Dear Friends in Christ -
I'm taking a few days off this week, but before I go, I wanted to leave with you the words of one of my favorite Christmas hymns.
Blessings,
Janet+
IN THE BLEAK MID-WINTER by Christina Rossetti
In the bleak mid-winter
Frosty wind made moan,
Earth stood hard as iron,
Water like a stone;
Snow had fallen, snow on snow,
Snow on snow.
In the bleak mid-winter
Long ago.
Our God, Heaven cannot hold Him
Nor earth sustain;
Heaven and earth shall flee away
When He comes to reign
In the bleak mid-winter
A stable-place sufficed
The Lord God Almighty,
Jesus Christ.
Enough for Him, whom cherubim
Worship night and day,
A breastful of milk
And a mangerful of hay;
Enough for Him, whom angels
Fall down before,
The ox and ass and camel
Which adore.
Angels and archangels
May have gathered there,
Cherubim and seraphim
Thronged the air,But only His mother
In her maiden bliss,
Worshipped the Beloved
With a kiss.
What can I give Him,
Poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd
I would bring a lamb,
If I were a wise man
I would do my part,
Yet what I can I give Him,
Give my heart.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
The Fourth Day of Christmas - Lessons and Carols
Dear Friends in Christ -
The Christmas service of Lessons and Carols is one of my favorites of the Church year. I especially love the "Bidding Prayer" which opens the service. As we prayed it together this morning, I felt our hearts rise as one. I share it with you here that you may continue to reflect on it this evening and, if you wish, in the days to come.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Beloved in Christ, this day it is our duty and delight to prepare ourselves to hear again the message of the angels, and to go in heart and mind to Bethlehem, and see this thing which has come to pass, and the Babe, lying in the manger.
Therefore let us hear again from Holy Scripture the tale of the loving purposes of God from the first days until the glorious redemption brought us by this holy Child; and let us make this house of prayer glad with our carols of praise.
But first, because this of all things would rejoice Jesus' heart, let us pray to him for the needs of the whole world, and all his people; for peace upon the earth he came to save, for love and unity within the one Church he did build; for good will among all peoples.
And particularly at this time let us remember the poor, the cold, the hungry, the oppressed; the sick and those who mourn, the lonely and the unloved; the aged and the little children; and all who know not our Lord Jesus, or who love him not, or who by sin have grieved his heart of love.
Lastly let us remember all those who rejoice with us, but upon another shore and in a greater light, that multitude who no one can number, whose hope was in the Word made flesh, and with whom, in this Lord Jesus, we for evermore are one.
These prayers and praises let us humbly offer up to the throne of heaven, in the words that Christ himself has taught us:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed by thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine, is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
May the almighty God bless us with divine grace, may Christ give us the joyof everlasting life, and unto the fellowship of the citizens above, may the Spirit of Love bring us all. Amen.
The Christmas service of Lessons and Carols is one of my favorites of the Church year. I especially love the "Bidding Prayer" which opens the service. As we prayed it together this morning, I felt our hearts rise as one. I share it with you here that you may continue to reflect on it this evening and, if you wish, in the days to come.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Beloved in Christ, this day it is our duty and delight to prepare ourselves to hear again the message of the angels, and to go in heart and mind to Bethlehem, and see this thing which has come to pass, and the Babe, lying in the manger.
Therefore let us hear again from Holy Scripture the tale of the loving purposes of God from the first days until the glorious redemption brought us by this holy Child; and let us make this house of prayer glad with our carols of praise.
But first, because this of all things would rejoice Jesus' heart, let us pray to him for the needs of the whole world, and all his people; for peace upon the earth he came to save, for love and unity within the one Church he did build; for good will among all peoples.
And particularly at this time let us remember the poor, the cold, the hungry, the oppressed; the sick and those who mourn, the lonely and the unloved; the aged and the little children; and all who know not our Lord Jesus, or who love him not, or who by sin have grieved his heart of love.
Lastly let us remember all those who rejoice with us, but upon another shore and in a greater light, that multitude who no one can number, whose hope was in the Word made flesh, and with whom, in this Lord Jesus, we for evermore are one.
These prayers and praises let us humbly offer up to the throne of heaven, in the words that Christ himself has taught us:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed by thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine, is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
May the almighty God bless us with divine grace, may Christ give us the joyof everlasting life, and unto the fellowship of the citizens above, may the Spirit of Love bring us all. Amen.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
The Third Day of Christmas
Dear Friends in Christ -
WARNING! The following is a LEGEND, which is a meaning-making story. While not factually true, it does turn a fun, popular Christmas song, into a tool for learning something more about our faith. Enjoy!
Faithfully,
Janet+
Legend has it that in the 16th century, children were taught the "12 days of Christmas" song/rhyme to reinforce their Christian values since, at the time, they were not allowed to practice their religion in England. It was a kind of "code" that was hidden in the message as they sang the song.
The First Day of Christmas -
a partridge in a pear tree: Jesus Christ
The Second Day -
two turtle doves: the Old and New Testaments
The Third Day -
three french hens: three Christian values = faith, hope, and charity
The Fourth Day -
four calling birds: the four Gospels
The Fifth Day -
five golden rings: the first five books of the Old Testament
The Sixth Day -
six geese a-laying: the six days of creation
The Seventh Day -
seven swans a-swimming: the seven gifts of the spirit (Romans 12:6-8)
The Eighth Day -
eight maids a-milking: the eight Beatitudes (Matt. 5:3-10)
The Ninth Day -
nine ladies dancing: the nine fruits of the spirit (Galations 5:22-23)
The Tenth Day -
ten lords a-leaping: the Ten Commandments
The Eleventh Day -
eleven pipers piping: the eleven faithful Apostles (Luke 6:14-16)
The Twelfth Day -
twelve drummers drumming: the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostles' Creed
WARNING! The following is a LEGEND, which is a meaning-making story. While not factually true, it does turn a fun, popular Christmas song, into a tool for learning something more about our faith. Enjoy!
Faithfully,
Janet+
Legend has it that in the 16th century, children were taught the "12 days of Christmas" song/rhyme to reinforce their Christian values since, at the time, they were not allowed to practice their religion in England. It was a kind of "code" that was hidden in the message as they sang the song.
