Dear Friends in Christ -
Our seminarian, Kate, preached an a great sermon this morning on this week's spiritual discipline: study. She focused on studying Scripture and, indeed, as Christians, that's the most important kind of study to be engaged in.
Another aspect of study - especially for us Episcopalians who steep our balanced faith perspectives in Scripture, tradition and reason/experience - is the study of tradition. One very rich part of our tradition worthy of study is the stories of the Saints.
Today is Saint Valentine's Day. Hallmark didn't make up this holiday, the Church did - to honor not just one, but a number of men named Valentine (I just learned this today in my studies!), who in the early centuries of the church were martyred (killed) by the Roman state for loving God and being loyal to Him instead of obeying the edicts of the emperors.
One of the men of St. Paul's who greatly loves God wrote a prayer for this day, and I would like to share it with you:
"O Lord, since you continue to give us your love in so many ways, on this St. Valentine's Day, please help us to show our love to YOU, not only with our words, but also in our actions, using our time, treasures and talents in accordance with your guidance, and the opportunities and challenges you provide in our lives. Amen."
Amen indeed!
Faithfully,
Janet+
The Lord is Great! May the Lord Bless you and keep you!
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