Open Letter from Rev. Clarence, 7/31/22

Dear Members and Friends of St. James,

Traditionally, summer is a time of reduced activities in parishes.  While that is true also of St. James, it is nevertheless rewarding to report that despite sweltering temperatures, our doors remain open and new faces are joining us in the celebration of the Eucharist.  We continue to observe the guidelines set by our Diocese regarding in-person worship.  Masks are no longer required, but highly encouraged, especially while singing.  Communion continues to be offered in one kind only.

Lest loyal members feel neglected, I give here a special “shout out” to Rosemary and William Parsons who, even as they celebrate years of marriage this week, find time to help us prepare for renovations and upgrades to our facility, as we work with diocesan officials to ensure our continued ministry in Teele Square. 

Finally, as we look ahead, I am overjoyed to report that we clergy in our deanery are considering a most un-Episcopal idea, namely that of “pulpit swap.”  The pandemic, despite the long years of isolation, but perhaps because of the sequestering in place in our individual parishes, a friendly, more open collegiality among clerics in our deanery has developed.  More about this concept will be shared, as we move into the fall season.

Of your charity, I bid you pray for peace, both in our land and abroad.  Let the Collect for the Eighth Sunday after Pentecost be the guide in what we undertake daily:
Let your continual mercy, O Lord, cleanse and defend your Church; and, because it cannot continue in safety without your help, protect and govern it always by your goodness; 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+