Anglican Church | Fort Worth, TX | Saint Barnabas Church - RECTOR'S REFLECTIONS

Holy Saturday

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 22:00:00 GMT

After all of the events of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, there is a silence and solemnity to Holy Saturday. It often is seen as a day of preparation for Easter, and rightfully so. However, such silence should not be mistaken for inaction. In an ancient homily below, by an unknown author from the 4th Century, the events of the day are so poetically captured. I hope you find it edifying as you reflect upon Jesus’ sacrifice for our sake in these days leading up to Easter.

Blessings,

Andrew

Something strange is happening – there is a great silence on earth today, a great silence and stillness. The whole earth keeps silence because the King is asleep. The earth trembled and is still because God has fallen asleep in the flesh and he has raised up all who have slept ever since the world began. God has died in the flesh and hell trembles with fear.

He has gone to search for our first parent, as for a lost sheep. Greatly desiring to visit those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death, he has gone to free from sorrow the captives Adam and Eve, he who is both God and the son of Eve. The Lord approached them bearing the cross, the weapon that had won him the victory. At the sight of him Adam, the first man he had created, struck his breast in terror and cried out to everyone: “My Lord be with you all”. Christ answered him: “And with your spirit”. He took him by the hand and raised him up, saying: “Awake, O sleeper, and rise from the dead, and Christ will give you light”.

I am your God, who for your sake have become your son. Out of love for you and for your descendants I now by my own authority command all who are held in bondage to come forth, all who are in darkness to be enlightened, all who are sleeping to arise. I order you, O sleeper, to awake. I did not create you to be held a prisoner in hell. Rise from the dead, for I am the life of the dead. Rise up, work of my hands, you who were created in my image. Rise, let us leave this place, for you are in me and I am in you; together we form only one person and we cannot be separated. For your sake I, your God, became your son; I, the Lord, took the form of a slave; I, whose home is above the heavens, descended to the earth and beneath the earth. For your sake, for the sake of man, I became like a man without help, free among the dead. For the sake of you, who left a garden, I was betrayed to the Jews in a garden, and I was crucified in a garden.

See on my face the spittle I received in order to restore to you the life I once breathed into you. See there the marks of the blows I received in order to refashion your warped nature in my image. On my back see the marks of the scourging I endured to remove the burden of sin that weighs upon your back. See my hands, nailed firmly to a tree, for you who once wickedly stretched out your hand to a tree.

I slept on the cross and a sword pierced my side for you who slept in paradise and brought forth Eve from your side. My side has healed the pain in yours. My sleep will rouse you from your sleep in hell. The sword that pierced me has sheathed the sword that was turned against you.

Rise, let us leave this place. The enemy led you out of the earthly paradise. I will not restore you to that paradise, but I will enthrone you in heaven. I forbade you the tree that was only a symbol of life, but see, I who am life itself am now one with you. I appointed cherubim to guard you as slaves are guarded, but now I make them worship you as God. The throne formed by cherubim awaits you, its bearers swift and eager. The bridal chamber is adorned, the banquet is ready, the eternal dwelling places are prepared, the treasure houses of all good things lie open. The kingdom of heaven has been prepared for you from all eternity.

~ Author Unknown

Image: “Jesus im Grab” (Jesus in the Grave), Reading Public Museum, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Staying Watchful: Reflecting on Jesus’ Sacrifice

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 21:07:51 GMT

And he came to the disciples and found them sleeping. And he said to Peter, “So, could you not watch with me one hour?” Matthew 26:40 (ESV)

On Sunday we embark upon the weeklong journey to Easter morning. There are several opportunities for worship in the subsequent days that are intended to assist us in reflecting upon Jesus’ sacrifice and death for our sake. Each service is unique, designed to make us active participants in the moments leading up the Resurrection.

It all begins on Palm Sunday, foreshadowing the week to follow. The service that morning is actually two services combined into one. The first begins, weather permitting, in the driveway of our building with the blessing of the palms and a procession into the sanctuary. In doing so, we seek to recreate the joyful reception of Jesus into Jerusalem, as he was hailed as King by all who gathered along the main road to welcome him with palm branches and coats laid before his feet. Yet, things take a turn as we enter the church and our readings point to the cross as shouts of “Hosanna” quickly change to “Crucify Him!” The service ends on a more solemn note as we leave reflecting upon the week ahead where Jesus would be betrayed, mocked, spit upon, beaten, killed, and buried.

The scene is then set for Maundy Thursday, where we remember Jesus’s institution of the Eucharist and giving of a new commandment to love one another. Everyone is invited to have his or her feet washed to remember the call to put our love of others into action through serving others. After Communion, we recall Jesus’ betrayal and affliction in the Garden of Gethsemane in the hours before he is drug before the religious leaders and put on trial. We too, remove the Body of Jesus in the Sacrament from the church to our ‘garden’ where it will remain until Good Friday. The service abruptly ends in silence after all is stripped away in the sanctuary, leaving only a bare altar for the days to follow. All are then invited to ‘watch with Jesus’ for an hour in prayer in our ‘garden’ as we recall His agony and obedience in the hours leading up to the events of the day to follow.

Good Friday places the centrality of the crucifixion in front of us. The reading of the account of Jesus’ death, entrance of the cross for our veneration and contemplation, and reception of Communion, keep the gravity of the day before us. Jesus words, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’ are left ringing in our ears when we leave reflecting upon the greatest moment in human history: the moment wherein Jesus bears the weight of sin for all humanity so that we may be reconciled with God.

On Saturday we gather to embrace the emptiness and silence as the Author of our salvation harrows Hell (see Eph. 4:9 ; 1 Peter 3:19). It is a day of preparation as we recall the stillness and anticipation of what will happen next. In perhaps the shortest service of the year, we gather to enter into this moment together as we prepare our hearts for the joy of the morrow.

When we arrive on Sunday to an ornate church filled with flowers and beautiful hymns we more fully appreciate the day having gone through the rollercoaster of emotions in the days prior. The baptisms of the morning take rich meaning as we reflect upon their meaning in light of what Jesus did for each of us.

Make this week a priority. Block off the service times as appointments with the Lord on your calendar. We are invited in these days to take the time, typically only an hour or so each day, to give thanks, recall, and worship the Author of our salvation. Jesus’ words then to the disciples are no less convicting to us now, And he came to the disciples and found them sleeping. And he said to Peter, “So, could you not watch with me one hour? Matthew 26:40. May we not be found slumbering amidst the business and busyness of our lives this week to miss the greatest week in salvation history, which opens unto us the gates of heaven.

Blessings,

Andrew

Image: “You Could Not Watch One Hour With Me” by James Tissot, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Observing a Holy Lent

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 17:15:00 GMT

Observing a Holy Lent

Lent is a word which we use to mark the forty days that lead up to Easter. The word quite literally means, the spring season. But as in many points throughout history, Christians brilliantly captured the words and customs of surrounding pagan cultures to use them for evangelization. Subsequently, the Early Church used this season to prepare new converts for baptisms on Easter. For these catechumens, or individuals receiving instruction on the Christian faith, fasting, almsgiving, prayer, and repenting from worldly and pagan practices were as much a part of the preparation as the instruction itself.

Lent was also a time when those who were excommunicated, removed from receiving Communion, would do penance. As they were removed from the life of the Church, during these forty days, it allowed a time for them to redirect their hearts and actions back to God. At Easter, they would be restored into the Faith Community through receiving Communion once more.

For those who did not fall into either category, it remained a season for both refocus and return. The intentional time allows one to examine the Faith afresh, and in doing so, repent and turn away from sinful desires and behaviors in one's life. In doing so, one draws nearer to God. The marks of fasting, almsgiving and prayer have always stood as a means to assist toward that end.

For instance, the old practice of abstaining from meat on Wednesdays and Fridays dates back to a time when the wealthy had multi-course meals. Fish would be one of the earliest courses, before entrees of meat, which were more expensive and rare. The Church encouraged those who were of such means to abstain from such lavishness in order to both save money to give to the poor, and also to create more time for prayer and contemplation.

As we examine our lives, we too are called to fast from distractions and indulgences and to take on practices that foster more time with the Lord. If we give up alcohol, sweets, or soda, we can spend that time, even if only 5 minutes, in prayer or the study of God's Word when the urge for such treats arise. Also, the money that would have been spent upon such items can be saved during these forty days and given to the Church for God’s work in the world through our own almsgiving. Although the self-denial may only last forty days, the practices and disciplines we take on for our spiritual growth should last a lifetime!

As we were reminded on Ash Wednesday, we are invited to observe a Holy Lent. Determine to do so through fasting, almsgiving and prayer. In doing so, prepare to more fully receive our Lord in the yearly remembrance of His death and resurrection in the weeks ahead. May our desire to keep a Holy Lent further us in this earthly pilgrimage to grow to look more like Jesus, by the Holy Spirit’s work in us, until we see Him face to face.

Blessings,
Andrew

Ash Wednesday

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 20:05:28 GMT

Ash Wednesday is just a few days away (March 5). Its arrival marks the beginning of Lent and a new season in the Church Year. On that day we pause and attend a rather unique service as we embark upon this season together. But, what exactly is the history and significance of the service? What is the purpose of ashes? And what is the scriptural basis for all of these things?

The earliest liturgical record of an Ash Wednesday service dates back to around 960 A.D., finding its roots in the Romano-Germanic pontifical (a collection of liturgical services dated to the 10 ^th century and later widely distributed throughout the Ottoman Empire and Italy). Yet, the historical use of ashes is found much earlier within the Old Testament. Often when the Israelites turned back from their sins to God, they did so in sackcloth and ashes (see Isaiah 58:5; Jeremiah 6:26; Daniel 9:3; Jonah 3:6; and Jesus references to it in Matt 11:21 and Luke 10:13). The act was one of humility, in which an individual would turn away from the things of the world through fasting in order to recommit oneself to the Lord. Doing so also served to reminded them of their humanity. In spite of their pride and false sense of self sufficiency, they were confronted with the reality that they are created beings whose days are fleeting (Genesis 3:19; Psalm 39:5,11; 62:9; 78:33; 94:11; 144:4).

Therefore, as we begin Lent, we too, begin in like manner. As we will hear in the service that evening, we are invited, in the name of the Church, to the observance of a holy Lent: by self-examination and repentance; by prayer, fasting, and alms-giving; and by reading and meditating on God’s holy Word. We are called to draw back to our first love. Traditionally, the ashes used are the burned remains of the palms from the past year’s Palm Sunday. These are sprinkled with holy water, and sometimes incensed, as a series of four ancient prayers are prayed over them. The custom serves to remind us of our fickle nature. We, too, cry out to the Lord with our wants, but quickly turn away from Him when they are not met as we desire!

The pillars of Lent are housed in the exhortation that evening to assist us in reorienting our hearts and lives over the following forty days. Interestingly, we find a model for them in the practice of fasting from meat on Wednesdays and Fridays in Lent. Historically, those of means would only eat the first course of a three-course meal, usually a fish dish, as part of their Lenten fast. The money saved in the more meager portions lead to almsgiving. These saved resources would be returned to the Lord to tend to the less fortunate and for the advancement of the Gospel. Finally, the reduced meal preparations and time spend eating allowed for more time with the Lord in prayer, Scripture, and worship.

While customs change, the principles do not. Begin searching your heart for what you may fast from this season. Focus upon something that you ‘hunger’ for regularly and whose presence will be missed. When forgone it should serve as a reminder to you and create space in the midst of your day. It could be times on social media, alcohol, shopping, or a TV series. The times opens moments for prayer and time in God’s Word. Likewise, the financial savings may allow you to sow into the advancement of God’s Kingdom. May we all keep a Holy Lent, as we begin to think and prepare toward that end in order to draw nearer to Jesus over the next forty days.

Blessings,

Andrew

Reunited with God

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 15:30:00 GMT

In the early life of Church the connection was made between the Nativity, or Jesus’ birth and entrance into the world, and His baptism. The very reason for Jesus' entrance into the world was to reunite us to God. And after entering the world in silence and great humility on Christmas Day, we see even more clearly who Jesus is in the Epiphany, whereby the world (signified by the magi) come back to God in their visitation of Jesus (God incarnate). Yet, it is in the baptism of Jesus as the heavens are opened and God the Father proclaims Jesus’ divinity from heaven that His ministry becomes even clearer (see Luke 3:21-23).

Maximus of Turin, one of the Church Fathers, so marvelously noted this connection long ago,

“Today, then [in Jesus’ baptism], is another kind of birth of the Savior. We see him born with the same sort of signs, the same sort of wonders, but with greater mystery. The Holy Spirit, who was present to him then in the womb, now pours out upon him in the torrent. He who then purified Mary for him now sanctifies the running waters for him. The Father who then overshadowed in power now cries out with his voice. He who then, as if choosing the more prudent course, manifested himself as a cloud at the nativity now bears witness to the truth. So God says, ‘This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear him.’ Clearly the second birth is more excellent than the first. The one brought forth Christ in silence and without a witness. The other baptized the Lord gloriously with a profession of divinity. From the one, Joseph, thought to be the father, absents himself. At the other, God the Father, not believed in, manifests himself. In the one the mother labors under suspicion because in her condition she lacked a father. In the other she is honored because God attests to his Son.”

It is in His baptism, as the heavens open and Jesus stands in the waters of the Jordan River while the Holy Spirit descends upon Him (a Trinitarian reference to the Godhead - Father, Son and Holy Spirit), that we see the whole of His ministry. Jesus would open the way to heaven to us through the waters of baptism as we are reunited to God. We, through the waters of baptism, are made adopted sons and daughters of God as the Holy Spirit then resides in us. And from this moment on, which officially begins Jesus earthly ministry, He reconciles every person that He comes in contact with back to God. Each healing, restored relationship, or deliverance points to the reconciliation Jesus extends to us all upon the cross.

So this Sunday we rejoice in an annual reminder of what Jesus stepped into the world to do. As we walk in the way of the cross and the pattern of the Church Year, we are called to renew our lives to Jesus as we do so in the renewal of our baptismal vows this Sunday. But the call, doesn’t just reside with us, but should go forth with us as we are reminded in the reaffirmation of our baptismal vows this week!

Blessings,

Andrew

Christ Manifest in You

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 16:00:00 GMT

January 6 marks the beginning of Epiphany, and the close of the Christmas season. As the twelfth night of Christmas gives way to the Epiphany, or revelation of Jesus Christ, we move from celebrating the Incarnation (Jesus’ coming into the world) to celebrating his manifestation to all peoples.

Isaiah reminds us that Israel was always intended to be a light unto the nations (Is. 49:6). Through them, God’s salvation would extend to everyone. And it is upon the arrival of the three Magi, or Wise Men, symbolic of the other nations, to see Jesus, symbolic of Israel, that we see this promise fulfilled. Additionally, when they came to see Jesus they were transformed. And we are told that they left to tell others what they had seen and heard.

So, this season holds a twofold purpose for us as Christians. First, it is a yearly reminder that Jesus came to fulfill God’s purposes to save all nations and people. Secondly, we, who have been transformed by Jesus, are called to make Him known as well.

At our Epiphany Mass on January 6 at 6:30 pm we will bless chalk and have a short order of service so you can mark and bless your home as well. We will also have a King Cake to mark the occasion too! Don’t miss out on this beautiful custom and opportunity to begin the new year by inviting Christ Jesus into your home anew.

As we prepare for this season, let me leave you with these poetic and provocative works from Lancelot Andrews who noted of this season and the Magi -

They came a long journey, and they came an uneasy journey; they came a dangerous journey and they came now, at the worst season of the year. They stayed not their coming till the opening of the year, till they might have better weather and way, and have longer days and so more seasonable and fit to travel in. So desirous were they to come with the first, and to be there as soon as they possibly might; broke through all these difficulties, and behold, come they did.

And we, what excuse shall we have if we come not? If so short and easy a way we come not, as from our chambers hither? And these wise men were never a whit less wise for so coming; nay, to come to Christ is one of the wisest parts that ever these wise men did. And if they and we be wise in one Spirit, we will follow the same star, tread the same way, and so come at last wither they are happily gone before us.

