Mother Dawn's Blog

Holy Week Schedule 2021

2021-03-16T10:52:00.001-07:00

Holy Week 2021 at Trinity~St. Paul’s/Hannibal, MO

Sunday, March 28^th Palm Sunday, 10a.m.

Thursday, April 1^st Maundy Thursday, 6p.m.

Friday, April 2^nd Good Friday, 6p.m.

Saturday, April 3^rd The Great Vigil of Easter, 6p.m*

Sunday, April 4^th Easter, 10a.m.*

*We are currently limited to 40 in person. We ask your assistance in RSVP’ing to eitherthe Saturday or Sunday service to celebrate Easter. First come, first served on RSVP’s.

All services will also be livestreamed to our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/trinityepiscopalhannibal

Welcome Back!

2021-03-10T08:56:00.002-08:00

Welcome back!!

We can have 40 gather in person and we will continue to livestream on our Facebook page.

Also, please use only the Bell Tower doors on 4^thStreet.

For everyone’s health and safety, masks need to be worn properly (covering mouth and nose) while in church and physical distance maintained. Extra masks are available on the table when you enter.

Please only use pews that aren’t roped off and sit only with members of your immediate household.

Painters’ tape on the carpet indicate 6 foot increments and arrows show traffic flow.

When it comes time to receive the Eucharist, please keep the 6 foot distance as you come forward.

The hosts will be in individual baking cups on a tray. After the Bread has been consecrated, I will place the tray on the table at the bottom of the chancel steps.

Please take the cup and move off to the side. Then pull down your mask and consume the Bread before retuning your mask to its proper position. You may then may your way down the side aisles to your seat.

Lastly, to keep things as contactless as possible, please print your bulletin or have it handy on your device for Sunday.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Top Ten Things Your Pastors Want You to Know

2021-01-27T07:28:00.001-08:00

10) we are people, too, with feelings and emotions;

9) we share your frustrations & longings;

8) we are doing the best we can given impossible circumstances;

7) we need you support & encouragement now more than ever;

6) we can only do so much without your full assistance and cooperation;

5) we all want God’s best- for the church, for the community, and for us;

4) we are trying to act in everyone’s best interests, with conflicting opinions & competing data;

3) we are all in this together & we will only thrive when we work together;

2) we need you to work with us in a spirit of cooperation and flexibility;

AND . . .

1) we need you to be part of the solution and not to compound the problem.

A Prayer for Our Nation

2021-01-20T08:59:00.003-08:00

Dear Ones,

Today is a day for mixed emotions. Some of us are happy and full of joy. Others of us are frustrated and angry.

The Bible reminds us that, Republican or Democrat, we owe our ultimate allegiance to a Higher Authority. God does not play politics or take sides.

God calls us God’s children, God’s beloved sons and daughters. To God that is the only citizenship that matters in the end.

The Bible is also clear that we are called to pray for our leaders and our nation at all times. We are to pray not only when we agree or disagree.

Today, and the days and months ahead, I pray that you will join me in praying for our nation.

Almighty God, who hast given us this good land for our heritage: We humbly beseech thee that we may always prove
ourselves a people mindful of thy favor and glad to do thy will. Bless our land with honorable industry, sound learning, and
pure manners. Save us from violence, discord, and confusion; from pride and arrogance, and from every evil way. Defend
our liberties, and fashion into one united people the multitudes brought hither out of many kindreds and tongues. Endue
with the spirit of wisdom those to whom in thy Name we entrust the authority of government, that there may be justice and
peace at home, and that, through obedience to thy law, we may show forth thy praise among the nations of the earth.
In the time of prosperity, fill our hearts with thankfulness, and in the day of trouble, suffer not our trust in thee to fail;
all which we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Book of Common Prayer, p. 820

"Mary, did you know?" Sermon for 4 Advent (20 December 2020)

2020-12-20T09:01:00.004-08:00

Luke 1:26-38

FaceBook meme Mary did you know?

Yes, Mary did know. Now that does not mean that Mary understood everything that Gabriel’s life changing message would entail. After all every baby is special- especially to its parents and family members. Nothing could have totally prepared Mary to give birth to one considered by millions to be God among us.

Parenting can be challenging under the best of circumstances; babies don't come with instructions or a parenting book. First time parents, especially, can feel excited but also full of fear and anxiety. Babies are so frail and helpless totally dependent upon others. I'm sure Mary felt no different.

Mary could have made excuses like so many others in the Bible. She could have even said no to Gabriel. However, Mary said “yes.” She said yes to being a part of God's plan for her and for the world. Mary’s brave and bold example has me wondering.

What is God calling you or me to do? What is keeping you or me from saying “yes”? Because of the culture and the times, things would not be easy for Mary. Yet she was willing to take a risk. Mary ‘s trust in God enabled her to step out in faith.

As God calls each of us and leads us to step out in faith, may Mary's open heart and deep faith give the you faith, hope and courage to also say “Here I am, the servant of the Lord.”

"Tidings of Comfort and Hope" sermon for 2 Advent, 6 December 2020

2020-12-08T09:23:00.003-08:00

Comfort ye, comfort ye My people, saith your God. Speak ye comfortably to
Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned.

The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness
Prepare ye the way of the Lord. Make straight in the desert a highway for Our God.

“Messiah” by GF Handel

Cf. Isaiah 40:1-3

Those words, sung in a clear tenor, always pop into my head when I read Isaiah’s words. Maybe that happens to you, too. Perhaps now, more than ever, you and I need to hear some good news. We are almost 10 months into the pandemic. There are still high levels of anxiety and uncertainty. The news reports that cases of depression and other mental health issues associated with isolation, loneliness, and despair are on the rise.

We are longing for good news. Or, at least, I know that I am. I am longing to hear some news of hope and comfort right now. In the opening verse of his narrative, Mark tells us that he is bringing us good news: “This is the good news about Jesus Christ, the Son of God” (1:1; CEV). Mark’s audience also needed to hear some good news. Their homeland was under occupation from the Roman Empire. The tiny band of Jesus followers were being persecuted.

So Mark begins his account of Jesus’ life and ministry not with a birth story as we might expect. No. Mark starts his Gospel with John the Baptist. John the Baptist, in Mark’s mind, comes as the one who prepares the way for Jesus. John is the herald, the forerunner, who announces this glorious arrival. Here Mark looks to the past and finds hope in the prophet Isaiah:

Someone is shouting: “Clear a path in the desert! Make a straight road
for the Lord our God. Fill in the valleys;
flatten every hilland mountain.
Level the rough and rugged ground.
Then the glory of the Lord
will appear for all to see.
The Lord has promised this!”

Isaiah 40:3-5 (CEV)

Isaiah is speaking wonderful words of comfort and hope. God’s people Israel are in Exile in Babylon. A whole generation or two are born far from the land promised to Abraham. I don’t think it is too much of a stretch to say that the people feel isolated and cut off. They feel that God has abandoned them and left them. No doubt they can relate to our sense of despair and hopelessness.

