Lord God Almighty, in whose Name the founders of this country won liberty for themselves and for us, and lit the torch of freedom for nations then unborn: Grant that we and all the people of this land may have grace to maintain our liberties in righteousness and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
On Sunday, July 3rd at the 10am service, we will welcome Adrian Gabriel Aguilar into the body of Christ through the waters of baptism. Be sure to come and welcome Adrian to the family!
Did you know? The "Birthday Offering" that was collected before covid goes to Youth Ministry. Once everyone has had a chance to be vaxed and boosted, in the fall, we will be reconstituting the multi-aged Sunday School. This fund will be very helpful for buying supplies and curriculum.
If you wish to give thanks for a Birthday or Anniversary or anything else, you can still do so by writing "Birthday" in the memo section of your check or put cash (we take bills and change both) in an envelope and writing your name and "Birthday" on it.
PS. Have you thought of giving your age in dollars for your birthday?
General Convention is just over a week away. The Delegation has been busy for months in preparation. The convention, shortened due to COVID-19 concerns, runs from July 8 - 11 in Baltimore, Maryland. We ask your prayers for safe travels, for wisdom and discernment, and protection. Among the Clergy Deputies will be our own Deacon Cookie. (The Rev. Canon Cookie Clark)
It has been one week since the tragic shooting at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Vestavia Hills, Alabama. Three long-time, faithful members of the parish were gunned down in yet another example of gun violence. The entire church is shocked, and grieves for those lost, and those left behind.
We all share sorrow and frustration at these violent events, and we also share a deep and abiding trust in our Living God. We know that the Peace of God, which passes all understanding, is not something we manufacture ourselves, but is a compassionate gift from God. It lives alongside our other emotions and will ultimately heal, then surpass our hurts, anxiety and anger. We so long for and value this gift that we remember it publicly each week when we “pass the Peace of Christ” with one another.
With this mighty gift of Peace, we can continue to live into our vocation and call to minister to all, to open our doors in public worship and to welcome those seeking Christ’s love. We can reach into our communities and can stand alongside the broken and the hurting.
We will be vigilant in protecting those near to us. We each can play a part in ensuring our church sanctuaries and buildings are safe and welcoming. This is not a call to arms, rather a call to, and reliance on the loving arms of God to embrace those who grieve and those who care for them.
PAY VIA YOUR CELL PHONE! You can now pay your pledge (or other type of donation) via text message. Just text “LIGHT” to 73256 and follow the instructions. You can make a one-time payment, or even set up recurring payments with your credit card, debit card, or ACH.
