High Mass
Fourth Sunday of Advent | December 21, 2014 | 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 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 10:30 AM
High Mass, Church
12:00 PM
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 The Annunciation Nothing will ease the pain to come Though now she sits in ecstasy And lets it have its way with her. The angel’s shadow in the room Is lightly lifted as if he Had never terrified her there. The furniture again returns To its old simple state. She can Take comfort from the things she knows Though in her heart new loving burns Something she never gave to man Or god before, and this god grows Most like a man. She wonders how To pray at all, what thanks to give And whom to give them to. “Alone To all men’s eyes I now must go” She thinks, “And by myself must live With a strange child that is my own.” So from her ecstasy she moves And turns to human things at last (Announcing angels set aside). It is a human child she loves Though a god stirs beneath her breast And great salvations grip her side. Elizabeth Jennings
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Notes
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Entrance Rite PRELUDE Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme (BWV 645) — J. S. Bach At the entrance of the clergy and servers all stand.
Stand
INTROIT Let showers fall down from the heavens, and let the clouds rain down the Just One. Let the earth open and bring forth the Saviour. Psalm The heavens declare the glory of God: the firmament shows his handiwork. Rorate (Mode I)
KYRIE ELEISON
Kyrie eleison. Christe eleison. Kyrie eleison.
Lord, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Setting: Office of the holy communion (Collegium regale) – Herbert Howells
COLLECT OF THE DAY Celebrant All
The Lord be with you. And with thy spirit.
All
Let us pray. Heavenly Father, who didst choose the Virgin Mary, full of grace, to be the mother of our Lord and Saviour, now fill us with thy grace, that we in all things may embrace thy will and with her rejoice in thy salvation; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen.
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The Liturgy of the Word OLD TESTAMENT READING Reader
Be seated
A reading from the Second Book of Samuel. Now when the king was settled in his house, and the Lord had given him rest from all his enemies around him, the king said to the prophet Nathan, "See now, I am living in a house of cedar, but the ark of God stays in a tent." Nathan said to the king, "Go, do all that you have in mind; for the Lord is with you." But that same night the word of the Lord came to Nathan: Go and tell my servant David: Thus says the Lord: Are you the one to build me a house to live in? I have not lived in a house since the day I brought up the people of Israel from Egypt to this day, but I have been moving about in a tent and a tabernacle. Wherever I have moved about among all the people of Israel, did I ever speak a word with any of the tribal leaders of Israel, whom I commanded to shepherd my people Israel, saying, "Why have you not built me a house of cedar?" Now therefore thus you shall say to my servant David: Thus says the Lord of hosts: I took you from the pasture, from following the sheep to be prince over my people Israel; and I have been with you wherever you went, and have cut off all your enemies from before you; and I will make for you a great name, like the name of the great ones of the earth. And I will appoint a place for my people Israel and will plant them, so that they may live in their own place, and be disturbed no more; and evildoers shall afflict them no more, as formerly, from the time that I appointed judges over my people Israel; and I will give you rest from all your enemies. Moreover the Lord declares to you that the Lord will make you a house. Your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me; your throne shall be established forever. 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16
Reader Allll
The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
CANTICLE My soul doth magnify the Lord: and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For he hath regarded: the lowliness of his handmaiden. For behold, from henceforth: all generations shall call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath magnified me: and holy is his Name. And his mercy is on them that fear him: throughout all generations. HIGH MASS | 7
He hath showed strength with his arm: he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from their seat: and hath exalted the humble and meek. He hath filled the hungry with good things: and the rich he hath sent empty away. He remembering his mercy hath holpen his servant Israel: as he promised to our forefathers, Abraham and his seed, for ever. 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. Luke 1:46b-55 (The ‘Magnificat’) / Setting: The short service — Orlando Gibbons
EPISTLE READING Sub-deacon
A reading from the Letter of Paul to the Romans. Now to God who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages but is now disclosed, and through the prophetic writings is made known to all the Gentiles, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith - to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever! Amen. Romans 16:25-27
Sub-deacon Allll
The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
ALLELUIA
A cantor begins the alleluia; all repeat it thereafter.
