Open Letter from Rev. Clarence, 9/19/21

Posted on ; Filed under News

Dear Members and Friends of St. James,

On this last Sunday of Summer 2021, you will find [in separate posting] the written version of thoughts I shared today with those present at Eucharist.  I hope that my meditation, repeated here for those who worshipped in person and provided new here to those unable to attend, can serve as a catalyst to return on your own to Holy Writ in order to see its value, even in our 21st century lives. 

My update is thus: It is always a good and joyful thing to see a new face in our congregation.  Unfortunately, due to restrictions caused by Covid-19 (e.g., enter through one set of doors and exit through another; the exchange of the Peace from a distance; no coffee hour for social mingling; and friendly faces hidden behind a mask), we are limited in our ability to express our hospitality.  May those restrictions become things of the past as we continue to follow directions in place against transmission of this airborne virus.

The second notice that brings joy is to hear in vestry from our collector that pledges for this year continue to be honored.  Our obligation to meet our expenses does not take a holiday or sequester in place.  Especially, I am grateful to those among you, unable to attend Eucharist, who continue your financial support.  It is appropriate that I here remind us all that pastoral visits with the Holy Sacrament are again allowed.  You may contact me via this medium or via telephone, should such a visit be desired and [if] I have not made contact. 

I forsake not to bid your prayers for those who suffer from any ailment or distress, as well as for those who minister to them.  But, especially, bid I you pray for those learned women and men who awaken each day and ply their knowledge toward the reduction and elimination of those viruses and stresses that beset us all.

We pray:
Grant us, O Lord, not to be anxious about earthly things, but to love things heavenly, and even now, while we are placed among things that are passing away, to hold fast to those that shall endure; 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, that 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 with you, and remain with you and those whom you love, this day and forever more.  Amen.

Your fellow traveler in The Way
CEB +