Weekly Letter, 05/22/2024
The Rev. John Mark Wiggers • May 27, 2024

Friends and Neighbors, 


As we approach this Memorial Day, I am reminded of the Thanksgiving for Heroic Service found on page 839 in The Book of Common Prayer.


"O Judge of the nations, we remember before you with grateful hearts the men and women of our country who in the day of decision ventured much for the liberties we now enjoy. Grant that we may not rest until all the people of this land share the benefits of true freedom and gladly accept its disciplines. This we ask in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."


This prayer beautifully captures the spirit of giving thanks for those who have suffered for the cause of freedom while also praying that true liberty would free us from the ways that bring such suffering. 


I was excited to celebrate the work of Justice Knox this past Monday with many of you. That work calls us to accept the disciplines of freedom which call us to care for our neighbors. We have the freedom to speak up and advocate for justice in our nation. I pray that we can do so with compassion and courage. Your support helps us show mercy as we feed others and help with basic needs. Thank you for giving time and money to these ministries. 


Memorial Day also marks the official beginning of Summer for many of us. I like to remind folks that church doesn't close. We continue to worship and serve. I know that many of us will visit family, take vacations, or just slip away to the lake on a warm Sunday. I also encourage you to make time to join with your St. James community. Maybe you would like to try out being a lector or an acolyte. Let me know. Of course, I also want to remind you to keep those pledges coming as the bills don't pause for summer either. 


May you know the freedom that we have in Christ to forgive, to heal, to do justice. 


Peace,

Fr. John Mark

Weekly Letter, 04/24/2025

By John Mark Wiggers • April 24, 2025

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".
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