Solemn Mass
Second Sunday of Advent | December 6, 2015 | 10:30 am
Welcome We acknowledge our presence on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples. Welcome to St. James’, especially if you are a newcomer or visitor. Children of all ages are fully welcome at every liturgy. We hope that you will enjoy your visit here with us. Please help us to get to know you by introducing yourself to one of the clergy. VISION STATEMENT Discovering the beauty of holiness in our lives and neighbourhood, by living a Christ-centred sacramental life rooted in the Anglo-Catholic tradition. MISSION OBJECTIVES To be a beacon for all as a neighbourhood and destination church where we invite and welcome friends, family, and strangers into our midst; To deepen our life of prayer and formation in Christ; To develop relationships and fellowship in open, honest, and spiritual ways among parishioners, with our neighbours, and those in need; To pursue and practice justice and mercy for the imparting of the Kingdom of God within and beyond the Parish; To strive to maintain financial equilibrium, develop our reserves, and optimize the use of our assets to ensure the preservation of our sacred space and ministry from generation to generation, to the everlasting glory of God. ______________________________________________________________________ TODAY 8:00 am Morning Prayer, Blessed Sacrament Chapel 8:30 am Low Mass, Lady Chapel 10:30 am High Mass, Church 12:00 am Coffee Hour, Parish Hall 5:00 pm Evening Prayer, Blessed Sacrament Chapel ______________________________________________________________________ This booklet is printed on recycled paper. Discarded copies will be recycled.
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Before Mass If you require assistance at any time, please speak to one of the welcomers at the Church entrance (narthex). As a friendly reminder, please turn off all electronic devices that might disrupt worship. In the interest of security, please keep purses and other valuables with you at all times. Wireless hearing amplifiers are available. Washrooms can be accessed through the doors on the left hand side at the back of the Church on the opposite side to the entrance. Your family is welcome at St. James’. Children may remain in the Church during the service: there is a play area with toys and colouring books in the back of the Church.
The sacrament of reconciliation (confession) is available. Speak with a priest to make an appointment. The Mass booklet contains all the prayers and information required to participate in the Mass. The directions given in this booklet to stand, sit, and kneel are offered as guidelines to those who are able. The symbol + indicates when to make the sign of the Cross. It is also customary to make a discreet bow at the name of Jesus. You are encouraged to take the opportunity before Mass for silence, stillness, and prayer. Please refrain from talking before Mass begins. We adore you, most Holy Lord Jesus Christ here and in all your churches throughout all the world; and we bless you because by your Holy Cross you have redeemed the world. St. Francis of Assisi
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A Reflection So set yourself again and again on the way of prayer. Never wait till you feel the need for it. Often enough, if you only make a new start, God will bring it to a good end. Make use of a method when you need it. Learn from your brothers and sisters and study how the saints of God have prayed. As you pray in community you will discover the wide horizon of each prayer. Rejoice to meet your brothers and sisters in the presence of the Lord, and to look with them to the Father of all light. Let yourself be carried by the rhythm of prayer in the peace and joy of a new world. Let yourself be healed of the wounds you suffer every day by the saving praise of God. Let yourself be renewed in your faith, hope and love by the Word that comes to you. Don’t let yourself be distracted by accidentals. Try to understand God’s Word even in the mouth of a bad reader. Don’t be irritated by the one who sings off-key. The forms are only important to the extent that you know how to see through them. -from Rule for a New Brother, Benedictine Priory - Regina Pacis, Great Britain: Anchor Press, 1973.
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Notes
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Entrance Rite PRELUDE Comfort, comfort ye my people — Johann Pachelbel At the entrance of the clergy and servers all stand.
Stand
INTROIT People of Zion, look up! The Lord is near at hand to redeem the nations; and in the gladness of your hearts the Lord shall cause his glorious voice to be heard. Populus Sion (Mode VII)
Children may move to the Rectory for Godly Play KYRIE ELEISON
Kyrie eleison. Christe eleison. Kyrie eleison.