The final blessing this week is a proclamation over you toward that end as the celebrant will pray, May Christ, the Son of God, be manifest in you, that your lives may be a light to the world.

I hope and pray this may be so in your life and in mine!

Blessings,

Andrew

Epiphany Painting: Adorazione dei Magi (Adoration of the Magi) by Artemisia Gentileschi, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Stepping into Creation

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 22:25:43 GMT

Merry Christmas to you all! It is appropriate to spend some time in the coming days reflecting upon the centrality of the Incarnation and the Christmas season and to celebrate the monumental moment of our Lord stepping into creation to redeem it.

It is hard to fathom God entering creation as a baby if we truly dwell upon it. The magnitude of Jesus leaving his rightful place in glory to enter the world in such humility is incredible. Saint Augustine of Hippo so poetically captures the importance of it, “Man’s maker was made man that He, Ruler of the stars, might nurse at His mother’s breast; that the Bread might hunger, the Fountain thirst, the Light sleep, the Way be tired on its journey; that Truth might be accused of false witnesses, the Teacher be beaten with whips, the Foundation be suspended on wood; that Strength might grow weak; that the Healer might be wounded; that Life might die.”

Jesus stepping into the world is the greatest act of love. And each moment thereafter His love was revealed time and time again with each teaching, healing, and ultimately in His death upon the cross. Saint Athanasius in writing on this very topic put it this way, “This He did out of sheer love for us, so that in His death all might die, and the law of death thereby be abolished because, when He had fulfilled in His body that for which it was appointed, it was thereafter voided of its power for men. This He did that He might turn again to incorruption men who had turned back to corruption, and make them alive through death by the appropriation of His body and by the grace of His resurrection. Thus He would make death to disappear from them as utterly as straw from fire.” He did so that you and I may no longer be under the bondage of sin, which alienates us from both God and one another. Instead, we may find the fullness of life here and now in restored relationship with Him as we turn to Him finding forgiveness, healing, and peace.

Often, in the midst of the busyness of these days we don’t soak in the full weight of this season. For in it is the foundation of our faith. The birth of Jesus sets into motion God’s plan of redemption and restoration for all of creation, giving our lives hope and purpose. In the days to come, as we reflect upon the year past and look with anticipation to the year ahead, may we hold our Hope ever before us.

Spend time reading John 1 and reflecting upon it. Or, as I am I trying to do in these days, read through some of the saints’ reflections upon this season. One you may want to explore is Saint Athanasius’ treatise "On the Incarnation of the Word" which can be found here. I pray that with fresh eyes and open hearts, we may continue to see, turn, and embrace the hope and love God lavished upon us at Christmas.

Faithfully,

Andrew

Kwashi Zambiri Appeal

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 15:06:53 GMT

Dear Friends in Christ Jesus,

Archbishop Ben Kwashi has recently retired from many of his roles within Anglicanism, but has not retired from active ministry. He moved out of the diocesan quarters where he lived as the Bishop of Jos and has moved to Zambiri some distance away. In the past few years as they considered his retirement, they purchased property there with the plan to house over 400 orphans that Archbishop Ben and Gloria have under their care.

Prior to moving to Zambiri, the Kwashis developed a school and housed the orphans in the official Bishop’s compound, while he served as Bishop to the people of Jos, and led GAFCON as General Secretary. In this new season, they have dedicated their own resources to provide a new school building, proper housing, and needed care for these children⎯who grow in number almost daily.

The Kwashis’ plan to continue to disciple, house, feed and educate some 450 orphans comes with many operational costs estimated at $72,000 per year, not including the construction costs. This figure does not represent funds for the Kwashis’ own living expenses. The operating budget roughly equates to an annual cost of $160.00 per child to be housed, clothed, fed and educated⎯a small sum to invest in the next generation!

I have been blessed as one in whom the Kwashi’s have invested and have discipled over the years. At a time when I was discerning my call, they “took me into their home” as well, offering godly counsel and nurturing love. They have continued to pray for and counsel me over the years⎯I represent the second generation that Archbishop Ben and Gloria have raised up. I know many of you have your own stories from conferences and their visits to your dioceses and parishes, as they brought the Gospel and built up the Kingdom wherever they went. No matter how big the task or venue, they always made time to invest in our lives, carving out moments for meals and conversations.

They are doing so again with these orphans, investing in a third generation⎯not merely with food, clothing and housing, but with the Gospel. Who knows what church leaders will emerge in the years to come from the godly deposits they are making in these young people!

While they have not asked for help, I am asking for your prayers and partnership for this vital work. Would you prayerfully consider assisting in some way? Perhaps it is a line item in your parish budget to sponsor a number of their children annually; or a one-time gift as you honor their Gospel impact; or perhaps a presentation about this before donors or other colleagues.

If you feel led to give, you may do so by sending a check made out to Saint Barnabas Anglican Church, memo Kwashi Zambiri Fund (mailed to 8425 Parkwood Hill Blvd. Fort Worth, TX 76137), online at https://secure.myvanco.com/YPSV/campaign/C-157Q7 , or via the QR code below. Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I truly appreciate your time and consideration.

Faithfully,

Andrew+

Fr. Andrew Petta

Rector of Saint Barnabas Anglican Church

Building Community as Stewards

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 15:50:28 GMT

In the coming three weeks we will turn to the Old Testament and the book 1 Chronicles as we focus upon our call to be stewards (Nov 17, 24, Dec 1). Our opportunity to respond on Commitment Sunday, fittingly falls on the first Sunday of new church year on Sunday, December 1. It comes at a time of year when we are reminded of what we are thankful for in our culture and the reminder in our church calendar of preparing for Jesus’ return in Advent.

In this season of thanksgiving, my heart is full of gratitude for each of you. The ministry, the lives impacted, and seeds sown this year have come through your giving. Each time we open the doors of the church, investments are made for ministry therein or that flows forth from it. Thank you! I hope you will be encouraged over the next three weeks through stories you hear toward that end from various parishioners. You have had a direct impact, because of your giving.

I also believe that the community that we so dearly love at Saint Barnabas is poised to be a city on a hill for those around us. As we look to the building of the temple in 1 Chronicles, we are invited to build a community here that enables you to be build up as living stones, and for others to find genuine community in fellowship with God and each of us. God has been so faithful to Saint Barnabas, and His love stands central to this hospitable church. As we look at where we’ve been, God is laying upon my heart ways we might help others discover what we’ve found here.

I’d invite you to begin to recount those blessings and hold them in prayer in the weeks ahead. I’d also invite you to begin earnestly asking the Lord where He may lead you to partner in the year to come. My only expectation is that you seek Him in this matter, and then heed His voice on December 1.

Faithfully,

Fr. Andrew Petta

Rector of Saint Barnabas Anglican Church

Why Do You Do What You Do on Halloween?

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 18:45:00 GMT

Do you know why you do what you do on Halloween?

Where did this whole idea come from? It has something to do with the “eve of all Hallows”- whatever that is, right? But why the candy and costumes? Let’s start with Halloween. What is Halloween, or All Hallows Eve? Just as we pray in the Lord’s prayer, “Hallowed by thy Name…,” “hallows” means holy ones, or put more simply, the Saints. And we know what “eve” means, it’s the evening before.

All Hallows Eve, or the Eve of All Saints Day is a day when we prepare to celebrate the feast of All Saints, but what do we do to prepare? What is there to prepare for? November 1st has traditionally been All Saints Day, and November 2nd is All Souls Day. On these days, we typically pray for and honor the departed souls of those who have come before us. Even now, in some places, All Saints Day is when they pray for the Saints and departed Children, and All Souls Day is a day to pray for everyone else, known or unknown, who have departed this life.

So, people would prepare for these days of prayer by collecting a list of names of all departed souls they knew, recent deaths as well as ancestors. People would also pray for their neighbors’ departed relatives and keep them in their devotions on these special days.

But what does this have to do with putting on a costume and going door-to-door asking for candy? Well, in preparation for gathering those names we just mentioned, and to teach their children how to begin/maintain this devotion, people would send their children door-to-door to ask their neighbors for the names of their departed relatives. And the children’s reward for their prayers was a small cake or pastry, often called a “soul-cake,” given in trade for a prayer for a departed soul—one cake for one prayer. Another custom came along over the years where children would honor All Saints Day by dressing up as their favorite saint, so as to learn more about those Christians who gave their lives to the service of the Lord, and to pattern their lives after the Saints. Somewhere along the line, these practices were combined, and we ended up with children dressing up as saints and going door-to- door asking for sweets and prayers.

Of course, like many other Christian days of devotion, All Saints Day was put in its current place on the last day of October to thwart the celebration at the end of the Pagan year, which was much like a New Year’s Eve celebration. Somewhere in this mix, we get the phrase “trick or treat?” as the pagans were reluctant to give up their holiday and participate in the Christian Holiday.

Naturally, time withers all kinds of things, and customs get lost in their public interpretations. So instead of seeing children dressed up as Saints such as, St. Laurence, St. John, or the Virgin Mary, we see St. Batman, St. Sponge-Bob, and St. Cat-in-the-Hat walking the streets asking for candy, and we give them no names to pray for.

So next Halloween, if you are able, or if you have the inclination, consider dressing your child as a Saint, or at least teach them to pray for the souls of your departed loved ones. The Saints pray for us daily, and we should return the favor! Also, if you don’t currently attend a church, you are invited to worship at Saint Barnabas on Sunday, in English at 10 a.m. and in Spanish at 12:30 p.m. God is always calling us back home, and the Saints continue to pray for us to find and serve God.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN and HAPPY ALL SAINTS DAY

Article courtesy of Fr. Jon Jenkins.

Season of Celebrations

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 17:35:34 GMT

Who doesn’t love to celebrate?! We are nearing a time of year when celebrations stand central to our culture. We see lawn decor, seasonal dishes, and monthly events that carry us into a new year. In the Petta household, we have a birthday in the mix, which has become a chief celebration! Each Sunday as part of the Prayers of the People, we invite those celebrating birthdays and anniversaries to come forward to mark the moment and ask for God’s grace in the year ahead. I’d like to suggest two more that may be worth marking in your life as well, baptism and confirmation dates.

These dates mark entrance into the Household of Faith in the case of baptism, and a desire to embrace more fully a life in Christ in confirmation. Each are worth noting! If you were baptized or confirmed here, we have a record of that day. We’d be happy to share it with you if needed. A great project is to do a bit of research if one or both predates your time with us, and make a note of it in your calendar. We’d love to pray and celebrate these occasions with you. There are some great customs to do so as well.

Did you know that it is customary to light one’s baptismal candle on that date annually, and perhaps place it in a cake or some treat to celebrate? On your confirmation day, or around it, consider making a retreat, taking on a new study or finding a way to grow further. Prayers, found on page 668 of the Book of Common Prayer, such as #71-75, could likewise be used as a rededication of your commitment.

Amidst all we can celebrate, consider celebrating the major moments in your life in Christ. Find ways to remain oriented upon Him, and perhaps draw others into the celebration to consider the same! Our lives are called to be a witness that points others to Jesus, and what better way than to do so than in celebration. After all, who doesn’t love cake!

Blessings,

Andrew

Celebrating Major Feast Days with Feast and Fellowship Events

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 19:07:31 GMT

Celebrating Major Feast Days

Beginning in August, we will shift from having midweek Mass every Wednesday to celebrating major feast days on their particular date. These dates are found on pages 688 and following in the 2019 Book of Common Prayer. These feast days fall into two major categories, Principal Feasts and Holy Days (also known as Red Letter Days).

The Principal Feast Days include some Sundays (such as Easter, the Day of Pentecost, and Trinity Sunday) as well as some major dates that do not always fall on a Sunday such as the Ascension (40 days after Easter) or the Epiphany (always on January 6 after the 12 days of Christmas). At times these get ‘transferred’ to a Sunday, but we can miss the importance of celebrating them on the day. We mark major secular moments like July 4 or Presidents Day and in the Christian Calendar it is important to observe dates that form us as believers. Celebrating the Epiphany, for instance, reminds us of our call to go out and be a light to the nations, just as when the nations came to Jesus in the arrival of the Magi on that day. These assist us to keep our gaze upon Jesus.

Additionally, we celebrate Holy Days, which are also known as Red Letter Days throughout the year. These include some important moments in Jesus’ life, like the receiving of his name, eight days after his birth, according to the law, which we celebrate on January 1. Others include people such as the apostles or the reminder of the invisible realm, as on Saint Michael and All Angels. Each are found at the back of the Book of Common Prayer in the Calendar, and these primary Holy Days were traditionally written in red where other saints days and observances were written in black.

Prior prayer books called these “days of obligation” or dates that were set apart for the faithful to observe. Amidst all that can vie for our obligation and attention these days, it is edifying to take the time to celebrate, set apart the evening or morning to observe them, reflect, and reorient on these dates. We are labeling these dates Feast and Fellowship so that we will celebrate the date with a said Communion service that lasts 30-40 minutes with a homily focused upon the significance of that day.

Then, we will transition into fellowship around some form of food to allow us to connect in community. Be on the lookout for these communications and as a general rule, if the day falls on a weekday we will gather at 6:30 pm and if on a Saturday we will gather at 9 am. I hope it gives us times of fellowship with a purpose as we gather around the great moments and exemplars in Christendom to spur us on in our earthly pilgrimage.

Save the upcoming dates this fall:

August 6 - Transfiguration

August 15 - The Virgin Mary - Mother of our Lord

August 24 - St. Bartholomew

September 14 - Holy Cross Day

September 21 - St. Matthew

September 28 - St. Michael and All Angels (transferred) - Badge Blessing

October 18 - St. Luke

October 23 - St. James

October 28 - St Simon and Jude

November 1 - All Saints Day

November 30 - St. Andrew

December 11- Our Lady of Guadalupe

December 21 - St. Thomas

December 25 - Christmas Day

January 1 - Circumcision of our Lord and Holy Name of our Lord Jesus Christ

Blessings,

Andrew

Image: A diptych, with the representations of ten major Christian liturgical feast days. Probably used as a portable altarpiece. Greek-Orthodox or Armenian.

Image credit: Dosseman, CC BY-SA 4.0 www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Trinity Sunday

Fri, 24 May 2024 14:20:08 GMT

On the heels of Pentecost Sunday, we celebrate all Persons of the Godhead on Trinity Sunday. Although the celebration of Trinity Sunday dates back to the twelfth century in Anglicanism, its origins are much earlier.

In the fourth century, a priest named Arius believed that Jesus was a created being, thus denying His divinity. His beliefs subsequently denied the Trinity as well. Unfortunately, he led many astray with this heresy, resulting in the persecution of orthodox Christians. However, a faithful Bishop, Athanasius, stood as Arius' chief opponent. He championed the orthodox view of Jesus and the distinct nature of the Persons of the Trinity. Doing so resulted in his exile. However, even from afar, he remained a faithful pastor, bishop, and theologian. It took time, but Truth prevailed in the Council of Nicaea, as Constantine gathered all parties to address the divisive issue. From that Council we received the Nicene Creed, which we say weekly, affirming both each Person of the Trinity and their role in salvation history.

In the centuries to follow, prayers, hymns, and Christian liturgies developed emphasizing the Trinity. Eventually, in the tenth and eleventh centuries, the Sunday after Pentecost became a universally observed time to celebrate the Trinity in the Divine Offices. In England, however, it became a principle feast day through the petition of Thomas Beckett. He was consecrated Archbishop of Canterbury in 1162 AD on the day. Later, in the thirteen century, it became a universally established feast day in the church calendar.

On Trinity Sunday we recite the creed attributed to Athanansius instead of the Nicene Creed. Although it highlights the same tenants found in the Nicene Creed, it likewise serves as an important reminder of our history. In spite of various trials that assault the Faith, the Truth always prevails in the mystery, that we as Christians proclaim of the Trinity. You may find the text here .

