Dear Friends,
I pray you are keeping warm and safe during the snow and frigid temperatures. We have kept the office closed because of safety concerns. This may leave us with a limited bulletin on Sunday. I encourage you to consider safety foremost if you are venturing out to church (or anywhere else.) Pray for those who struggle to find shelter and resources during this time.
We celebrate the ordination of The Rev. Brian Austin as a deacon on January 13. Brian is ordained a deacon on his journey to becoming a priest. The policy of our diocese (and most others) does not allow a recently ordained person to take up a position at their home parish. Sadly, that means that Brian will be leaving us. Until he is assigned elsewhere, you will see Brian serve liturgically on Sundays. Congratulations, Brian.
I want to acknowledge that we have suffered several losses in a short time here at St. James. Thank you for all the support and understanding you have shown to me. My "professional" capacity in no way shields my heart. I recognize that we also grieve as a community. There is an empty space that reminds us that our friends are no longer here. It is not a sin to grieve. We can honor our sadness while also holding to our faith our friends share in eternal life with Christ. Stay warm and take a moment to give thanks and to pray for our community.
Peace,
Fr. John Mark