Lord, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Setting: Missa brevis — Antonio Lotti
COLLECT OF THE DAY Celebrant All
All
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The Lord be with you. And with thy spirit. Let us pray. Almighty God, who sent thy servant John the Baptist to prepare thy people to welcome the Messiah, inspire us, the ministers and stewards of thy truth, to turn our disobedient hearts to thee, that when the Christ shall come again to be our judge, we may stand with confidence before his glory; who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
The Liturgy of the Word OLD TESTAMENT READING Reader
Be seated
A reading from the Book of Baruch. Take off the garment of your sorrow and affliction, O Jerusalem, and put on forever the beauty of the glory from God. Put on the robe of the righteousness that comes from God; put on your head the diadem of the glory of the Everlasting; for God will show your splendour everywhere under heaven. For God will give you evermore the name, “Righteous Peace, Godly Glory." Arise, O Jerusalem, stand upon the height; look toward the east, and see your children gathered from west and east at the word of the Holy One, rejoicing that God has remembered them. For they went out from you on foot, led away by their enemies; but God will bring them back to you, carried in glory, as on a royal throne. For God has ordered that every high mountain and the everlasting hills be made low and the valleys filled up, to make level ground, so that Israel may walk safely in the glory of God. The woods and every fragrant tree have shaded Israel at God's command. For God will lead Israel with joy, in the light of his glory, with the mercy and righteousness that come from him. Baruch 5:1-9
Reader Allll
The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
CANTICLE 12 Blue Hymn Book (Common Praise) — We Bless you, God of Israel We bless you, God of Israel; you come to set your people free. In Jesus, born of David’s line, salvation springs for all to see. You promised through the prophets’ word to save your people from their foes; In freedom they will worship you, fearless, delivered from their woes.
This child will go before the Lord, the vanguard of Messiah’s way, preaching forgiveness full and free—the prelude to God’s perfect day.
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Your tender love, like early dawn, heralds the day of endless peace; the darkness of death’s shadow fades; your justice reigns, and will not cease.
EPISTLE READING Reader
A reading from the Letter of Paul to the Philippians.
Reader Allll
I thank my God every time I remember you, -constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, -because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. -I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ. -It is right for me to think this way about all of you, because you hold me in your heart, for all of you share in God's grace with me, both in my imprisonment and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel. -For God is my witness, how I long for all of you with the compassion of Christ Jesus. And this is my prayer, that your love may overflow more and more with knowledge and full insight -to help you to determine what is best, so that in the day of Christ you may be pure and blameless, -having produced the harvest of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:3-11 The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
ALLELUIA
A cantor begins the alleluia; all repeat it thereafter.
Stand
Alleluia. I was glad when they said unto me: we will go into the house of the Lord. Alleluia. Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem. Alleluia. LĂŚtatus sum (Mode V)
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HOLY GOSPEL Deacon People Deacon People
All stand and turn to face the book of the Gospels The Lord be with you. And with thy spirit. The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke. Glory be to thee, O Lord. In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler of Galilee, and his brother Philip ruler of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias ruler of Abilene, during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. He went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, -as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah, "The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth; -and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.'" Luke 3:1-6
Deacon People
The Gospel of Christ. Praise be to thee, O Christ.
SERMON
Be Seated
Deacon Joyce Locht (At the conclusion of the sermon, silence is kept)
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NICENE CREED
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Stand
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE Celebrant
In peace, let us pray to the Lord.
All
After each petition this response is said: Lord in thy mercy. Hear our prayer.
All All
Stand
After the petition for the departed: + Rest eternal grant unto them, O Lord. And may light perpetual shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen. HIGH MASS | 11
CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION Deacon
Let us humbly confess our sins to almighty God.
All
Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Maker of all things and judge of all people: We acknowledge and confess our manifold sins and wickedness, Which we from time to time most grievously have committed, By thought, word, and deed, Against thy divine majesty. We do earnestly repent, and are heartily sorry for these our misdoings. Have mercy upon us, most merciful Father; For thy Son our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, Forgive us all that is past; And grant that we may ever hereafter Serve and please thee In newness of life, To the honour and glory of thy name; Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Celebrant
Almighty God, our heavenly Father, who of his great mercy hath promised forgiveness of sins to all them that with hearty repentance and true faith turn unto him: have mercy upon you; + pardon and deliver you from all your sins; confirm and strengthen you in all goodness; and bring you to everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Kneel
All
Children return from Godly Play PEACE
Stand
The ministers and people may greet one another in the name of the Lord in the customary way. You may choose not to shake hands at the Peace. A simple exchange of “Peace be with you” with eye contact and a nod, or a bow, is a good substitute. 12 | HIGH MASS
The Liturgy of the Holy Eucharist OFFERTORY & PREPARATION OF THE GIFTS
Be seated
Will you not turn, O God, and give us life again, that your people may rejoice in you? Show us your mercy, O Lord, and grant us your salvation. Deus, tu convertens (Mode III)
HYMN
Stand The People sing the hymn while the People’s gifts of bread, wine and money are brought forward. 12 Green Hymn Book (New English Hymnal) — On Jordan’s bank, the Baptist’s cry On Jordan's bank the Baptist's cry announces that the Lord is nigh; come then and hearken, for he brings glad tidings of the King of kings. Then cleansed be every Christian breast, and furnished for so great a guest! Yea, let us each our hearts prepare for Christ to come and enter there. For thou art our salvation, Lord, our refuge and our great reward; without thy grace our souls must fade and wither like a flower decayed. Stretch forth thine hand to heal our sore, and make us rise, to fall no more; once more upon thy people shine and fill the world with love divine.