Blessings,

Andrew

Ascension Day

Thu, 09 May 2024 05:58:46 GMT

Today marks the final event in Jesus' life on earth, when He ascended back to the right hand of the Father in heaven. It is, however, far more than just an event. For Jesus' ascension denotes completion, fulfillment, and victory. As He returned to His rightful place in glory, He brought our humanity before the throne of grace. As with all of His life and ministry, even this final moment is about us. Gregory of Nyssa noted, "He who for our sake became like us in order to make us his brothers and sisters, now presents to his true Father his own humanity in order to draw all his brothers and sisters up after him."

The ascension of our Lord not only is a mark of completion, but also a preparation. He goes before us to prepare a place for us and stands as our advocate before the Father (John 14:3 ; 1 John 2:1). The story is far from over. Today marks the turning of a chapter, and the celebration of what is to come. For as we recall Jesus' rising back into heaven, we are reminded that we, who place our faith and trust in Him, will likewise be raised to glory.

As we anticipate this Final Day, we know that we are not just biding our time. For Jesus' ascension was far from a reminder of what awaits believers on the day of Judgment. It likewise meant that the Holy Spirit could descend upon all humanity (Joel 2:28). Cyril of Alexandria explained, "It was most fitting that the sending of the Spirit and his descent upon us should take place after the departure of Christ our Savior. As long as Christ was with them in the flesh, it must have seemed to believers that they possessed every blessing in him; but when the time came for him to ascend to his Heavenly Father, it was necessary for him to be united through his Spirit to those who worshipped him, and to dwell in our hearts through faith."

Ten days after His ascension, the Holy Spirit descended to lead us into all truth, guide us into holiness of life, and continue God's redeeming work upon earth. As the Spirit of God lives in us, we are not only transformed daily into the likeness of Christ through our submission to Him, but also the world around is transformed through us. As we daily surrender and obey God, He is able to work more fully through you and me to restore all of creation. Thus, our role is not merely one of preparation for that Final Day, but active participation for it.

Today, as we celebrate Christ's ascent, we are reminded of these things. We give thanks for what Jesus accomplished for us, as we continue to surrender and serve Him until we see Him face to face.

Blessings,

Andrew

Good Shepherd Sunday

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 19:02:07 GMT

Good Shepherd Sunday is annually celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Easter (this Sunday). Every year we read a portion of the tenth chapter of John’s gospel as we reflect upon this image Jesus uses to reveal the character and nature of God in a series of “I AM” statements. We do well to see these that “I AM” statements refer back to the first revelation of God’s name to His people, Israel, as He spoke to Moses.

In these statements and this passage we are reminded of a fundamental truth of Christianity, that we can have relationship with God through Jesus Christ. From the moment God reveals His name to His people until it is revealed fully in Jesus, we see the heart of God who not only made us in His image, but also desires to have relationship with us.

We encounter this reality through an image that is profoundly lost upon us in the West. The closest we come to grasping the role of a shepherd is through the affection we have for pets. Yet, it only scratches the surface of a way of life for the shepherd. A shepherd’s life requires total dedication, time, attention, selflessness, and care to allow the creatures they attend to thrive.

As I reflect upon this image for this Sunday, I also feel as though we not only miss out upon the imagery but the very nature of relationship itself that it reveals. After all, most of you will read this on social media, our website, or by way of email. We are far less relational as we are buried in the very technology and conveniences that are intended to connect us. Ironically, they seem to do quite the opposite.

Perhaps the yearly reminder of Good Shepherd Sunday is more needed now than ever. In it we are reminded once again through the teachings of Jesus that apart from Him we cannot truly have relationship with God, or meaningful and rightly ordered relationships with anyone else. As we gather Sunday we are reminded of this truth as we worship side by side and also commune with Him. The very purpose of the Church is revealed therein as well!

Come Sunday as we press into the Truth revealed in Jesus Christ in the pages of Scripture together. In so doing we connect in meaningful relationship with the living God and set aside the distractions of life to connect with one another. Don’t miss out on this opportunity that is ever before us, yet one that is perhaps more needed now than ever before.

Blessings,

Andrew

Image: “Icon of Good Shepherd” Anonymous Unknown author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Alleluia! Christ is Risen!

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 17:15:00 GMT

As we continue in the Easter season, we are called to reflect upon what Jesus' resurrection means for both us and the world. His bursting forth from the grave conquered sin and death. And that changes everything. His victory is our victory, as sin and death loses its power over us as well as all over all of creation.

His victory in our lives, however is only seen when we allow Jesus to reign in our desires, passions, and even our goals. He sets our affections right in aligning them with God's will. He gives us purpose, even amidst the seemingly mundane. He gives us the victory over our sinful nature when we invite Him into our day and lives.

Daily we have victory in Jesus, if we would but ask Him for it. As we rise, we can simply dedicate ourselves anew to Him while inviting Him to give us eyes to see and ears to hear Him that day. If we find times to keep our hearts attuned to Him, He will meet us in the day. This can be done in simple actions throughout our day, such as listening to Christian music on the commute, or spending time reading God's Word over lunch. As we abide in Him, He abides in us. And we begin to discover His promptings through the recalling of a Bible verse when we see someone in need, such as 'whatever you do to the least of these, you do unto me,' or in song, or prayer.

In learning to listen, spend time with, and surrender our days to Him, we allow the victory of Easter to spread throughout the world. We are His Church, His Body, so Jesus' victory over sin and death is both experienced and seen through us. May we with joy live out the proclamation we say weekly on Sundays during Easter through our lives, 'The Lord is Risen indeed. Alleluia!'

Blessings,
Andrew

Holy Saturday

Sat, 30 Mar 2024 13:00:00 GMT

Blessings,
Andrew

~ Author Unknown

(Image: National Library of Wales , CC0 , via Wikimedia Commons)

Holy Week

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 16:30:00 GMT

And he came to the disciples and found them sleeping. And he said to Peter, “So, could you not watch with me one hour? Matthew 26:40

On Saturday we gather to embrace the emptiness and silence as the Author of our salvation harrows hell (see Eph. 4:9 ; 1 Peter 3:19). It is a day of preparation as we recall the stillness and anticipation of what will happen next. In perhaps the shortest service of the year, we gather to enter into this moment together as we prepare our hearts for the joy of the morrow.

Blessings,

Andrew

Prayer During Lent

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 01:24:27 GMT

The past few weeks we have explored two of the three pillars of Lent; fasting and almsgiving. Both are intended to create space in our lives so that we can spend time with the Lord. The chief way we do so is through prayer. Communication is the key to strengthening and maintaining any relationship, and the same is true of our relationship with the Lord. Cultivating and creating times to be with the Lord is vital to our spiritual growth.

Prayer is a two way street, one in which we both converse with God and He converses with us. As one of the Church Fathers, Isidore, wisely noted, “Anyone who wants to be always united to God must pray often and read the Bible often. For in prayer it is we who are speaking to God, but in the readings it is God speaking to us.” As simple as that reminder may seem, it can be a challenge to put into practice. Yet, such moments are vital to keep us grounded in the trials and chances of life, to keep perspective, and to allow us to further trust Him.

Through prayer and times of listening by spending time God’s Word we train ourselves to go to God with all things in our lives from the hurts, difficulties, decisions, and thanksgivings. Each afford us an opportunity to dialogue with God about what is going on in our lives and seek guidance from Him. We seek counsel from so many people in this life. What if we went to Him as frequently as we did a friend, parent, sibling or spouse with what was happening in our lives? How might it change us if we sought out our Author and Creator first and foremost above all others?

We would discover a greater peace and clarity through moments in His presence. Such a discovery isn’t necessarily directly correlated to the amount of time spent with Him as Osawald Chambers observed, “It is not the thing on which we spend most time that molds us, but the thing that exerts the greatest power. Five minutes with God and His word is worth more than all the rest of the day.” Certainly this is a great place to being. Learning to cultivate times and keep and ongoing dialogue with the Lord throughout the day transforms us and aligns our lives with His will for us.

The challenge for us in this season is creating space in our lives to find this to be true. The even greater challenge is allowing ourselves to continue to create such moments beyond this season to carry on daily. May God continue to assist us with His grace as we seek Him first, bring things before Him and allow Him to speak to us through the pages of His Word.

Blessings,

Andrew

(Image: Theindigochxld , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons)

Almsgiving

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 18:24:40 GMT

Almsgiving

Last week we explored fasting as a practice to draw us closer to the Lord during this season of Lent. Closely related to it is the practice of almsgiving, which is another pillar of this season to assist us in our growth, return, and refocus in these forty days. Almsgiving and fasting are linked, because in generations past when one gave up meat on Wednesday and Friday, or fasted from a meal entirely, the money that would have been spent was set aside for the work of ministry. It was another way to order one’s appetites by returning more of oneself to the Lord.

Therein lies the purpose for such a practice, namely to bring our lives more fully under God’s reign and rule by placing Him first. Almsgiving may also serve as a valuable discovery tool in our lives and routines as well. For example, giving up a cup of Starbucks coffee on the way to work each day can easily amount to $150 a month in savings, and forgoing lunch out each day can amount to even more. At times we may not realize how much small items add up, and how much of an impact small sacrifices could make in the advancement of the Gospel.

Choosing to set aside the money we would have spent on something during this season can have a bigger impact than you may imagine. Returning to our Starbucks example, the amount of $150 spent for coffee would provide an entire month’s salary for a pastor in Africa or 1/5 of the annual support needed to invest in a life at La Gran Familia orphanage in Mexico. It may also be the amount needed in the life of someone in our community who is out of work to keep them from eviction or help them keep the lights on another month. The mite boxes you have found throughout the church serve as a place to gather these funds, which we will disperse during Easter..

Almsgiving is yet another practice to help us refocus upon what matters most as we give beyond our normal offering to the Lord. It also provides a way to simplify and to bring to our awareness where our resources go and perhaps the excess we have. May God use this season to draw our hearts closer to His in this area of our lives.

Blessings,

Andrew

Fasting During Lent

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 22:46:36 GMT

Fasting During Lent

Lent is upon us. A season of spiritual growth that is set aside for refocus, return to the Lord, and reprioritizing in the days leading up to Easter. Traditionally, this season has been marked by three practices to assist toward that end: fasting, almsgiving, and prayer. Over the next few weeks we will explore each of these pillars and practical ways to implement them as tools to further our growth in the likeness of Jesus during this season.

Historically, during Lent, fasting is encouraged on Fridays. Many wonder why this is a custom in the life of the Church. There are many reasons, but the first may be to remind us of the day. It is akin to tying a string around your finger, or in this day and age, sending yourself a reminder on your phone or computer. It marks the day as different as we set aside portions of the day to seek the Lord. For this reason fasting is often encouraged when we need the Lord’s guidance on a matter or issue in life. We see our Lord point to this in Scripture (i.e. Acts 13:2 and the choosing of the disciple to replace Judas).

Beyond merely marking the day, fasting also serves as an offering to God. We give up the time we would have spent over a meal in prayer. Even in our fast paced society today, we often have at least an hour for lunch. And if we turned this into an hour of prayer or studying God’s Holy Word, we present our time and ourselves as an offering back to Him. In times of trial or great decision we ‘carve out’ time to listen and seek the Lord for guidance, and on Fridays in Lent it allows us time to reflect upon our Lord’s sacrifice on our behalf on that day.

Lastly, Fr. Homer Rogers, a priest from this area of a generation past, once said that fasting helps “to discipline and train the bodily appetites in obedience to the higher faculties of the intellect and will.” Put another way, fasting helps develop in us a discipline to seek God above all else. It places us in a position of both humility and availability as we seek His will.

During Lent abstinence from meat on Wednesday and Friday is also done for many of the same reasons. The goal of course was not so focused upon the meat, as what the meat represents: extravagance. We don’t think of meat as extravagant, but it is certainly more rare than other food items (and a luxury in other parts of the world, or to the poor in our own communities). The goal behind this custom was to live more simply during this season. As we take times to refocus upon the Lord through both fasting and abstinence this season, I pray that we draw nearer to Him through these practices as we learn to seek Him above all else.

Blessings,

Andrew

(Image by PicsbyFran on Pixabay )

Observing a Holy Lent

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 15:26:03 GMT

Observing a Holy Lent

Blessings,
Andrew

From One Celebration to Another

Sat, 06 Jan 2024 11:00:00 GMT

This week can come as a bit of a let down on the heels of various celebrations over the past several weeks. With the boxing up of decorations, return to school, and resuming routines comes a longing for more celebration as things go back to normal schedules. We certainly see this yearning evidenced in our culture by the emerging Valentine’s Day decorations and candy littering the shelves throughout various stores. Who doesn’t love a reason to celebrate?!

The joy of the Christian calendar is that the celebration does not end this week. We merely transition from one celebration to another. As Friday marked the end of Christmas, it signaled the beginning of Epiphany (which lands on Saturday this year). Epiphany, meaning manifestation or revealing, celebrates the arrival of the wise men from the East to see the newborn King. This moment fulfilled the prophecies of old which foretold of a time when the nations would be gathered back to God through Israel’s relationship with Him (see Isaiah 42:6). Jesus, representative of Israel and in perfect relationship with God, is made known to the world as the star shines as a spotlight upon Him.

We rejoice in this moment, because it is good news for all. Good news that the way to God is opened to all through Jesus Christ, as He shines the way for each of us to come into relationship with Him. In every age the invitation stands to imitate the example of the wise men and come to Jesus. One eloquent preacher and bishop in our tradition by the name of Lancelot Andrews noted,

“They came a long journey, and they came an uneasy journey; they came a dangerous journey and they came now, at the worst season of the year. They stayed not their coming till the opening of the year, till they might have better weather and way, and have longer days and so more seasonable and fit to travel in. So desirous were they to come with the first, and to be there as soon as they possibly might; broke through all these difficulties, and behold, come they did.

Many cultures continue the festivities with a King Cake, parades, and other customs to recall this momentous occasion. As we live under the reality of the Resurrection, perhaps you may embrace or start such a custom in your home. You could make crowns to wear, have a special dinner, or pick up King Cake as a way to remember and celebrate the greatest moment in human history. As is also customary in these days, perhaps you’d like to have your home blessed. May we celebrate this season to help us reflect, return, and ever hold fast to the Good News manifest to the world in Jesus Christ our Lord.

Blessings,

Andrew

Lessons from the Church Fathers for Father's Day

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 16:21:30 GMT

What the Church Fathers teach us about fatherhood.

As Father’s Day approaches this weekend it seems fitting to turn our gaze upon the Church Fathers who embodied the very nature of fatherhood. These leaders of the Faith, living in the first eight centuries of the Church, wrote, taught, and led lives of sanctity to assist others pursuing an upward call in Christ Jesus. In many ways they embodied the call of fatherhood, namely to be grounded, growing, and guiding others back to God, our heavenly Father. Therein are some great lessons for Father’s Day, and the call of fatherhood as well as for men who invest in the lives of others.

First, the Church Fathers were always sons themselves. Many were fathered in the Faith by the apostles and those we read about on the very pages of scripture. Throughout their lives they never stopped growing in knowledge and pursuit of a life in Christ Jesus as they remained students of scripture, grew in the Faith delivered to them (Jude 3), and continued to seek others to challenge them.

Dads and spiritual fathers, we are called to do the same. We must first be sons, before leading as fathers. We cannot give away what we do not have. Be students of God’s Word, be mentored by other men who will spur you on in the Faith, continue to seek, hunger, and thirst for righteousness in your life. If you have never engaged the Church Fathers before, this weekend may be a perfect time to do so. There are a host of resources available, even some daily devotionals that are quite useful (click here for one I’d recommend) and you may find a free online library of them all by clicking here (try starting with Augustine’s Confessions).

Secondly, the Church Fathers gave what they received. What they passed on to generations to come was what they had been instructed, believed, and lived out in their own lives. They didn’t add to or take away from it, but faithfully upheld, contended for, and applied it in ways that would assist others.

Dads, we are called to be faithful in this way as well in our own lives. Give away what has been given to you. Don’t add to it, embellish upon it, but faithfully disciple, raise up and invest in the faith of others. It starts in the home, but even if you aren’t a biological father, it starts with those around you and with whom you have influence. Find ways to humbly bring them into what you are walking out in studying God’s Word, engaging God in prayer and your pursuit of holiness.