Isaiah’s words announce that the end is near. The Exile is ending. God has not forgotten His people. Once God paved a way through the wilderness from Egypt to the Promised land. Now God again paves a way home. This time from Babylon back to Jerusalem. Mark evokes Isaiah to say that John is a prophet, just like Isaiah. And, like Isaiah, John brings good news in the wilderness.

God has not left his people forsaken. In fact, God is still with His people. God is faithful, just as God has always been. The Babe of Bethlehem is coming to lead us through the wilderness to a land flowing with milk and honey. Not a physical wilderness, no. But through the spiritual wilderness of sin and death to a land where there is new and unending life with God.

This is no pie in the sky, by and by, kind of promise. One of the names given to Jesus before His birth , in Matthew’s Gospel, is Emmanuel. Jesus comes as Emmanuel, God with us. As God with us, Jesus is not just waiting for us in God’s eternal home. Jesus is with us in the midst of the wilderness wanderings, bearing us up, and giving us hope. We are not alone. God, in Jesus, is with us. The grass and the flowers may wither away and die. But God’s word, God’s promise in Jesus is for all times.

Who around you needs this word of hope and comfort? Perhaps it is the coworker who lost a loved one and the holidays always remind her of her loss. Maybe it is the neighbor for whom the holidays are not about memories of happy times with his family. It could even be you. You and I are called to join Isaiah, John, and Mark in proclaiming the good news:

“Comfort, oh comfort my people,”
says your God.
“Speak softly and tenderly to Jerusalem,
but also make it very clear
That she has served her sentence,
that her sin is taken care of—forgiven!”

Isaiah 40:1-2a (MSG)

From the Marion County, MO Health Department

2020-12-02T08:36:00.003-08:00

Administrator Update – November 18, 2020

I was on a call yesterday with Governor Parsons and during his talk, he stated that rural Missouri needs to step up and do better. Missouri positive case numbers have doubled in the last 30 days and are projected to continue increasing at an alarming rate.

Marion County is no exception to these statistics. Our daily positive counts continue to grow, our deaths are increasing, and our hospitalizations are growing. This means that we have fewer healthcare workers, caregivers, teachers, clerks, drivers, etc. due to isolation and quarantine.

It does not mean that our demand for services decreased, in fact more will need to be hospitalized, more will need to receive medical care, funeral services will increase, and businesses will have fewer staff or not be able to operate. The consequences of not doing anything puts our county at great risk!

What can we do as a county to slow the spread of this virus?

I am asking that everyone think about compromises and the people in our community. Think about respect for human life and each other’s welfare. This is not a political issue, it is not to take away rights, it is not to mandate and take away our freedom of choice. Simple basic common-sense actions can help Marion County slow the spread of COVID-19.

The CDC has now stated that wearing appropriate cloth masks (worn over the nose and mouth) protects you as well as those around you. Everyone (two years and up) wearing a mask in public places would be a great start. Sneezing and coughing into your elbow (covering your face), this is recommended for all illnesses and is just common courtesy. Good hand washing is not new, we touch surfaces with unknown germs, so remember to wash your hands, and if you’re unable to, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid gatherings; go when there are less people.

The virus is transmitted from person to person; it does not matter if they are family, friends, co-workers or strangers. Social distance.

Stay home if you are sick!

COVID-19 does not just present with a fever, most positive cases never have a fever. If you have symptoms, question them. Many positive cases thought it was just their allergies or sinuses. Be mindful that some positive cases have no symptoms, some have a severe illness and complications that can result in death.

If you have symptoms, please get tested.

When you get tested, remember you need to quarantine until you receive your results. If you are negative, then you are no longer under quarantine, unless you are a close contact to a positive case. If you test positive, you will be in a 10-day isolation. The health department will receive only the positive case information, two to five days after you have been notified by the testing provider. We will contact you and review your symptoms and isolation dates.

The health department receives hundreds of calls and notifications everyday and is working continuously to contact those who are positive. If you just tested the day or night before, please do not call for your instructions, we will not have your results yet. These calls place the older notifications further behind and delay contact tracing.

We all need to work together, think outside the box to accomplish this urgent task of reducing the spread of COVID-19. Missouri is the show me state, so Marion County let’s show everyone we can do this!!

Jean McBride

While we wait

2020-11-04T07:50:00.007-08:00

Dear Ones,

This comes with prayers and best wishes for you and yours.

Together we are watching and waiting. Votes are still being counted. The election is, right now, too close to call. As people of faith, watching and waiting are familiar to us- even if it is uncomfortable. Many times throughout the Church year we are called to wait. In Advent we wait and prepare with Mary for the birth of the Babe of Bethlehem. During Lent, we watch and wait as Jesus heads to the cross and we keep vigil with the women on Good Friday.

Waiting does not come easy to us in our consumer oriented culture. We want things and we want them NOW. We also want things on OUR terms. The pandemic has only increased our impatience.

I invite you to join me in praying for our nation. Pray for the restoration of peace. Pray for the healing of divisions. Pray for patience and humility, both for ourselves and for others. Pray that you and I would let the love of God work in and through us.

Jesus tells us that the world will know His followers by their love. It is easy to love those who love us, look like us, think like us, and act like us. The radical love of God calls us beyond that to love those who are different from us as fellow beloved children of God. Love of those who are different from us, love of our enemies, is the true test of our faith.

No matter what happens today or tomorrow or in the coming weeks and months, let us put out faith into action by showing unconditional love and kindness to one another. As the powerful spiritual goes, “They’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love. Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love.”

A note about in-person worship

2020-09-02T07:50:00.004-07:00

Marion County COVID-19 update of as 8-28-20:

New Cases: 38

Total Cases: 511

Total Hospitalized: 9

Active Cases: 146

Total recovered/released: 353

Total deaths: 12

Ralls County COVID-19 update of as 8-31-20:

Total Cases: 126

Total Hospitalized: 1

Active Cases: 22

Total recovered/released: 104

Total deaths: 0

covidactnow.org/us/mo/?s=987199 data as of 1 September:

DAILY NEW CASES for Marion County

64.1 PER 100K

Dangerous number of new cases

INFECTION RATE

1.13

Active cases are rapidly increasing

I am saddened to say that the above data, and the new Diocesan guidelines just released, mean that Trinity will remain closed to public worship for the foreseeable future.

Please know that I do not take this decision lightly. I know this is very upsetting for some of us. However, I care too much about your health and safety to put us at potential risk.

