December 2017
From the Rector’s desk by Rev. Anthony MacWhinnie, II
Today, I want to think a little about silence. It’s something that we don’t get enough of, isn’t it? Yes, silence can be a little frightening for many, because who knows what thoughts may come up in the quiet? But, sometimes, that’s precisely the point. So often we busy ourselves with a myriad of tasks and problems to keep the silence away, just so that we can avoid those thoughts and feelings. It is in the silence that we can address them, and move on. In Romans 12:2 it says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is, his good, pleasing and perfect will.” The world is busy. The world is chaotic. The world is stifling. God is none of these things. Instead, God is calm. God is ordered. And God is uplifting and transformative. Sometimes we just need a moment to check in with God. We need to slow down and listen.
Taize Prayer Service Tuesday, Dec. 5 Wednesday, Dec. 13 & Wednesday, Dec. 20 6:30 pm
Contemplative—Prayerful Meditative—Reflective Music-filled Find yourself and your joy in the silence this Advent Attend the Taize Serice
Our Staff & Vestry Rev, Anthony MacWhinnie, II, Rector Vestry: Chuck Barnett - Senior Warden Jim Warner- Junior Warden Beth Woods, Susan Early, & John Velaski Twinette McDonald - Music Director Sally Putters - Parish Nurse
We don’t need to be concerned with the race to sucBe still cess or the drive of ambiand know that I am God tion. Sometimes we just need to take a deep breath, and then slowly exhale. In with the good air and out with the bad. On Wednesday’s in Advent (except the first Wednesday is rescheduled to that first Tuesday) we’ll be having Taize services at 6:30pm. If you are unfamiliar with Taize, it’s a different sort of contemplative, prayerful, and music-filled Photo of the cross on Weeks service. There will be music Bay at Beckwith Camp & Conference Center—photo by and readings and prayers Sarah McCarren. and silence. And it is this silence of which I speak. It is purposeful silence. A listening silence. A cleansing silence. It is not a fearful place. And, it is not a place of solitude. There is joy there. Come join us. Anthony+