Dear Friends,

We talk about sin a great deal during Lent. In the Sunday morning formation class we have been discussing the fact that Jesus rarely calls out individual sins. He does point to the ways that human systems have oppressed the poor. Somehow, many churches turned the focus to individual behavior. Taking a larger view of all of us being caught up in systems of sin helps me have some compassion on those who are different than me or I disagree with. Believing that Jesus came in the flesh to suffer and triumph over the sin system calls all of us to grace, hope, and transformation. 

Just this week I spoke with someone looking for a community that would be accepting of a young person who would find themselves unwelcome in many places. I chatted with an unhoused neighbor who has suffered wage theft and feels powerless to report it. I listened as our Doorstep ministers handed out hot oatmeal to our neighbors. Volunteers packed grocery bags, leaders invited folks to take part in our Justice ministry, and people gathered in various ways to pray and study together. In these ways and more, we are making this community a place where people can know grace, hope, and transformation. 

As we reflect on sin during Lent, let our own weaknesses and messiness be a point of connection with each other. May you know God's grace and forgiveness for you individually, and have great hope for the transformation of all things. Those are big things that we hold and proclaim in this parish. Thank you for all the ways you continue to support our ministry. I encourage you to look through this newsletter and see the opportunities to join in giving, having dinner, showing up justice, and so much more. Join the flow of grace and love in the midst of it all. 

Peace, 

Fr. John Mark