Open letter from Rev. Clarence, 8/30/22

Dear Members and Friends of St. James,

The tardiness of this posting of my homily from Sunday, 28 August, the 12th Sunday after Pentecost, was caused neither by desertion of duty nor by illness. I rush to thank a couple of you, without attribution, who called to inquire of my health, inasmuch as several in the parish have either themselves or relatives who became ill with the Coronavirus. Meeting with or engaged in conversation with diocesan officials, as well as pursuing further contact with newcomers to our parish, and also preparing to host from Germany competitors in this year’s Boston International Bach Organ Competition—all pressed on the hours available to me. I am equally grateful to those in our congregation who notified me in advance that they would observe diocesan guidelines, by absenting themselves from in-person worship because of contact with someone who did exhibit Covid symptoms. I am further grateful to those in attendance who follow still diocesan guidelines regarding this virus.

Diocesan guidelines have been changed, slightly. Clergy and lay leadership in our respective parishes have received from our bishops updated guidelines which relax some previous restrictions, such as allowing now in-person worship without masks, but maintaining still appropriate distance and removing restrictions against receiving communion in both kinds. The revised guidelines allow our individual congregations to move at a pace that is most comfortable for their situation. Future infection rates, so cautioned the bishops, may require a return to former diocesan guidelines. Please note: until further notice, at St. James masks are strongly encouraged, but optional. However, communion will be offered still in one kind. That is to say, the common cup will not be used. We all pray for the time, when we may again receive in both kinds, but given the demographics of our congregation, we shall proceed with due caution.

As we go forward, may the Collect for the 12th Sunday after Pentecost unite us:
Lord of all power and might, the author and giver of all good things: Graft in our hearts the love of your Name; increase in us true religion; nourish us with all goodness; and bring forth in us the fruit of good works; 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+