Rector on the Israeli-Hamas War
The Rev. John Mark Wiggers • November 9, 2023

Dear Friends, 


I am writing this as I leave the clergy conference where I have been listening to Dr. Ellen Davis speak about the nature of hope. Dr. Davis is a professor of Bible and theology at Duke Divinity School and pointed out the communal nature of hope and faithfulness in scripture. Our discussion was robust as we discussed the many issues in the world that can cause us to lose hope. Dr. Davis pointed out that, in scripture, words like "righteousness" are about the community. Righteousness is about right relationship with God, others, and creation. In those relationships, we find hope and know God with us. 


Relationships aren't easy. We see that in one-on-one relationships and globally. We especially see that recently in the Israel/Gaza war. Presiding Bishop Michael Curry recently issued a powerful statement about the war. I have given permission for a local group to gather at St.James to prepare an art installation that represents the over 4000 children killed. I know that this raises questions for some about whether such demonstrations represent all children killed and some who rightly acknowledge that children are suffering in other wars too. Speaking about these things makes us uncomfortable and I believe that we should be uncomfortable about such tragedies. 


We also cling to hope. We don't use hope to gloss over pain and discomfort. This is the kind of issue that can often leave us feeling that we will say the wrong thing. Yes, we will probably get it wrong. At the same time, we will faithfully proclaim that we are connected to the Palestinian children who have died, as well as the Israelis who have lost loved ones, and pray for the release of hostages. I encourage you to click the link above to read a more eloquent statement from our presiding bishop. 


While we will name injustice and call for peace, we also express hope by coming together to pray and worship. Working to feed our neighbors right here is a part of living with hope that is grounded in our connection to each other. Even gathering for a potluck or pancakes is a way of living together as a community to nurture hope and then share it with others. 


Serving with you gives me hope as seek to share the love of Christ. 


Peace, 

Fr. John Mark

Weekly Letter, 04/17/2025

By John Mark Wiggers • April 17, 2025

Weekly Letter, 04/10/2025

By John Mark Wiggers • April 17, 2025

Weekly Letter, 04/03/2025

By John Mark Wiggers • April 17, 2025

Weekly Letter, 03/27/2025

By John Mark Wiggers • March 27, 2025
Lent is a season when we are particularly called to consider our sins and to amend our ways. Many of the messages we hear in our culture tend to focus on the sins of an individual. The witness of scripture places as much emphasis on corporate sins. In the story of Jonah, the whole city is called to repent. Prophets like Amos deliver the call for all those in power to stop mistreating the poor. In Nehemiah 5, we hear the story of Nehemiah gathering a great assembly to call for the leaders to stop the unfair lending practices harming their community. As faithful people, we are called to consider the ways that our life together touches the lives of others.

Weekly Letter, 03/20/2025

By John Mark Wiggers • March 20, 2025
I am writing this on the Feast of St. Joseph (March 19). This character in God's salvation story has an intriguing supporting role. He chooses to protect Mary and the expectant child despite the possible scandal. Joseph finds himself fleeing for Egypt to protect the newborn Jesus. We don't otherwise hear much from or about Joseph in scripture. He is a faithful person who sought to follow God in tough situations.

Free Bell Concert

By Tim Lett • March 7, 2025
Get ready to jingle all the way to the "Smoky Mountain Ring" - a sensational showcase of talent and community spirit! Join us on Saturday, April 5 @ 4:30 pm at Grace Lutheran Church, (9076 Middlebrook Pike), where The Bells of St. James will be ringing in harmony with several other talented handbell choirs under the expert guidance of clinician Brenda Austin. This vibrant concert is more than just a musical event; it's a heartwarming celebration of connection, inclusivity, and the joy of coming together as a community. We can't wait to see you there!

Weekly Letter, 03/06/2025

By The Rev. John Mark Wiggers • March 7, 2025
Friends and Neighbors, We enter the season of Lent. Lent can seem very focused on the individual. For sure, we are called to consider our sinfulness and mortality. We do not stay there, but turn our hearts to God's forgiveness and grace.

Shrove Tuesday

By Jeremy Meyers • February 27, 2025
Get ready to flip for joy because Shrove Tuesday is THIS TUESDAY (Mar 4)! Join us in the Parish Hall at 6 pm to 8 pm for a delightful evening filled with fluffy buttermilk pancakes and a smorgasbord of toppings that'll make your taste buds dance! Were even bringing out some classic, time-honored shrove pancake recipes that are sure to warm your heart. But wait, theres more! Come hungry and bring your family and friends for a night of fun, laughter, and the chance to snag some awesome door prizes! Trust us, you won't want to miss out on this delicious community gathering. Tickets are flying fast, so grab yours now for just $5 (adults) and $2 (children). And hey, if you're feeling the call to help out, we'd love to have you volunteer! Arrive at 5 pm to help with setup and prep so we can make this event a huge success together! RSVP at THIS LINK today! Remember, this isn't just about pancakes; it's about coming together as a community, sharing joy, and supporting our outreach initiatives.

Weekly Letter, 02/27/2025

By The Rev. John Mark Wiggers • February 27, 2025
Friends and Neighbors, I don't want to get too far ahead, but Lent is approaching. The tradition of the Church calls for a time of fasting and repentance. That often involves giving something up or taking something on. I recommend that folks keep it simple and be kind to themselves. We aren't doing these things to earn God's favor. We take up these practices to turn our hearts towards God. This turning of our hearts could be called "devotion".

Weekly Letter, 02/20/2025

By The Rev. John Mark Wiggers • February 20, 2025
Friends and Neighbors, We live in a world that bombards us with information. Here I am adding to the mix of ideas and thoughts coming your way. I am reminded of how Jesus often took time to go away to pray. Even without cell phones and constant news, Jesus and those around him were well aware of their world's contentious politics and problems. Jesus spoke to those problems and acted to meet the needs of people. He also empowered his followers to do the same things he did. Jesus took time to pray, teach, and be with folks at meals. Connecting with God and our community nurtures and feed us in the midst of all the demands on our attention.
Show More