The First Day of Christmas -
a partridge in a pear tree: Jesus Christ
The Second Day -
two turtle doves: the Old and New Testaments
The Third Day -
three french hens: three Christian values = faith, hope, and charity
The Fourth Day -
four calling birds: the four Gospels
The Fifth Day -
five golden rings: the first five books of the Old Testament
The Sixth Day -
six geese a-laying: the six days of creation
The Seventh Day -
seven swans a-swimming: the seven gifts of the spirit (Romans 12:6-8)
The Eighth Day -
eight maids a-milking: the eight Beatitudes (Matt. 5:3-10)
The Ninth Day -
nine ladies dancing: the nine fruits of the spirit (Galations 5:22-23)
The Tenth Day -
ten lords a-leaping: the Ten Commandments
The Eleventh Day -
eleven pipers piping: the eleven faithful Apostles (Luke 6:14-16)
The Twelfth Day -
twelve drummers drumming: the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostles' Creed
Friday, December 26, 2008
The Second Day of Christmas
Dear Friends in Christ -
The 12 days of Christmas BEGINS on Christmas Day and continues until we reach Epiphany, on January 6th. Each of these 12 days is a festive celebration. I know no better way to experience and steep in a mystery than to hear/see/feel it expressed in music, art, dance, poetry.
In case this is a time when you have a little time to kick back and explore, there's an amazing collection of Christian art on the "Art in the Christian Tradition" website provided by Vanderbilt Divinity Library at http://diglib.library.vanderbilt.edu/act-search.pl. Type in a keyword or name of a person in the Bible or Scripture reference and you'll see art depicting those people/stories. Enjoy!!!
Blessings,
Janet+
The 12 days of Christmas BEGINS on Christmas Day and continues until we reach Epiphany, on January 6th. Each of these 12 days is a festive celebration. I know no better way to experience and steep in a mystery than to hear/see/feel it expressed in music, art, dance, poetry.
In case this is a time when you have a little time to kick back and explore, there's an amazing collection of Christian art on the "Art in the Christian Tradition" website provided by Vanderbilt Divinity Library at http://diglib.library.vanderbilt.edu/act-search.pl. Type in a keyword or name of a person in the Bible or Scripture reference and you'll see art depicting those people/stories. Enjoy!!!
Blessings,
Janet+
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas!!!
Dear Friends in Christ -
Merry Christmas!!!
May the glorious mystery of the Word-made-flesh draw you come to the manger - on this first day of Christmas and in the 11 days to come. May the wonder of His love fill your heart with joy that overflows in praise.
Christmas blessings,
Janet+
Merry Christmas!!!
May the glorious mystery of the Word-made-flesh draw you come to the manger - on this first day of Christmas and in the 11 days to come. May the wonder of His love fill your heart with joy that overflows in praise.
Christmas blessings,
Janet+
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Come, let us adore Him
Christmas Services at St. Paul's
Christmas Eve - 4:30 p.m. - Chapel (Childcare available)
Christmas Eve - 10:00 p.m. - Church
Christmas Day - 11:00 a.m. - Church
Christmas Eve - 4:30 p.m. - Chapel (Childcare available)
Christmas Eve - 10:00 p.m. - Church
Christmas Day - 11:00 a.m. - Church
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
The good news captured in a poem
Dear Friends in Christ -
The old master poets really had a way with words, expressing truth in words of beauty. Someone at St. Paul's shared this poem with me this week, and I wanted to share it with you.
Counting down the hours until we gather 'round the manger . . .
faithfully,
Janet+
ANNUNCIATION
Salvation to all that will is nigh;
That All, which always is all everywhere,
Which cannot sin, and yet all sins must bear,
Which cannot die, yet cannot choose but die,
Lo, faithful virgin, yields Himself to lie
in prison, in thy womb; and though He there
Can take no sin, nor thou give, yet He will wear,
Taken from thence, flesh, which death's force may try.
Ere by the spheres time was created, thou
Wast in His mind, who is thy Son and Brother;
Whom thou conceivst, conceived; yea thou art now
Thy Maker's maker, and thy Father's mother;
Thou has light in dark, and shutst in little room,
Immensity cloistered in thy dear womb.
John Donne (1572 - 1631)
The old master poets really had a way with words, expressing truth in words of beauty. Someone at St. Paul's shared this poem with me this week, and I wanted to share it with you.
Counting down the hours until we gather 'round the manger . . .
faithfully,
Janet+
ANNUNCIATION
Salvation to all that will is nigh;
That All, which always is all everywhere,
Which cannot sin, and yet all sins must bear,
Which cannot die, yet cannot choose but die,
Lo, faithful virgin, yields Himself to lie
in prison, in thy womb; and though He there
Can take no sin, nor thou give, yet He will wear,
Taken from thence, flesh, which death's force may try.
Ere by the spheres time was created, thou
Wast in His mind, who is thy Son and Brother;
Whom thou conceivst, conceived; yea thou art now
Thy Maker's maker, and thy Father's mother;
Thou has light in dark, and shutst in little room,
Immensity cloistered in thy dear womb.
John Donne (1572 - 1631)
Monday, December 22, 2008
The power of the story
Dear Friends in Christ -
This week, the Story is all about the birth of a very special baby. We know the cast of characters: Mary, Joseph, innkeepers, livestock. And we know how it's all going to turn out, right?
But this Story has a miracle. More than one, actually. The first miracle is that even though we read the same words every year, they sound different. We notice different parts of the story. Different questions bump around in our hearts. Different notions stir our imaginations. The Word becomes flesh and dwells among us.
What miracle will you encounter through the Story in the coming days? Come close. Let the words of the story come over (overcome) you again. Meet Wonder in the manger.
Faithfully,
Janet+
This week, the Story is all about the birth of a very special baby. We know the cast of characters: Mary, Joseph, innkeepers, livestock. And we know how it's all going to turn out, right?
But this Story has a miracle. More than one, actually. The first miracle is that even though we read the same words every year, they sound different. We notice different parts of the story. Different questions bump around in our hearts. Different notions stir our imaginations. The Word becomes flesh and dwells among us.
