Wherever we are, this is how we love God and God’s People

Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to thee, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly thine, utterly dedicated unto thee; and then use us, we pray thee, as thou wilt, and always to thy glory and the welfare of thy people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

(A Prayer of Self-Dedication, BCP p. 832)

Beloved,

Happy New Year! As we begin this new year together, I share this Prayer of Self-Dedication from the Book of Common Prayer to remind us who we are as Christians and to name the gifts and calling we already share as a faith community. We truly have everything we need to carry forth God’s mission together. This is the season of Epiphany, when God’s love is revealed in the world—and often through the faithfulness of God’s people.

Over the past year, I have observed and witnessed this truth again and again in your lives—the installation of our new lift to expand accessibility, Project CALEB as a sign of our courage and love, and the faithful spiritual support offered through ministries such as the prayer quilt, choir, schola, chimes, book group, groundkeeping, and vestry. Most powerfully, I have seen the deepening of our parish–preschool relationships. Your mindful dedication to caring for others is a living testimony of your Christian faith, expressed in authentic and creative ways. I give thanks for the great things we can do together when we keep our eyes fixed on God.

As we embark on a new year, new and exciting opportunities await us. Please mark your calendar for our Annual Meeting on Sunday, January 18, following the 10:30 a.m. service. We will gather for a potluck in the parish hall, thank our outgoing vestry members, elect new ones, and enjoy fellowship with friends both new and familiar. Your presence truly makes all the difference. Let us continue our shared journey of faith together.

Faithfully,

Fr. Andrew