Finally, the Church Fathers contended for the Faith. Many of the writings of the Church Fathers clarified and at times rebuked errant teachings in their day. Like a good father they instructed and corrected others, but never drew back from the Truth even when it meant they were the only ones who stood for it (as was the case of Athanasius who was even banished for doing so, read more about him here ).

Dads, standing for the Truth isn’t easy. But we don’t teach our kids or those we invest in to back down from the hard choices, and we shouldn’t when it comes to our Faith either. Rather, we must be willing to engage the tough issues, speaking the Truth in love and point our families and society back to the One in whom we place our faith, God Himself.

So this Father’s Day as we celebrate our dads in our lives, and ask for God’s grace as fathers to press into such a high calling, leaning into the wisdom and walking in the footsteps of those who faithfully have gone before us.

Our children fulfilling the Great Commission

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 23:53:55 GMT

Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.”

Luke 18:17 ESV

Sunday we kicked off our first Family Camp Sunday! And what a day it was for so many different reasons. It brought me great joy to see so many little faces wrap the altar rail at Communion, and to hear the fun they had after worship as they splashed outside in pools and water slides over lunch.

Yet, the highlight for me was watching two families who brought friends. Both of whom shared they had little to no Faith background. One of our guests, who I spoke with loved being with us and had such an amazing time. She plans to join us again this Sunday! The other engaged in all activities and had a blast, as his friends included him in all the fun!

It was a great embodiment of the Great Commission which stood central to the day. And the reminder that God is always 21drawing us to Himself and these families who brought friends and neighbors serve to remind us all that we have a part to play toward that end.

I hope to see more this Sunday as we have a field day theme around Saint Barnabas Day. Do keep our teachers, younger worshippers and their families in your prayers. And I pray we all have such ease and boldness to draw others into what God is doing in our lives to bring them along to come and see as well!

Blessings,
Andrew

Trinity Sunday

Wed, 31 May 2023 13:18:43 GMT

Big updates at Saint Barnabas!

Wed, 24 May 2023 12:58:57 GMT

Dear beloved in Christ Jesus,

If you missed our big announcements last week, I want to make sure you aren’t left out. The news was twofold and included major campus improvements to accommodate our growth as well as a new ministry opportunity. Each have been carefully discerned, discussed, and decided upon with your Vestry.

First, we are moving forward with many site improvements due to the growth in our numbers in worship, children’s ministry, and the nursery. We will be repainting the education wing on the heels of Family Camp Sundays in June as our Preschool moves to a new site at the close of this school year. We will also be transforming several rooms; a classroom will become another Worship and Wonder space with expanded curriculum, the quiet room will become a second nursery (which we plan to staff as needed), and our Youth Room will be reworked to facilitate for more meetings and gathering spaces for both teens and adults alike. We anticipate that the entire education wing will be in full use this fall! We are likewise overhauling the audio system to upgrade speakers, sound equipment, and expand the use of our system as we look to future use (such as the one below). As one Vestry member stated, “You won’t see the difference, but you will hear it!”

Secondly, after much prayer, discernment, and conversations with colleagues and Bishop Reed, we will be starting a second service this fall, in Spanish. We hope to be a pilot for Spanish services that are launched alongside existing and thriving English speaking services that share in community, catechesis, and mission together. We will be learning from a native Spanish speaking colleague of mine, Fr. Salvador, who has much experience in launching such services over the years. The aim is to take the lessons learned to establish them into a model that may be replicated around the diocese. Likewise, in working with Fr. Salvador, the need for English services was identified for our Latino congregations to reach their children and grandchildren.

Toward that end, Bishop Reed has approved Dcn John Heffron to serve in both congregations after his ordination to the priesthood. Dcn. John will be ordained at Saint Barnabas later this summer, Lord willing, and will serve at San Juan the Apostle with Fr. Salvador on Sunday mornings and with us on Sunday evenings as we begin a Spanish service. After the first year, we hope to move that service nearer to noon after I catch up to Dcn. John in my Spanish proficiency, and / or, God raises leaders from among that service that allow for my Latino colleagues to no longer rotate to assist us each week.

On June 12 from 7:30-8:30 Fr. Salvador, Dcn. John and I will host a forum to answer questions and share a bit more about the details of this exciting endeavor. You are welcome to attend, ask question, merely listen to the conversation. God is doing big things here and I am excited to share in it with you! Please uphold all these endeavors in your prayers and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions!

Faithfully,

Fr. Andrew Petta

Fall Parish Update

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 20:13:21 GMT

Dear beloved in Christ Jesus,

As summer begins to draw to a close, I wanted to update you on the fall start at the church. Enclosed you will find a list of fall activities and start dates. I hope you will put it in your Bible or on the fridge and take note of the offerings for you and ways to reach out to others in our community with the transforming love of Jesus Christ. Additionally, I wanted to highlight the main discipleship offerings as we get back into life together after a more relaxed and relational summer.

Discovery Bible Study, which we shared about last spring, will become the method for Bible study at the church. It overlays well for all our groups, whether small groups, men’s group (AMOC) and women’s group, youth group or even those you may use in your own homes. It is a way to engage scripture, internalize it, act upon it, and hold one another accountable to what has been gleaned and decided upon as application. We are doing training on this method every Sunday in August. If you’d like to be a small group leader, lead in a ministry at present, or would like to learn for your own soul’s health, please stick around. We will have pizza and teaching for about an hour those weeks.

We will launch this method beginning on September 11 as we begin our stewardship series. The passages preached upon will also be the passages explored. As we move through those four weeks and conclude with a fellowship dinner (see the date enclosed) and ingathering Sunday (October 2 and 9), groups can transition into topical studies or a book of the Bible they may be interested in doing. Youth Group will launch using this same method at that time. We plan to have a ‘huddle with our teens on September 4 to discuss everything with them as we move to a new model and format. For our youngest worshippers, Worship and Wonder will resume on August 21 during worship.

For those interested in a more in-depth Bible Study, Community Bible Study (a link to their program is found on our website) starts back on August 23 with a study of Daniel this fall and Revelation this winter. They have an online option via Zoom as well this year. I’d urge you to reengage with one of these opportunities to be in God’s Word and grow more fully in the Faith.

I’d likewise encourage you to pray about ways to serve. Many have been highlighted this summer in our communications from Sunday service opportunities to one-time events listed on the Save the Date cards. Consider ways you can grow and go, as our tagline states this fall. In all things we are called to be disciples of Jesus, but also those who enroll others to be His disciples as well. I look forward to reengaging in life together in the month ahead, and remain available to you as questions, concerns or pastoral needs arise.

Faithfully in Christ Jesus,

Fr. Andrew Petta

Church Fathers and Father's Day

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 16:17:22 GMT

Thought on Trinity Sunday

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 18:29:17 GMT

So the Father is God, the Son is God, and the Holy Spirit is God; And yet they are not three Gods, but one God. - excerpt from the Athanasian Creed.

Trinity Sunday, this week, highlights perhaps the greatest mystery of our Faith: the nature of the Godhead. As part of the foundation of our Faith, we hold that God is three Persons in One Being. There is an old joke among the clergy that it only takes 30 seconds to err into heresy in a Trinity Sunday sermon amidst our feeble attempts to unpack this profound Truth.

As we prepare for this celebration, one of the best explanations of the Trinity it as found in the Athanasian Creed. It was originally written to refute that there are three Gods, different hierarchies within Godhead, that any member of the Godhead was created, among many others errors. You may find it in its entirety on page 769 of the 2019 Book of Common prayer.

Elsewhere Athanasius, the Church Fathers to whom this Creed is attributed, wrote why this is so important:

"[The Trinity] is a Trinity not merely in name or in a figurative manner of speaking; rather, it is a Trinity in truth and in actual existence. Just as the Father is he that is, so also his Word is one that is and is God over all. And neither is the Holy Spirit nonexistent but actually exists and has true being. Less than these the Catholic Church does not hold…” (Letters to Serapion 1:28 [A.D. 359]).

This is the heart of our Faith, because it reveals the nature of God. God dwells not only in relationship with us, but also in perfect relationship to Himself. The love between Father, Son, and Holy Spirit show us what perfect, selfless, pure love truly looks like. It is from that perfect love, which is poured out to us in the person and work of the Holy Spirit that we see and receive the love and relationship we have with God the Father through Jesus Christ (and His sacrificial love for us).

This week we are called to pause, celebrate, and take in that reality the Faith. Embrace the depth of the Truth of it in your own life and to give thanks for the model of love that exists in the Godhead. A love which gives us hope. A love by which we are perfected and that we are called to freely give to others. Certainly the Trinity is a mystery, for we cannot fully comprehend the depths of God through our finite understanding. Yet, what is revealed to us forms the bedrock of the Christian Faith, and sets our Faith apart from the other religions of the world. A Faith that is unique in its invitation for us to have relationship with God and to participate in His work in the world.

State of the Parish Update

Tue, 31 May 2022 20:21:14 GMT

Dear beloved in Christ Jesus,

As we near the midway point in the year, I wanted to provide you with a state of the parish update. First and foremost, let me thank you f or the strong support financially this year! It has enabled us to do much in terms of discipleship. We’ve been able to pour into children and teens regularly through your help, in addition to pushing out a multitude of mission funds to those beyond our walls. Your partnership touches many and enables us to steward our site well as it ages.

Looking ahead I’d like to call your attention to three main areas in the life of the church. The first is the upcoming shift to a diocesan program called Discovery Bible Study. Bishop Reed himself has dedicated time to the coaching and implementation of this study and its ability to not only be a resource for our churches but a tool in a broader discipleship strategy. He has encouraged each church to take it on.

In exploring it myself I’ve found it quite unlike any other Bible study I’ve encountered. It doesn’t require a study guide or resource but serves as a framework for all to open God’s Word, internalize it, take away an action step from the Scripture studied, then be accountable to the group for follow through of its implementation in one’s life. We will begin to use it in all our groups starting this fall (men’s group, women’s group, Youth Group, and Growth Groups). Instead of adding onto what we are currently doing, this serves to overlay upon what is already happening and provide for greater engagement, implementation, and growth in the likeness of Jesus.

We’d love to include all who are interested in finding out more about it and seeing it first hand in August after church. Each Sunday in August (7,14,21,28) we will meet over pizza in the Youth Room to learn, practice and be equipped to roll it out across the parish in September. Please email the office if you’d like to join! I’m excited for this step of not only being in God’s Word for study as a church, but a means to engage God’s Word toward the end that it impacts our lives regularly as we share about it with others.

Secondly, in case you missed it a couple weeks ago, Colin Craig, our Youth Director, is transitioning away from that role as he just welcomed a new baby. He will be sorely missed. I am meeting with all youth group aged parents on June 12 to talk about next steps, including the introduction of Discovery Bible Study, as well as to hear from them about their ideas and needs. If you’d like to join, please do so that day.

Lastly, our children’s ministry is need of more hands. We have grown our base of children in Sunday School weekly and need more volunteers this fall. Would you pray about helping? The lessons we use are very easily scripted out, require little prep, and fill the time well. If we can get enough help, it would only require one pair (couple or two individuals) to give up the first half of worship on a Sunday once a month or even every six weeks. Our children are our future of the Church, and their formation will be a blessing to you as well as to them. Please consider taking this on and uphold those who serve toward that end.

More to come in the months ahead! And as we often encourage you to do over the summer, consider automating the important. If you are away over the coming months, ministry marches on with VBS, site maintenance and prep for the fall. By visiting our website, you can set up online giving for a few months to continue to support the vital work of ministry at our church. As always, if you have questions on any of these items, or anything else, do reach out!

Faithfully,

Fr. Andrew

Ascension

Wed, 25 May 2022 13:26:55 GMT

“And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.” Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them. While he blessed them, he parted from them and was carried up into heaven. And they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple blessing God. (Luke 24:49-53 ESV)

Tomorrow we celebrate Jesus’ return to His rightful place in glory at the right hand of God the Father. While His return into heaven marks the completion of His earthly life and ministry, it marks also the beginning of things to come. First, that Jesus goes before His disciples to prepare a place for them. Secondly, that His departure allowed the promised Holy Spirit to descend. Jesus’ ascension, in essence inaugurates a season a preparation.

Jesus states that He goes to prepare a place for His disciples, which includes all who place their faith in Him, until He returns at His Second Coming to gather them all to Himself. Have you ever dwelt upon that fact? He is not removed from us, but is at work. Jesus is transforming us, and all of creation, as a dwelling place with Him forever. He is bringing that work about daily. As we grow in His likeness, and as He restores all around us, we are moving ever closer to that Day. Yet, in His mercy He allows for us to bring others along into that process so that more and more may find a place prepared for them as they, too, are enrolled as followers of Jesus.

The process of sanctification, growing in holiness, and enrolling others, or making disciples, is something we do not do in our own strength or resources. Rather, it is done in and through us as we cooperate with the Holy Spirit, who resides in us through baptism and turning to faith in Jesus. Jesus’ departure also marked a season of preparation for the disciples as in following days they were instructed to wait for the promised Holy Spirit who would descend upon the them enabling them to teach and do all that Jesus instructed.

In celebration of Ascension you may want to enter into this this major event in the Church Year by doing something special. Perhaps you could do a family activity like flying a kite, going to get wings, or something that may bring the reality of this moment home as you read through this passage and discuss it. In addition to the celebration, we too are called to prepare ourselves daily.

Find ways to prepare your heart for Pentecost. Carving out more time with the Lord, dedicating yourself anew to serve Him and increasing your commitment to give your best to the Lord in worship. Ask the Lord for avenues to reach out to others and explore opportunities to serve at Saint Barnabas. Every day His return is closer and we are called to be ready. May we present ourselves, as we pray weekly in the Eucharistic prayer, as a living sacrifice to Jesus in the ways we order our days, offer our time, and give of our resources to the advancement of the Kingdom.

Good Shepherd Sunday

Thu, 05 May 2022 00:32:50 GMT

Good Shepherd Sunday is annually celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Easter (this Sunday). Every year we read a portion of the tenth chapter of John’s gospel as we reflec t upon this image Jesus uses to reveal the character and nature of God in a series of “I AM” statements. We do well to see these that “I AM” statements refer back to the first revelation of God’s name to His people, Israel, as He spoke to Moses.

Walking through Holy Week

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 18:48:58 GMT

And he came to the disciples and found them sleeping. And he said to Peter, “So, could you not watch with me one hour? Matthew 26:40

On Sunday we embark upon the week long journey to Easter morning. There are several opportunities for worship in the subsequent days that are intended to assist us in reflecting upon Jesus’ sacrifice and death for our sake. Each service is unique, designed to make us active participants in the moments leading up the Resurrection.

Spring 2022 Quarterly Update

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 18:37:39 GMT

D ear beloved in Christ Jesus,

We transitioned from our 2021 focal points of provision, program, and passion that dovetailed into our 2022 focal points of retiring the debt, reaching and retaining 15 new households, and renewing a 3-5 year vision for our parish. As we conclude the first quarter of 2022, hard to believe, I wanted to update you on these areas. I likewise want to thank you and spur you on in your giving and engagement at the church.

As I shared at the annual meeting, our goal of resolving the debt is not one of launching another capital funding effort, but one of prayer and partnership with the Lord to advance mission and ministry at the church. The debt continues to incumber and stifle us, so the Vestry and I have been looking creatively at how we can move forward together. God is bringing creative opportunities that we are exploring. Pray for us to have wisdom and we will report on the details as they materialize. Thank you for your partnership in faithful giving, and for those who have not made such a commitment it is truly needful and has an impact as you will read below!

Our program, or outreach, as you have heard is Good News Club. We are nearing the midway point of our Spring effort. We see fruit and need your help. You can help us provide snacks for the 12-15 attending by dropping treats off at the church or by giving a little extra with a memo that it’s to be used for GNC. Likewise, you could write a note of encouragement to one of those attending. You can simply let them know you are praying for them by name, for instance. Lastly, through your giving, we are planning five events to assist us in reaching and retaining these or other new families. After working to build such relationships, getting further equipped in evangelism, and thinking more intentionally about engaging those in our spheres of influence, we hope these events provide a soft landing into community at our church. You will see and hear more about these in the weeks ahead and see the postcard we are giving away to those in the community enclosed with upcoming events.

