Open Letter from Rev. Clarence, 8/7/22

Dear Members and Friends of St. James,

In addition to the attached homily which I shared today with those who braved the unrelenting heatwave to attend in presence Holy Eucharist, I send this week only a brief notice of happenings on the corner of Broadway and Clarendon Ave., in Teele Square. Thanks to diocesan support, a visible change is afoot at St. James. Workmen, much to my concern based on daily visits to our campus, have braved the high heat index, in order to restore and refresh the exterior of two of our buildings which so desperately begged for attention. The restorations and renovations continue apace, with interior activities to begin soon. The importance of our continued location in Teele Square will be enhanced, as activities are noticeable on the too long vacant lot across the way. When the proposed boutique hotel has been completed, we will be in an excellent position to welcome visitors and new residents to our neighborhood.

I am grateful also to those in the parish who reach out to members who, because of illness or age, and especially due to the current heatwave, are not able to worship in person. I am thanks to all who continue to support the mission of the parish, by remembering to submit their pledges during the summer months, when traditionally attention to pledges slacken. Our treasurer and suppliers and other vendors are likewise grateful.

Of your charity I bid you pray for peace in our world, at home and aboard, and in thanksgiving for all caregivers and first responders. We summarize our petitions to Almighty God in the Collect of the Day:
Grant to us, Lord, we pray, the spirit to think and do always those things that are right, that we, who cannot exist without you, may by you be enabled to live according to your will; 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+