What miracle will you encounter through the Story in the coming days? Come close. Let the words of the story come over (overcome) you again. Meet Wonder in the manger.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Sunday, December 21, 2008
CAROLING CANCELLED
Christmas Caroling (scheduled for 5:00 p.m. this evening) has been cancelled due to - you guessed it! - this crazy windy-rainy-snow stuff.
Hope you're keeping warm and cozy at home with a cup of hot chocolate in hand!
Hope you're keeping warm and cozy at home with a cup of hot chocolate in hand!
SUNDAY SCHEDULE
Dear Friends in Christ -
Worship services for this morning (Sunday, 12/21) will proceed as scheduled at 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., with the Christmas Pageant during the 10:00 a.m. service.
Of course, I would love to see you at church this morning. One thing is almost certain: the pageant we so carefully practiced yesterday won't come off exactly as planned. God's surprises are always good ones, so come and see!
Do use wisdom and caution in deciding whether or not to come out in the snow and ice. If it's not safe for you to get out today, please take some time to worship at home. The Gospel lesson for today Advent IV is the story of the Annunciation - the angel coming to Mary invite her to be part of God's saving plan (Luke 1:26-38).
Later today we'll make the decision about whether or not the Christmas Caroling scheduled for 5:00 p.m. this evening will continue as planned.
May you sense God's presence in the beauty of the snow, and may you sense your need for Him in the uncertainty that stormy weather creates.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Worship services for this morning (Sunday, 12/21) will proceed as scheduled at 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., with the Christmas Pageant during the 10:00 a.m. service.
Of course, I would love to see you at church this morning. One thing is almost certain: the pageant we so carefully practiced yesterday won't come off exactly as planned. God's surprises are always good ones, so come and see!
Do use wisdom and caution in deciding whether or not to come out in the snow and ice. If it's not safe for you to get out today, please take some time to worship at home. The Gospel lesson for today Advent IV is the story of the Annunciation - the angel coming to Mary invite her to be part of God's saving plan (Luke 1:26-38).
Later today we'll make the decision about whether or not the Christmas Caroling scheduled for 5:00 p.m. this evening will continue as planned.
May you sense God's presence in the beauty of the snow, and may you sense your need for Him in the uncertainty that stormy weather creates.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Saturday, December 20, 2008
SATURDAY ACTIVITIES are a GO!
Pageant Rehearsal at 10:00 a.m. and the Angel Tree Party at 12:00 noon will go on as scheduled. Drive safe!
Friday, December 19, 2008
SATURDAY UPDATE
The Men's Group breakfast and study scheduled for 7:30 a.m. Saturday has been cancelled due to the snow.
As of this time (9:00 p.m. Friday evening), the Pageant Rehearsal and Angel Tree Party are still ON. Any schedule changes/cancellations will be posted here by 8:00 a.m.
As of this time (9:00 p.m. Friday evening), the Pageant Rehearsal and Angel Tree Party are still ON. Any schedule changes/cancellations will be posted here by 8:00 a.m.
FRIDAY P.M. EVENTS CANCELLED
Kids B.E.A.T. (led by Dawn Barber) and the Advent Bible Study (led by Deacon Dee) are cancelled due to the snow.
Please take use this sacred snow time to enjoy your family, read the many recent postings on this blog, and say a prayer for those who are homeless or without heat on this snowy night.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Please take use this sacred snow time to enjoy your family, read the many recent postings on this blog, and say a prayer for those who are homeless or without heat on this snowy night.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Ready?
Dear Friends in Christ -
Today's school closure and pending snow storm has probably already uplifted your heart or put you in a scheduling tail-spin. Or both. I'm often tempted to think that the pressures we face in our daily living and holiday preparations are a "modern" problem. But they're not. We face the same struggles and temptations as our parents and grandparents and great-grandparents. The struggles and temptations are much the same because the human condition is much the same: we all struggle to believe in God, to put Him first, and to live in harmony with each other.
The humbling reality of all this was brought home to me when I read the "Shelton Life" magazine last night. In it were reprinted articles and poems and pictures from the December 14, 1912 edition of "The Shelton Times." The following poem caught my attention - and caused me to smile wryly to myself. I hope it brings a smile to you, too.
Faithfully,
Janet+
THE CHRISTMAS SHOPPER by Wilbur D. Nesbit
The Christmas shopper makes her list
And holds it tightly in her fist
And starts to get her shopping done
She thinks she is the only one
Beginning at this early date
And that her progress will be straight.
She sallies forth with pleasant smiles
But soon is
Jammed up in the aisles,
And when she tries to cleave the fray
She has to wind around this way;
Though earnestly she's on the job,
She bumps into a rushing mob.
By speeding shoppers she is borne
Until her skirt and waist are torn;
She leaves a doll and jumping jack
And has to crowd and struggle back;
She gets home weary, worn and blue -
And finds the cook gone shopping, too!
Today's school closure and pending snow storm has probably already uplifted your heart or put you in a scheduling tail-spin. Or both. I'm often tempted to think that the pressures we face in our daily living and holiday preparations are a "modern" problem. But they're not. We face the same struggles and temptations as our parents and grandparents and great-grandparents. The struggles and temptations are much the same because the human condition is much the same: we all struggle to believe in God, to put Him first, and to live in harmony with each other.
The humbling reality of all this was brought home to me when I read the "Shelton Life" magazine last night. In it were reprinted articles and poems and pictures from the December 14, 1912 edition of "The Shelton Times." The following poem caught my attention - and caused me to smile wryly to myself. I hope it brings a smile to you, too.
Faithfully,
Janet+
THE CHRISTMAS SHOPPER by Wilbur D. Nesbit
The Christmas shopper makes her list
And holds it tightly in her fist
And starts to get her shopping done
She thinks she is the only one
Beginning at this early date
And that her progress will be straight.
She sallies forth with pleasant smiles
But soon is
Jammed up in the aisles,
And when she tries to cleave the fray
She has to wind around this way;
Though earnestly she's on the job,
She bumps into a rushing mob.
