October 4, 2023

Let the whole world see and know that things which were cast down are being raised up, and things which had grown old are being made new, and that all things are being brought to their perfection by him through whom all things were made – BCP 280, 515, 528, 540

This is part of the Collect used on Good Friday during the reading of the Solemn Collects and at the ordinations of Bishops, Priests, and Deacons. I have always found it a hopeful prayer, particularly during periods of chaos. This Collect reminds me that, no matter what the world casts down, how old and weary we may be or feel, or how imperfect things around us seem to be, God is constantly raising things up. God is constantly offering new life. God is constantly working to bring the world to perfection.

I think this prayer is particularly appropriate for all of us at this time in our lives because we are all in a period of flux, a period of transition, a period of chaos, and a period of hope.

I am shuffling off to Buffalo under less-than-ideal circumstances. As of yet, our house hasn't sold, which brings its own stress under the best of times. But this will require me to head to Buffalo alone, hoping (at this point) that I will have some kind of place to stay, while Joelene remains behind until the house finally sells. That is producing some higher-than-normal anxiety in our household.

Saint John's once again begins the journey to finding a new Rector. October will be filled with supply priests and one service led by Deacon Sue. I have heard an interim priest has been found, but it's not my job to make that formal announcement, but know you will be in good hands. That, of course, doesn't make it any easier; but knowing you are making a good start is a huge step.

Joelene and I will be leaving many good friends. We will be leaving jobs we have each enjoyed. We will be leaving groups of people with whom we have outside connections. Everyone at Saint John's has touched us in different ways. We have laughed with you and cried with you. I have prayed with and over you. You have each shared your gifts with us and we have learned from all of you.

This will be a challenging time for you, so please know that over the course of the next year or so you will be in my prayers. During this time, remember to be humble and gentle with each other. Have patience with others and with the process. Act with love and kindness and bear each other's burdens. Work to maintain the unity of the Holy Spirit with bonds of peace. Pray daily and take time to listen.

On this, my final Wednesday Word to the people of Saint John's, let me say, “Thank you.” Thank you for your friendship over the past seven years and for having a part in the life of this parish. You will be missed. And now I leave you with my favorite blessing:

Remember who you are.

Remember what you love.

Remember what is sacred.

Remember what is true.

Remember that you die and each day is a gift.

Remember how you wish to live.

And may the blessing of God Almighty, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, be with this and every day.

Todd+