Grateful

I am truly looking forward to our Celebration of a New Ministry, when I am officially installed as rector of St. Michael’s on Saturday, February 12 at 2:00 pm. After 17 months of the ups and downs of COVID, Bishop Smith will be with us for the official institution and induction. Please note: there is no 5:00 pm Eucharist on February 12^th.

As I prayed through the service, this line from the second lesson (Ephesians 4: 15-16) jumped out at me:

“But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and knitted together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love.”

This passage inspired me to think of some people who have “spoken the truth in love” to me through these past 30+ years of ordained ministry. I have learned a lot about God, God’s people, and myself through the loving encouragements and admonitions of faithful people.

This passage also speaks of “growing up” and “building up.” As followers of Jesus who proclaim and practice the way of love, we are always seeking to grow and deepen our faith in God and our connection with one another. We learn that love is more than just warm, fuzzy feelings. We learn that Christian love is about wanting what’s best for another, wanting what’s best even for those who are difficult and with whom we disagree.

This more mature love knits us together into the Body of Christ. We belong to God and each other, and we can overcome struggles, challenges and difficulties with God’s help. “We are called, we are chosen, we are Christ for one another” the song says…

I am truly looking forward to the celebration next Saturday. It will be followed by a reception in the parish hall. Thank you to all who are working on the service and the reception. I am humbled by your goodness to Sue and me, and I am very grateful for the privilege to serve here at St. Michael’s. 

Finally, I am happy to let you know that we will have coffee hours after the 8:00 and 10:30 services beginning next Sunday the 13^th. Social hours after the 5:00 pm Saturday services will resume on February 19^th (since there’s no 5:00 service on the 12^th). 

Peace,

Bill+