Open Letter from Rev. Clarence, 11/6/22

Dear Members and Friends of St. James,

Tradition demands that words from a rector or priest-in-charge should be always serious, devoid of humor.  However, the shock of seeing darkness in our hemisphere already at 5:00 p.m., having set our clock back by one hour and knowing that daylight hours will continue to decrease until winter solstice, I conclude that there is justification for interjecting humor into the human dilemma.  After all, the psalmist does say ‘rejoice in the Lord always; again, I say rejoice.’  To that end, I share with you on this 22 Sunday after Pentecost and Sunday in the Octave of All Saints, a bit of humor published in the annual cartoon calendar sent by Church Pension Group to all clergy.  The cartoonist is the Rev. Jay Sidebotham, an Associate Rector at St. James Church in New York City who, prior to answering a call to ordained ministry, worked in the field of animation.  You may view on your own the entire calendar at www.cpg.org/liturgical.  But on to the humor.

Colorful signs on church lawn read: “Hope you had a nice break!”  “Welcome back to church!” “Church resumes!”  “We’re back!” “We missed you!”  “Thanks for showing up!

Sign from the cloud about the church: “Hope you all had a good summer.  Of course, I was here the whole time.”

That, good people, is the message from the lesser prophet Haggai and today’s excerpt from the Gospel according to Luke.  My attached meditation cannot compete with Fr. Sidebotham’s colorful illustration.  However, I hope that you will find the joy in the lectionary which provided context for my own thoughts.

Of your charity, I bid you pray for these United States, as we render on Tuesday decisions for our common good:
Almighty God, to whom we must account for all our powers and privileges: Guide the people of the United States in the election of officials and representatives; that, by faithful administration and wise laws, the rights of all may be protected and our nation be enabled to fulfill your purposes; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

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.

O God, whose blessed Son came into the world that he might destroy the works of the devil and make us children of God and heirs of eternal life: Grant that, having this hope, we may purify ourselves as he is pure; that, when he comes again with power and great glory, we may be made like him in his eternal and glorious kingdom; where he 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+