Stand
Alleluia. Come, O Lord, and tarry not: forgive the misdeeds of thy people. Alleluia. My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord: and let all flesh give thanks unto his holy Name. Alleluia. Veni, Domine (Mode V)
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HOLY GOSPEL
All stand and turn to face the book of the Gospels
In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, "Greetings, favoured one! The Lord is with you." But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end." Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?" The angel said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. For nothing will be impossible with God." Then Mary said, "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word." Then the angel departed from her. Luke 1:26-38
SERMON
Be Seated Canon Douglas Williams (At the conclusion of the sermon, silence is kept) HIGH MASS | 9
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
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
Hail Mary, full of grace: the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. Ave Maria (Mode VIII)
HYMN
Stand The People sing the hymn while the People’s gifts of bread, wine and money are brought forward. 89 Blue Hymn Book (Common Praise) — O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
SURSUM CORDA & PROPER PREFACE
Stand
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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:
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: Office of the holy communion (Collegium regale) – Herbert Howells
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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
Allll
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. HIGH MASS | 15
THE LORD’S PRAYER
BREAKING OF THE BREAD
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Kneel
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: Office of the holy communion (Collegium regale) – Herbert Howells
ECCE, AGNUS DEI & DOMINE, NON SUM DIGNUS 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 A spotless rose is blowing, sprung from a tender root, of ancient seers’ foreshowing, of Jesse promised fruit. Its fairest bud unfolds to light amid the cold, cold winter, and in the dark midnight. The rose which I am singing, whereof Isaiah said, is from its sweet root springing in Mary, purest maid. For through our God’s great love and might, the blessed babe she bare us in a cold, cold winter’s night. A spotless rose — Herbert Howells HIGH MASS | 17
HYMN
Sit or kneel 268 Blue Hymn Book (Common Praise) – Gabriel’s Message Does Away
Concluding Rite PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION Celebrant All
The Lord be with you. And with thy spirit.
All
Let us pray. Faithful God, in this sacrament we receive the promise of salvation. May we, like the Virgin Mary, be obedient to thy will. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ the Lord. Amen.
BLESSING Celebrant
All
Kneel The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord: 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 8 Green Hymn Book (New English Hymnal) — Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates POSTLUDE Fugue in C major (BWV 545) — J. S. Bach
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.
Please take this booklet away with you to aid in your own reflection, prayers, and for your information.
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The Thurible RECTOR’S NOTES “The Angel of the Lord brought to tidings to Mary / And she conceived by the Holy Spirit.” The first versicle is a summary of Luke 1.26-38 which describes the encounter between the angel Gabriel and Mary. The will and purposes of God are conveyed by Gabriel. This conversation with Mary is an encounter and engagement between the will of God and the free-will of Mary.
Mary full of grace the Lord is with you.” (Lk. 1.28b) In response to being greeted by Mary, Elizabeth who is moved by the stirrings of her unborn child and the Holy Spirit exclaims “Blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb.” (Lk. 1.42b) So the first part of the prayer “Hail Mary” is a resounding affirmation of the origin of grace.
The second part of the “Hail Mary” takes us to the Cross. “Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death.” From the Cross Jesus commended Mary to the care of the beloved disciple (Jn. 19.25-27). Since that time Mary became the Mother of us all. Her singular desire is that we come to love and serve her Son as did she. In recognition of this the Tradition invites us to pray to, and with, Mary. Her constant prayer for us all is for our “The Word was made flesh / And conversion to Christ. This is true of dwelt among us.” The third versicle all the saints, among whom she is (Jn. 1.13a) affirms the same mystery chief. So when we pray this part of described in the Nicene Creed as the “Hail Mary” we are in fact “he became incarnate from the praying to, and with, all the Virgin Mary, and was made man.” communion of saints for our conversion to Christ. The prayer “Hail Mary” follows after each versicle. It begins with Father Mark Greenaway-Robbins God’s greeting to Mary through the intermediary of an angel – “Hail “Behold the handmaid of the Lord / Let it be to me according to your word.” The second versicle is Mary’s final response to the angel (Lk. 1.28). Mary has made a choice with the whole of her being. These words are the culmination of an active and affirmatory yes to the purposes and promises of God. Mary’s desire to serve God answers the desire and longing of her people for a messiah.