Faithfully,

Dawn-Victoria+

**Sermon** 2 August 20202020-08-04T07:31:00.000-07:00
We are living through some difficult times.  Many of us have not been able to go into our churches for five and a half months now.  Live-streaming and Zoom worship cannot replace in-person worship.  A computer screen cannot capture the physical energy of gathering together in the house of the Lord.
Not only have we been denied the comfort of each other’s physical presence, but there is something else we have been missing.  Episcopalians are a Sacramental people.  Eucharist is central to our weekly gatherings.  No church has meant that we, the Body of Christ, have not been able to receive the comfort of Christ’s Body in the Sacrament.
Right now, it is hard to make any plans.  Each day brings new information.  Sometimes that information is conflicting.  It can be difficult to know who to trust.  There can be little or no advance planning.  If we knew when we’d have a vaccine or even an effective treatment, I think we could cope better.  Or, at least, I know I would.
The Exiles of Isaiah know how we feel.  Everything they knew, or thought they knew, has drastically changed.  Mighty Babylon has conquered Judah.  Jerusalem and the Temple lie in ruins.  The Judean leaders are exiled to Babylon.  Far away from their homeland and far away from the Temple, the people begin to wonder:
Where is God?
What about God’s promises to Abraham and David?
How can we worship God when the place where God dwells is far way and in ruins?
Eventually, the Exile ends and the Israelites are able to return home.  But the home they left is not the one to which they return.  There is still devastation and destruction in Jerusalem.  They must adjust to a “new normal.”  What was once a land “flowing with milk and honey” is a barren wasteland.
Isaiah speaks to those recently returned from Exile in Babylon.  God promises to restore the land.  Once again, the Promised Land will bring forth fruit of the vine and grain from the earth.  God’s lavish abundance will provide food and drink for all.  There will be enough and to spare.  All free, without cost.  Isaiah’s words are clearly filled with Eucharistic symbolism.
Food costs money and never fully satisfies.  After a few hours, we will be hungry again.  Food is also only good for our physical hunger.  Even Wonder bread, with all its vitamin and nutrients, can’t reach our emotional or spiritual hungers.  In Isaiah, God’s people are offered lasting nourishment.  Food not just for body but for the spirit and the soul freely given.
In our Gospel reading, God again provides for the needs of God’s people.  After a day listening to Jesus and watching Him heal, the people are worn out and hungry.  Jesus’ friends insist that Jesus send them away to find food and drink.  Jesus has compassion on the crowd.  He invites the disciples to feed the people.  After a search, a few sardines and some biscuits are found.  Hardly enough for one, never mind such a large group!
Yet again, through Jesus, God provides for God’s people.  And not just a meager portion.  After all, God never does anything by half measures.  Grace, and food, abounds and then some.  The biscuits and the fish become a feast for over 5,000.  The people are filled and then some.  There are even leftovers!
God is always found where there is grace and love overflowing.  Whenever and however God’s people gather, God is there with them . . . even on Zoom of Facebook Live.  The same God who provided manna in the wilderness, who offers free wine and milk is the same God with us who says:
“I’m telling you the most solemn and sober truth now: Whoever believes in me has real life, eternal life. I am the Bread of Life. Your ancestors ate the manna bread in the desert and died. But now here is Bread that truly comes down out of heaven. Anyone eating this Bread will not die, ever. I am the Bread—living Bread!—who came down out of heaven. Anyone who eats this Bread will live—and forever! The Bread that I present to the world so that it can eat and live is myself, this flesh-and-blood self.”
John 6:48-51 (MSG)

Pastoral Letter from Bishop Johnson

2020-07-15T09:23:00.002-07:00

  
July 8, 2020
“And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love.
Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them." -1 John 4:16
Dear Friends in the Risen Christ;
As people of faith and followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to love God and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Our highest ideal and primal calling to be a people grounded and guided in love. During the past few months of pandemic, we have demonstrated our love for God made real and present in each other by wearing face coverings, washings hands, and refraining from gathering in-person for worship.
We are once again being called into a time of sacrificial love as cases of COVID-19 begin to rise in the State of Missouri and around the world. Effective July 15, 2020 in-person public worship within the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri is suspended until September 1, 2020. Gatherings of 10 or fewer persons within the worship space may continue for the purposes of livestreaming, prayer, and office administration. At this time, all prior safety protocols remain in effect throughout the Diocese.
Like you, I long for a time when we can safely gather for worship and ministry, to break bread and fellowship. I long to be able to meet you in person and to hear your hopes and dreams for the future of our common life. However, during this time of uncertainty the best way we can show love of God and love of neighbor is to continue to refrain from gathering for a time.
That does not mean that the work of serving Christ in others goes undone. That does not mean that kindness, grace, or hope are suspended. This time of pandemic challenges us as people of faith and as the Church to dream new dreams, to cast new visions, and to express our faith in Jesus Christ in new and creative ways. I invite you to join me in this sacred work of love.
As we continue on this journey, may God bless and keep you, those you love, and those whom you serve, now and always.
Yours in Christ,
The Rt. Rev. Deon K. Johnson,
Eleventh Bishop of Missouri

Sermon 12 July 2020

2020-07-15T09:22:00.000-07:00

Imagine, if you will, NOT a “dimension not only of sight, sound or mind,” but a backpack. You wear this backpack day in and day out. Joyous events, like a baby’s birth or a job promotion, ease the burden of the backpack. More challenging things add weight to your backpack. Like stones being put into the backpack each time.

There are many things that can add to the heaviness of the backpack. Guilt and fear over us sins that lead us to think God can’t love us. Uncertainty and anxiety over the confusion surrounding COVID-19. Frustration over the lack of uniformity of guidance for sates and churches. Anger that some people wear (or don’t wear) masks. Paralyzing loneliness after almost four months in isolation.

The Apostle Paul can relate. He tells that Romans that he, too, was weighed down. Paul writes:

I obviously need help! I realize that I don’t have what it takes. I can will it, but I can’t do it. I decide to do good, but I don’t really do it; I decide not to do bad, but then I do it anyway.

You can hear the anguish in Paul’s voice. Paul’s frustration is only too real. As a student of God’s Law, he clearly knows what is right. Paul knows what God expects of him, from a legal standpoint. However, the worldly part of Paul encourages him to deviate from God’s path. The pull of power, prestige, position, and possessions sometimes proves too much for Paul.

Paul shares his confession with the Romans:

It happens so regularly that it’s predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up. I truly delight in God’s commands, but it’s pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge.

I’ve tried everything and nothing helps. I’m at the end of my rope. Is there no one who can do anything for me? Isn’t that the real question?

That is the million-dollar question, isn’t it? What are you and I to do? How will you and I ever get out of this mess? Fortunately, we are not left to our own devices to seek the answer. Paul speaks from his own experience and shares with us what he has found to be the best, the only, answer:

The answer, thank God, is that Jesus Christ can and does. He acted to set things right in this life of contradictions where I want to serve God with all my heart and mind, but am pulled by the influence of sin to do something totally different.

We do not have to take Paul’s witness for it, however. In this morning’s Gospel reading, Jesus comforts and reassures His followers that peace awaits them. This does not mean that our lives will go smoothly. Or that life will not present us with challenges and struggles. But Jesus does promise to be with us, side-by-side, helping to ease our burdens. We do not need to shoulder that backpack alone.

