Open Letter from Rev. Clarence, 10/17/22

Dear Members and Friends of St. James,

I am pleased to report that our vestry met yesterday, 16 October, after a long hiatus caused by illnesses and other unavoidable factors. As always, everyone is welcome to attend the meetings. For obvious reasons, our meeting yesterday was longer than usual. Our discussions dealt with practical concerns, but were, nevertheless, extremely positive. The long-term health of our congregation, diminished in personal attendance for almost three years by Covid-19, remains constant. And we acknowledged new faces among us. Equally important to the vestry was to take notice that pledging for the mission beyond our doors, as well as for the upkeep of our buildings has remained steady. Other sources of revenue are also anticipated which will underwrite, not only continued existence in Teele Square, but also enable us to extend greater outreach. The revitalization of a program, which is so much needed in our neighborhood and is of great interest to me, as a former academician, namely ESL (English as a Second Language) becomes again a reality. Our vestry recognized and voiced thanks for the wonderful addition of two talented young men, whose talent on our historical organ and on violin, as well as new additional lay participation in the spoken word, have all greatly enriched our liturgy.

Because we are a parish situated in a city and neighborhood with a strong immigrant history, I bid your prayers for our parish that we may continue and enhance our hospitality to those who enter our doors. Of your charity, I bid you pray for peace and our parish:
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, 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 your holy Church; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

O Lord our Governor, bless the leaders of our land, that we may be a people at peace among ourselves and a blessing to other nations of the earth; through Jesus Christ, your Son the Prince of Peace, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and for ever. Amen.

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, 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+