Dear friends,
As we approach the end of the program year, I find myself increasingly grateful for all the ministries we share in this parish. We are a community of people who bring so many different interests, passions, and indeed beliefs to the table. In light of this, I am consistently enthralled at the energy and ability of our parish to engage with so much all at once. Furthermore, I am equally encouraged by the curiosity and support that we show to one another’s endeavors, in the name of a shared, mutual, and community-wide ministry; and even when we may not all be engaged constantly in every other member’s area of specialism.
Two examples of this will materialize over the next two Sundays. First, on this coming Sunday, we will honor our high school graduates, and our Sunday School and Youth Ministry leadership, featuring prayers from our 2025 confirmands and readings from our youngest parishioners. The sheer fact that young people are showing even the slightest interest in worship, prayer practices, and traditions which go back centuries is, in itself, a marvel. And it inspires me to continue contemplating how we can build on such a foundation of faith in the years to come in the wider life of our community.
The second will be on the following Sunday, Pentecost, as we baptize new members at the morning Eucharist, and then usher in our SummerFest celebration in the evening. Again, it is inspiring to witness both new and returning families engage with our parish in sacrament and fellowship. And it is a clear and visible sign of the strength of our community that, in the midst of such a busy life, we can gather and share what are the simplest yet most significant characteristics of life and faith (namely food and hospitality) and see such a gathering as a true occasion for joy.
In the words I heard last summer from someone who has now become a dear friend and colleague here, “It’s faithful and it’s fun.” I think that sums up St. John’s pretty well. And I am looking forward to worshipping and celebrating with you all in the coming weeks!
With every blessing,
Ed.
The Rev. Edward Thornley
Rector of The Episcopal Parish of St. John the Evangelist