Inform. Inspire. Invite.
INSIDE:
Today at St. James’
Our Parish
Quote of the Week Relationships &
Fellowships Parish Council Daily Lectionary
Mass this Week
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TODAY AT ST. JAMES’ Fourth Sunday of Advent MORNING PRAYER 8:00 am in the Church LOW MASS 8:30 am in the Church HIGH MASS 10:30 am in the Church COFFEE HOUR 12:00 pm in the Parish Hall EVENING PRAYER 5:00 pm in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel
OUR PARISH CHRISTMAS OFFICE HOURS The Church Office will be closed December 24, 25 and 26. Regular office hours will resume on December 27. ORDO CALENDARS AVAILABLE The 2015 ORDO Calendars are now available. Please bring $15.00 in cash to Reece Wrightman to make your purchase.
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RENEWING OUR BUILDING FABRIC Roof Revolution have made excellent progress with the urgently needed repairs to the church roofs: •The Welsh slates have been cleaned to their original condition, seams repaired, and damaged slates replaced •The flat roofs have been cleaned out and refurbished. •The drains have been cleared and checked. •Rotten wood in the bell tower ventilators has been replaced, as also a small number of boards damaged by water penetration on the floor of the bell tower •The outer walls have been cleaned and repaired. This phase of work will also include cleaning off and applying anti-corrosion paint to the steel crib supporting our superb bells. The bell crib will be strapped with steel to the robust reinforced concrete bell tower inner frame structure. The work has been based on reports from a professional engineer – especially important to assure the stability of the reinforced concrete structure of the church, bell tower, and bell frame. The work has been conducted according to all relevant City of Vancouver by-laws and under the oversight of our Project Advisor for all repairs and renewal of the church buildings, Tom Fletcher. Once the weather is appropriate next year, Roof Revolution will apply a protective coating – retaining the original appearance – to the slate bell tower roof. At that time they will seal the outer church fabric – and if funds permit – clean and re-surface the church interior proper. This work will renew the church as a remarkably significant part of the patrimony of Vancouver, and especially the Downtown Eastside.
In conjunction with our planned improvements to the Rectory, Hall and Crypt, these repairs will assure St. James’ continued, and even expanded, service to the Diocese and this community as a place of worship and practical nurture. Rhodri Windsor-Liscombe
PARISHIONER PARKING RENEWAL FOR 2015 The time has come to renew parishioner parking passes for the year. If you wish to renew or obtain parking, please see Reece Wrightman or the Church Office. If you know your fob number, please note it with your payment. ANNUAL REPORTS FOR FEBRUARY 2015 VESTRY MEETING Please submit the Annual Report for your group or guild by January 15, 2015. The Office needs time to compile the reports for the Annual Vestry Meeting on the last Sunday of February, so the earlier we receive your submissions the easier it will be for us. Thank you! Linda & Deanna, Office Managers FELLOWSHIP LUNCHES: BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! To help make these events a success, we are looking for volunteers to join a team and help plan and/or host one of the 6 lunches in the new year. We are also looking for individuals who are able to help support these events either through financial gifts or by contributing food. For further information or to sign up, please speak with Jenny (youthworker@stjames.bc.ca). Fellowship lunch dates in 2015: Feb 15 April 19 May 31 July 26 - Parish Picnic Sept 20 Nov 22 PARISH COUNCIL MEETING Saturday, January 24, 2015 All parishioners are invited to attend the next Parish Council meeting to be held after the 10:15 am Mass. This meeting will run from 11:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. Coffee and refreshments will be provided. If you have items you would like added to the agenda, please email them to tracylee.russell@gmail.com. The deadline for submitting items is Friday, January 9, 2015. We look forward to having you join us on January 24! Tracy Russell - Parish Council Secretary & Jenny Scott - Parish Council Chair