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All praise, eternal Son, to thee, whose advent sets thy people free; whom with the Father we adore and Spirit blest, for evermore.
SURSUM CORDA & PROPER PREFACE
It is very meet, right, and our bounden duty, that we should at all times, and in all places, give thanks unto thee, O Lord, holy Father, almighty, everlasting God, creator and preserver of all things. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, who in the fullness of time came among us in our flesh and opened to us the way of salvation. Now we watch for the day when he will come again in power and great triumph to judge this world; that we, without shame or fear, may rejoice to behold his appearing. Therefore with angels and archangels, and with all the company of heaven, we laud and magnify thy glorious name; evermore praising thee and saying:
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Stand
SANCTUS & BENEDICTUS Sanctus, Sanctus, Sanctus Dominus Deus Sabaoth. Pleni sunt cĂŚli et terra Gloria tua. Hosanna in excelsis. + Benedictus qui venit in nomine Domini.
Hosanna in excelsis.
Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of hosts, heaven and earth are full of thy glory. Glory be to thee, O Lord most high. + Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord: Hosanna in the highest. Setting: Missa brevis — Antonio Lotti
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PRAYER OF CONSECRATION Celebrant
Kneel
Blessing and glory and thanksgiving be unto thee, almighty God, our heavenly Father, who of thy tender mercy didst give thine only Son Jesus Christ to take our nature upon him, and to suffer death upon the cross for our redemption; who made there, by his one oblation of himself once offered, a full, perfect, and sufficient sacrifice, oblation, and satisfaction, for the sins of the whole world; and did institute, and in his holy gospel command us to continue, a perpetual memorial of that his precious death, until his coming again. Hear us, O merciful Father, we most humbly beseech thee; and grant that we receiving these thy creatures of bread and wine, according to thy Son our Saviour Jesus Christ’s holy institution, in remembrance of his death and passion, may be partakers of his most blessed body and blood; who, in the same night that he was betrayed, took bread; and, when he had given thanks, he brake it; and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take, eat; this is my body which is given for you: Do this in remembrance of me.” + Likewise after supper he took the cup; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink ye all, of this; for this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the remission of sins: Do this, as oft as ye shall drink it, in remembrance of me.” +
Allll Celebrant
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Wherefore, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, we thy humble servants with all thy holy Church, remembering the precious death of thy beloved Son, his mighty resurrection, and glorious ascension, and looking for his coming again in glory, do make before thee, in this sacrament of the holy bread of eternal life and the cup of everlasting salvation, the memorial which he hath commanded: We praise thee, we bless thee, we thank thee and we pray to thee, Lord our God. And we entirely desire thy fatherly goodness mercifully to accept this our sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving, most humbly beseeching thee to grant, that by the merits and death of thy Son Jesus Christ, and through faith in his blood, we and all thy whole Church may obtain remission of our sins, and all other benefits of his passion; And we pray that by the power of thy Holy Spirit, all we who are partakers of this holy communion may be fulfilled with thy grace + and heavenly benediction; through Jesus Christ our Lord, by whom and with whom, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory be unto thee, O Father Almighty, world without end. Amen.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
Kneel
BREAKING OF THE BREAD
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AGNUS DEI Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi: miserere nobis. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi: miserere nobis Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi: dona nobis pacem.
Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world : have mercy upon us. Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world: have mercy upon us. Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world: grant us thy peace. Setting: Missa brevis — Antonio Lotti
THE COMMUNION Celebrant All
+Behold the Lamb of God, behold him that taketh away the sins of the world. O Lord I am not worthy that thou shouldst come under my roof, but speak the word only and my soul shall be healed. All who are baptized and believe Christ present in this sacrament are invited to come forward for communion. Those who are unable to receive communion, or do not yet receive, are invited to come forward for a blessing. To indicate you wish a blessing, fold your arms rather than holding out your hand for the Sacrament. When coming forward to receive, please approach from the centre aisle only and follow the directions of the attendant standing at the head of the aisle. Please return to your seat via the side aisles. When you receive the Holy Bread consume it immediately. It is no longer permissible to intinct the Holy Bread in the Holy Wine. You may choose not to receive the Holy Wine from the chalice at this time. If so, once you have received the Holy Bread please remain kneeling and fold your arms to indicate that you do not wish to receive from the chalice.