By speeding shoppers she is borne
Until her skirt and waist are torn;
She leaves a doll and jumping jack
And has to crowd and struggle back;
She gets home weary, worn and blue -
And finds the cook gone shopping, too!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
An message from "the Frugals"
Dear Friends in Christ -
This morning, I heard a piece on the Today show about "the Frugals," a family that has made good money management a way of life. The mother of the family said something that's sticking with me: "We think that 'new' equals 'love.' It does not."
"The Frugals" website - www.homeeconomiser.com - has dozens of tips for living within our means joyfully.
May this be a Christmas when getting ready for Christmas means more than making enough trips to the mall to buy the stuff people in our lives expect to receive. May we dare to live closer to our own heart-values. May we heed the inner voice that tells us that freedom is found in simplicity and love is found in relationships, with God and with each other.
Faithfully,
Janet+
This morning, I heard a piece on the Today show about "the Frugals," a family that has made good money management a way of life. The mother of the family said something that's sticking with me: "We think that 'new' equals 'love.' It does not."
"The Frugals" website - www.homeeconomiser.com - has dozens of tips for living within our means joyfully.
May this be a Christmas when getting ready for Christmas means more than making enough trips to the mall to buy the stuff people in our lives expect to receive. May we dare to live closer to our own heart-values. May we heed the inner voice that tells us that freedom is found in simplicity and love is found in relationships, with God and with each other.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
An invitation from God
Dear Child of Mine -
Open your heart and get ready for the love that's coming your way.
Remember, I'm always with you, and my fondest wish is to get to know you better and to be more a part of your life.
I love you.
God
Open your heart and get ready for the love that's coming your way.
Remember, I'm always with you, and my fondest wish is to get to know you better and to be more a part of your life.
I love you.
God
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
A humorous and grace-full invitation to ready-ness
A reflection from http://thejesuswalk.wordpress.com/2008/12/02/is-your-heart-ready-to-receive-him/ (adapted)
A man prayed to God and just wanted to ask a few things.
Man: God?
God: Yes?
Man: How long is a million years to you?
God: A minute.
Man: God?
God: Yes?
Man: How much is a million dollars to you?
God: A penny.
Man: God, can I have a penny then?
God: Sure. In a minute.
Our time and His time are different. Our comprehension does not keep up with His Way because He is so great. We never know what He has in store for us, or how it will all work out.
The Gospels speak about the Way, or making the Way for Jesus. We need to be eager for His coming. In the Advent season, we are to prepare ourselves, called to holiness, devotion (it can be any prayer or action of charity), and eager to be closer to God. In everything, we need to be conscious of what we do and put heart into it, lifting it up to God.
Are you ready?
A man prayed to God and just wanted to ask a few things.
Man: God?
God: Yes?
Man: How long is a million years to you?
God: A minute.
Man: God?
God: Yes?
Man: How much is a million dollars to you?
God: A penny.
Man: God, can I have a penny then?
God: Sure. In a minute.
Our time and His time are different. Our comprehension does not keep up with His Way because He is so great. We never know what He has in store for us, or how it will all work out.
The Gospels speak about the Way, or making the Way for Jesus. We need to be eager for His coming. In the Advent season, we are to prepare ourselves, called to holiness, devotion (it can be any prayer or action of charity), and eager to be closer to God. In everything, we need to be conscious of what we do and put heart into it, lifting it up to God.
Are you ready?
Monday, December 15, 2008
Ready?
Dear Friends in Christ -
Each year, my Advent journey is different. This year, the journey has been very reflective and full of listening - listening to God and listening to those around me. It's been a tough year for many, and we come into this season humbled and chastened by many things beyond our control - family issues, health issues, financial issues.
In the midst of all this, I ask God, "How should we respond? How are we to get through this?" And the answer has been, "Stay with me while you wait."
The first week of Advent, the word that guided my times with God was "silence." The second week, it was "wonder." This week, the word is "ready." As in "are you ready?" As in "get ready."
The collect for yesterday's worship was "Stir up your power, O Lord, and with great might come among us; and, because we are sorely hindered by our sins, let your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us . . ." In other words, God, we really want you to come and use your power to do amazing things. But we recognize that we're not totally ready. So would you please use your mercy and grace to help us get ready?
In the midst of all the other preparations, may we remember to offer our hearts to God, so that we're ready to receive the greatest gift - the one God has for us.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Each year, my Advent journey is different. This year, the journey has been very reflective and full of listening - listening to God and listening to those around me. It's been a tough year for many, and we come into this season humbled and chastened by many things beyond our control - family issues, health issues, financial issues.
In the midst of all this, I ask God, "How should we respond? How are we to get through this?" And the answer has been, "Stay with me while you wait."
The first week of Advent, the word that guided my times with God was "silence." The second week, it was "wonder." This week, the word is "ready." As in "are you ready?" As in "get ready."
The collect for yesterday's worship was "Stir up your power, O Lord, and with great might come among us; and, because we are sorely hindered by our sins, let your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us . . ." In other words, God, we really want you to come and use your power to do amazing things. But we recognize that we're not totally ready. So would you please use your mercy and grace to help us get ready?
In the midst of all the other preparations, may we remember to offer our hearts to God, so that we're ready to receive the greatest gift - the one God has for us.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Sunday, December 14, 2008
The gift
Dear Friends in Christ -
Today we received the most amazing gift. One of the kids of the church and her mom made a birthday present for Jesus. It's a book, and we got to read parts of it during the Children's Moment at the 10:00 a.m. service.
In the book, Olivia tells part of her story: how she came to this country as an orphan, to meet the Mommy that God had prepared especially for her. And then Olivia tells what she does all during the year to help others and to honor Jesus - taking cards to people in nursing homes, giving food to those in need, and enjoying His creation.
May we all take a page out of Olivia's book and honor Jesus at His birthday, by doing the things that make Him happy - caring for others and being thankful for His gifts to us.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Today we received the most amazing gift. One of the kids of the church and her mom made a birthday present for Jesus. It's a book, and we got to read parts of it during the Children's Moment at the 10:00 a.m. service.