^28-30“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

Re-entry

2020-05-07T11:53:00.003-07:00

his comes with my prayers and best wishes.

Many of us are anxious to know when we can resume public worship, especially as several Hannibal churches have or will soon be.

I understand. I miss you, too, and cannot wait until we can be together to worship and visit. There is something special, an almost invisible energy that happens in community that does not happen on Facebook or Zoom.

The Vestry is working together to make s plan, following the lead of our Diocese. Soon we hope to share with you our plan for re-entry.

Several things need to happen before Trinity is ready, including the following:

*The plan must be approved by the Diocese

*There must be no new cases in Marion or Ralls Counties for 14 days

*Safeguards must be in place to ensure appropriate physical distancing and minimize contact

These new measures will not come easy to us. They will seem awkward and uncomfortable at times, perhaps. But, as with generations before us, we can and will get through this together.

I believe that our family, our community, will be all the stronger for what we are currently going through. I believe that because I am firmly convinced of God’s love and faithfulness.

The earliest we can look at returning to public worship in Sunday, June 7^th. However, that date is not written in stone. As noted above, there are several factors to consider before re-entry.

The best thing you and I can do is to pray for those on the frontlines and for those impacted by the pandemic.

We can and should also continue to exercise caution in these early days of starting to re-open America’s Hometown.

I continue to wash and sanitize my hands and frequently touches surfaces. I still wear a mask into the store. I do so to keep those around me healthy as a way of following Jesus who commands that we love our neighbors as ourselves.

Coronavirus Update from The Offices of the Bishop

2020-03-11T08:48:00.002-07:00

Special Edition: March 10, 2020

Coronavirus Response Update

From Bishop Wayne Smith and Bishop-elect Deon Johnson

As we live more fully into the reality of COVID-19, please be assured that your diocesan leaders are closely monitoring the latest news and health advisories. The first case of the disease was confirmed in our area March 7. We want to stress again the need to remain calm and combat fear with knowledge.

Unless advised by health authorities to do otherwise, we will continue in regular worship and diocesan meetings and gatherings - with common sense precautions. We recommend that parishes do the same. If you are in a high-risk group (over 60-years old or have a chronic health condition), we will provide ways to participate remotely whenever possible.

In this message, you will find:

• Preventative steps

• Congregational practices

• Responding to illness

• Resources for more information and communications

Preventative steps:

Health officials agree that common sense preventative practices are the most effective forms of disease control, including:

• Frequent, effective hand washing

• Staying home when sick

• Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, using a tissue or your sleeve instead of your hands

Congregational practices:

As we are in close contact during our worship and in community, it is especially important that we practice and promote personal hygiene. We recommend the following congregational practices today – please note that we will continually be monitoring conditions and these recommendations will be updated as we move forward:

• Clergy, lay leaders, and all members stay home when ill.

• Regularly clean and sanitize all communionware, wipe down the communion rail, the altar and door handles with disinfecting wipes or cleaners.

• Each parish can decide whether or not to offer the common cup. If you do:

- use a silver or metal chalice, not glass or ceramic;

- do NOT intinct;

- wipe the cup inside and out with the purificator and

- turn the cup a quarter-turn with each person.

• Refrain from hand-shaking and hugging during the Peace and throughout services. Smiles, waves and bows are a safer practice right now.

• Eucharistic ministers should wash their hands or use an alcohol-based rub before the distribution of the sacrament, whether in the context of the liturgy or in visiting someone at home or in the hospital.

• Drain your baptismal font.

• Parishes involved in ministries serving food give particular attention to best practices regarding food safety.

• Regularly do environmental cleaning in the sanctuary, kitchen hall and other spaces where people gather.

• Pay special attention to the care of vulnerable populations, the elderly, children, the infirm and others at special risks.

Responding to illness:

If clergy, a member of your staff or a member is diagnosed with COVID-19:

• Stay home and follow the instructions of health officials.

• Notify the Bishop’s office at 314-231-1220.

• Notify your congregation.

• Cancel all church activities.

• Make arrangements to have your church and offices professionally cleaned

• (call the Bishop’s office if you need financial assistance).

In the event of a local outbreak of the virus, now is a good time to prepare for home-based worship resources, including livestream services, telephone ministry, and pastoral care to the wider community.

Thank you for your on-going prayers for all those around the globe who are ill or have died from this disease, and for those whose lives have been severely disrupted.

Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or weep during this time, and give your angels charge over those who sleep. Tend to the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary, bless the dying, soothe the suffering, pity the afflicted, shield the joyous; and all for your love’s sake. Amen.

(BCP, p. 124)

Resources:

Finally, here are some resources from the CDC to post on bulletin boards or include in your worship bulletins:

CDC: What you should know, situation updates & information:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

Fact sheets:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/communication/factsheets.html

Social media and posters for hand washing:

https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/social-media-library.html

https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/posters.html

We will continue to monitor the situation and will send additional communications as they are needed. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.

The Episcopal Diocese of Missouri

1210 Locust Street, 3rd Floor

St. Louis, MO 63103

314-231-1220

Visit us at:

DioceseMo.org

communications@diocesemo.org.

2020-01-07T08:39:00.001-08:00

Thank you for all for your prayers and support while I have been recovering. I truly appreciate it and I know that is why I am doing so well. It has been a long but steady process. Three days a week I go to cardiac rehab to continue to heal and strengthen my heart.

This whole process has really put things into perspective for me. In a way, I have been given the precious gift of new life. That changes how I see life and how I make my priorities. Things that seemed oh so important I have discovered are not crucial to my happiness or my existence after all.

We do not need a health crisis to undertake this kind of re-evaluation. Such self-inventory is at the heart of our Lenten journey. We do not have to wait for Lent, however. Each new year, each new day provides us another opportunity to put God first and foremost in our lives.

Jesus tells us that if we do that, everything in our lives will fall into -place—maybe not as we envision or desire, but as God wants for us and knows that we need (Matthew 6:33).

I Am the New Year

I am the New Year. I am an unspoiled page in your book of time.
I am your next chance at the art of living.
I am your opportunity to practice what you have learned about life during the last twelve months.
All that you sought and didn't find is hidden in me, waiting for you to search it but with more determination.
All the good that you tried for and didn't achieve is mine to grant when you have fewer conflicting desires.
All that you dreamed but didn't dare to do, all that you hoped but did not will, all the faith that you claimed but did not have-these slumber lightly, waiting to be awakened by the touch of a strong purpose.
I am your opportunity to renew your allegiance to Him who said, "Behold, I make all things new."

- Author Unknown

London Learnings

2019-06-17T13:38:00.001-07:00

The other week I had an exciting, and exhausting, week as I learned from London. We visited many, many churches- two, sometimes three, a day. At each church, we met with some of the clergy and lay leaders of the parish. They were all part of The Church of England and the Diocese of London. Yet, the places were also truly diverse.