PERSONAL UPDATE On Sunday December 14 it was announced at St. James and in Wales that I have been appointed as the Team Rector of the newly created Rectorial Benefice of Eglwysilan and Caerphilly in the Diocese of Llandaff in the Church in Wales (http:// eglwysilanparish.btck.co.uk http:// www.parishofcaerphilly.org.uk) I will be collated on January 27, 7.00 p.m. at St. Martin's Church, Caerphilly. Please pray for the Benefice of Eglwysilan and Caerphilly and my family as we prepare for this move. Fr. Mark FR. MATTHEW ON STUDY LEAVE On Tuesday December 23, Fr. Matthew will return after a period of study leave. Please pray for him, his book and the work of the Street Outreach Initiative. STREET OUTREACH CHRISTMAS GIFT CARDS Again this Advent, Fr. Matthew is receiving Gift Cards for distribution to disadvantaged members of our parish community. Favourite brands include: Tim Horton's, McDonalds, Army & Navy, and Subway. Suggested card amount is $10. This purchases a full meal and possibly a separate coffee, or for groceries at Army & Navy. Other amounts are most welcome. If possible, at time of purchase, request a receipt for each card. This provides a backup for the credit. Please drop off at Church Office, or directly to Fr. Matthew on Sunday. MISSING PROJECTOR The Saint James’ Music Academy has been missing a white BenQ projector since its concert on the evening of December 5th. If you have any information, please contact the church office at 604-685-2532. “PURSE” FOR FR. MARK As many of you know, the people of St. James’ have always blessed their departing clergy with a “purse,” or collection of money to thank them for all they have done for us, and to assist them with transitioning to the next phase of their lives. To contribute to this “purse,” you can add some money or a cheque to your
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Sunday offering envelope. Write clearly on the envelope the amount you are designating for the “purse.” You can also drop cash or a cheque off to the church office. Please make your contributions by Sunday, January 4th, so that there is time for the Envelope Secretary to record and compile them before Fr. Mark’s last Sunday, which is January 11th. UPDATE ON LEASE NEGOTIATIONS Dear Friends, I'd like to update you on the progress of our talks with the Saint James’ Music Academy (SJMA) about the possibility of their leasing Clinton Hall. Let me also tell you about the process of securing a lease. There are a number of consultative steps involved in following the diocese's rules for leasing parish property. We have a long way to go before we work out a final agreement with the music academy. Your input as parishioners is crucial to this process. 1. Our negotiations are just beginning. Acting as a subcommittee of the church Board of Trustees, and on their authority, the Oversight Committee spoke with SJMA representatives. We offered SJMA a rent based on a price-per-square foot recommended by our commercial real estate consultant. We have informed the SJMA that, unfortunately, we cannot offer them either storage or class-room space in the crypt as we need that space for our own programs and storage. They understand. We have also asked them to specify the start date of a lease. Currently the SJMA is discussing a summer start date. 2. After the SJMA and the Board of Trustees agree on a fair and acceptable rent, we will bring the full agreement we've negotiated to the parish for discussion. A Special Vestry Meeting will be called so that everyone can learn about potential specifications of the lease and voice any concerns they may have.
3. After vestry approval the lease agreement will be sent to the law firm of the diocesan council, George Cadman. George has offered to review the agreement and turn it into a formal, legal document, i.e. a lease. 4. Next the draft lease will go before the Diocesan Council, as required by the diocese. Council will review the lease in order to make sure that the parish 24 | THE THURIBLE
and the church is protected legally. They will pass along any suggestions, and we will go from there. After the lease is approved, it can be signed by both parties. Let me end by reassuring you of our awareness that renting out the hall represents a major sacrifice to the parish. Hopefully we can secure a lease that provides a reliable source of income for the parish at the same time it is sensitive to our own needs (and those of our partners, the Music Academy). With warm regards, Leslie Arnovick, Chair—Oversight Committee MOTHER ALEXIS ON LEAVE Mother Alexis is on leave for the month of December, so will not be responding to emails or phone calls during this time. KID’S CORNER Vision: To help children and their parents find new ways to more fully participate in mass and aid in their spiritual formation. DURING MASS: It is such a privilege and blessing to be able to worship alongside such a diverse group at St. James' and this especially includes worshipping with all the children. Whether children are in the back or sitting in the pews, we encourage parents to help children find creative ways to engage in what is happening in the service. IN THE BACK: There are activities, books, and quiet toys for younger children. Activities and colouring sheets will coincide with the lectionary and liturgical season. Older children are invited to participate in the activities and return to pews as parents see best. IN THE PEWS: There are pew packs with activities and colouring sheets that coincide with the lectionary and liturgical season. There are also children’s bibles for school-age children available. Please return packs and bibles at the end of the service. THIS WEEK'S CRAFT: We will be making angels for the fourth week of our activity display.
