Open Letter from Rev. Clarence, 10/17/21

Dear Members and Friends of St. James,

It is indeed ‘a good and joyful thing,’ as we settle into a new routine, to be able to report to you that a new normalcy brings relief to our lives that have been battered and altered by the COVID pandemic.  And to that end, please know and notice that we continue to undertake recommended procedure to ensure the health and safety of those who enter our facilities, whether to engage in worship or in meetings.

The new normal has included for me and other clergy in the diocese a continuation of virtual meetings (Zoom) for Deanery Convocations and, this past week, a meeting with our Bishop-Diocesan Alan Gates on the first day of his return from a well-deserved four months sabbatical.  We give thanks to Bishop-Suffragan Gayle Harris and others at Diocesan Headquarters who shouldered additional responsibilities during those month. 

Our vestry met today following Eucharist.  I continue to be amazed at the dedication of leaders of the parish who understand and appreciate and wear with humility the mantel of mission that has come down from the founders of our parish in 1874, and dedicate themselves to a continuation of ministry at Teele Square, for our own generation, as well as for those yet to come. 

And finally, I send out a reminder of our intention to observe All Saints Day on Sunday, 31 October, the Sunday prior to the designated day itself, as All Saints Day, the day on which we remember and give thanks to God for those who gave themselves to ministry at St. James, fall on Monday, 1 November.  Please, remember to send to the parish the names of any whom you desire to be included in our voiced prayers on Sunday, 31 October.

With those able to be present in person and with those who are unable to attend an in-person celebration of the Holy Eucharist, we unite in prayer:

Almighty and everlasting God, in Christ you have revealed your glory among the nations: Preserve the works of your mercy, that your Church throughout the world may persevere with steadfast faith in the confession of your Name; 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, that 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 you, and remain with you and those whom  you love, this day and forever more.  Amen.

Your fellow traveler in The Way,
CEB +