Holy Trinity/Brompton is Solemn High Mass in the morning, complete with incense and chanting. In the evening, they host a Crossing-type service with a praise band.

A new church called E-20 meets on Tuesday nights in a café in the former Olympic Athlete’s Village. They share an evening meal together. After the meal there is a basic Christian message.

St, James/Picadilly is fairly middle of the road with their liturgy. During the Eucharist they gather around the Altar. I was surprised to see about 5 dogs present. No, the dogs did not receive!

The places were as different as could be. Yet, there were some things held in common:

The ever-reaching love of God was central. God’s love was why they do what they do. There was a sense that, since God reached out to them in love, so they are called to extend that love to others. This is their “mission from God” (see Matthew 28:18-20). That’ll preach on this Trinity when we celebrate God’s outward reaching love in the Trinity.

God’s love compelled them to be present in their respective communities. They realized that they could not be God’s hands and heart within their four walls. They had to reach out to intentionally build relationships. Sometimes that took the form of a Thursday marketplace in their courtyard. Other times that looked like a pop-up café for school kids to get a snack and play games after school.

There is heavy lay leadership in most of the things we saw. In England, many churches are grouped together into a team. There is a “team rector” who oversees three to four congregations. As you can expect, the rector cannot get to every church every Sunday. So lay leaders and part time associates are needed. If something needs to happen, it is up to the laity.

Each church realizes that it cannot do everything or be all things to all people. So, instead they focus on a few things. Then they commit to doing those things well. This enables incredible energy and resources to be released for the greatest impact. No or few children? That is okay. A children’s message is given when there are kids present as opposed to Sunday School.

I confess that at a few points, my notions of church and worship were challenged. Where is the liturgy? Where is the Eucharist? However, I then recalled the examples of Jesus and Paul. Both Jesus and Paul had a gift for meeting people where they were, as they were. That is why the emphasis was so much on building relationships with neighbors and businesses in the community.

My experience in London also reminded me of an illustration from a mentor I once had. You cannot take a newborn baby and set it up on the changer and expect the baby to change its own diapers. In the same way, you cannot take someone who is unchurched or who has been hurt by the church and feed them the meat and potatoes of faith. You have to start with the milk first.

That is something that each of us can do as we build relationships with our neighbors and coworkers. we start with listening, really listening to them and reflecting God’s love to them.

SERMON Sunday, 24 March 3rd Sunday in Lent

2019-03-28T08:22:00.002-07:00

“I can’t do that, God!”

“I don’t have enough training!”

I don’t know the Bible well enough!”

“I know what I want to do with my life-

and that is not it!”

Do any of these sound familiar? Have you ever used one of those statements? Several of them? Don’t worry. I am not going to ask for a show of hands. I will, however, say this: you and I are not alone. We are in good company. Many of the leaders and prophets of the Bible are reluctant ministers.

· Jeremiah proclaims he is too young to speak on God’s behalf (1:6-7).

· Isaiah pleads his uncleanliness (6:5) to bring God’s Word to the people.

· Jonah heads for Tarshish rather than go to Nineveh (1:3).

· Joseph is hesitant to go through with his marriage to Mary (Matthew 1:18ff).

· Simon is overcome with a sense of unworthiness when confronted with God’s power in Jesus (Luke 5:1-11)

Moses joins that company. The son of Israelites, Moses escaped death at his birth. He is raised in the court of Pharaoh. That gives Moses opportunities he otherwise would have lacked. He learned to read and write. Moses observed Pharaoh and learned how to govern and lead. Later, Moses draws upon this background to lead God’s people into freedom.

Long story short, Moses ends up killing an Egyptian. Moses flees into the wilderness as a result. Exile brings Moses to Jethro, a priest of Midian. Moses marries Jethro’s daughter, Zipporah, and takes up the family’s nomadic lifestyle. This involves watching over a flock of sheep. A major come down in the world! Not to mention, his Egyptian training, tells him sheep and shepherds are the lowest of the low (Gen 46:31-34).

An amazing thing happens as Moses is out with the sheep one day. He notices a strange sort of tree. The tree is on fire, yet it is not burned up! Moses, naturally, goes to see what this strange sight is all about. After all, it is not every day that you see a burning bush that is not being consumed!

In response to God’s call through the bush, Moses asserts that God is mistaken. God cannot mean him. God has the wrong man! Scholar J. Oswald Sanders lists all of Moses’ excuses:

· He has no training (3:11)

· He doesn’t have a message (3:13)

· He has no authority (4:1)

· He is not a good speaker (4:10)

· He lacks the ability to adapt (4:13)

· He has a poor track record (5:23)

· He lacks acceptance from the Israelites (6:12)

What Moses fails to understand, however, is that when God calls, God also equips. Remember Moses’ upbringing in the Pharaoh’s court? God ensures that Moses will have everything he needs. Not a good speaker? Your brother Aaron is on his way. No authority? You have My authority, backed by signs.

God also reminds Moses of the covenant with Abraham. That is God’s proof that God is faithful and always keeps His promises. And Moses ends up being just the one God’s people need to lead them out of slavery into freedom.

So how has God equipped you for your ministry? Maybe it is a past experience that can help you bring comfort to another. Perhaps you have a gift or a skill that someone in need desperately needs. Yes, it may be scary. Yes, it may call us out of our comfort-zones. But remember this . . . when God calls, God also equips.

Love is the Word Sermon for Epiphany 4 2/3/2019

2019-02-07T08:53:00.001-08:00

Jeremiah 1:4-10 + Psalm 71:1-6 + I Corinthians 13:1-13 + Luke 4:21-30

You may have noticed by now that our Presiding Bishop is big on love. PB Curry is constantly talking about the love of God in Jesus. A favorite saying of his is, “if it’s not about love, then it’s not about Jesus.” Our Presiding Bishop has said this time and time again: at Episcopal Church gatherings, on the national news, on the radio, and (most famously) at the wedding of Harry and Megan.

What ++Michael is saying is not new news. Jesus Himself told his disciples that the world would know that they belong to Him by their love (John 13:34-35). And the Apostle Paul talks poetically about love in his “ode to love." We are used to hearing Paul’s words from I Corinthians at weddings. Many couples find inspiration and encouragement from Paul as they begin their new lives together.

However, Paul is not just talking about romantic love. Paul is describing the kind of love and compassion that should typify our interactions with others. This is the kind of love that puts the needs and concerns of others before self. Last week I reminded us that we are all called to reflect God’s love, light, and hope. That is what Paul is talking about here.

As our friends at Thistle Farms and Bravely/ St. Louis remind us, love is brave. Love is courageous. Hatred, bitterness, and revenge are easier options. Choosing to love is by far harder. Love, as described by Jesus and Paul, makes one vulnerable. Our love, and our self, can be rejected or abused. . . and often it is. Yes, love is truly the tougher choice.

