Father Rod's Comments

Dear Friends: 

 The focus that the Parish Gratitude Committee chose for May is the Holy Spirit, and two Sundays in particular will afford us opportunities to more fully open ourselves to the working of the Spirit in and through us.  These Sundays are May 6^th and May 20^th.  As I have thought about what the Gratitude Committee has planned, it occurred to me that their program drives home two ways that God as Spirit makes her presence felt in our lives and the lives of those around us.  At times we notice her “pouring in” and at other times “pouring out” faith, hope, and love into the world. 

 

On May 6^th we will witness how the Holy Spirit goes about “pouring out” grace through us.  Fellow parishioners who volunteer in various organized ways to be living mediums for the Holy Spirit will gather in the Courtyard after the service to share how they do so and to invite each of us to consider living out our faith by joining them.  Representatives of beloved ministries that are essential to our spiritual wellbeing will be present, such as the Chancel Choir, the Altar Guild, Acolytes, as well as less visible ministries such as prayer support, monastic affiliations, and Education for Ministry.

 

On May 20^th we will have the opportunity to have one or more of our personal beloved objects blessed and set aside for the Holy Spirit to use to “pour in” her faith, hope, and love.  In Anglican, Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Lutheran churches blessings are bestowed by bishops and priests in a liturgical context on material objects  used for the worship of God.  Traditionally, these objects are Bibles, copies of The Book of Common Prayer, rosaries, crosses, vestments, and chalices.  Each has the characteristic of being used by its owner to facilitate a connection with God.  St. Paul speaks of the "cup of blessing which we bless." [1 Cor 10:16]  This was the primary biblical argument Anglicans of the 16^th century relied on in rejecting the claim of Puritans that only people could be blessed by the Church.  Anglicans believe that objects set apart in this way become a means of grace.  God is not trapped in a material object, but associates with it and uses it to convey grace.  So between now and May 20^th, ask yourself what material objects you use to open yourself up to the Holy Spirit.  Is it a well-worn Bible, your mother’s Book of Common Prayer, or possibly a cross that you hold in your hand while praying?  Then, bring it to Church on May 20^th to be blessed.

 

God bless you,

Rod+