In the book, Olivia tells part of her story: how she came to this country as an orphan, to meet the Mommy that God had prepared especially for her. And then Olivia tells what she does all during the year to help others and to honor Jesus - taking cards to people in nursing homes, giving food to those in need, and enjoying His creation.
May we all take a page out of Olivia's book and honor Jesus at His birthday, by doing the things that make Him happy - caring for others and being thankful for His gifts to us.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Saturday, December 13, 2008
A wonder-full holiday tradition
Dear Friends in Christ -
I spent a some time today with a group of women with whom I've prayed for over a decade. We have celebrated each of the last dozen (or so) Christmases the same way . . . gathering on a Saturday a couple of weeks before Christmas for prayer, food, fellowship and laughter.
The wonder-full thing about this wonderful, meaningful Christmas tradition is that I didn't "choose" this group. God chose it for me, before I even knew I would ever be living in New England.
Many years ago, in Salem, Oregon, two ladies from my church invited me to tea - and then asked me if I would like to join the prayer group they were a part of. They explained that their small group was connected to a larger, international group based in Massachusetts. While I liked the idea of being connected to a prayerful group of women around the world, I didn't give much thought to what it might be like to actually meet or spend time with those women. I was just enjoying the company of the women in Salem.
Then I moved. All the way across the country. To New Haven, a town I had visited once (for two hours) more than a decade before. I didn't know a soul. But, lo and behold, there was a prayer group (part of our network) in New Haven. They took me in.
Each Christmas, as we gather to pray, eat, talk and laugh, I remember the wonder of the season: that God has a plan, a plan for us - to save, to comfort, to love. Amazing.
Faithfully,
Janet+
I spent a some time today with a group of women with whom I've prayed for over a decade. We have celebrated each of the last dozen (or so) Christmases the same way . . . gathering on a Saturday a couple of weeks before Christmas for prayer, food, fellowship and laughter.
The wonder-full thing about this wonderful, meaningful Christmas tradition is that I didn't "choose" this group. God chose it for me, before I even knew I would ever be living in New England.
Many years ago, in Salem, Oregon, two ladies from my church invited me to tea - and then asked me if I would like to join the prayer group they were a part of. They explained that their small group was connected to a larger, international group based in Massachusetts. While I liked the idea of being connected to a prayerful group of women around the world, I didn't give much thought to what it might be like to actually meet or spend time with those women. I was just enjoying the company of the women in Salem.
Then I moved. All the way across the country. To New Haven, a town I had visited once (for two hours) more than a decade before. I didn't know a soul. But, lo and behold, there was a prayer group (part of our network) in New Haven. They took me in.
Each Christmas, as we gather to pray, eat, talk and laugh, I remember the wonder of the season: that God has a plan, a plan for us - to save, to comfort, to love. Amazing.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Friday, December 12, 2008
A visual meditation on wonder
Dear Friends in Christ -
I hope you enjoy this beautiful, leisurely meditation on wonder . . .
http://wonderofitall.com
Blessings,
Janet+
I hope you enjoy this beautiful, leisurely meditation on wonder . . .
http://wonderofitall.com
Blessings,
Janet+
Thursday, December 11, 2008
1 Corinthians 13 - Christmas Style
Dear Friends in Christ -
Today, as I was wondering what else to share about "wonder," this wonder-full adaptation of a well-known passage of Scripture appeared in my email in-box. I found it humbling and encouraging. May it stir your heart, too.
Blessings,
Janet+
1 Corinthians 13 -- Christmas Style
©By Sharon Jaynes
If I decorate my house perfectly with lovely plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights, and shiny glass balls, but do not show love to my family - I'm just another decorator. If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals, and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love to my family - I'm just another cook. If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home, and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family - it profits me nothing. If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties, and sing in the choir's cantata but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point. Love stops the cooking to hug the child. Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband. Love is kind, though harried and tired. Love doesn't envy another home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens. Love doesn't yell at the kids to get out of the way. Love doesn't give only to those who are able to give in return, but rejoices in giving to those who can't. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. Love never fails. Video games will break; pearl necklaces will be lost; golf clubs will rust. But giving the gift of love will endure.
Today, as I was wondering what else to share about "wonder," this wonder-full adaptation of a well-known passage of Scripture appeared in my email in-box. I found it humbling and encouraging. May it stir your heart, too.
Blessings,
Janet+
1 Corinthians 13 -- Christmas Style
©By Sharon Jaynes
If I decorate my house perfectly with lovely plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights, and shiny glass balls, but do not show love to my family - I'm just another decorator. If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals, and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love to my family - I'm just another cook. If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home, and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family - it profits me nothing. If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties, and sing in the choir's cantata but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point. Love stops the cooking to hug the child. Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband. Love is kind, though harried and tired. Love doesn't envy another home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens. Love doesn't yell at the kids to get out of the way. Love doesn't give only to those who are able to give in return, but rejoices in giving to those who can't. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. Love never fails. Video games will break; pearl necklaces will be lost; golf clubs will rust. But giving the gift of love will endure.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
About . . . wonder
"What I Know for Sure," by Bob Hicok
Some people, told of witness trees,
pause in chopping a carrot
or loosening a lug nut and ask,
witness to what? So while salad
is made, or getting from A to B
is repaired, these people
listen to the story
of the Burnside Bridge sycamore,
alive at Antietam, bloodiest day
of the war, or the Appomattox Court House
honey locust, just coming to leaf
as Lee surrendered, and say, at the end,
Cool. Then the chopping
continues with its two sounds,
the slight snap to the separation
of carrot from carrot, the harder crack
of knife against cutting board,
or the sigh, also slight, of a lug nut
as it's tightened against a wheel. In time,
these people put their hands
under water and say, not so much to you
but to the window in front of the sink,
Think of all the things
trees have seen. Then it's time
for dinner, or to leave, and a month passes,
or a year, before two fawns
cross in front of the car, or the man
you've just given a dollar to
lifts his shirt to the start
of the 23rd psalm tattooed
to his chest, "The Lord is my shepherd,
I shall not want," when some people
say, I feel like one of those trees,
you know? And you do know.