The other day, Hickman Alexandre (a seminary class mate of mine), posted the following quote on his FB account. I share it because it is a word on target for me and you today:

“Spread love everywhere you go: first of all, in your own house. Give love to your children, to your wife or husband, to a next-door neighbor. Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness in your warm greeting.” Mother Theresa

Love is taking time from a busy schedule to mentor an at-risk student.

Love is listening to the life stories of our friends at Loaves and Fishes.

Love is using your shovel or snowblower at your neighbor’s house.

Love is doing what you can, where you are, to make the world a better place each day.

“Hatred and bitterness can never

cure the disease of fear.

Only love can do that.”

MLK, Jr.

Annual Report of the Rector

2019-01-30T09:26:00.000-08:00

This past year we lost Virginia “Sue” Martin Peggy Crane

Katherine Head Maizie Fry

Nancy Booker

However, we also added to our number. There were 5 baptisms. 7 were confirmed during Bishop Smith’s final visitation in August. The ASA was 40 for the year; this is down a tad from 42 in 2017. 46 home communions were celebrated with our shut-in or home bound members.

2018 was a year of restoration. After a long time of raising money, we were able to complete the restoration of our 1929 Kilgen organ. Hedy did wonders with a very sick and outdated organ. She even managed to make a key board sound ok—not as good as an organ, certainly, but we carried on. Your patience during the restoration process is greatly appreciated. And the organ is now sounding better than ever under her capable hands. Thank you to all who made this project possible with their donations small and large. You all made the restored organ a reality!

We also carried out some major maintenance and repairs to the church buildings. A new, water-tight roof was placed on the Guild Hall. New windows were installed in the Guild Hall, replacing the old ones that were in danger of rotting out. Frank North has spent time changing out the old lights in the Guild Hall and offices with energy-efficient LED bulbs. We still need one case of lights to be sponsored to have all of the lights done. A case is $258 and can be split among families or friends. Just before Christmas, a handrail was added by the lower steps to the bell tower entrance. New drainage was added as well to protect the foundation of our building and the tower steps. You may have noticed they are slanting inwards.

As we head into 2019, we hope to continue some much needed repairs. The report from the Buildings and Grounds Committee, chaired by Bob Gilstrap, will expand on this. Their report is the result of your feedback and input. We ask your support in making these important improvements and repairs a reality. The Vestry is seeking commitments totaling $34,816 to complete these projects. We will also be seeking a grant from the Diocese as well as support from our Trustees. Working on our physical building will only work if we all pull together and get behind the project. It will take all of us, united by our love of Trinity and her parish family, to accomplish our goal.

As a small church, it is easy for us to focus on what we don’t have. We get hung up on, “we don’t have the people!” or “we don’t have the money!” Nor are we alone in this. Most churches are facing the same challenges that face Trinity~St. Paul’s. We are increasingly having to do more with less: fewer members in church, fewer available volunteers, and fewer sources of income. And each congregation has a decision to make. Will we let the negatives cause fear and anxiety? Will we allow the fear to turn us to paralyze us like stone? Or will we put our trust in God? We will allow God to lead us through anxiety to new life?

Our mission statement, found on your bulletin cover, declares that we are

“a welcoming, inclusive community of believers who offers hospitality, acceptance,

and opportunities for spiritual growth to all who seek to draw closer to God.”

And in many ways, we are. We have a great track record of including all who come through our doors and welcoming them with the love of God. The only trouble is, we wait for them to come to us. We wait for them to cross the threshold of our doors. In this day and age, the Church (not just Trinity~St. Paul) no longer has that luxury.

Jesus uses the words of the prophet Isaiah to outline His ministry. Call it Jesus’ mission statement. At the outset of Jesus’ earthly life and ministry He openly declares His God-given purpose. Jesus will use His time showing God’s love to lepers, to women, to tax collectors, and to foreigners. All who are outcast, shunned, and marginalized hear and feel the freeing word of God’s faithfulness and love. As followers of Jesus, this is now our mission. You and I, the Trinity community, are called to be beacons of God’s love, light, grace, hope, and peace to Hannibal.

Our Presiding Bishop, Michael Curry, has a favorite saying. ++Michael is fond of saying that you and I are not here just to use up Oxygen. He further reminds us that as long as we are breathing, God has a calling. The Prayer Book tells us that all of us are Christ’s ministers. All of us are called by God and gifted for the work God would have us do. You see that on our bulletin cover as well. The bulletin reminds us that all of us are ministers- not just the ordained.

In the Epistle reading, Paul uses the analogy of the human body. Each part of the body, eye, hand, foot, has a unique and specific purpose. These different and varied organs must work together, doing their part for the ideal functioning of the whole. If one part, say the kidneys, fails to do its job properly, the whole body starts to suffer and shut down. The toxins the kidneys are supposed to filter build up and slowly poison the whole body. As a result, the body starts to die as organs begin to shut down.

On a more personal, note: this year I am especially going to appreciate and need the whole Trinity~St. Paul community. You are, by now, aware that our Bishop is retiring, and the process has begun in the search for out next Bishop. I am the President of the Standing Committee. SC is kind of like the Vestry of the Diocese. We act as a council of advice for Bishop Smith and consent to ordinations and elections of Bishops for other dioceses. The SC has elected me to serve for two-years as opposed to one to ensure continuity as we transition between Bishops.

At the same time, I am nearing the point in my doctoral studies where I am starting to focus more and more on researching and writing. I have one more year of classes to complete. But I am starting to think concretely about the end goal. All of this is to say, that I cannot, and should not, do it alone. I need your help and your support. Your prayers are especially important. But I will also need the community here to step in. I know that I have set some bad and unhealthy patterns in trying to do too much myself. I am not Wonder Woman, although sometimes I try to be. I repeat, I am NOT Wonder Woman.

Our community here functions better when we are pooling our gifts and skills together. There are simple things such as getting the coffee going on Sunday. Then there are more challenging asks like continuing to recruit people who are willing to share their faith stories on a Sunday. Just as the human body functions best when each organ is properly function to the body’s overall health, so you and I- as Trinity~St. Paul’s- are better when we are working together. . .each of us using our gifts and talents, and skills for the good of the whole.

"Let there be light!" Christmas Eve sermon 12/24/2018

2018-12-27T07:56:00.000-08:00

“Let there be light!”

In the opening chapter of Genesis, God’s voice echoes. God’s voice pierces the darkness and transforms the chaos of the deep. Light shines forth.

We gather today amidst the darkest time of year. Just the other day, it was the shortest day of the year. There was more darkness than hours of light. But the darkness is not just an image. For some, the darkness is all too real and all too painful:

Loved ones battle drug or alcohol addiction.

Violence continues to disrupt our schools and cities.

The loss of a family member or close friend turns joy into sorrow.

Families are torn apart by divorce and mental illness.

Into all of these, God speaks, “Let there be light.” God brings a word of hope and reassurance. All around us there may be darkness and brokenness. Pain and suffering seem to be winning. Yet, God will have the final word.