MOTET
BLESSED be the Lord God of Israel : for he hath visited and redeemed his people; And hath raised up a mighty salvation for us : in the house of his servant David; As he spake by the mouth of his holy Prophets : which have been since the world began; That we should be saved from our enemies : and from the hand of all that hate us. To perform the mercy promised to our forefathers : and to remember his holy Covenant; 18 | HIGH MASS
To perform the oath which he sware to our forefather Abraham : that he would give us; That we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies : might serve him without fear; In holiness and righteousness before him : all the days of our life. And thou, Child, shalt be called the Prophet of the Highest : for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; To give knowledge of salvation unto his people : for the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God : whereby the day-spring from on high hath visited us; To give light to them that sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death : and to guide our feet into the way of peace. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy Ghost; As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : world without end. Amen. Benedictus in C — C. V. Stanford
HYMN
Sit or kneel 303 Green Hymn Book (New English Hymnal) — O Word Immortal of Eternal God O Word immortal of eternal God, only-begotten of the only Source, for our salvation stooping to the course of human life and born of Mary's blood; sprung from the ever-virgin womanhood of her who bare thee, God immutable, incarnate, made as man with man to dwell, and condescending to the bitter rood; Save us, O Christ our God, for thou hast died to save thy people to the uttermost, and dying tramplest death in victory; one of the ever-blessèd Trinity, in equal honor with the Holy Ghost, and with the eternal Father glorified.
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Concluding Rite PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION Celebrant All
The Lord be with you. And with thy spirit.
All
Let us pray. Faithful God, we thank thee for feeding us with this heavenly banquet. Help us always to hear the prophet's call to turn our hearts to thee; in the name of Jesus Christ the Lord. Amen.
BLESSING Celebrant
All
Kneel Christ, the Sun of Righteousness, shine upon you, scatter the darkness from before your path, and make you ready to meet him when he comes in glory. And the blessing of God Almighty, the +Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, be amongst you and remain with you always. Amen. Notices and announcements may be given.
DISMISSAL
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Stand
Be Seated
Stand
ANGELUS
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HYMN 116 Blue Hymn Book (Common Praise) — Thy Kingdom Come "Thy kingdom come!" on bended knee the passing ages pray; and faithful souls have yearned to see on earth that kingdom's day. But the slow watches of the night not less to God belong; and for the everlasting right the silent stars are strong. And lo, already on the hills the flags of dawn appear; gird up your loins, you prophet souls, proclaim the day is near: The day in whose clear shining light all wrong shall stand revealed, when justice shall be throned in might, and every hurt be healed; When knowledge, hand in hand with peace, shall walk the earth abroad the day of perfect righteousness, the promised day of God. POSTLUDE During the postlude you are encouraged to remain quietly in the nave, or to move to the Bishops’ Room to enjoy coffee hour conversation. For prayer requests, please contact the office or speak to a member of the clergy. Please notify the Parish Office (604-685-2532) when a parishioner/friend/family member is hospitalized or housebound. The Office will arrange visitation, Holy Communion or Anointing with the Parish Clergy Team and Pastoral Care Ministry Coordinator. If entering hospital, please inform the hospital on arrival that you (or the patient you are with) are Anglican and ask for the hospital’s Anglican chaplain. 22 | HIGH MASS
Please take this booklet away with you to aid in your own reflection, prayers, and for your information.
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ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS ADVENT QUIET DAY 10:00 am - 3:00 p.m. Saturday, December 12th Find quiet and contemplative time and space to prepare for the birth of Christ CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIT COMMUNION Thursday, December 24th 9:30 am Last Mass of Advent Season and anointing 4:30pm First Evening Prayer of Christmas 5:30pm Vigil Mass of the Nativity - a family Liturgy with carols and nativity costumes. 10:00pm Musical Prelude 10:30pm Solemn Mass of Midnight with procession and blessing of the creche CHRISTMAS DAY Friday, December 25th 8:00am Morning Prayer 8:30am Low Mass of the Dawn 10:30am Procession to the Creche & Solemn Mass of the Day FIRST SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS Sunday, December 27 8:00 am Morning Prayer 8:30 am Low Mass, with anointing 10:30 am Procession to the Creche & Solemn Mass, with anointing 5:00 pm Said Evening Prayer in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel EPIPHANY OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST Sunday, January 3 8:00 am Morning Prayer 8:30 am Low Mass 10:30 am Procession to the Creche & Solemn Mass 5:00 pm Said Evening Prayer in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel
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The Thurible NOTES FROM THE CLERGY John the Baptist was a challenging figure, following in the tradition of the Old Testament prophets. He was not afraid to speak out for justice and truth before religious and political authorities, as well as preaching a gospel of individual repentance and conversion. Many responded, coming out to listen to his voice "crying in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way of the Lord.'" Ambivalent Herod, moved but unsettled by his message, had him put to death. John then had a ministry both to individuals and in what might now be termed "the Public Square." The Church is called to this twofold ministry in each generation: to prepare the way of the Lord, often as a voice crying in the wilderness, both in the public square and in the call to individual conversion and growth in holiness. In our Holy Faith Library there is a copy of Faith in the Public Square, a collection of some of Rowan Williams' prophetic writings on society and global affairs when he was Archbishop of Canterbury. We see this public ministry too in the lives and work of other religious leaders, for example Pope Francis in his speech to the US Congress earlier this year; Archbishop Fred Hiltz and others in response to the
Truth and Reconciliation Commission; the call for better stewardship of the creation in our Anglican "marks of mission." There is a question here to be put to St. James' perhaps: are there issues of significance in our neighbourhood on which we should reflect and comment from a Christian perspective? What is God saying to us about how life is valued here? Alongside this public voice, the Church, not least in this Advent season, renews its call to its members to prepare ourselves for the Lord's coming; to find time amidst the world's noise and busyness "to be still and know that God is God," to consider how our lives, collectively as the Church and individually, reflect the light and love of Christ into the world; to renew our commitment to continuing conversion and growth in holiness. Next Saturday's Quiet Day affords one opportunity for this. Another might be to use the Sacrament of Reconciliation or Confession: please feel free to make an appointment with any of the priests.