You make a good salad, change
a wicked tire, you're one of those people,
watching, listening, a witness
to whatever this is,
for as long as it is
amazing, isn't it, that I could call you
right now and say, They still
can't talk to dolphins
but are closer, as I still
can't say everything I want to
but am closer, for trying, to God,
if you must, to spirit, if you will,
to what's never easy for people
like us: life, breath, the sheer volume
of wonder.
Bob Hicok is the author of This Clumsy Living (University of Pittsburgh Press) and associate professor of English at Virginia Tech.
Some people, told of witness trees,
pause in chopping a carrot
or loosening a lug nut and ask,
witness to what? So while salad
is made, or getting from A to B
is repaired, these people
listen to the story
of the Burnside Bridge sycamore,
alive at Antietam, bloodiest day
of the war, or the Appomattox Court House
honey locust, just coming to leaf
as Lee surrendered, and say, at the end,
Cool. Then the chopping
continues with its two sounds,
the slight snap to the separation
of carrot from carrot, the harder crack
of knife against cutting board,
or the sigh, also slight, of a lug nut
as it's tightened against a wheel. In time,
these people put their hands
under water and say, not so much to you
but to the window in front of the sink,
Think of all the things
trees have seen. Then it's time
for dinner, or to leave, and a month passes,
or a year, before two fawns
cross in front of the car, or the man
you've just given a dollar to
lifts his shirt to the start
of the 23rd psalm tattooed
to his chest, "The Lord is my shepherd,
I shall not want," when some people
say, I feel like one of those trees,
you know? And you do know.
You make a good salad, change
a wicked tire, you're one of those people,
watching, listening, a witness
to whatever this is,
for as long as it is
amazing, isn't it, that I could call you
right now and say, They still
can't talk to dolphins
but are closer, as I still
can't say everything I want to
but am closer, for trying, to God,
if you must, to spirit, if you will,
to what's never easy for people
like us: life, breath, the sheer volume
of wonder.
Bob Hicok is the author of This Clumsy Living (University of Pittsburgh Press) and associate professor of English at Virginia Tech.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Guiding Star
"O Star of wonder, Star of night
Star with royal beauty bright
Westward leading, still proceeding,
Guide us to thy Perfect Light."
--- The Rev. John Henry Hopkins
Star with royal beauty bright
Westward leading, still proceeding,
Guide us to thy Perfect Light."
--- The Rev. John Henry Hopkins
Monday, December 8, 2008
Wonder
Dear Friends in Christ -
For me, this second week of Advent is shaping up to be about wonder - giving my attention to marvels and miracles. in the midst of grey almost-winter days.
It's interesting to me that we also use the word "wonder" in more pedestrian way . . . "I wonder what's for dinner?" When we use the word this way, we mean "I'm curious to know" . . .
During these days of Advent, I wonder about wonder . . . I'm curious to know more marvels and miracles. So I'm taking a few extra moments today, just to pause, and to play, and to listen. Because I sense that there is so much out there, in the world, in God, in me, in you, that is marvelous and miraculous. And THAT I don't want to miss.
Faithfully,
Janet+
For me, this second week of Advent is shaping up to be about wonder - giving my attention to marvels and miracles. in the midst of grey almost-winter days.
It's interesting to me that we also use the word "wonder" in more pedestrian way . . . "I wonder what's for dinner?" When we use the word this way, we mean "I'm curious to know" . . .
During these days of Advent, I wonder about wonder . . . I'm curious to know more marvels and miracles. So I'm taking a few extra moments today, just to pause, and to play, and to listen. Because I sense that there is so much out there, in the world, in God, in me, in you, that is marvelous and miraculous. And THAT I don't want to miss.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Sunday, December 7, 2008
A Prayer for Pearl Harbor Day
Lord God: May the heroic example of our Pearl Harbor defenders (67 years ago) cause us to look deep within ourselves to see what resources we might have to persevere as they did that morning. Grant, we pray, joy and fulfillment to those few still living, and for those who are at rest, Lord, grant thy peace. Amen.
(adapted from a prayer by Lee Axtell, command chaplain)
(adapted from a prayer by Lee Axtell, command chaplain)
Snow again! Please drive to church carefully
Dear Friends in Christ -
Even as I type this (at 6:10 in the morning), the snow plow is hard at work shoveling snow in the parking lot. Services for today (8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.) are ON. If you're able, please do come to worship, and as you come, please drive safely!!
With joyful anticipation,
Janet+
Even as I type this (at 6:10 in the morning), the snow plow is hard at work shoveling snow in the parking lot. Services for today (8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.) are ON. If you're able, please do come to worship, and as you come, please drive safely!!
With joyful anticipation,
Janet+
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Words of comfort
Dear Friends in Christ -
This Sunday, one of our readings is from a passage in the book of Isaiah that Johannes Olearius turned into a hymn. It's one of my Advent favorites, for a couple of reasons: (1) it speaks of God coming to save us (a promise I rely on!), and (2) the tune we have for it in our hymnal has this great, swingy syncopation. Enjoy!
Faithfully,
Janet+
Comfort, comfort ye My people,
Speak ye peace, thus saith our God;
Comfort those who sit in darkness,
Mourning ’neath their sorrow’s load;
Speak ye to Jerusalem
Of the peace that waits for them;
Tell her that her sins I cover,
And her warfare now is over.
For the herald’s voice is crying
In the desert far and near,
Bidding all men to repentance,
Since the kingdom now is here.
O that warning cry obey!
Now prepare for God a way!
Let the valleys rise to meet Him,
And the hills bow down to greet Him.
Yea, her sins our God will pardon,
Blotting out each dark misdeed;
All that well deserved His anger
He will no more see nor heed.
She has suffered many a day,
Now her griefs have passed away,
God will change her pining sadness
Into ever springing gladness.
Make ye straight what long was crooked,
Make the rougher places plain:
Let your hearts be true and humble,
As befits His holy reign,
For the glory of the Lord
Now o’er the earth is shed abroad,
And all flesh shall see the token
That His Word is never broken.
