My sisters and brothers in Christ:
We worship as usual this weekend: Our convenient community Holy Eucharist service today (Saturday, Nov. 12) at 5 p.m. and on the 26th Sunday after Pentecost at 8 and 10 a.m. We’ll hear our LORD Jesus Christ predict the destruction of the temple, warn of “wars and insurrections,” and promise wisdom and salvation in the face of all dangers to those who love him and God’s word. And we’ll hear St. Paul’s exhortation: “Brothers and sisters, do not be weary in doing what is right.”
Scripture also teaches, “Reach out; I’ll be there.” I should’ve known you wouldn’t be fooled again! While it definitely sums up the reassurance of the gospel, the line comes from the Four Tops song written and produced by Holland-Dozier-Holland and released in 1967. Our “Tribute To Motown” fellowship dinner tonight at 6 p.m. in the Cardinal Gym is sold out. Our thanks to DJ Gomer and Melinda Freese and all our volunteers for the joy they’ve brought us through this ministry.
Our thanks too to those who have already submitted their pledge cards for 2017. At all our services this weekend, we’ll offer members a chance to bring their pledges to the altar of God. Please remember that the Bishop’s Committee will take its first run at next year’s budget on Wednesday, Dec. 14. The more we know, the better our work. As you think about your pledge, please remember what Paul said about our unity in Christ in the passage we selected for our “All For St. John’s” stewardship drive: “Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.” (Col. 3.15)
Appreciating the unity of creation is the theme of “To Serve And Guard The Earth,” our class this Sunday, Nov. 13 and next Sunday at 9 a.m. in the Bishop’s Room facilitated by Beth Bojarski, executive director of Camp Stevens. This conversation-based series explores the relationship among humanity, God, and creation. Beth is using scripture (especially the creation stories in Genesis 1 and 2) to help us hear God’s call to love creation, act with justice, and respect the wisdom that comes from science and our own experience. We’re also learning about practical applications of creation care in home, school, and office. All voices and perspectives are welcome. Please join us.
The Bible couldn’t be clearer about our responsibility for those in need. Our St. John’s Thanksgiving drive benefits the Rancho Santa Margarita food pantry, which helps hundreds of our neighbors each month. Last year at Thanksgiving, we didn’t have enough food to take care of everyone who came. Let’s please do all we can at St. John’s to make sure that doesn’t happen again. The shopping list is attached. Please bring your donations to church this weekend. If you can help with preparing and loading the bags on Tuesday or Wednesday, or help out with food distribution at The Bridge Church this Thursday, Nov. 17, please contact our food bank coordinator, Roger Bradshaw, at (949) 505-4663 or parisbradshaws@me.com.
I give thanks to my God always for you. Did I fool you that time? It’s Paul again, in 1 Cor. 1:4, but I feel exactly the same way about the people of God at St. John’s. It’s always especially joyful to worship as a church family on the evening before Thanksgiving ““ Wednesday, Nov. 23 at 6:30 p.m. this year. We then head for the Cardinal Gym for free pizza. Everyone’s invited, especially your family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Just let us know how many are coming by signing up this weekend in the narthex.
Yours in the Word and Christ’s love.
Fr. John