Almighty God, who in your providence chose your servant Patrick to be the apostle of the Irish people, to bring those who were wandering in darkness and error to the true light and knowledge of yourself: Grant us so to walk in that light, that we may come at last to the light of everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and ever.

My sisters and brothers in Christ:

We worship as usual this weekend: Our convenient community Holy Eucharist service at 5 p.m. tomorrow (March 18) and on the Third Sunday in Lent at 8 and 10 a.m., when we’ll be reminded, thanks to the story of the Samaritan woman at the well, that faith and belief are often strongest in those (such as Patrick) who have seen the good news come alive in their own lives.

During the 9 a.m. Christian formation hour on Sunday, please join us in the Bishop’s Room for the third and final installment of “A Lenten Search for God at the Movies,” when Andy Guilford will lead a conversation about the film “Silence.” If you haven’t seen it, you can purchase it at either Amazon or iTunes. Here are the links:

https://www.amazon.com/Silence-Andrew-Garfield/dp/B01MU0W0GS/ref=sr_1_2?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1489773915&sr=1-2&keywords=amazon+video+silence

https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/silence/id1182256141

During our discussion, Andy will pose questions about Christian responsibility that the movie raises up. Even if you haven’t seen “Silence,” I promise that you’ll enjoy and benefit from the conversation.

The men of St. John’s will gather next Saturday, March 25 in the multipurpose room from 8-9:30 a.m. for bagels and plenty of coffee. Charley Wilson – executive director of the non-profit Southern California Water Committee, water expert, and longtime Santa Margarita Water District director — will be guest speaker. He’ll talk about water supply, water politics in the west, and the outlook in the years to come. Please add your name to the sign-up sheet in the narthex. Questions? Write George Colborn, georgecolborn@yahoo.com.
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And we’ll host brunch next Sunday, March 26 for those who have recently begun attending our church. We’ll gather in the multipurpose room after the 10 a.m. service. All newcomers are invited. Sign up this weekend in the narthex or at the Greeters table. Members of the Bishop’s Committee and key ministry leaders will be there to welcome our guests. It’s a great way to get acquainted and learn more about why the infinitely wise Holy Spirit has brought us all together.

Yours in Christ’s love,

Fr. John

P.S.: Reminder to all St. John’s ministry leaders: The Parish Council meets next Monday, March 20 at 6 p.m. in the Bishop’s Room.