Open Letter from Rev. Clarence, 9/5/21

Dear Parishioners and Friends of St. James,

On this Labor Day Weekend, when not only do TV announcers insist on declaring it the non-official end of summer, and when the outer temperatures and the lessening hours of daylight announce the changing of the seasons, I am pleased to report (especially to those who are unable to participate in in-person liturgies) that the parish continues to welcome new faces.  Surprising to me, however, has been the ministry of a young cantor who, without any announcement or request for participation, has caused those present to join him in a cappella hymnody!  Even this novelty (my own love of the organ notwithstanding) was not one that I had anticipated upon our reopening, but one which most assuredly reminds us of our wholeness when the congregation participates in liturgy.  But who knew?  Episcopalians can sing—and with gusto?  I must hasten to note: all singing is done behind masks, as required by diocesan and CDC guidelines. 

The only announcement of merit is to remind you all that the next meeting of the Vestry shall be held on Sunday, 19 September, immediately following Eucharist, in St. Francis Hall.  No pre-registration is required!  Please email me any concerns or novel ideas towards ministry that you may have.

I bid you pray for the whole state of Christ’s Church and the world, always remembering those whose ministry is directed toward the sick, the homeless, and the poor among us.

We pray:
Grant us, O Lord, to trust in you with all our hearts; for, as you always resist the proud who confide in their own strength, so you never forsake those who make their boast of your mercy; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for 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 Ghost, 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 +