That final word comes to us in a helpless, vulnerable baby. Martin Luther once wrote that he believed God came to us in the form of a baby because babies are not threatening. A baby attracts us like a magnet. Their utter dependence. Their huge eyes. Who can resist?

Babies draw us in- just ask the women during coffee hour! Or how about in the checkout line at Walmart? I bet you smile and coo, “hi, there!” Seeing a baby at Java Jive or around town makes us smile. Our day is brightened by their presence.

For centuries Christians have found light in the darkness. The celebration of Jesus’ birth in the deep darkness of winter is no coincidence! Our forbears saw the connection between God’s overcoming darkness in creation with God’s vanquishing sin and death in Christmas.

Jesus is God’s answer to our brokenness. Just as a baby signifies new life, so Jesus represents new life for you and me. Through the Babe of Bethlehem, you and I can now dare to hope that this is not the end. We have been restored to God through the Christ Child. New and unending life is now our hope.

In Junior High, I had a home economics teacher, Mrs. Dickey. Mrs. Dickey had a favorite saying, “don’t curse the darkness, duckie. Light a candle.” A few minutes from now, we will do just that. The lights will dim, casting us into semi-darkness.

One by one we will add the lights of our candles. Gradually, the light will grow, overpowering the darkness. May this be a powerful metaphor for us. You and I are not left alone in the deep darkness. God stands with us and for us (Romans 8:31). Then, now, and always, God speaks, “Let there be light!”

The Shoot of Jesse (Isaiah 11)

2018-12-20T06:28:00.002-08:00

Anna and the King of Siam is a favourite book of mine. In its pages Margaret Landon recounts Anna Leonowen’s life in the Siamese court. There is one especially poignant scene which I come to again and again. The English school teacher is visiting one of the King’s wives. At the time Lady Son Klin is in disfavour. During Anna’s visit she notices some exquisite art work on Son Klin’s walls.

I see you don’t understand the meaning of it,” Son Klin {tells Mrs. Anna}. “That big green there. . . is like unto me when I was young and ignorant, rejoicing in earthly distinctions and affections. Then you see I am brought as a gift to the King, and only think how very grand I am and how rich I shall become. And there you see that I am drooping and my leaves are withering and beginning to fall. Here I am shattered and uprooted by a sense of sorrow and humiliation. And there I am drifting along an impetuous river to destruction, but by and by a little flower stops my downward course. See how pretty it is! That little flower is my child. He springs out of the very waters that threatened my ending. And now he grows into a garden of flowers all over the trunk of the tree, to hide away from me that which would make me sad and sorrowful again. And now I am always glad. Do you see?”

Son Klin’s son brings hope into her world. Prior to Son Krita’s birth things looked bleak. Lady Son Klin was in a downward spiral of despair. All of that changes with her child’s entrance into her life. Gradually the gloom and darkness lift. Son Krita is a precious gift to her and for her. Her son brings joy, love, and happiness into her life. Son Klin can endure the King’s displeasure because she has her son.

Lady Son Klin shows a startingly profound sense of insight. As she reveals her story to Anna Leonowens Son Klin is sharing our story. On the walls of her shrine Son Klin accurately describes the human plight. You and I, too, are “drifting along an in impetuous river to destruction.” Such is the state of our existence.

In our sinfulness we have rebelled against God. We try to go it alone, asserting our independence and separating our selves from our Creator. You and I fail to abide in the Author and Giver of all life. This amounts to cutting down the tree of our lives at the roots. Eternal death and permanent separation from God is the result. Thus we wither and fall like leaves on a tree in Autumn.

The prophet Isaiah proclaims good news to us: our situation is not as bleak or as hopeless as it appears. There is sure and certain hope. The seemingly dead stump is about to break forth into new life. A shoot springs up from Jesse’s tree. A child is coming into the world. This is wonderful news indeed!

This child’s birth ushers in a golden age of peace and harmony. All creation feels the impact of this child. He halts the “downward course” of sin and renews the whole earth. Predator and prey live together. Enemies become friends. All humanity can once again be in close relationship with God. Ah, paradise! A glorious return to Eden, to the way God originally made creation.

The Advent Wreath captures Isaiah’s hopeful vision. Its green colour speaks of the new life which shoots forth from Jesse’s stem. The green is the green of the evergreen tree which never dies. Its shape is the shape of eternity, a perfect circle which has neither beginning nor end. In the center of the wreath stands a white candle, the Christ Candle, which testifies to our belief in Jesus as the one of whom Isaiah speaks.

Any baby’s birth calls for joy and happiness. Pregnancy is a wonderful time of joyous anticipation and excitement. Expecting a baby also calls for a lot of preparation. How much more can this be said of the One whom we await this Advent?

Our Advent journey is coming to a close soon. Christmas is almost here. However, it is not to late to begin preparations. What might you and I do to make our hearts ready to welcome Christ’s birth? And, not just His first coming, but for when Him will appear again in great glory and triumph.

Our Advent preparations enable us to be ready for Jesus’ birth. And as we get ready to welcome Christ we shall also find ourselves getting in touch with the true reason for our joyous celebrations this Christmas: all hope is ours through the gracious love of God who sends His Son into the world. Because of Jesus you and I have no reason to be “sad or sorrowful again”

Didn't See It Coming

2018-08-31T11:02:00.002-07:00

great read, especially for clergy but for all who follow Christ.

Carey's message is on target and full of hope.

I enjoy his conversational approach.

It was like listening to a good friend share over coffee.

But not just that, Carey offers concrete suggestions to help counter and avoid these challenges that we all face-- burn out, giving in to pride, negative thoughts, etc.

I received an advanced, unproofed copy.

#DidntSeeItComing

Visiting Bishops

2018-08-17T12:07:00.002-07:00

This Sunday Bishop George Wayne Smith, the Tenth Bishop of Missouri, will make his way to Hannibal.

As our name attests, Episcopal, we like our Bishops. You see, the word Episcopal comes from the Greek episkopos, meaning overseer or Bishop. Bishops are important to our governance and our common life.

Bishops are required by the Canons to make visits to each church or ministry under their oversight. This allows the people to get to know their Bishop and enjoy a time of fellowship with him or her.

The Bishop is also allowed to meet the people of the diocese and to assess the health or needs facing individual congregations.

As part of his visit to Trinity/Hannibal, Bishop Smith will confirm 7 individuals.

Confirmation is a strange rite for many. I have heard it often called a ritual (or sacrament) in want of a theology.

Liturgical traditions have a unique understanding of Confirmation. Only Bishops can Confirm. A cleric can Baptize. But we need a Bishop to Confirm.

This is important as, once upon a time, many of us were Baptized as infants. We could not speak for ourselves. Others, namely parents and Godparents/sponsors, made the promises on our behalf. So the Church needed a means for the Baptized to speak for themselves.

Long story short, Confirmation is claiming the Baptismal Covenant and the vows of Baptism for one's self. In essence, one is saying, "Yes! I want to be a follower of Jesus and to try to live my life after His example."