Lastly, we continue to discern, listen, and follow the path the Lord is revealing in the years ahead as we move toward further growth, staffing, planning, and communication going forward. Again our hope is to move beyond that which incumbers and more fully uninhibited into mission and ministry together. I hope we can have an Eastertide lunch to begin to talk more fully about these plans together, so keep an eye out for a date! Much is needful as we move forward together, and I am grateful for your giving and partnership in the Gospel. We have a busy quarter ahead, and your involvement and giving is the fuel for ministry and life together. If you have any questions, my door is always open to you.

Small groups and the way forward

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 14:10:01 GMT

I trust by now you have received an email, text or call about Bible study small groups that begin next week. I truly hope you will make every effort to attend over the n ext six weeks. If your group meets at a time you cannot, or if you haven’t been contacted, please email the church office. We want everyone to gather around God’s Word as we explore, listen and look to the future of our church. All you need is a Bible, 10-15 minutes in the course of your week to read a chapter or two therein and some time to prayerfully reflect upon what God is saying to us.

The book of Ezra was written at a time when the people of Israel were returning to Jerusalem after decades in exile. There was much work to be done, but it all began with a work in their hearts. They did not know and had not been taught God’s commandments and ways, and thus Ezra spent time opening God’s Word, instructing them, and reinstating many ways of life that would assist them in walking faithfully with the Lord.

While thankfully we are not returning from physical exile, it does feel as though we’ve been scattered due to COVID and all that faces us right now. As we seek to look to the future of our church, what we purpose to do with and for the Lord, and reconvene either digitally or in person, we too, would do well to start in God’s Word. Ezra serves as a great place to do so, and will guide us in questions around where God is leading us.

I know it will be fruitful. Within your small groups you will dialogue around many issues, so we don’t want to miss your voice. God affirms and speaks to the Body of Christ collectively as we pray and spend time in His Word engaging the challenges, ideas and plans that face us. I know you will be encouraged and it will be exciting to see what the Lord brings forth from these times!

Lessons from Trinity Sunday this week

Tue, 25 May 2021 21:29:38 GMT

So the Father is God, the Son is God, and the Holy Spirit is God; And yet they are not three Gods, but one God. - excerpt from the Athanasian Creed.

Elsewhere Athanasius, the Church Fathers to whom this Creed is attributed, wrote why this is so important:

Preparing for Pentecost

Mon, 17 May 2021 18:40:25 GMT

O God, the King of glory, you have exalted your only Son Jesus Christ with great triumph to your kingdom in heaven: Do not leave us comfortless, but send us your Holy Sp irit to strengthen us, and exalt us to that place where our Savior Christ has gone before; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.

You are invited to a huge celebration this week! This Sunday is Pentecost, the birthday of the Church, wherein we celebrate the Holy Spirit descending from heaven. As He alighted upon the heads of the disciples in the form of tongues of fire, the Holy Spirit empowered them to go out, teach, and do all that Jesus taught and commanded.

However, the disciples had a choice. The could stay huddled together in the Upper Room behind closed doors and together among familiar faces, or they could step out. Thankfully they chose to step out, quite literally, onto the balcony and proclaim what God had done in Jesus Christ and was doing through the Holy Spirit. As they stepped out in faithful obedience, the Holy Spirit moved through them to bring in a harvest of 3,000 souls who were gathered in Jerusalem for the annual harvest festival of the first fruits.

God did the work, through the willing and faithful hearts of the disciples. This exact moment was ordained by God, when multitudes would already be in Jerusalem. God put the words in Peter’s mouth, and opened the ears of those listening. God even miraculously communicated the message in the languages of those present, so it could be received. God did the ‘heavy lifting.’

The disciples’ role was to confidently step out in faith. Once they did so, they gained greater confidence to press into God and see Him work. Page after page in the chapters that follow in Acts bear witness to this fact as many are healed, the Church is united, and the Good News of Jesus spreads like wildfire.

As we prepare to join in the celebration on Sunday, may we also prepare our hearts to do so. I urge you to set aside a bit of extra time in prayer this week to ask God to equip our church at Saint Barnabas to boldly step out in confidence for His name’s sake. Also, ask the Lord how you may be called individually to do so. Take time to prepare for worship and bring your best to the Lord as we celebrate what He continues to do in and through the Church by the power of the Holy Spirit.

God continues to look for disciples today who, like the original twelve, step out in faith and boldly follow Him. I pray that we are that church. A community that moves at the impulse of God’s direction as we grow to be more like Him and bring others into His presence.

Ascension

Mon, 10 May 2021 21:04:37 GMT

Th ursday we c elebrate Jesus’ return to His rightful place in glory at the right hand of God the Father. While His return into heaven marks the completion of His earthly life and ministry, it marks also the beginning of things to come. First, that Jesus goes before His disciples to prepare a place for them. Secondly, that His departure allowed the promised Holy Spirit to descend. Jesus’ ascension, in essence inaugurates a season a preparation.

What are rogation days?

Wed, 05 May 2021 15:46:24 GMT

Sunday and the following three days of next week are Rogation Days in the liturgical calendar. Traditionally, these days preceded the annual remembrance of Jesus’ ascension into heaven. The Gospels and Acts tell us that Jesus appeared to the disciples for forty days after His Resurrection. Since we celebrate Easter on Sunday, the Ascension always falls on a Thursday, and the Monday - Wednesday prior are Rogation Days. The Church set aside these days for fasting and praying for God’s favor upon the land, crops, and livestock.

It was customary to use the Great Litany, found on page 91 in the 2019 Book of Common Prayer, and to have the parish priest come and ‘beat the bounds’ of one’s property. As the Litany was prayed, holy water was cast around one’s property. It was a visible reminder that despite what we think we can control there is much we do not. We lean into God’s grace and mercy to sustain us, asking for favorable weather, healthy birth of animals, development of crops, and so much more that lies outside of our control. Likewise, the practice served a wonderful reminder that God is continuing to redeem all of creation. D oing so in the days leading up to the Ascension served to remind the Faithful that while Jesus had returned into Heaven, His work continues.

Sadly, in metropolitan areas Rogation Days have often lost their place. However, it needn’t be so. The delightful practice of asking God to bless our labors is one from which we can all benefit, despite our vocations or locations. Over the years, I have been invited to bless many businesses, sports teams, and small shops. I would welcome the opportunity to bless your classroom, work space, or business and beat the ‘bounds of your work place’ if you so desire it.

Again, Rogations Days serve as a wonderful reminder that while Jesus is at His rightful place in Glory, His work continues on until its completion upon His return. It does so as we abide in Him and invite Him into our common life, which He sustains and redeems. As we enter these days, may our hearts be more fully open to inviting Him into every aspect as we ask for His perfect will in each area therein. I remain available to you, as do the clergy, if we can bless your work space in the days ahead. Please email or call the church office if you desire to arrange a time.

Where do we go from here?

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 18:48:33 GMT

Where do we go from here?

Sunday we will hold our first of two town hall meetings immediately following worship. It is hard to believe that nearly a year and a half has passed since COVID entered our daily vernacular! During that time we’ve learned to adapt and get creative in order to persevere in life together at Saint Barnabas. While COVID has not gone away, we are entering a season where we are not pivoting biweekly to militate its effects.

I and your leadership have discerned now is the time to look toward where God is calling us in the years ahead. Sunday we will explore what that entails. We will look at some challenges that face us as we do so, some exciting opportunities that lie before us, and God’s faithfulness to us. Now is the time to pray, plan and press onward as we lift our gaze to look out a bit farther.

I don’t want you to miss out! If you call Saint Barnabas your home church, please make every effort to be there this Sunday or on May 16. We stand at a crossroads and pivotal moment in both the life of our church as well as the life of our country. Let’s join together with renewed vigor as we seek to be faithful and obedient to the Lord as we press on in the Kingdom work we’ve been called to through Christ Jesus!

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The celebration has just begun!

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 21:06:16 GMT

Alleluia! Christ is Risen!

As we continue in the Easter season this week, we are called to reflect upon what Jesus' resurrection means for both us and the world. His bursting forth from the grave conquered sin and death. And that changes everything. His victory is our victory, as sin and death looses its power over us as well as all over all of creation.

Making sense of the silence of Holy Saturday

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 15:39:56 GMT

After all of the events of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, there is a silence and solemnity to Holy Saturday. It often is seen as a day of preparation for Easter, and r ightfully so. However, such silence should not be mistaken for inaction. In an ancient homily below, by an unknown author from the 4th Century, the events of the day are so poetically captured. I hope you find it edifying as you reflect upon Jesus’ sacrifice for our sake in these days leading up to Easter.

~ Author Unknown

Walking with Jesus through Holy Week

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 01:38:01 GMT

And he came to the disciples and found them sleeping. And he said to Peter, “So, could you not watch with me one hour? Matthew 26:40

On Sunday we embark upon the week long journey to Easter morning. There are several opportunities for worship in the subsequent days that are intended to assist us in reflecting upon Jesus’ sacrifice and death for our sake. Each service is unique, designed to make us active participants in the moments leading up the Resurrection.

The power of prayer - a Lenten Pillar

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 14:47:38 GMT

The past few weeks we have explored two of the three pillars of Lent; fasting and almsgiving. Both are intended to create space in our lives so that we can spend time wi th the Lord. The chief way we do so is through prayer. Communication is the key to strengthening and maintaining any relationship, and the same is true of our relationship with the Lord. Cultivating and creating times to be with the Lord is vital to our spiritual growth.

Lenten Almsgiving

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 15:57:19 GMT

A few weeks ago, we explored fasting as a practice to draw us closer to the Lord during this season of Lent. Closely related to it is the practice of almsgiving, which i s another pillar of this season to assist us in our growth, return, and refocus in these forty days. Almsgiving and fasting are linked, because in generations past when one gave up meat on Wednesday and Friday, or fasted from a meal entirely, the money that would have been spent was set aside for the work of ministry. It was another way to order one’s appetites by returning more of oneself to the Lord.

Choosing to set the aside money we would have spent on something during this season can have a bigger impact than you may imagine. Returning to our Starbucks example, the amount of $150 spent for coffee would provide an entire month’s salary for a pastor in Africa or 1/5 of the annual support needed to invest in a life at La Gran Familia orphanage in Mexico. It may also be the amount needed in the life of someone in our community who is out of work to keep them from eviction or help them keep the lights on another month. Call or email the church office if you’d like to chat more about what you could place such an offering toward at the end of these forty days.

Confession

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 20:36:20 GMT

On Sunday we will encounter the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20. It is appropriate to reread this familiar passage during the Lenten season, because it reminds us of our c all to live in harmony with God and others. The first four commandments focus upon our relationship to God and the how to honor Him. The final six give us parameters for honoring all those we engage throughout life (with number five serving a dual role: when we honor our parents we also learn how to honor God our Heavenly Father).

Often, as we read through this list, we find one or two that maybe we have not done quite as well at maintaining but feel as thought we are doing rather well in total. But, if we look beyond the strictly literal meanings, we may discover that we may not be doing as well as we think. For example, we may not have “killed” someone literally, but have we allowed anger to overwhelm us in such a way that it has brought on ill–will toward someone else? Perhaps our anger has even led to words or actions that ‘killed’ fellowship or relationship with another, which we have not restored. As we reread the Ten Commandments this week it provides us with a fresh opportunity to ‘take inventory’ of our own lives.

One way to help us further our walk with the Lord is by confessing the ways we have fallen short of His purposes for our lives in relationship to Him and others. Doing so helps us grow, because it removes those obstacles from our hearts and lives that prevent us from fully seeking after the Lord. However, the notion of confession and seeking out me or Fr. Greg to do so may seem daunting, or at least may raise questions!

The main question that arises is why do auricular confession? Do you have to come to me, or another priest, to receive forgiveness? No, you do not. In fact, you confess weekly in worship weekly corporately and you can always confess your sins before the Lord in your own heart. However, there are certain benefits in doing auricular, or private confession. Richard Foster in his book, The Celebration of Discipline, notes,

Though many of us, myself included, would feel highly uncomfortable with that form of confession, it does have certain advantages. First, the formalized form of printed confession does not allow for any excuses or extenuating circumstances. We must confess that we have sinned by our own fault…This is a Reality Therapy of the best sort since we are so prone to blame our sins on everybody and everything instead of taking personal responsibility for them.

A second advantage of the Confessional is that the word of forgiveness is expected and given in the absolution…The penitent is then told in clear, authoritative words that he is totally forgiven and set free of his sin. The assurance of forgiveness is sealed in the Spirit when it is spoken…

There is a third advantage to institutionalize Confession, namely, penance. If penance is viewed as a way of earning forgiveness, it is dangerous indeed. But if it is seen as an opportunity to pause a moment to consider the seriousness of our sin, then it has genuine merit…The purpose of penance is to help us move into that deeper sense of the sinfulness of sin (pp 148-148).

If you have never formally gone to confession consider taking the opportunity to do so this Lent. Come experience the freedom of laying your sins, guilt, and burdens before the Lord. It is not as scary as you may think, and it is actually quite a liberating practice. There is nothing that you may confess that will in any way scandalize me or Fr. Greg, or cause us to view you any differently. And, all you share is bound by the confessional, or strictly confidential. You may discover that once you ‘get it all out there’, and hear that you are forgiven, a weight is lifted from your shoulders. Many find renewed strength to move forward as they let go of past events, hurt, or guilt they have been carrying around with them.

If you’d like to afford yourself this opportunity, but do not know where to begin, I have some resources available. Some explain how confession works, while others ask questions for you to ponder in regard to your own life as you reflect upon the Ten Commandments in preparation for making your confession. As always, if you have questions feel free to contact me. I am available for confessions by appointment as needed, as is Fr. Greg. May God bless you as you seek to keep a Holy Lent.

Lessons from Fasting

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 19:52:55 GMT

L ent is a season to return, refocus and make changes in our lives and hearts that draw us closer to the Lord. Traditionally, fasting is one discipline that assists us toward that end. During Lent we are encouraged to do this both on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, as well as on Fridays throughout the season.

Many wonder why this is a custom in the life of the Church. There are many reasons, but the first may be to remind us of the day. It is akin to tying a string around your finger, or in this day and age, sending yourself a reminder on your phone or computer. It marks the day as different as we sets aside portions of the day to seek the Lord. For this reason fasting is often encouraged when we need the Lord’s guidance on a matter or issue in life. We see our Lord point to this at in Scripture (i.e. Acts 13:2 and the choosing of the disciple to replace Judas).

Beyond merely marking the day, fasting also serves as an offering to God. We give up the time we would have spent over a meal in prayer. Even in our fast paced society today, we often have at least an hour for lunch. And if we turned this into an hour of prayer or studying God’s Holy Word, we present our time and ourselves as an offering back to Him. In times of trial or great decision we ‘carve out’ time to listen and seek the Lord for guidance, and on Good Friday or Fridays in Lent it allows us time to reflect upon our Lord’s sacrifice on our behalf.

During Lent abstinence of meat on Wednesday and Friday is also done for many of the same reasons. The goal of course was not so focused upon the meat, as what the meat represents: extravagance. We don’t think of meat as extravagant, but it is certainly more rare than other food items (and a luxury in other parts of the world, or to the poor in our own communities). The goal behind this custom was to live more simply during this season.

Whether your fast from food, social media, alcohol, or shopping the goal remains the same. Namely, to offer our hearts and lives unto the Lord and create space to be with Him more fully in the coming days. As we take times to refocus upon the Lord through both fasting and abstinence this season, I pray that we draw nearer to Him through these practices as we learn to seek Him above all else.

