20 JANUARY 2023
Dear Friends,
The emails and text messages of appreciation for last Sunday's Epiphany Lessons and Carols service continue to arrive. So many of you have commented on how beautifully the choir sang, as well as how the service itself was so meaningful. I have been reflecting upon how Lessons and Carols services are a form of Bible Study. For instance, last Sunday evening we heard four Gospel readings highlighting various epiphany themes. Each reading revealed who Jesus is for us in a different way, and the anthems, carols, hymns, and collects that accompanied each Gospel allowed the worshipper to reflect more deeply on the passage's meaning. Last Sunday we were given the luxury to be still in the church while these Gospel readings and related music washed over us.
I also want to thank the musicians for their hard work, and I want to thank the acolytes for their dedication. As well, the Evangelism and Discipleship team prepared a fantastic reception after the service. The food was practically falling off the serving tables. It was supposed to be light pupus before dinner, but we all went home having been fed a delicious dinner. Even more wonderful was the fact that the Evangelism team invited our recent newcomers to come and enjoy the event, and many accepted the invitation. New friendships were made during the reception, which continued well into the evening.
This coming Sunday our attention turns to the Annual Meeting of the Parish. Every church in the diocese is required to have their annual meeting during the month of January. Having just finished our Christmas and Epiphany celebrations, the Annual Meeting always seems to arrive before we are ready. In any case, please join us this Sunday at 12:00 noon for the meeting when elections for the vestry and our diocesan delegation will be conducted. A light lunch will be served, and childcare will be offered.
This Sunday at the mass we will hear the Gospel of how Jesus calls Peter and Andrew to "follow me, and I will make you fish for people." It is the perfect Gospel for Annual Meeting Sunday. As we gather to do the necessary yearly business of the church, the charge remains for us as it was for the disciples. Jesus calls to each one of us and says, "follow me, and I will make you fish for people."
Father Paul Lillie +
