Back at work - Rector's Rambling for January 17, 2016

I know that the new year began a few weeks ago, but I was away on my annual vacation to someplace warm, arriving back last Sunday afternoon.  I missed being here, but of course enjoyed being away and getting some rest and relaxation.  But this week has been for me the start of the new calendar year as I returned to the regular routine of weekday Masses, visits to hospitals and nursing homes, and planning for Sundays and future classes.  I love being your parish priest, and am grateful to be here ministering in this portion of Our Lord’s Vineyard.

Several things to think about for the coming weeks:

The educational opportunities have resumed, with Sunday School, Adult Education, and the Thursday evening programming back in session.  Please take advantage of these classes for you and your children.

Additionally, plans are being finalized for the Lenten Season, including new classes, a new series of Prayer Book devotions, and planning for our new Sunday evening worship service as well.  It is exciting.

Today is our ONE green Epiphanytide Sunday.  Because Easter is early this year, March 27, we start our pre-Lenten –gesima Sundays next week!

Our Annual Parish Meeting is in two weeks.  Please be sure to get in your reports if you are the leader or treasurer of a parish organization for publication in the meeting booklet.  These are exciting times for St. John’s as we transition to a new relationship with Olympia Development, and see our neighborhood grow and expand in exciting ways.  St. John’s will be on the leading charge in renewing this neighborhood with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

And on a personal note, 27 years ago today I began a spiritual journey, taking the first step of a series of 12 Steps repeated again and again, aided by a group of fellow travelers, growing through a personal relationship with the Lord, and helping others to achieve the same grace-filled progress, one day at a time.  I’m grateful.