Summer, particularly summer out of doors in new surroundings, can help us move toward a spiritual balance, seeing God’s presence in unexpected places. Of God’s presence, Wordsworth wrote: “Whose dwelling is the light of setting suns, and the round ocean and living air, and the blue sky, and in the mind of a man: a motion and a spirit that impels rolls through all things.”
Some see the glory of God dwelling in Colorado or New England or the Appalachians or at the coast or the neighborhood pool or the quiet easy chair. Valerie and I are keeping a date with the last portion of summer preaching commitments which have already brought us meaningful connection with old friends and family, and with reading and writing which deepens our reservoirs.
In the spirit of stock-taking and note posting, here are some miscellaneous items as we approach the autumn:
- The next time you see a member of the clergy or staff give her or him a hug or a pat on the back. While the pace was slower during these months, the staff continues to be hard at work getting us ready for the fall;
- There is no vacation in this world from the cost of running a large church. Please keep your pledge payments as current as possible and if you haven’t yet made a pledge or given this year, please consider supporting our ministries;
Consider participating in one of many wonderful Sunday and mid-week offerings this fall for adults, children and youth, including Middle Way, which begins on September 21. - And, finally, mark your calendars for September 18 — The return to three services on Sunday (8, 9 and 11:00 a.m.), the beginning of formation for all ages at 9:45 a.m., and the Parish Picnic in the Parish Hall and Garth at 12:30 p.m.
- Have a safe Labor Day weekend.
Bob Dannals
Interim Rector