Inform. Inspire. Invite.
INSIDE:
Today at St. James’
Our Parish
Commemorations Daily Lectionary
Mass this Week
"The Lord says, 'Surely I come quickly.' Even so, come, Lord Jesus." Fr. Kevin THE THURIBLE | 25
TODAY AT ST. JAMES’ SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT MORNING PRAYER 8:00 am in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel
LOW MASS 8:30 am in the Lady Chapel HIGH MASS 10:30 am in the Church COFFEE HOUR After High Mass in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel EVENING PRAYER 5:00 pm in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel
OUR PARISH ORDO KALENDARS The 2016 Ordo Kalendars are now available, cost is $10.00. Please see Reece Wrightman.
POTLUCK The Mothers’ Union will be holding their Christmas Potluck Supper next Wednesday, December 9, starting at 6:30 in the Bishops’ Room. LOW MASS IN THE LADY CHAPEL On the Sundays in November Low Mass took place in the Lady Chapel rather than in the main body of the church. Numbers were down a little on Sunday Nov 22, as they happened to be a little higher on All Saints', the first Sunday we were in the Lady Chapel. On Nov 8 and Nov 15 they were much as usual. Fr. Kevin is grateful for all the comments which have been received, three strong expressions of discontent with the change, and expressions of appreciation from several others. Those delivering the liturgy, as it were, have found it a much more positive experience. Chapels were always intended for smaller groups at worship, the nave for the main body. It is very difficult to have a sense of the people of God at corporate prayer, when a dozen people are scattered around such a large space. Change is always uncomfortable for some, especially initially; we always need time to become accustomed to something new. The Trustees have decided to continue Low Mass in the Lady Chapel for the time being. Whilst understanding it is not entirely satisfactory for everyone, Fr. Kevin hopes that sitting in the nave pews on the Chapel side may be of some help to those who find this difficult. FORMATION Formation on Sundays will be taking a break until the New Year, when we hope to resume with some Bible or Bible-related study. There has been discussion at Parish Council and elsewhere about the most desirable time-slot for Formation sessions: before or after High Mass, later on a Sunday, or on a weekday. We are undertaking "audience research" by organizing an email questionnaire (Doodle.com poll). All who are signed up to receive the electronic Thurible will receive an email with a link to the Formation Poll. Or go to http://doodle.com/poll/grcdxc3wcr7fumg2 to answer the poll. Would you please respond to this in order to help us determine the most useful time to offer Formation?
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GOOD NEWS ON REFUGEE PROJECT St. Helens’ Anglican Parish Council has approved their application for sponsorship of Syrian refugees. We are supporting them with our financial contribution and have helped to make this effort possible. The refugees, who come from a small farming village in Syria, are known to a parishioner of St. Helens’ who became acquainted with them through archeological research in Syria before 2011. The group consists of 3 brothers and a sister from one family, along with 3 spouses and a two-year old daughter of one of the couples. The group is currently living in two-roomed canvas-sided shack outside Beirut, Lebanon. The family members try to manage on a very modest monthly stipend they receive from the World Food Program and whatever odd jobs they can find. In Vancouver, sponsorship efforts are ongoing, completing the lengthy sponsorship forms required by the Government of Canada and working out the details of the settlement plans upon their arrival in Vancouver (housing, ESL classes, employment training, etc.) We look forward sharing more details with you as we are informed. Thank-you for your compassion and support. St. James’ Outreach Committee
PWRDF CHRISTMAS CARDS Peter Goodwin will be selling PWRDF Christmas cards on December 6 and 13 following High Mass. Please call Peter at 604-929-6143 to arrange purchase of cards if these times are not convenient. MOTHERS’ UNION /COMING HOME SOCIETY ADVENT FOOD COLLECTION The Mothers’ Union invites each of you to join us in collecting staple foods for Aboriginal youth and their children who are struggling financially, especially at Christmas and during the bleak weeks of January when food for themselves and their children is in short supply.
