“The Rt. Rev. Frank Tracy Griswold III died on March 5 at the age of 85. Well done, good and faithful servant. May he rest in peace and rise in glory. “

“…it’s not necessarily God who disappoints us. Our disillusionment often arises from the unrealistic expectations we project onto God; the prayers that don’t appear to be heard or answered, the tragic events we wish God would prevent. In times of disappointment, we need eyes of faith to perceive God’s presence and promise.”

“Whether you are beginning your Lenten journey in a time of hope or despair, of joy or sorrow, of healing or suffering, of wholeness or brokenness, remember this: God sits here — wherever “here” is right now — with you. And when your “here” changes, God will be there, too.”

“…It’s when we stop striving for perfection that we find what it is we’re truly looking for: grace, acceptance, joy and love. All of the gifts God promises us in Jesus. “

“In the letter of James in the New Testament we read, “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.” (James 1:27) Too many people who call themselves Christians focus more on being “unstained” than on how they “care” for those society has left behind. Purity of belief is too often prioritized over purity of compassion.”

“…we could try something simple to strengthen our connections as a community. Find someone you don’t know and introduce yourself. ‘Hi, my name is John. I don’t think we’ve met.’ Then see where the conversation goes. In such small ways, Christian community begins to grow.”