I am excited to welcome Bishop Smith back to Hannibal. I am even more excited for those who are taking this next step in their faith journeys.

Congratulations!

SERMON 8 July 2018 "Cheese and Jesus"

2018-07-10T07:45:00.003-07:00

II Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 + Psalm 48 + II Corinthians 12:2-10 + Mark 6:1-13

You may be aware that General Convention is taking place right now. GC is the big meeting of the Episcopal Church in the US that happens every three years. Delegates and Bishops from every diocese gather to pray and worship. They discuss and vote on resolutions that inform our life and ministry as ECUSA. This year GC is in Austin, TX. I’d like to share some of Presiding Bishop Curry’s opening remarks to Convention.

Curry talks about visiting the original Starbuck’s in Seattle and asking for a scone. The barista told him they do not serve food, they serve coffee. Then Bishop Curry remembered reading Howard Schultz’s book, Onward. In that book, Curry says, Schultz talks about a problem that took place when Starbuck’s was rapidly expanding stores and menus.

“And he said when you go into a Starbucks, and first thing you smell is burning cheese, something is wrong! We’re in the coffee business! And you know what they did? They closed down – this is in 2008 – they closed down all the Starbucks stores. They closed them all down. And they sent the baristas back for retraining in how to make fine coffee and produce a context for fine human conversation.

My brothers and sisters, we are not in the baking cheese business. We’re in the coffee business. And the name of that coffee is Jesus of Nazareth! That’s our business!
And the closer we are to our roots, to the source, to the source of our very life, the source of our identity, the reason we are here, the closer we are to that, we will find strength to meet the days ahead. We will find the wisdom and the courage and the creativity necessary to engage the present historical moment.

I say that to say that the Jesus Movement is not an invention of Michael Curry. This Jesus Movement goes way back. Biblical scholars have long described the earliest days of Christianity. Its earliest origins as a Jesus Movement. As people who gathered around Jesus of Nazareth, who listened to his teachings. Now this isn’t a sermon, this is a presentation – but who listened to his teachings, who looked at his life, who imbibed his spirit, and his spirit began to become their spirit – that’s what we call Pentecost.

His spirit became their spirit. They found themselves loving the way Jesus loves, giving the way Jesus gives, forgiving the way Jesus forgives, doing justice, loving mercy, walking humbly with God just like Jesus! And folk watched them and saw them and said, “Y’all look like little Christs.” And they nicknamed them Christians.

My brothers and sisters, we are not just the Episcopal Church. We are the Episcopal branch of the Jesus Movement. That’s who we are. And that’s what the world is pleading and hungering for us to be.”

In the Gospel today, Jesus sends His followers out two-by-two. We tend to focus on the challenge they presented: go and prepare people for my visit but take nothing with you. Let’s look at all they have:

The presence of another disciple to offer encouragement and support.

The firsthand experience of Jesus’ teachings and healings.

The witness of how Jesus changed their lives and the lives of those they know.

The hospitality of the families who take them in and help connect then with others.

We are the Jesus movement when we gather for worship.

We are the Jesus Movement as we study God’s word in Bible Study.

But, just as surely, we are the Jesus Movement when we embrace the lonely.

We are the Jesus Movement when we help our neighbor mow their yard.

We are the Jesus Movement when we take time to mentor and embody God’s love to an at-risk young person.

And, yes, we are the Jesus Movement when we offer words of comfort or hope to our co-worker in the downward spiral of depression.

To borrow the imagery from PB Curry, we are not in the burning cheese business. We are in the business of sharing God’s radical love with a broken and hurting world. May you and I go forth out thee doors and make it so!

Sermon 24 June 2018 "Strangers and Aliens"

2018-06-27T07:09:00.000-07:00

I Samuel 17: (1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49 + Psalm 9:9-20 + II Corinthians 6:1-13 + Mark 4:35-41

A few weeks back I was in New York City with my family. While we were there, we took the ferry across to Ellis Island. For may of us, perhaps, Ellis Island is where our ancestors entered the United States. As an East Coaster, I know that is true for me.

On Ellis Island I spent some time in the Great Hall. Here hopeful immigrants waited for their turn to enter the country. Around the Hall is a balcony. One of the rooms off of the balcony is still set up as it was then. There were rows of bunks, four high and side-by-side. Here the hopeful slept while they waited.

This experience has me thinking and reflecting upon some current conversations. Lately we have been hearing a lot about “foreigners.” Usually, we take foreigners to mean those who come from other cultures. They have different customs and traditions from us. They may speak a different language. The Bible has much to say about foreigners.

Leviticus, 19:34-35 commands:

^“Don’t mistreat any foreigners who live in your land. Instead, treat them as well as you treat citizens and love them as much as you love yourself. Remember, you were once foreigners in the land of Egypt. I am the Lord your God.”

Lev 19:33-34 (CEV)

The call for Israel to care for the poor, the widow, the orphan, the alien is rooted in their experience in Egypt. Israel knows how it feels to be oppressed and powerless. So, they are to be quick to help others just as God helped them.

Many times, the prophets call God’s people to task for their failure to protect such vulnerables.

So once again, I, the Lord All-Powerful, tell you, “See that justice is done and be kind and merciful to one another! Don’t mistreat widows or orphans or foreigners or anyone who is poor, and stop making plans to hurt each other.”

Zechariah 7:8-10

“People of Israel and Judah,what can I do with you? Your love for me disappears more quickly than mist or dew at sunrise. I’d rather for you to be faithful and to know me than to offer sacrifices.”

Hosea 6:4,6 (CEV)

Even if we keep is simple, we have Jesus’ words: “Love the Lord your God . . .and a second is just as important: Love you neighbor as yourself.” Luke’s parable of the Good Samaritan goes on to define what this looks like (Luke ). A neighbor is anyone who helps those in need.

“I give you a new commandment. Love one another as I have loved you. You are my true followers if you love one another.” James, Jesus; brother, takes this a step further. James writes that true religion that i s pure and holy means caring for widows and orphans (James 1:27).

Much of this can be said of those who are different from us. A “foreigner” could be anyone who is not “us.” The teen being bullied or teased by her classmates. The single-father who works three jobs to provide for his family. I consider anyone who is vulnerable to be a foreigner, worthy of our care and compassion.

In Matthew 25, Jesus tells a parable about some sheep and some goats at the judgment. Jesus tells the sheep that they took care of Jesus Himself as they feed the hungry, visited the prisoner, or clothed the naked. They enjoy God’s kingdom, while the goats find themselves shut out by the failure to serve Jesus in others.

Now, that tone of judgment seems harsh. None of us likes to think that some of us, our friends and loved ones, might not be in God’s Heavenly Kingdom. However, I do not think that is the main point of Jesus’ teaching here. The focus is on our duty to love and care for all of those around us. We are called to reach out to the “other” and help restor4 and renew God’s creation.