And as we move into this first week of Lent, here are a few resources that may assist you during this season :

- The Daily Office, which you can access online here - https://www.dailyoffice2019.com

-Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster

-The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis

-Books on Prayer:

Teach us to Pray by Andre Louf

Talking with God by Francois Fenelon

The Prayer of Jesus by Ken Hemphill

Bible Study on prayer – Jesus and Prayer by Daniel Harrington

Reading through John’s gospel, a chapter a day, is a good study.

I am able to suggest other resources on specific topics, as you may need. Please feel free to contact me with any question you may have, as always, I am available to assist you.

Embarking upon the Lenten Journey

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 14:53:04 GMT

Yesterday, Ash Wednesday, marked the beginning of Lent. This forty day season leading up to Easter is set aside for repentance, renewal and growth. Historically, it fall s in the days leading up to the first full moon following the spring equinox, the first Sunday after which is Easter. It appropriately falls among the visual reminders of death and rebirth in creation as all lays dormant and dead from winter to bud and burst into new life in the spring. The call upon each of us is no less, to die to sin and self and be raised to new life in Jesus Christ.

As Christians, that journey began in baptism, but is lived out daily. We are called to grow from one degree of glory to another by drawing near to Jesus Christ and thereby being formed into His character and likeness. Doing so is our decision, which requires discipline and focus. Yet among the competing schedules, desires, and values, the choice is not always easy.

It does not always come down to a decision to choose good over evil, but often comes in the form of choosing between something that is good for the highest Good (placing God first). It may come in the crossroads of having to choose between carving out time for worship over the time spent for sports practice, or in turning off the TV for 45 minutes of quiet.

There are many decisions we can make this season to facilitate growth in Christ. One of the most difficult for our culture is fasting. We live in an age of immediate gratification, with everything available at the end of our fingertips with the click of a button. We can have most everything we want, whenever we desire it. Yet, it often feeds our insatiable desire for things that will never fill us. Certainly not in the way the Spirit of Jesus does in our lives.

When we think of fasting, we often think of giving up food. And that is at the heart of the fast, as one forgoes a meal or eats a very simple meal to create time and space for something else. In this case, that something else, is time to be with God. I would encourage you to try a simple fast on Wednesdays or Fridays in Lent.

One way to do so is to either forgo lunch, or eat a small lunch. It frees the remaining portion of one’s lunch hour to spend time in a lenten devotional (which you may find in the church), in prayer, or in the study of God’s Word (you could begin by previewing our gospel lesson for Sundays and asking a few simple questions of it as found here ).

Fasting, however, may not always be in the form of giving up food. I recall a page from the Forty Days for Life booklets found street side at each location on the subject. It highlighted other ways to fast, which I’d like to pass along for your edification.

Fasting from judging others and to feast on Christ dwelling in them. We can choose to see others through God’s eyes, asking Him for that first and foremost and putting it into practice in how we interact with others.

Fasting from pessimism and feasting on optimism. A decision to lift up our praises to God as we count our blessings and have our attitudes and hearts transformed.

Fasting from complaining and feasting on appreciation. A willful choice to focus upon what God is doing and the good in our lives, not what we lack.

Fasting from bitterness and feasting on forgiveness. A choice to ask God for a desire to forgive those in our lives, even if we are not quite able to do so at present.

Fasting from self-concern and feasting on concern and compassion. Perhaps a decision to clean out a closet of our many clothes that we may give to the needy, instead of shopping for the newest fashions to further fill our closets. Fasting from discontent and feasting on gratitude.

These forty days we are invited to further the transformative process we call the Christian life. Doing so requires intentionality, focus, and discipline. Yet as we die to sin and self, we are raised to new heights of life in Jesus Christ. I pray that as we walk these days together we will emerge on Easter ever more identifiably Christlike as a result

What is Ash Wednesday all about?

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 17:13:09 GMT

Ash Wednesday is less than a week away (February 17). Its arrival marks the beginning of Lent and a new season in the Church Year. On that day we pause and attend a rat her unique service as we embark upon this season together. But, what exactly is the history and significance of the service? What is the purpose of ashes? And what is the scriptural basis for all of these things?

Chaplaincy at Work: The “Final Frontier” of Missions

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 16:14:09 GMT

“Quite simply, the workplace is the final frontier in the mission world today!” says Fr. Greg McBrayer.

An Anglican priest (Diocese of Fort Worth) and chaplain for American Airlines at their Fort Worth, TX headquarters, Fr. Greg will be one of three frontline chaplains featured at the 2ndAnnual Faith@Work ERG Conference , Feb. 9-11, 2021. Held virtually this year, Fr. Greg highly encourages anyone interested in faith in the workplace to attend the conference. Registration is just $40.

“Today as never before, corporations are seeing the fruitfulness of Chaplaincy and Bivocational ministry being done by essential, front-line, spiritual first responders who are actively serving in the workplace through a worldwide crisis,” says Fr. Greg.

As Chief Flight Controller for American Airlines and Senior Chaplain, Fr. Greg has been in a unique position to continue ministering to essential workers during the pandemic, while unfortunately many clergy have been regarded as non-essential and barred from ministering in certain capacities.

“As an essential spiritual first responder, it has most compared with end-of-life grief ministry day in and day out. Airline colleagues and co-workers are grieving the loss of jobs, loss of loved ones, co-workers, and certainly the loss of human connection and civility,” Fr. Greg told the Religious Freedom & Business Foundation, the organizer of the Faith@Work Conference.

While the military has known the value of chaplaincy for decades, Fr. Greg says it’s only been since 9/11 that the corporate world has slowly begun to embrace faith in the workplace through ERGs or EBRGs – Employee Business Resource Groups. ERGs represent numerous employee interests, and their growing acceptance has allowed clergy to minister where people spend the most hours of their day.

“People may drift from the Church, but they don’t drift from their workplaces where we spend most of our lives,” says Fr. Greg. “As that trend continues to increase in a fast-paced world, God is actively deploying willing servants or maybe those who are struggling to hold church jobs to the places they are needed today.”

Fr. Greg’s passion for chaplaincy in the workplace is evident on his website – Our Faith at Work – where his incredible photos tell the story of serving at Dallas/Fort Worth International, the world’s third busiest airport. He performs plane-side memorial services, leads midday prayer, prays with employees and travelers, walks alongside co-workers, celebrates the Eucharist, and much more.

“Large corporations are seeing a new holistic care service that HR can’t and doesn’t know how to provide,” he says. “I have been involved in this movement for more than 20 years and I can truthfully say, the workplace is a rich, ripe mission field where ‘the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.’”

In the consideration of work and ministry, Fr. Greg shares a quote “from one much wiser than I.”

“Let every man abide in the calling wherein he is called and his work will be as sacred as the work of the ministry. It is not what a man does that determines whether his work is sacred or secular, it is why he does it.” – A.W. Tozer, The Pursuit of God

Find out more:

Click here to read an excellent article on Fr. Greg published by the ACNA’s The Apostle magazine, republished by Anglican Compass.

by Rachel Moorman
ADOTS Communications Associate
news@adots.org

God never transitions power and that remains our hope

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 16:11:56 GMT

Y esterday we witnessed a transition of power in our nation as a new president was inaugurated. For some it was a day of sorrow, while for others a day of joy. In the midst of these challenging days that drag on, we are an increasingly divided nation. Such division seems all encompassing canvasing issues facing the economy, the way forward as COVID-19 persists, the vaccine to, of course, political agendas. Everyone is running to their corners and defending their views as we become increasingly polarized Sadly, this division has also spilled over into the life of the Church. And it comes not merely through politics, but a divisive spirit brought into our midst that can affect our common life together therein.

As we reflect upon all of this, the timeless truth of the Psalm above serves to reminds Christians to place their hope and trust not in rulers, the power and wisdom of man, nations or empires, but in the name of the Lord our God. He is always in control, His Kingdom is never in trouble, and there will never be a transition of His power and rule. Such stability and hope should carry us as believers through these days. This verse, and others like it, serves ground us and reorient us in the face of so many fleeting hopes.

And yet, it is not merely for us alone. Our nation needs to see it, and needs the Church more than ever at this time. It needs to see charity, peace, love, and open and honest conversation, and action that ultimately submits to the Lord and His will and ways. It needs to see us model that stability cannot be found anywhere else apart from Him. Yet, in order for them to see it manifest in our lives, we must first repent, or return, to the Lord from the ways we’ve allowed ourselves to get swept away by the world. I’d encourager you to revisit the litany we prayed on Sunday found here in your private prayers in the days ahead to assist you toward that end.

T hen from such a posture, take steps to be rooted daily in God’s Word and worship to ground you amidst the ongoing assaults of the world, the flesh and the devil that would undermine your confidence in the Lordship of Jesus. Find practical ways to remove yourself from the ceaseless bombardments to the contrary by taking a break from social media, turning off the news, or silencing alerts to articles that pop up on your phone. Find ways to hide in the shelter of the wings of the Lord. Revisit His promises, pray, and then engage the world for Jesus daily by modeling the virtues the world desperately needs to see these days. Move in the opposite spirit of division through unity that is a byproduct of our shared pursuit of growth in the likeness of Jesus as the Church. You remain in my prayers as you do so daily, and I covet your prayers as I seek to do so as well.

Religious Freedom and Business Conference

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 16:03:18 GMT

Fr. Greg is one of the panelists for the upcoming second annual National Faith and Work Conference on February 9-11. As the US continues to recover from a pandemic and violence in the Capitol itself, there are thousands of workplace chaplains ministering to people amidst the troubles (of which Fr. Greg is a leader) . If you'd like to hear read more about the conference , please do so by clicking here. The conference registration and more details may be found by clicking here . We give thanks for Fr. Greg's ministry in the workplace and all God is doing through him!

Epiphany and House Blessings

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 19:17:13 GMT

Wednesday marked the beginning of Epiphany, and the close of the Christmas season. As the twelfth night of Christmas gives way to the Epiphany, or revelation of Jesus Ch rist, we move from celebrating the Incarnation (Jesus’ coming into the world) to celebrating his manifestation to all peoples.

Toward that end, this season is also a particularly appropriate time for individual house blessings. Often our homes serve as the entryway to our church. Even in these odd days our homes are the places where we work, fellowship, and engage in life together (albeit by Zoom these days). A house blessing serves to invite Christ’s presence afresh into our homes and lives, by ‘spiritually cleaning’ away the past as we seek to serve Him therein. Toward that end, the clergy are available during this month and into the first part of February to come pray at your home.

If you would like to take advantage of this opportunity, please call the church office to set up a time for us to come by. We can pray at your doorway and chalk, or mark it for Christ, as is the custom without coming inside or if you so desire a blessing of your home we are happy to enter using masks and social distancing.

As we embark upon this season together, let me leave you with these poetic and provocative works from Lancelot Andrews who noted of the Magi and of us -

The final blessing this week is a proclamation over you toward that end as the celebrant will pray, May Christ, the Son of God, be manifest in you, that your lives may be a light to the world.

I hope and pray this may be so in your life and in mine!

The celebration continues!

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 15:26:40 GMT

Merry Christmas to all of you! As we continue in this Christmas season, this week is often one of reflection. Many celebrate with friends and family this week, while ref lecting upon the year past as we ring in a new year. It is appropriate to spend some time in the coming days reflecting upon the centrality of the Incarnation and the Christmas season and to celebrate the monumental moment of our Lord stepping into creation to redeem it.

Spend time reading John 1 and reflecting upon it. Or, as I am I trying to do in these days, read through some of the saints' reflections upon this season. One you may want to explore is Saint Athanasius’ On the Incarnation found here . I pray that with fresh eyes and open hearts, we may continue to see, turn, and embrace the hope and love God lavished upon us at Christmas.

The Twelve Days of Christmas Song has Christian roots

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 15:39:45 GMT

As we celebrate during these twelve days, I often find that ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ song inevitably gets stuck in my head. Did you know that this song was far mor e than a song you just can’t forget? It’s tune and repetition was used to teach children the faith. Each day stands for a tenet of the faith, which ‘my true love’, or God, gave to us. And at the risk of getting this tune stuck in your head, here are the meanings.

The partridge in a pear tree refers to Jesus Christ (and some believe the tree is a reference to the cross). The two turtledoves represent the Old and New Testaments. The three French hens reference either the persons of the Trinity, or the theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity (love). The four calling birds refer to the Gospels. The five golden rings stand for the first five books of the Old Testament (Pentateuch). The six geese a-laying correspond to the six days of creation. The seven swans a-swimming represent the seven sacraments. The eight maids a-milking are a reminder of the beatitudes (Matt 5). The nine ladies dancing symbolize the nine fruits of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23). The ten lords a-leaping denote the 10 Commandments. The eleven pipers piping signify the eleven faithful apostles. Lastly, the twelve drummers drumming are a reminder of the twelve points of doctrine within the Apostle’s Creed.

I pray that during these twelve days of Christmas you will discover afresh God’s true love for you. It seems that even in our fast paced world today, the twelve days of Christmas still fall into a transitory ‘lull’. During that time, we are able to pause for a fleeting moment before the start of a new year. Often this time provides periods of fellowship with family and friends, as well as times to rest. Amidst these days, I hope you are able to also enjoy God’s presence and fellowship with Him.

Discipleship Plans for 2021

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 15:26:17 GMT

Beloved in Christ Jesus,

As 2020 draws to a close we have high hopes of brighter days ahead in 2021. We have faced many challenges and persevered through the ups and dow ns of the past year together. I am grateful for each of you, and miss the regular connections we share at Saint Barnabas. We hope to have more opportunities beginning in January to facilitate such moments to grow in the likeness of Jesus and spur one another on in community. As always, if things change we will adapt once more and pivot as needed. However, we wanted to get a few key dates and discipleship opportunities upon your calendars.

Beginning January 10, we hope to launch back into regular offerings for children and youth. If our local medical experts deem the current situation more favorable, we will offer the nursery once again beginning at 9:45 am for our younger worshippers and have Worship and Wonder available for Kindergarten - 5th grade during the 10 am service. We’d love to take a step toward seeing them face to face and then roll out some of our more regular offerings later in the year. Our little ones have grown accustomed to the safety measures this fall and we feel that we can work with them in person using those same steps in January. If we can safely take such a step, we will continue to upload the lessons on YouTube on Sunday afternoons for those who remain remote.

Youth Group will continue meeting in person and resume on January 10 with their regular meetings from 4:30 - 6:30 pm on Sunday afternoons. Ages 6-12 grade are encouraged to join in study, fellowship and fun as we get into a new year. They too will take all the safety measures needed to ensure their own health and that of others.

Lastly, for our adults and young adults we are going to keep things simple this winter and spring. We have a wonderful opportunity to potentially host a national Bible study called Community Bible Study at our church. It will draw in many from outside our walls in many traditions who seek to dive deep into the Word of God. It serves as a book by book in depth study of Scripture that steeps one in the context, verse, and cross reference to build one up more fully in the Faith.

We are embarking upon a discernment phase in hopes to launch this upcoming fall. Weekly gatherings for prayer, study, and exploration will begin January 13 at 7:00 pm. Instead of hosting multiple Growth Groups and studies this will be our primary focus. It has great potential for both outreach and individual growth as each member of Saint Barnabas grows to more fully know and apply Scripture in their own lives. Through the winter and spring the meetings will be via Zoom per the national organization’s decision. I hope we become a hub for robust Bible study and maturity here for generations to come.

For those who desire more, we will also continue the Sunday morning Bible study at 9 am either in person or via Zoom focused upon the Sunday readings and will send out a devotional guide weekly.

We will hold our plans loosely as things continue to change, but we wanted to lay forth what the Lord is doing before you! Unlike last summer, we are more prepared to receive everyone through professional grade sanitization of our facility weekly (using an electrostatic sprayer and vital oxide solutions) and hand sanitization stations. We are taking every step to ensure your safety and that of others, while seeking to continue to move forward in mission and discipleship. You remain in my prayers daily and please reach out with any questions or concerns you may have.

Why is there a pink candle on the Advent wreath?