During the previous weeks of Advent, we have celebrated waiting in HOPE, and experiencing God’s PEACE and JOY. This, the fourth week of Advent, we are celebrating God’s LOVE. We hear in today’s Gospel reading about an angel coming to young Mary to tell her that she will become the mother of Jesus, the Son of God, who will “will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” This message speaks of the fulfillment of the promises that God made to the Israelites throughout the Old Testament. Both the making and the keeping of these promises reveal God’s love to us. Parents: Discuss with your children how God’s love is revealed through this Gospel story but also in your own lives. Reminder: There is a Vigil Mass of the Nativity on Dec. 24, at 5:30 pm. This family liturgy includes carols and the telling of the Nativity story through participation. Everyone (not just kids!) is invited to come dressed to help share the story: sheep, kings, cows, Marys, Josephs, stars, angels, and Herods are all welcomed! Please let Jenny know of your needs and wishes for faith education for your children so that you all may grow together in faith. Thank you so much! Jenny Scott, Youth Worker
QUOTE OF THIS WEEK
RELATIONSHIPS & FELLOWSHIPS THANK YOU The Mothers’ Union is overwhelmed by the warm and generous response from St. James’ parishioners in support of our Christmas Food Drive for the former residents of Young Wolves Lodge. The contributions were so numerous that we will be able to give each young woman quite a sizable hamper of food staples and treats to tide her over Christmas and the bleak weeks of January. Your thoughtfulness will be truly appreciated. Thank you so much and God bless all of you. The Mothers’ Union
PARISH COUNCIL PARISH COUNCIL MEETING Saturday, January 24, 2015 All parishioners are invited to attend the next Parish Council meeting to be held after the 10:15 am Mass. This meeting will run from 11:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. Coffee and refreshments will be provided. If you have items you would like added to the agenda, please email them to tracylee.russell@gmail.com. The deadline for submitting items is Friday, January 9, 2015. We look forward to having you join us on January 24! Tracy Russell - Parish Council Secretary & Jenny Scott - Parish Council Chairs
Like you, I am always glad to come to this fourth Sunday of Advent and its focus on Mary’s role in God’s plan for the redemption of the world. Mary is chosen by God to carry the holy child in her womb. Mary is both favoured and troubled by the angel’s message. Primate Fred Hiltz, Reflection for Advent 4, 2014 http://www.elcic.ca/Documents/Advent4.pdf THE THURIBLE | 25
ADVENT & CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIT COMMUNION Wednesday, December 24th 12:10pm Last Mass of Advent Season 4:30pm First Evening Prayer of Christmas 5:30pm Vigil Mass of the Nativity - a family Liturgy in the Lady Chapel with carols and nativity costumes. Come dressed as a sheep, a king, a cow, a Mary, a Joseph, a star, an angel, even Herod! 10:00pm Musical Prelude 10:30pm Solemn High Mass of Midnight with procession and blessing of the creche
CHRISTMAS DAY Thursday, December 25th 8:00am Morning Prayer 8:30am Low Mass of the Dawn 10:30am Procession to the Creche & Solemn High Mass of the Day 3:00 pm Second Evening Prayer of Christmas
FIRST SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS Sunday, December 28 8:00 am Morning Prayer 8:30 am Low Mass, with anointing 10:30 am Procession to the Creche & Solemn High Mass, with anointing 5:00 pm Said Evening Prayer in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel
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NOTES
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COMMEMORATION Saint Stephen Deacon and Martyr December 26