This Sunday, one of our readings is from a passage in the book of Isaiah that Johannes Olearius turned into a hymn. It's one of my Advent favorites, for a couple of reasons: (1) it speaks of God coming to save us (a promise I rely on!), and (2) the tune we have for it in our hymnal has this great, swingy syncopation. Enjoy!
Faithfully,
Janet+
Comfort, comfort ye My people,
Speak ye peace, thus saith our God;
Comfort those who sit in darkness,
Mourning ’neath their sorrow’s load;
Speak ye to Jerusalem
Of the peace that waits for them;
Tell her that her sins I cover,
And her warfare now is over.
For the herald’s voice is crying
In the desert far and near,
Bidding all men to repentance,
Since the kingdom now is here.
O that warning cry obey!
Now prepare for God a way!
Let the valleys rise to meet Him,
And the hills bow down to greet Him.
Yea, her sins our God will pardon,
Blotting out each dark misdeed;
All that well deserved His anger
He will no more see nor heed.
She has suffered many a day,
Now her griefs have passed away,
God will change her pining sadness
Into ever springing gladness.
Make ye straight what long was crooked,
Make the rougher places plain:
Let your hearts be true and humble,
As befits His holy reign,
For the glory of the Lord
Now o’er the earth is shed abroad,
And all flesh shall see the token
That His Word is never broken.
Friday, December 5, 2008
"O come let us adore Him"
Silence is the best response to Mystery. -Kathleen Norris
Dear Friends in Christ -
Christmas songs have started to play on the radio. Mostly, it seems that the ones they're playing now are the secular ones - "Jingle Bells" and "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas" - but the song that keeps popping into my head is "O Come All Ye Faithful."
It's actually the chorus of that song that's echoing in my ears "O come let us adore Him . . ." Those words give me pause because I'm not sure that I know how to "adore Him." I know how to go shopping and buy Christmas presents. I know how to give food to the food bank. I know how to have friends and family over for dinner. But I'm not so good at adoring.
Perhaps that's because there's not a whole lot of silence and stillness in my life. And when I have a few moments of silence and stillness, my first thought is often, "O good - now I can get that other thing done that I've been meaning to do."
One of our parishioners brought her new baby into the office this week. And in the middle of the phone calls and the faxes and the email and the other things, the baby's mother and I just leaned over his little carseat cradle and looked at him. So beautiful. So sweet. So peaceful as he slept there.
As I reflected on those tender moments, I realized that what happened there as we gazed at the baby was just a little taste of what true adoration must be like. Time seemed to expand, and my whole self suddenly seemed more open and joyful.
For you - and for me - I pray for more moments of adoration. Time in front of the fire. Time sipping a cup of tea. Time looking at the lights on the Christmas tree. Time walking in the woods. Time seeing something beautiful. Time to wonder. Time to adore.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Dear Friends in Christ -
Christmas songs have started to play on the radio. Mostly, it seems that the ones they're playing now are the secular ones - "Jingle Bells" and "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas" - but the song that keeps popping into my head is "O Come All Ye Faithful."
It's actually the chorus of that song that's echoing in my ears "O come let us adore Him . . ." Those words give me pause because I'm not sure that I know how to "adore Him." I know how to go shopping and buy Christmas presents. I know how to give food to the food bank. I know how to have friends and family over for dinner. But I'm not so good at adoring.
Perhaps that's because there's not a whole lot of silence and stillness in my life. And when I have a few moments of silence and stillness, my first thought is often, "O good - now I can get that other thing done that I've been meaning to do."
One of our parishioners brought her new baby into the office this week. And in the middle of the phone calls and the faxes and the email and the other things, the baby's mother and I just leaned over his little carseat cradle and looked at him. So beautiful. So sweet. So peaceful as he slept there.
As I reflected on those tender moments, I realized that what happened there as we gazed at the baby was just a little taste of what true adoration must be like. Time seemed to expand, and my whole self suddenly seemed more open and joyful.
For you - and for me - I pray for more moments of adoration. Time in front of the fire. Time sipping a cup of tea. Time looking at the lights on the Christmas tree. Time walking in the woods. Time seeing something beautiful. Time to wonder. Time to adore.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Thursday, December 4, 2008
More on silence
Dear Friends in Christ -
Today's Advent offering . . . another lovely poem.
He's coming!
Faithfully,
Janet+
SILENCE SINGS - by T. Sturge Moore
SO faint, no ear is sure it hears,
So faint and far;
So vast that very near appears
My voice, both here and in each star
Unmeasured leagues do bridge between;
Like that which on a face is seen
Where secrets are;
Sweeping, like veils of lofty balm,
Tresses unbound
O'er desert sand, o'er ocean calm,
I am wherever is not sound;
And, goddess of the truthful face,
My beauty doth instil its grace
That joy abound.
Today's Advent offering . . . another lovely poem.
He's coming!
Faithfully,
Janet+
SILENCE SINGS - by T. Sturge Moore
SO faint, no ear is sure it hears,
So faint and far;
So vast that very near appears
My voice, both here and in each star
Unmeasured leagues do bridge between;
Like that which on a face is seen
Where secrets are;
Sweeping, like veils of lofty balm,
Tresses unbound
O'er desert sand, o'er ocean calm,
I am wherever is not sound;
And, goddess of the truthful face,
My beauty doth instil its grace
That joy abound.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Invitation to prayer
Dear Friends in Christ -
May this bit of T.S. Eliot's poem "Little Gidding" serve as an invitation, drawing you to prayer.
Faithfully,
Janet+
If you came by this way,
Taking any route, starting from anywhere,
At any time or season,
It would always be the same: you
would have to put off
Sense and motion. You are not to
verify, instruct yourself, or
inform curiosity
Or carry report. You are here to
kneel where prayer has been valid.
And prayer is more than an order
of words, the conscious occupation
of the praying mind, or the sound
of the voice praying . . .
Of timeless moments. So, where the
light fails on a winters afternoon,
in a secluded chapel . . .
With the drawing of this Love and
the choice of this Calling
We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time.
May this bit of T.S. Eliot's poem "Little Gidding" serve as an invitation, drawing you to prayer.
