“…Sacraments, the Catechism of The Book of Common Prayer tells us, “are outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace, given by Christ as sure and certain means by which we receive that grace.” In a sacrament, a divine gift is given and received. We are made new.”

“…we continue to discern how we will live as a people of faith, hope and love in the world. How will we strengthen our community as we seek to embody the grace, peace and mercy of Christ in all we are and all we do?”

“The Bible encourages us over and over again to be patient. ‘For in hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what is seen? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.’ (Romans 8:24-25) ‘Love is patient; love is kind.’ (1 Corinthians 13:4) ‘The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.’ (Galatians 5:22-23)…”

“One of the great challenges for organized religion is our tendency to look backwards. The eucharistic liturgy we practice, the creeds we recite, the scripture we read, much of the music we sing; it all comes from the past. This doesn’t make it bad. Indeed, much of it is very good. But focusing primarily on the past can influence us to prioritize continuity over opportunity, to seek safety instead of taking risks.”

“What might it mean for St. Paul’s if we think of ourselves not as a religious institution but as participants in God’s alternative society? Does it transform our ministry? Our mission? Our giving? Our relationships with our neighbors? If we understand ourselves not only as members of a church but also and most especially as stewards of a gift, how might this renew our community? How might it transform our impact?”

“…When we see how divided our nation is, what does St. Paul’s offer? Communion and belonging to every person who accepts the invitation to open their hands and hearts. When the news is filled with intractable problems, what does St. Paul’s offer? A foundation of hope and faith that equips us to love and serve God and our neighbors. When so many people live with anxiety and insecurity, what does St. Paul’s offer? The abundant peace of Christ that surpasses all understanding.”

“…Easter, then, is a not metaphor for new beginnings; it is about encountering the person who, despite every disappointment we experience with ourselves and with the world, gives us a reason to carry on.” - Esau McCaulley

“Easter proclaims that God is much bigger than us, that God’s power is not confined by human concepts of what is possible and doable. Easter invites us to let go of knowledge in order to make room for faith.”

“Whether in person or via our livestream, come hear the stories this Holy Week. Come participate in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. Come and choose life. “