Stephen appears in the Book of Acts when the church at Jerusalem was experiencing internal troubles. Its membership was drawn from two groups of Jews — those who were native Palestinians and those who belonged to “the Dispersion.” The latter group consisted of Jews who had been born and raised in other lands; their native tongue was Greek, and so they were called “the Hellenists.” Rivalry between these two groups had been a feature of Jewish life for a long time, and converts to Christ brought it with them when they entered the Church. It made the Greek-speaking members quick to complain that their widows were not getting a fair share of the community’s food and financial support. To resolve the problem, the apostles appointed seven of the Hellenists to administer the Church’s resources and care for its poor. Stephen, described as “a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit,” was one of these seven. Set apart by prayer and the laying-on of hands he became the first to do what the Church considers to be the work of a deacon. Stephen’s activities involved more than administrative duties, for the Book of Acts speaks of his preaching the gospel and performing many miracles. These activities brought him into conflict with Jews who shared his own Greek-speaking background; they accused him of blasphemy and hauled him before the council which enforced the law of Moses. Stephen gave a powerful speech denouncing the whole assembly because their refusal to accept Jesus Christ revealed their disobedience to God. Enraged by his words, his audience dragged him out of the city and stoned him to death. Just before he died under the hail of stones Stephen prayed that Jesus would receive his spirit and forgive his murderers. He thereby became the first Christian martyr — not only because he died for his witness to Christ, but also because he bore witness to God’s will that all, even our worst enemies, may know forgiveness in Jesus Christ. For All the Saints, Prayers and Readings for Saint’s Days, ABC, 1994
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COMMEMORATION Saint John Apostle and Evangelist December 27
Today we honour Saint John the Apostle, a Galilean fisherman who was called with his brother James and followed Jesus to become “a fisher for people.” John and his brother were so impetuous in their behaviour that Jesus nicknamed them “Bo-aner′ges” or “Sons of thunder.” Nevertheless, with Peter and James, he was one of the three disciples that Jesus chose to have with him on those occasions when he wanted people he could trust. This side of John’s character is heightened if he was “the beloved disciple” mentioned in the Fourth Gospel — the disciple who lay closest to Jesus at the Last Supper and into whose care the crucified Lord entrusted his mother. According to the Book of Acts, John later became a pillar of the church at Jerusalem and shared the leadership with Peter. A reliable tradition says that John eventually settled at Ephesus, a city on the Mediterranean coast of Asia Minor. There he superintended the Church and gathered a lively circle of students, who had great influence on Christian life and thought throughout the region. Out of this “community of the beloved disciple” came the Gospel and the three Letters which are attributed to John in the New Testament. These writings display a side of John which we would not expect from the other accounts of him. Instead of the impulsive “Son of thunder,” the Gospel and Letters of John reflect the mind of a fine theologian who meditated deeply on the mystery of Christ and expressed his understanding in a poetical manner. Many scholars have argued that John the fisherman-apostle and John the theologian-evangelist were really two different people. It has even been shown that the text of John’s Gospel passed through the hands of several editors before it reached the form in which we now know it. But scholars have also recognized that “the Johannine tradition” gives independent information about events in Jesus’ life which may be more accurate than some of the information available in the other three gospels. This suggests that the recollections and teachings of John, the fisherman turned apostle, did indeed provide the basis for the New Testament writings which bear his name. For All the Saints, Prayers and Readings for Saint’s Days, ABC, 1994