Faithfully,
Janet+
If you came by this way,
Taking any route, starting from anywhere,
At any time or season,
It would always be the same: you
would have to put off
Sense and motion. You are not to
verify, instruct yourself, or
inform curiosity
Or carry report. You are here to
kneel where prayer has been valid.
And prayer is more than an order
of words, the conscious occupation
of the praying mind, or the sound
of the voice praying . . .
Of timeless moments. So, where the
light fails on a winters afternoon,
in a secluded chapel . . .
With the drawing of this Love and
the choice of this Calling
We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
The Valley of Silence
A gift for you on this third day of Advent: a poem about silence
Faithfully waiting with you for His coming,
Janet+
The Valley of Silence
by Fiona MacLeod
In the secret Valley of Silence
No breath doth fall;
No wind stirs in the branches;
No bird doth call:
As on a white wall
A breathless lizard is still,
So silence lies on the valley
Breathlessly still.
In the dusk-grown heart of the valley
An altar rises white:
No rapt priest bends in awe
Before its silent light:
But sometimes a flight
Of breathless words of prayer
White-wing'd enclose the altar,
Eddies of prayer.
Faithfully waiting with you for His coming,
Janet+
The Valley of Silence
by Fiona MacLeod
In the secret Valley of Silence
No breath doth fall;
No wind stirs in the branches;
No bird doth call:
As on a white wall
A breathless lizard is still,
So silence lies on the valley
Breathlessly still.
In the dusk-grown heart of the valley
An altar rises white:
No rapt priest bends in awe
Before its silent light:
But sometimes a flight
Of breathless words of prayer
White-wing'd enclose the altar,
Eddies of prayer.
Monday, December 1, 2008
World AIDS Day
Dear Friends in Christ -
Today is the day we remember all those who are suffering from AIDS - all those who have died, all those who are ill, and all those who have lost a loved one to this dreaded disease.
Remembering is about more than just feeling sad or even saying a prayer (as powerful as that is!). The word remember means, literally, to bring together again. And the only way that we can rightly re-member in the face of the global AIDS crisis is to DO something to help defeat this disease.
Today, if you can, do something to help . . .
+ Wear a red ribbon
+ Go to www.worldaidscampaign.org and get educated about what's being done to defeat the disease
+ Write to our leaders (President, congressional representatives) and remind them that the theme of this year's 20th-anniversary-of-World-AIDS-Day Campaign is "Leadership". Ask them to tell you what they're doing to help fight this disease around the world.
+ Donate to World Vision or another organization that is helping kids who have been orphaned by AIDS.
May God bless you richly for caring for those who are hungry, sick, widowed and orphaned by this disease.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Today is the day we remember all those who are suffering from AIDS - all those who have died, all those who are ill, and all those who have lost a loved one to this dreaded disease.
Remembering is about more than just feeling sad or even saying a prayer (as powerful as that is!). The word remember means, literally, to bring together again. And the only way that we can rightly re-member in the face of the global AIDS crisis is to DO something to help defeat this disease.
Today, if you can, do something to help . . .
+ Wear a red ribbon
+ Go to www.worldaidscampaign.org and get educated about what's being done to defeat the disease
+ Write to our leaders (President, congressional representatives) and remind them that the theme of this year's 20th-anniversary-of-World-AIDS-Day Campaign is "Leadership". Ask them to tell you what they're doing to help fight this disease around the world.
+ Donate to World Vision or another organization that is helping kids who have been orphaned by AIDS.
May God bless you richly for caring for those who are hungry, sick, widowed and orphaned by this disease.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Sunday, November 30, 2008
First Day of Advent
"Coming! I'm coming!" That's the cry of our Lord himself during this Advent season.
Our job is to wait. And to create an open quiet space, so that when He shows up, we'll notice.
We wait in tension - the tension between the "already" of Jesus' first coming as an infant in a manger, and the "not yet" of Jesus' second coming in glorious triumph to put all things to rights and to re-establish His reign of peace and mercy and justice.
Someone reminded me yesterday that the good thing about tension - living in between the "already" and the "not yet" is that we are nudged into balance. We're called not to live in the past or in the future, but in the now. And we maintain our balanced "now" with steady doses of contemplation (time in silence with God) and action (time in activity for and with others).
May this Advent be a time when the tension in our lives draws us into alertness not alarm, balance not exhaustion. In this season, there is enough time for all the important things. May we have the grace to let go of the rest.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Our job is to wait. And to create an open quiet space, so that when He shows up, we'll notice.
We wait in tension - the tension between the "already" of Jesus' first coming as an infant in a manger, and the "not yet" of Jesus' second coming in glorious triumph to put all things to rights and to re-establish His reign of peace and mercy and justice.
Someone reminded me yesterday that the good thing about tension - living in between the "already" and the "not yet" is that we are nudged into balance. We're called not to live in the past or in the future, but in the now. And we maintain our balanced "now" with steady doses of contemplation (time in silence with God) and action (time in activity for and with others).
May this Advent be a time when the tension in our lives draws us into alertness not alarm, balance not exhaustion. In this season, there is enough time for all the important things. May we have the grace to let go of the rest.
Faithfully,
Janet+
Sunday, November 16, 2008
The blog is back!
Dear Friends in Christ -
Our former blog has been down for nearly a month. UGH! And multiple attempts at recovering it have proven futile. That's the bad news.
The good news is that lots of people have noticed that the blog is down - and want it back. We've started to rely on the blog as a way to connect and communicate. I've certainly missed being able to reach out to you this way.
So this is the first post on our new blog: www.25church.blogspot.com. Tell your friends. Invite your neighbors.
God is doing great things at St. Paul's, and we don't want them to miss out!!!
Faithfully blogging again
Rev. Janet+
Our former blog has been down for nearly a month. UGH! And multiple attempts at recovering it have proven futile. That's the bad news.
The good news is that lots of people have noticed that the blog is down - and want it back. We've started to rely on the blog as a way to connect and communicate. I've certainly missed being able to reach out to you this way.
So this is the first post on our new blog: www.25church.blogspot.com. Tell your friends. Invite your neighbors.
God is doing great things at St. Paul's, and we don't want them to miss out!!!
Faithfully blogging again
Rev. Janet+
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