past, supports us in our uncharted futures. As usual, your comments are welcomed.

Of great relief it is to report that St. James continues to undertake every effort to diminish transference of the coronavirus, even as cases rise in our area. As we so do, it is not my intention to neglect members in our congregation who remain diligent and refrain from in-person worship. Hence, the weekly posting of homilies and other notices.

Of your charity, I bid you pray

For the parish, remembering especially those who are ill among us: Almighty and everliving God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth, hear our prayers for this parish family. Strengthen the faithful, arouse the careless, comfort those who suffer from bodily pain, and restore the penitent. Grant us all things necessary for our common life, and bring us all to be of one heart and mind within you holy Church; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

For Peace:
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love; So mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all peoples may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one Father; to whom be dominion and glory, now and for ever. Amen.

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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 among you, and remain with you, and those whom you love, for ever. Amen.

Your fellow traveler on the Way,
CEB+