From the Rector
Tragically human - - Blissfully Divine
I have been on a roller coaster with the Church over the past few
weeks. I have read the newspaper accounts of the division in our diocese surrounding
the six dissenting parishes and clergy. I have read correspondence from Bishop
Smith, and joined other clergy from the diocese (including Deacon Ellen) at the cathedral
for conversation about these difficult times and issues. Nothing yet has been
resolved. I feel sadness deep in my soul for our Church.
On the other side, many good and wonderful things are
going on that provide deep satisfaction and joy. We sent Ellen out to continue her
ministry in another place with great love and thanksgiving for her witness in our midst.
We came together to "dream" about our future and what might be possible.
We have completed our first Emmaus weekend for high school youth that required
sacrificial service from adults and young people, but was a glorious demonstration of
God's love and joy. It looks like the churches of Ledyard are coming together to
build a Habitat house. With these developments, my hope for the Church soars.
I have said before that the Church is a blend of
the human and divine. Sometimes she is tragically human; sometimes she is blissfully
divine. Sometimes she seems to be a blunt instrument for God's purpose; but at other
times she accomplishes the impossible. The roller coaster is real, but I have to
trust that God knew what he was doing when he chose human agency to further the work of
his kingdom. As we approach Pentecost, the birthday of the church, please join me in
praying for her:
Gracious Father, we pray for your holy Catholic
Church. Fill it with all truth, in all truth with all peace. Where it is
corrupt, purify it; where it is in error, direct it; where in any thing it is amiss,
reform it. Where it is right, strengthen it; where it is in want, provide for it;
where it is divided, reunite it; for the sake of Jesus Christ your Son our Savior.
Amen. (BCP 816)
Chuck