Elders who provide spiritual care, guidance, and cultural teachings. The Aboriginal youth who come into the Centre where the Wisdom of Elders program is based, are struggling with many kinds of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual challenges. Many are single parents, and most are living at or below the poverty line. It’s easy to make your donation! Pick up one of the specially prepared bags from the pews or the Narthex. Each bag contains instructions and the latest Coming Home Society newsletter telling about the new Wisdom of Elders program. Return your donations to the box in the Narthex by December 20th. Please show these young folks that the people of St. James’ care about them! Your food donations, and your Christmas messages, will mean so much! The Mothers’ Union ADVENT LECTURE 2015 Tuesday, Dec. 8, 7 – 8.30pm in the Park Room Christ Church Cathedral, Vancouver Fr. Kevin will be giving an Advent Lecture entitled "An Anglican Perspective on Mary." Discussion and reflection follow the lecture and the evening closes with a short Marian meditation. All are welcome as we celebrate Advent by focusing on the woman at the heart of the coming of the Christ child. ADVENT QUIET DAY Saturday, Dec. 12, 10am to 3 pm Everyone is encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity for quiet and reflection amidst the busyness of preparation for Christmas. Fr. Kevin will lead the day which will include three addresses, and Mass at 12 noon. Those unable to get to St. James’ may wish to find some time for quiet reflection at home.
This project supports the Coming Home Society’s brand new initiative – the Wisdom of Elders program. The program connects at-risk youth with Aboriginal THE THURIBLE | 27
CHRISTMAS FLOWER DEDICATIONS Any parishioner planning to dedicate flowers during the Christmas season should phone in their dedication by December 13 if they wish to have their donation printed in the Christmas leaflet. It will not be possible to designate a particular altar to which you wish your flowers to be donated simply write Christmas donation. We are in need of greenery for arrangements, especially holly with berries or any other branches bearing red berries. If you have any suitable greenery in your garden which you can spare, please bring it in a plastic garbage bag to the Church by Tuesday, December 22, and leave either in the Flower Room or in the passage ways by the Rectory and the Blessed Sacrament Chapel. Many thanks. The St. James’ Flower Guild ST. LUKE’S The sale of St. Luke’s Court has been completed. The purchaser is Mr. Lee, who is a choir director at a local church. The Board of St. James’ Parish Foundation wish Mr. Lee and the residents of St. Luke’s Court every blessing. The Wardens
GODLY PLAY Children, with their parent/carer’s consent, will be offered their own “Liturgy of the Word,” Godly Play, in the Rectory. They will leave the Church during the Kyrie and return during the Absolution.
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KIDS’ CORNER Vision: To help children and their parents find new ways to more fully participate in mass and aid in their spiritual formation. "The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth; and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.'" On the first Sunday in Advent we remembered the prophets who told us to go to Bethlehem, to hurry because something incredible was going to happen! A king would be born! This Sunday we remember the Mother Mary Joseph and the donkey as they journey to Bethlehem. Prayer God, please help us prepare during Advent by turning our hearts and minds to the coming of Christ. We remember Mary and Joseph and the difficult journey they had to take for Jesus to be born. Thank you God for Mary and Joseph. Amen COFFEE HOUR Following on from the discussion at Parish Council, for an experimental period from Sunday, December 6 into the New Year, Coffee Hour after High Mass will take place in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel. There will be opportunity for review at Parish Council in January. Fr. Kevin
ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS ADVENT QUIET DAY 10:00 am - 3:00 p.m. Saturday, December 12th Find quiet and contemplative time and space to prepare for the birth of Christ CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIT COMMUNION Thursday, December 24th 9:30 am Last Mass of Advent Season and anointing 4:30pm First Evening Prayer of Christmas 5:30pm Vigil Mass of the Nativity - a family Liturgy with carols and nativity costumes. 10:00pm Musical Prelude 10:30pm Solemn Mass of Midnight with procession and blessing of the creche CHRISTMAS DAY Friday, December 25th 8:00am Morning Prayer 8:30am Low Mass of the Dawn 10:30am Procession to the Creche & Solemn Mass of the Day FIRST SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS Sunday, December 27 8:00 am Morning Prayer 8:30 am Low Mass, with anointing 10:30 am Procession to the Creche & Solemn Mass, with anointing 5:00 pm Said Evening Prayer in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel EPIPHANY OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST Sunday, January 3 8:00 am Morning Prayer 8:30 am Low Mass 10:30 am Procession to the Creche & Solemn Mass 5:00 pm Said Evening Prayer in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel
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COMMEMORATION The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary December 8
Today we commemorate the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a feast which has its origins in a legend from the second century. The story goes like this: In Israel there lived a husband and wife named Jo′-a-chim and Anne; they were righteous and kept all the commandments of God, but they had not been able to have any children. Their neighbours reproached them for their childlessness and even refused to let Jo’-a-chim present his sacrifices in the Temple, saying, “It is not fitting for you to offer your gifts first, because you have begotten no offspring in Israel.” Jo′-a-chim admitted the justice of this reproach and in his grief departed into the wilderness to fast for forty days and forty nights. Meanwhile his wife Anne remained at home and carried her own grief in her heart. One afternoon she went into her garden and sat down beneath a laurel tree. She looked up and, seeing a nest of sparrows, uttered this lament: “Woe is me; to what may I be likened? I am not like the birds of heaven, for even the birds of heaven are fruitful before you, O Lord. Nor may I be likened to this earth, for even this earth brings forth its fruit in due season and praises you, O Lord.” Immediately an angel visited her with this message: “Anne, Anne, the Lord has heard your prayer, and you shall conceive and bear a child, and your offspring shall be spoken of in all the world.” True to God’s word, she conceived and gave birth to Mary — who did indeed come to be spoken of in all the world as the Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ. For All the Saints, Prayers and Readings for Saint’s Days, ABC, 1994
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COMMEMORATION Our Lady of Guadalupe Patron of the Americas, 1531 December 12
The story associated with Our Lady of Guadalupe is this: In 1531, a humble Indian named Juan Diego was walking over the hills just north of Mexico City. Land there is dry and rocky, favoring only cactus and lizards under a blistering sun. He passed by the hill of Tepeyac, once the site of the temple to Tonantzín, the gentle goddess of earth and corn, whose name means “our mother.” The conquering Spaniards had destroyed this and most of the other sacred places of the indigenous people, forbidding them to pray to their protecting spirits. They were spiritual orphans then, they had to hide small idols and talismans, to worship and pray in secret. As he passed this once-revered place, Juan Diego stopped and stood still, disbelieving the heavenly fragrance and celestial music that surrounded the spot. Before him shone a radiance, like a glowing cloud surrounded by rainbows. Then the blessed Mother Mary emerged, robed in blue and gold and rose. She calmed his fears, calling him “little son,” and urging him to return to the city and request the bishop to build a shrine to her, on the very place of the fallen goddess. Of course the bishop did not believe the peasant and sent him on his way. Ashamed that he had failed her bidding, he avoided the spot, passing the next day on the other side of the hill. But she was not to be denied. She found him and urged him once again. It was not until the third time she appeared to him, that she sent proof of this miracle. She told Juan Diego to pick the Castilian roses, impossible to exist in that climate, but growing in abundance on that place. He gathered them in his tilma, a rectangle of muslin worn as a cape. She told him not to put them down until he was in the presence of the church dignitary. When he did this, in the cathedral of Tlatelolco, they saw that the front of his tilma was emblazoned with the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe and the miraculous blossoms lay at her feet. She is the mother of all Mexicans, the succor of the indigenous spirit, protectress of the poor, dark, ailing and humble. She was named Patron Saint of the Americas by Pope John Paul II. http://www.mexconnect.com/articles/729-the-virgin-of-guadalupe-celebration-in-oaxaca THE THURIBLE | 31