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 00:03:51 GMT

This Sunday, traditionally known as Gaudete Sunday, we will light the pink, or rose, candle on the Advent wreath. Gaudete, a Latin word meaning rejoice, was the first wo rd of the opening Inroit (a fragment of the Psalm sung by the choir while the ministers approach the altar during the processional) for the day. The entire theme of the day was taken from this word, as the somber penitential focus of Advent gave way to a day of rejoicing, a foretaste of the Christmas season to come.

It served to encourage the Faithful during an Advent season of repentance and self denial. The vestments, frontal on the altar, and colors for the day were all cheery rose color. Flowers reemerged for the day, and hymns took on the joyous theme. The momentary shift was an opportunity to pause amidst the work of self examination and receive the renewed joy such work creates within one's heart.

The day, as with all in the Church Year, serves as a lesson for us. It is a reminder to rejoice that our Lord is near. Such is the call upon our lives daily. We are to live differently in allowing that reality to place everything else into perspective. Amidst the bustle of year end, holiday plans, shopping, and preparations we are called to slow down and rejoice.

Living with joy is more than a feeling, a moment, or even an attitude. It rushes over us, our schedules, and our lives as we give thanks, recall, and ask God to orient our hearts in His hope, contentment, and confidence. As we lead lives preparing for His return, patterning our lives after His, we are filled with joy and live in confidence of His promises.

When we gather this week and the rose candle is lit, we are reminded of the joy we experience of knowing Him as Lord. I pray that joy fills each of our hearts and lives not just this week, but throughout the year!

Giving thanks safeguards our hearts

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 02:16:28 GMT

T he Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:5-7)

Thanksgiving Day calls us to pause, gather with family and friends, and give thanks for the blessings of this life. We enjoy time together with those closest to us with no agenda aside from sharing their company. Such moments are cherished as the busyness of our lives often gets in the way of these times. It is also within this brief reprieve of our schedules that the problems in our lives don’t seem nearly as great in the face of so many blessings that surround us.

Thanksgiving, as a practice in our lives, likewise keeps everything in perspective. It is spiritual principle that we, as Christians, are called to apply daily. Recounting and giving thanks for the blessings God provides in our lives changes our attitude, disposition, and how we live. It also grounds us in the reality of His provision for us daily, His protection, and His good plans and purposes for our lives.

In the passage above, Paul reminds us to make our requests known to God in prayer with thanksgiving. There is such wisdom in that line. It is through thanksgiving that we rightly seek the Lord, and discover His peace that passes our understanding. God’s peace guards our hearts and minds as we lift our concerns before Him with thankfulness.

Thankfulness safeguards against so many things. We cannot be anxious, mad, worried, afraid, or even selfish when we practice thanksgiving. It dispels these things as we stop to recall the countless reasons we have to give thanks. As we do so, we are also more aware of His goodness in small ways and great ones, from a roof over our head to the saving work of Jesus Christ for us.

As we pause this week, may we do so daily. Each day can be bookended by thanksgiving as we rise to begin the day and as we lay down our head at night. Doing so will change your life. I can tell you from personal experience that if you put this principle in practice it is more effective at reducing stress, anxiety, and helping you rest than any miracle drug on the market! Happy Thanksgiving to each of you!

What is the meaning of the Advent wreath?

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 13:58:39 GMT

S unday marks the beginning of a new year in the Church calendar. Perhaps the most telling of the changes at church came in the appearance of the Advent Wreath, which makes its début annually on the First Sunday in Advent. The presence of the Advent wreath brings much more than a weekly countdown to Christmas. Although its exact origins are unknown, it seems to have been adapted from a pagan practice used by early Germanic peoples. During the bleak, dark, short winter months they made wreaths with candles to remind them of the promise of spring and longer days. The peoples of Scandinavia also had a similar practice. They made wreaths into a circular shape, and would pray to the gods to turn the ‘wheel of the earth’ back to longer days and warmer weather.

As Christianity has masterfully done throughout history, it adopted this widespread practice while adapting its meaning in efforts to present the Gospel. Its theme was changed to center upon Jesus Christ (the light of the world; John 3:19-21), rather than the sun or some lesser light. And by the height of the Middle Ages the Advent Wreath was common practice. The four candles were used not only to depict the weeks leading up to the celebration of Jesus’ birth, but also to represent the total of nearly 4,000 years between Adam and Eve and His coming into the world. The pink, or rose candle, symbolizes the halfway mark and serves to remind us to rejoice as we press onward toward both Christmas and Jesus triumphant return.

The meaning of the wreath does not merely stop with the candles. Its circular shape was kept as a reminder of eternity, and the promise of never ending life for those who name Jesus as Lord of their lives. The evergreen used to make the wreath also serve as a reminder of the continuous life we have through faith in Jesus. The various laurels, pinecones, and holly decorations echo this theme as they center upon strength, healing, and immortality found in Him as well. The rich visual history of the wreath serves to underscore the victory and hope we have as a result of Jesus’ entry into the world, and His subsequent victory over death and the grave. Each week, as we light a new candle, we are reminded to hold to the Faith as we are stirred afresh to for the annual celebration of Jesus’ entrance into the world at Christmas and His promise to come again.

Acknowledgments:

Saunders, Rev. William. “The History of the Advent Wreath.” Arlington Catholic Herald

What is Advent all about?

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 13:56:23 GMT

The Advent season focuses us upon preparation. The word itself means 'arrival', which as Christians, we anticipate in both the coming Christmas season and the second com ing of Jesus. We are called to live with this anticipation and urgency daily. However, the season of Advent highlights it as we begin another Church Year.

Over the next few weeks, we are asked to prepare our hearts for His coming. We begin by identifying areas of our lives that need attention, and take on habits that assist us in growing in the character and likeness of Jesus. One primary way that we do this is by spending time with the Lord, and in His word.

An American evangelist, D.L. Moody, reminds us, "The Bible was not given to increase our knowledge, but to change our lives." We are called to hear it, read it, memorize it, and apply it to our lives. In doing so, we are transformed. It also gives us clarity, direction, and purpose in the changing times in which we hear so many different 'truths'. As we immerse ourselves in God's Word, we set a priority to be with Him, we become more like Him, and to be rooted in the Truth revealed through Jesus Christ.

The challenge for most of us is the how. How do we begin, and what do we do? As we begin Advent, there are daily readings set out on the table into the sanctuary that serve as a great starting point. Additionally, beginning in Luke with the story of the Incarnation, or Jesus entrance into the world, is also fitting. There is no substitute for being in God's Word yourself, and often the hardest part is getting started. Once you begin, it is much easier to jump to another book or pick up another study as you continue. As a visual learner, I also found this little graphic helpful to illustrate how we go about doing so.

As at the beginning of any new year, make resolutions you can do and keep. Begin today, and see how God transforms you daily through the lessons, passages, and verses He will call forth from your time with Him.

Christ the King Sunday

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 15:04:55 GMT

This Sunday marks the end of the church year. Traditionally, it has been called Christ the King Sunday, and the readings and collect focus upon Jesus' Lordship. The cent ral theme serves to remind us that He is both in control and in the midst of restoring all things. Quite fittingly it leaves us with this image of our Savior as we turn the page and begin a new year. As we begin each new year with the Advent season, we prepare not only to recall Jesus' birth, but also for His Second Coming. Christ the King Sunday keeps this image of ruler and judge before us as we are to always be ready for that Final Day.

It is appropriate that this day also falls on the week of our Thanksgiving holiday. We gather with friends and family to give thanks for them and the blessings in our lives, while likewise being reminded to give thanks for our King. And we keep that in mind this week, thanking Him for his sacrifice for our sake and that all we have and all we are come from Him.

Take time to reflect upon His Lordship and provision. Perhaps you may resolve over the next few days leading up to Christ the King Sunday to spend ten minutes a day to thank God. Once we begin to recall and thank Him for family, food, homes, houses, and the numerous blessings we have, in addition to life eternal, it puts the holiday in perspective. It may also inoculate us for the cultural frenzy of Black Friday and materialism that runs ramped in the days to follow! The biggest way to combat the cynicism, fear, frustration, and stress of this time of year is to stay in a place of thanksgiving and worship before the Lord.

I pray that each of you enjoy time with friends and family, and that the joy that we celebrate this Sunday may fill your homes and hearts. For indeed we truly are a blessed people, who have been given so much. May we model that in our lives and attitudes so that all may visibly see the hope we possess.

Asking Why - Why do you have painted pictures of the saints on the walls of the church? Isn't that idolatry?

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 23:45:32 GMT

This series of articles will cover a number of topics addressing various practices we have within Anglicanism. Many broad questions will be tackled, however if you have a specific question, please email me at andrew.petta@gmail.com .

Why do you have painted pictures of the saints on the walls of the church? Isn't that idolatry?

The painted pictures in the church are called icons, a Greek word meaning image. Icons represent Jesus, various saints, or scenes from scripture.

History indicates that they were part of early Christian practice dating back to the first century. According to The Catholic Encyclopedia, "The idea that the Church of the first centuries was in any way prejudiced against pictures and statues is the most impossible fiction."

Icons were primarily used for two purposes: to teach and to honor. St. Gregory, the Dialogist, (Pope of Rome ca. 590-604, during the time of the unified Church) spoke of icons as being scripture to the illiterate.

He wrote, "For what writing presents to readers, this picture presents to the unlearned who behold, since in it even the ignorant see what they ought to follow; in it the illiterate read" (Epistle to Bishop Serenus of Marseilles, NPNF 2, Vol. XIII, p. 53).

Icons were quite ornate and intricate, drawing the viewer into contemplation and reflection. In fact, each of the colors used in icons are representative of different Biblical themes (i.e. heaven, glory, etc). The early Christians, who lived amidst pagan practices, were cautious not to allow such customs into Christian devotion.

The Catholic Encyclopedia notes that early Christians' "monotheism, their insistence on the fact that they serve only one almighty unseen God, their horror of the idolatry of their neighbors, the torture and death that their martyrs suffered rather than lay a grain of incense before the statue of the emperor's numen are enough to convince us that they were not setting up rows of idols of their own.

On the other hand, the place of honor they give to their symbols and pictures, the care with which they decorate them argue that they treated representations of their most sacred beliefs with at least decent reverence."

The honor and instruction of these images later gave rise to devotional practices, especially among cultures in the East. The images were venerated, paid respect, with a kiss or bowing. These practices, among others, led some Western Christians to interpret such actions as worshipping of carved images. The issue was discussed in the final Ecumenical Council who held that the practice of veneration was different than that of worship.

One analogy that may help in the understanding of veneration by our Eastern brothers and sisters is that of our saluting a flag. They venerate or hold in esteem what is represented by the icon, just as we hold in esteem what the American flag represents.

It is not about the wood and paint any more than it would be about the cloth and dye in a flag. Rather, it is the recognition and acknowledgment of what is represented. In Anglicanism, the custom has been maintained as a devotional practice from the earliest days of the Christian faith. Some find icons helpful as a part of their devotion.

As St. John of Damascus wrote, "we are led by perceptible Icons to the contemplation of the divine and spiritual" (PG 94:1261a). The use of icons in the Church serve to encourage us to live in holiness and faithfulness as the saints who have gone before us.

Asking Why - Why do you baptize infants and how do you justify it with Scripture?

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 23:44:16 GMT

Why do you baptize infants and how do you justify it with Scripture?

Mark 2:1-12 records the account of a paralytic who was brought to Jesus by his friends. Upon reaching the home where Jesus was teaching, they lowered him through the roof, since there was no way to enter the home through the crowd. Verse 5 records, "And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, 'My son, your sins are forgiven.'" Notice that Jesus, upon seeing their faith, healed the paralytic. It was not, at least at that point, as a result of the paralytic's faith.

Similarly, this is what we do when we bring a child to be baptized. We come in faith on behalf of the child. The parents and godparents take the responsibility upon themselves to raise the child in the faith.

Baptism begins a journey, rather than the culmination of a journey of faith. As Frank Wilson in Faith and Practice explains, "It is the door into the Kingdom of God, the agency of new birth, the beginning of new life.

It unites us with Christ, makes us members of His Church, imparts forgiveness of sins, and equips us to receive the further gifts of God's grace."

In baptism, we are marked and sealed as Christ's own forever. We are set apart.

The guilt of original sin, that disobedience of Adam that separated all from God, is washed away. From that moment onward we begin a new life in Christ.

The journey starts, and for children, it entails learning the faith from those who pledged and promised before God and His Church to teach it to them. They are guarded by the parents and godparents until the time when they take ownership of this themselves.

This is a part of the Christian life. All Christians have a choice daily to follow Jesus by making decisions that draw us closer to Him. We do not arrive in our faith.

In the same manner that our calendars mark time as BC to AD, with the defining moment of the entrance of Jesus into the world, so too our personal lives have BC to AD with the defining moment being baptism. From that moment onward we are called to grow daily in holiness, or sanctity, until the day we arrive "face to face" in God's presence.

Asking Why - Why is there water in stoups by the door and in a bowl in the back of the church?

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 23:43:26 GMT

Why is there water in stoups by the door and in a bowl in the back of the church?

Water is a central sign for Christians. The waters of baptism mark the death to self and the rising to new life in Christ Jesus.

In addition to this most central role of water in the life of the Church, it is also used in blessings, exorcisms, burials and other rites (or services).

Many churches place this blessed water which has been blessed by the priest into 'stoups' or small vessels attached to the wall and a font or bowl. The stoups are located at each entrance, whereas the font is in the back of the church.

In his book, The Liturgy Explained, Thomas Howard makes an important point, " As with all sacraments and sacramentals, there is no question of magic here: rather, this humble, physical element is seen as a sign and bearer to us of that grace which came to us so modestly, and so very physically, in all the events of the Gospel."

The blessed water at these locations serves to remind all believers of their own baptism as they enter. Not only does it call to mind the moment they went from life before Christ (B.C) to life in Christ (A.D.) in their own lives, but also that life in Christ is a journey.

Growth in the likeness of our Lord is made through each decision, use of time, and willful acts to know and follow Him more intentionally. The blessed water that greets them as they enter the church reminds them of this fact.

Many choose to recall the moment new life began, and their call to holiness of life by dipping their hand into the water and making the sign of the cross over themselves. The outward sign calls to mind the inward grace received at baptism, which is at work in us daily as we surrender and draw near to our Lord Jesus Christ.

Asking Why - Why do you have a crucifix instead of a cross in the church?

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 23:42:08 GMT

Why do you have a crucifix instead of a cross in the church?

The empty cross, many say, is a reminder of our hope as Christians. As a tool of suffering and humiliation, the Romans chose the cross as the means of death for Jesus. Through His resurrection, He conquered the power of death for all.

The empty cross serves as a reminder of our salvation through His death and as a focus of what is to come. Many feel that the simple cross, like the empty tomb, points to the victory we have through Jesus. A victory that will be realized when we too, as believers, will enter into glory at the resurrection of the just.

Historically, the move to use an empty cross was chosen as a means to distance one's denomination from that of the Roman Church because of a misunderstanding by some that Roman Church believed Jesus was re-sacrificed each time Communion occurred. They felt that the crucifix, with Jesus (or the corpus) upon it, stood to highlight this fact.

Such a belief is contrary to scripture as Christ's sacrifice was a perfect one, offered once and for all (Hebrews 7:27 ; 9:12).

It is not one maintained by the Roman Church nor that of Anglicanism or the Orthodox Church. Jesus is neither re-sacrificed nor is Communion merely a simple remembrance. Often the translation is remembrance within our service, but the actual word used is anamnesis.

This word rightly understood means to call the past into present, or to enter into the moment and, in a sense, to relive it. For us, as Anglicans as well as other historic denominations, the crucifix assists us toward that end.

The crucifix also keeps us from shying away from suffering. In our culture we can be insulated from the idea of suffering, and may even see it as corresponding to punishment by God. Suffering, however, is far from punishment. We suffer in this life for a number of reasons, sin, the sin of others, or as a result of this fallen world (sin of our first parents, Adam and Eve).

Whatever the reason, God uses these times to perfect us, if we allow Him to do so. He is made perfect in our weakness as Paul says in 2 Cor. 12:9.