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DAILY LECTIONARY EVENING PRAYER 5:00PM
DATE
DAILY MASS
MORNING PRAYER 9:00 AM
MON. DECEMBER 22
1 Sam 1:19-28 Ps 113 Lk 1:46-56
Ps 80 Is 29:13-24 Rev 21:22 – 22:5
Ps 146, 147 2 Sam 7:18-29 O Rex Gentium Lk 1:39-48a
TUES. DECEMBER 23
Mal 3:1-5 Ps 25:1-14 Lk 1:57-66
Ps 93, 96 Is 33:17-22 Rev 22:6-11, 18-20
Ps 148, 150 Bar 4:21-29 O Emmanuel Lk 1:57-66
WED. DECEMBER 24
Is 9:2-7 Ps 96 Titus 2:11-14 Lk 2:1-14
Ps 45, 46 Is 35:1-10 Rev 22:12-17, 21 Lk 1:67-80
Ps 89:1-29 Is 59:15b-21 Phil 2:5-11
THU. DECEMBER 25
Is 52:7-10 Ps 98 Heb 1:1-4 Jn 1:1-14
Ps 2, 85 Zech 2:10-13 1 Jn 4:7-16
Ps 110:1-5, 132 Mic 4:1-5, 5:2-4 Jn 3:31-36
FRI. DECEMBER 26
Jer 16:1-9, 12-15 Acts 6:8 – 7:2a, 51c-60 Ps 31:1-7, 16 Mt 23:34-39
Ps 28, 30 2 Chr 24:17-22 Acts 6:1-7
Ps 118 Wis 4:7-15 Acts 7:59 – 8:8
SAT. DECEMBER 27
Gen 1:1-5, 12-19 Jn 1:1-9 Ps 92:1-2, 11-14 Jn 20:1-8
Ps 97, 98 Pr 8:22-30 Jn 13:20-35
Ps 125, 126 Is 41:17-20 Lk 2:41-52
SUN. DECEMBER 28
Is 61:10 – 62:3 Ps 148 Gal 4:4-7 Lk 2:22-40
Ps 93, 96 Is 62:6-7, 10-12 Heb 2:10-18
Ps 34 1 Sam 1:1-2, 7b-28 Mt 1:18-25
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 30 | THE THURIBLE
MASS THIS WEEK 2014
MASS TIMES AND INTENTIONS
MON. DECEMBER 22
12:10 pm in the Lady Chapel
O Emmanuel
That the economies of the world be so reformed that all will have enough to live
TUES. DECEMBER 23
5:30 pm in the Lady Chapel
O Virgo Virginum
That the goodness of God be seen in its abundance so that all may be filled with hope
WED. DECEMBER 24
12:10 pm in the Lady Chapel
Vigil of the Nativity
10:30 pm Solemn High Mass in the Church That the Light of God so shine in the darkness of our lives that we will truly love one another
THU. DECEMBER 25
8:30 am Low Mass in the Church
The Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ: Christmas Day
10:30 am High Mass with Procession in the Church Christmas Day
Fri. DECEMBER 26
12:10 pm in the Lady Chapel
St. Stephen, Deacon & Martyr
That we may share the bounty of our lives with the world
SAT. DECEMBER 27
For the Sanctuary Guild
St. John, Apostle & Evangelist
SUN. DECEMBER 28 The Holy Family
That we so reform the pattern of our lives so that all creation can sing at the birth of the Messiah 8:00 am 8:30 am 10:30 am 5:00 pm
Morning Prayer Low Mass, with anointing High Mass, with anointing Evening Prayer
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CLERGY
PARISH STAFF
Rector: Father Mark Greenaway-Robbins rector@stjames.bc.ca | 778-316-7941 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
Deacon: Mother Joyce Locht 604-614-9915 | joyce.locht@gmail.com
Youth Worker: Jenny Scott 778-322-7967 | youthworker@stjames.bc.ca
Street Outreach: Father Matthew Johnson streetoutreachinitiative@gmail.com
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
604-685-7522 (non-emergency #) Days off: Monday & Saturday Honorary Assistants: Mother Alexis Saunders, Priest Sister Mary Christian Cross, Deacon
Organist & Choirmaster: Gerald Harder
CLERGY AVAILABILITY
PARISH OFFICERS
Clergy may be contacted through the Office: 604-685-2532 For immediate contact or within a few hours please contact the Rector on his cell phone at: Father Mark Greenaway-Robbins: 778-316-7941 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
Rector’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: Amy Chai Trustee: Pat McSherry Treasurer: Rhodri Windsor-Liscombe Envelope Secretary: Philip Green Parish Privacy Officer & Vestry Clerk: Linda Adams Archivist: Paul Stanwood
PARISH COUNCIL Chair: Jenny Scott Secretary: Tracy Russell 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 Parish Office hours: Mon-Sat 9:00 am-4:00pm