Open Letter from Rev. Clarence, 12/19/21

Dear Parishioners and Friends of St. James,

The Fourth Sunday of Advent, as always, heightens our anticipation of our annual celebration in remembrance of the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, God’s Messiah.  I pray that my reflections, attached to this e-note, even as we prepare to celebrate, will direct your attention to the significant role which we of humankind play in the Divine Ordering of things. The Virgin Mary is evidence of that.  It was Mary whose strength guided the vestry in its meeting today, and as a newcomer to St. James remarked, St. James has a mission and ministry in Teele Square, inspite of and because of COVID.  In time, because I insist on transparency, you may expect great positive news.

By now, you should have received paper copy of the corrected and expanded information regarding liturgies up to the First Sunday after Christmas.  Our liturgy on Christmas Eve begins at 6:30 p.m. with a traditional carol sing, as we gather.  The focus of our gathering, the Mass of Christ, begins at 7:00 p.m.  REMINDER: We remain diligent in all in-person gatherings, to ward against transmission of coronavirus. 

As the setting of the sun and the incoming darkness of the night allow me to pivot to the celebration of the birth of Christ, I send you now my warmest wishes for a joyous, safe, for those of you who may travel, and healthy observance of Christmas.  And as you give thanks, of your charity I bid you not to forget first responders and the women and men who continue in their diligence, in their laboratories, medical facilities and outreach, to aid those who suffer from any illness or distress.

May the Collect for this Fourth Sunday of Advent unite us:
Purify our conscience, Almighty God, by your daily visitation, that you Son Jesus Christ, at his coming, may find in us a mansion prepared for himself, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of 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 on the Way,
CEB+