DAILY LECTIONARY DATE
DAILY MASS
MORNING PRAYER 9:00 AM
EVENING PRAYER 5:00PM
MON. DECEMBER 7
2 Cor 6:1-13 Ps 27:5-11 Lk 12:35-37, 42-44
Ps 25 Am 7:1-9 Rev 1:1-8
Ps 9, 15 Is 5:8-12, 18-23 Mt 22:23-33
TUES. DECEMBER 8
Is 49:1b-3; 139:1-12 Lk 1:34-38 Is 40:1-11
Ps 26, 28 Am 7:10-17 Rev 1:9-16
Ps 36, 39 Is 5:13-17, 24-25 Mt 22:34-46
WED. DECEMBER 9
Hos 14:1-7 Ps 103:6-14 Mk 1:1-11
Ps 38 Am 8:1-14 Rev 1:17 – 2:7
Ps 119:25-48 Is 6:1-13 Mt 23:1-12
THU. DECEMBER 10
Is 41:13-20 Ps 145:1-4, 8-13 Mt 11:7-15
Ps 37:1-18 Am 9:1-10 Rev 2:8-17
Ps 37:19-42 Is 7:1-9 Mt 23:13-26
FRI. DECEMBER 11
Is 48:17-19 Ps 1 Mt 11:16-19
Ps 31 Hag 1:1-15 Rev 2:18-29
Ps 35 Is 7:10-25 Mt 23:27-39
SAT. DECEMBER 12
Zech 2:10-13 Ps 132:6-10, 13-14 Lk 1:39-47
Ps 30, 32 Hag 2:1-9 Rev 3:1-6
Ps 42, 43 Is 8:1-15 Mt 24:1-14
SUN. DECEMBER 13
Zeph 3:14-20 Is 12:2-6 Phil 4:4-7 Lk 3:7-18
Ps 63:1-8. 98 Am 9:11-15 2 Th 2:1-3, 13-17
Ps103 Is 13:6-13 Jn 5:30-47
Public prayer is offered Monday - Saturday in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel accessed on East Cordova Street through the Chapel Walkway: Morning Prayer 9.00 am. Evening Prayer 5.00 pm. Please be on time since the gate may be closed once prayers have begun. On Sundays: Morning Prayer 8.00 am. in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel . Evening Prayer: 5.00 pm. in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, please check the weekly bulletin for exceptions. 32 | THE THURIBLE
OFFICE & MASS TIMES MON. DECEMBER 7 St. Ambrose, Bishop of Milan, Teacher of the Faith, 397
12:10 pm in the Lady Chapel
TUES. DECEMBER 8 The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
5:30 pm in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel
WED. DECEMBER 9 Prophets of the Old Testament
12:10 pm in the Lady Chapel
For Universities, Colleges & Schools
In thanksgiving for gift of God's grace in our lives
For the Metro-Vancouver Alliance
THU. DECEMBER 10 Feria
9:30 am in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel For the Federal & Provincial Governments
FRI. DECEMBER 11 Feria
12:10 pm in the Lady Chapel For the long-term unemployed
SAT. DECEMBER 12 Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patron of the Americas, 1531
For discernment of future vision for St James'
SUN. DECEMBER 13
8:00 am 8:30 am 10:30 am 5:00 pm
Advent 3
Morning Prayer Low Mass High Mass Evening Prayer
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NOTES
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NOTES
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CLERGY
PARISH STAFF
Interim Priest-in-Charge: Father Kevin Hunt fr.kevin@stjames.bc.ca 778-984-3208 Days off: Friday & Saturday
Office Managers: Linda Adams: Mon – Wed, 9:00 am-4:00 pm Deanna Ferguson: Thu – Sat, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Street Outreach: Father Matthew Johnson streetoutreachinitiative@gmail.com 604-685-7522 (non-emergency #) Days off: Monday & Saturday Deacon: The Revd Joyce Locht joyce.locht@gmail.com 604-614-9915 Honorary Assistant: Sister Mary Christian Cross, Deacon
CLERGY AVAILABILITY Clergy may be contacted through the Office: 604-685-2532. Parish Office hours are: Mon. to Sat. 9 am to 4 pm. For immediate contact or within a few hours please contact Father Kevin Hunt on his cell phone at: 778984-3208. You may need to leave a message if we are engaged in a pastoral matter and we will promptly return urgent calls. We seek to be available to all in any circumstances and encourage you to contact us and request an opportunity for a pastoral appointment. For pastoral care and support you may also contact our Pastoral Care Ministry Coordinator: joyce.locht@gmail.com | Joyce Locht 604-614-9915
Children & Families Coordinator: Louisa Farrell louisafarrell237@gmail.com Organist & Choirmaster: Gerald Harder Assistant Organist: PJ Janson Custodial Staff: Art Cuthbertson: Mon-Thu, 9:00 am-2:00 pm 604-329-7567 Darren Campbell: Sat, 7:00 am-1:00 pm, Sun, 7-10 am
PARISH COUNCIL Chair: Annie Grant Secretary: Doug Ibbott
PARISH OFFICERS Bishop’s Warden: Brian Rocksborough-Smith 604-291-9852 wardens@stjames.bc.ca People’s Warden: Reece Wrightman 604-872-4129 wardens@stjames.bc.ca Associate Warden: Betty Carlson 604-522-4412 wardens@stjames.bc.ca Trustee: Leslie Arnovick Trustee: Jerry Adams Trustee: Pat McSherry Treasurer: vacant Envelope Secretary: Philip Green Parish Privacy Officer & Vestry Clerk: Linda Adams Archivist: Paul Stanwood St. James’ Anglican Church Diocese of New Westminster Anglican Church of Canada 303 East Cordova Street, Vancouver, BC, V6A 1L4 T: 604-685-2532 | Fax: 604-685-7605 E: office@stjames.bc.ca | Web: www.stjames.bc.ca