Open Letter from Rev. Clarence, 10/10/22

Dear Members and Friends of St. James,

There is little new to report in our weekly update. After receiving notice of an increase of new Covid infections in Massachusetts, and because some remain cautious regarding a return to in-person worship, I can report that we remain among our membership, thanks to vaccinations and booster shots, free of infections, and that we continue to take all precautions on our campus against transmitting the virus. Social distancing and receiving Communion in one kind only remain the discipline which determines our in-person worship. Our bishop has relaxed the mask mandate, making the use of facial covering optional, i.e. voluntary. From my vantage point, I observe that worshippers continue to use masks, as do I, but especially so when singing.

This Parish Update does not contain any notice or announcements from the vestry meeting, scheduled for Sunday, 9 October, as several members were absent, attending to ill relatives or previously scheduled obligations. In short, the vestry lacked a quorum. The meeting has been rescheduled for Sunday next, 16 October, and as always, meetings of the vestry are open to all in the congregation. Your recommendations and observations are welcome.

Of your charity, I bid your prayers for peace, both at home and abroad:
O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Lord, we pray that your grace may always precede and follow us, that we may continually be given to good works; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for 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 among you, and remain with you, and those whom you love, for ever. Amen.

Your fellow traveler in The Way,
CEB+