Through sufferings and trials, we too are perfected, as so many passages remind us (Rom 5:3, 8:17 ; 1 Peter 5:9 ; 2 Tim 2:3 ; Phil 1:29). In a culture where such an idea is not readily embraced, we are called to such a countercultural idea. One that reminds us that God is at work all the time, and that He uses the sufferings and trials we go through for His glory in our lives as well as a witness to the world around us.

The crucifix reminds us of the communion of which we enter weekly as we approach the Lord’s altar. It likewise stands to keep ever before us the sacrifice our Savior Jesus Christ.

As we enter the church, we are confronted with the perfect offering for our sake and that of the whole world in the depiction of our Lord upon the cross. Seeing it calls forth thanksgiving, repentance for our own sins, and hope in life's circumstances as we await the day we, as His followers, will be with Him in glory.

Asking Why - Why are the robes worn by the priest and servers?

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 23:41:08 GMT

Why are the robes worn by the priest and servers?

Excerpt from The Liturgy Explained by Thomas Howard

These are very complicated-and no brief summary will quite do-but the following may help those who are unfamiliar with clerical garb. There are ancient significances attached to every garment the priest wears.

In many churches the priest wears a cassock, which is a long, straight, black garment, and over it a surplice, which is a loose, plain white outer garment, with either a scarf (plain black and very wide) or a stole (narrower, and often brocaded; almost always colored) around his neck and hanging straight down the front of the surplice.

These particular garments, when worn at the Eucharist, are most often in use in parishes which wish to stress their special loyalty to Reformational ideas such as that no "priestly" function attaches to the minister's role, and that no offering occurs at the Communion. These are not strictly speaking "vestments" at all. They have been known as "choir habit," referring to their origins in the dress of the men and boys who sang the service in the Middle Ages.

Note: The afore mentioned articles are primarily worn in this diocese for daily offices, funerals, weddings, or any service that does not involve Communion (with a few exceptions). The stole however, does signify the office of the wearer. If straight down, it signifies a priest or bishop. If worn across the left shoulder, crossing over the heart, it signifies the wearer is a deacon.

Eucharistic vestments, strictly speaking, include the alb (a plain white fitted garment), the cincture (a rope around the waist), and the chasuble (the short, circular over garment, very often brocaded, or at least bearing some design)...There are, or have been, other garments, including the amice, which looks like a towel bunched around the priest's neck and is actually a hood, the maniple at the wrist, and the cope, which is the very large, usually richly ornate, outer covering garment designed for processions, and worn often in procession by the bishop, visiting clergy, and the celebrant.

Note: Each of the Eucharistic vestments were both quite symbolic as well as practical. The amice, for instance, kept perspiration from getting onto the silk chasubles during a time when cleaning them was quite difficult. Since then, many biblical references and prayers have been associated with each particular vestment as it is put on by the priest. You are welcome to read the prayers in the sacristy at any time if you'd like to know more.

Symbolic and allegorical meanings have been attached to every one of these garments, but like the arrangement of the church building itself these meanings vary from place to place and century to century. Some bishops wear a mitre, which is a high, pointed hat developed during the Middle Ages...Bishops carry, or have carried in front of them, a crozier, or crooked staff, as a sign of their office as shepherds ("pastors") in the Church.

All garments and vestments are intended to aid in worship as we present our best unto the Lord.

Asking Why - Why all the fuss about Mary? And why do you pray to the saints?

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 23:40:10 GMT

Why all the fuss about Mary? And why do you pray to the saints?

Throughout Christendom the Church has celebrated the lives of believers whose witness was a visible testimony to our Lord. Amidst the countless saints who provide such examples for us, one in particular is preeminent above the rest. Mary, the mother of our Lord, stands as the supreme biblical example. She is a 'type' or model of redeemed humanity.

All who had gone before, the patriarchs, prophets, and kings bore witness to the Word, but Mary bore the Word. In her declaration, be it unto me according to your word, Mary shifts from the selfish and sinful response of our first parents, Adam and Eve. Their response to God could be summarized, be it unto me according to my word.

Mary's life was one of full surrender to God's will as she made Jesus known. Likewise, the life of every believer should seek to bear Jesus to the world and to make Him known. We are all called to be such Christ-bearers: to empty ourselves of sinful and selfish desires and to allow the Spirit of God to reign in our hearts and lives.

The Church, therefore, has always held Mary in esteem for her position in salvation history as well as her godly example. In doing so, it fulfills Scripture. Luke records in his first chapter that all generations will call her, Mary, blessed. She reminds us that God has a plan for each of us if we, like her, allow Him to work through us to accomplish His redemptive work.

Unfortunately, many have misunderstood the invocation of the saints, especially in regard to Mary. The Church upholds a biblical understanding of Jesus' victory over death. In doing so, it maintains that the Church is a living body, both in heaven and on earth. The ministry of that body is to pray for the Church as the Spirit of God works through it to fulfill His will on earth.

In asking for the prayers of the saints, prayer is not being made to them. Rather, it is a request that they join us in our petitions. Such a practice does not deny Jesus' place as our chief advocate any more than asking a friend to pray for us would do so.

Some find comfort and hope in the great cloud of witnesses that constitute the Church. In asking for the prayers of those in heaven it reminds them of this living fellowship and strengthens them in their Christian journey.

Such a practice is not required of any, but can certainly be of help to some through this long-standing tradition in the Church.

Asking Why - Why do you celebrate saint's in the church year? Isn't that idolatry?

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 23:39:17 GMT

Wh y do you celebrate saint's in the church year? Isn't that idolatry?

Early on in the life of the Church Christians began to remember and celebrate martyrs as part of the Church Year. Much as our culture celebrates birthdays or lives of figures in our country's history through President's Day or Martin Luther King Day, so too the Church marks days to remember the life, ministry, and witness of someone God raised up in His Church during their generation. We recall the apostles (i.e. St. Peter, St. Paul), the evangelists (i.e. St. Luke, St. Matthew), the martyrs (St. Justin Martyr, St. Laurence), the teachers (St. Augustine, St. Basil), and those who serve as exemplary models of holiness in their own lifetime (i.e. St. Teresa of Avila, St. Francis of Assisi).

The Church remembers saints not merely to mark the life of one lived a faithful and visible Christian witness in their generation, but also to provide encouragement and instruction for others to follow. Biography is a very effective means to learn and grow. We are all called to a life of holiness as we grow daily, by God's grace, in the likeness of our Lord Jesus Christ. The writings, stories, and lives of those who have gone before us help spur us on toward this goal.

Within the Anglican tradition we do not have a process for canonization, or assigning sainthood to individuals, like the Roman Church. Instead, we recall those from the early days in the life of the unified visible Church, those from our tradition, and those exemplary models throughout the ages.

As we celebrate the lives of those giants in the Faith who have gone before, we take heart as we are also called to no less a standard. Our lives are to reflect such surrender, dedication, and selflessness to the world in our time as well. It is through such models that others see Christ today and the Faithful are strengthened. May Jesus be manifest in all of us as His Kingdom comes.

Asking Why - Why do you pray written prayers, rather than praying freely?

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 23:38:00 GMT

Why do you pray written prayers, rather than praying freely?

There is a Latin phrase we often use in regards to our services, lex orandi lex credendi. The phrase is roughly translated as, the law of prayer is the law of belief. Expressed in another way, what we pray is what we believe.

The prayers we pray within the context of our worship on Sunday mornings forms our beliefs. For instance, the collects teach us a model for prayer. Each begins with an acknowledgement of an attribute of God. Take our collect for this past week, Let your continual mercy, O Lord, cleanse and defend your church, because it cannot continue in safety without your help.

Next, a petition follows (for this week the petition could also be a part of this first line), protect and govern it by your goodness.

Finally, there is trinitarian reference at the end as the prayer is prayed through Jesus Christ our Lord, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Early in the life of the Church, before the various Creeds and Councils, the services and prayers were taken from Scripture and were organized in an intentional way to aid the faithful in growth and knowledge. Despite the fact that we now have both the Creeds, Councils, works of the Church Fathers, and that of many other theologians, this foundational practice remains constant.

The corporate actions of those gathered in worship together helps to form their understanding and way of approaching God. And as we grow in our knowledge and love of the Lord, we discover more fully the reality that our corporate prayers on behalf of the whole Church are not meant to be wrote or dry.

Rather, they capture fully the needs and concerns of the broader Body of Christ.

Certainly corporate prayers and liturgies are not meant to be the only form of prayer to which we are called. Our individual prayers can be extemporaneous and circumstantial and we should seek to be faithful in corporate and individual prayers. Interestingly, we may note that our corporate worship forms our individual prayers.

Sometimes, as with the collects, we learn to follow a model that aids us in our own times with the Lord. The whole goal of the liturgy and its prayers is to assist, form, and help us in living and defending the Faith once delivered to the saints (Jude 1:3).

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Asking Why - Why all the bowing and crossing of oneself during the service?

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 23:36:55 GMT

Why all the bowing and crossing of oneself during the service

As we enter the church, there are numerous reminders of baptism in the holy water stoops and baptismal font. These serve to remind us of our own baptism, wherein we began our journey with Christ having been cleansed from the guilt of original sin.

Many take the opportunity to physically recall this reality by touching their fingers to the water and making the sign of the cross over themselves. Such acts are intended to aid one in their own devotion, but are not required nor expected of all.

During the service there are many traditional places for crossing oneself as well. Many do so at the opening acclamation as we begin by blessing the Lord. It sets our frame of mind as we gather for worship. We remember that it is not about us, rather about blessing, worshipping, and encountering God.

Some find this sign helpful as they enter into worship, crossing themselves at the end of the Gloria, which concludes with 'in the glory of God the Father', as a reminder of the One we have come to adore at the end of this song of praise.

The theme of blessing Jesus is continued by some as they make the sign of the cross over themselves during the Sanctus, or Holy, Holy, Holy, blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. You may want to explore this yourself in the Book of Common Prayer .

There are a few other reasons for crossing oneself. One is when the gospel goes forth into the congregation and is announced. Many make a small cross on their forehead, lips, and heart. This symbolizes that the gospel should be in our mind, professed by our mouth, and take root in our hearts.

Also, any time there is reference to the hope we await in the resurrection of the dead and life everlasting, many may cross themselves to recall what they await as Christians (i.e. at the end of the Nicene Creed).

Lastly, whenever a blessing or absolution (forgiveness) is pronounced, many cross themselves as an act of receiving what has been spoken. For a similar reason, whenever the word sanctify us is spoken, many choose to cross themselves as well.

As another act of devotion or reverence, many bow also within the service too. As the processional cross passes bowing reflects the understanding of the means by which we have attained salvation through Jesus' death upon the cross.

Some may bow during points in the Gloria when the word or phrase worship, have mercy upon us, or Jesus arise. The nod or slight bow is a way some choose to physically engage with the words they proclaim and say.

Bowing to worship is an ancient custom, which was often reserved as an act of obeisance to a king and many began to carry this over into the church to show such devotion to our heavenly king at the mention of his Name (see also Philippians 2:10).

Furthermore, it is done when we are asking for mercy from our Judge. It is for this reason you may also see bowing at the general confession as well (Most merciful God, we confess...).

Again, these physical signs are not required of anyone. However, for some, engaging their whole body enables them to enter into worship more fully.

Many engage the whole body in a sporting event, when a touchdown is scored, or foul called, as they are invested and excited. So too, we are called to invested, engaged, and excited to meet our Lord. And using these actions may facilitate this more fully for some.

The goal of course is not to do the actions because the priest or others do them, but to find ways that assist you in your own worship and praise.

Asking Why - Why do you use candles in broad daylight, and what is with the 'golden box' up front?

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 23:35:35 GMT

Why do you use candles in broad daylight, and what is with the 'golden box' up front?

Thankfully, we now have electricity and do not have to rely on candles to see as did the early Church. However, candles still symbolize the light of Christ in our presence and serve as a reminder that we too, are called to be a light to the world.

You may notice that there are two candles on the altar and six on the stone mantle behind the altar. The type of service dictates which candles are lit.

The candles on the altar are lit when the altar is used, namely for Communion. The candles on the mantle, behind the altar, are lit at all times, even for non Eucharistic services. They are often called the Office Candles, and lit during the daily offices of Morning and Evening Prayer. All candles are lit for a primary service or high mass. For low mass, or weekday services, only the candles on the altar are used.

The 'gold box' is called either the tabernacle or the aumbry. It derives its name and symbolism from the Book of Exodus, wherein the Lord dwelt among His people. The word tabernacle means literally to dwell. And as you may recall, the Lord would appear in the tent of meeting with Moses in the form of a cloud descended upon the earth. With the coming of Jesus, God dwelt among men once more.

Yet, even after his resurrection to His rightful place alongside God the Father, He dwells in us through the Holy Spirit. Likewise, He is present in the tabernacle where we reserve the consecrated bread, the Body of Christ. In doing so, God tabernacles with us. When the Sacrament is reserved the sanctuary candle is lit (the hanging candle), and serves to remind us that Christ is indeed physically present among us.

Each aspect of the church has a meaning, so keep an 'eye out' for what is to come next week!

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Asking Why - Why are churches built the way that they are?

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 23:33:14 GMT

Why are churches built they way they are?

There is a method to the general structure and positioning of most liturgical churches. Despite various architectural styles, most have spires, towers, or domes. These create what in Latin is referred to as an axis mundi, or center point between earth and heaven. As seen in Jacob's ladder (Gen 28:10-22), this is a place where heaven meets earth.

Church architecture reflects this idea, as the building is set apart to be a place to encounter God in worship. A spire, steeple, and dome marks this point, while the tower symbolizes the strength or refuge we find in the Lord, as the psalmist writes in Psalms 9, 18, 61, 144.

The general positioning of a church is quite strategic as well. Churches are traditionally oriented eastward with the altar facing the rising sun. In early Christianity the sun symbolized the 'light of Christ', and a reminder of the hope we have through Jesus in life everlasting.

As such, facing this direction serves as a constant reminder of the hope we possess as well as the return we await in our Lord (Matt. 24: 27). If you notice, in our church, the place where the priest stands still faces this direction.

The overall structure of a church and its worship mirrors our journey with Christ. In the back stands the font, wherein all pass in the beginning of their Christian journey. The congregation sits in the nave, a name taken from the Latin navis, meaning ship.

For it was seen that the church was the ark of salvation, or vessel that carries us safely through the storms of this life to our eternal home.

And the congregation faces the sanctuary, which is elevated with the altar at the center and cross behind. The reminder of our salvation is always before us, both literally in church and symbolically in our lives. And the focus is likewise upon the altar, the sacrifice, and the place where we receive strength to carry on weekly through the Eucharist.

The church is full of symbolism, as is our liturgy, and our worship. Look for more of 'why we do what we do' in the weeks to come!

Things are not right...

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 14:11:00 GMT

Every night we have a routine of finishing the day by rocking our girls and reading a Bible story to them. Earlier this week we were reading the story of Bartimaeus from Mark 10 in their children’s bible. At the end of the story there was an illustration from the viewpoint of Bartimaeus (see the picture above), as he looked upon Jesus and his friends for the first time. One of our girls asked about it, and wanted to know more about what was happening. As such questions often do, it [...]

“Nothing hath separated us from God but our own will, or rather our own will is our separation from God.”

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 13:55:00 GMT

“Nothing hath separated us from God but our own will, or rather our own will is our separation from God.” Evelyn Underhill, Mysticism: A Study in Nature and Development of Spiritual Consciousness In light of all going on in our culture and world today, this quote from an early 20th century Christian mystic whose life we celebrated on Monday of this week, is one to note. We fail to reco [...]

Lessons from the life of Saint Barnabas

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 13:54:00 GMT

Sunday we will celebrate Saint Barnabas, the man for whom our church is named. Interestingly, we know very little about him apart from the few passing mentions of his name in the Acts of the Apostles. What we do glean therein serve not only as key insights about him, but for each of us as followers of Christ Jesus.It is a little known fact that Barnabas’ actual name was Joseph (see Acts 4:36). The name Barnabas was given to him by the apostles because of what it means, son of encour [...]

Trinity Sunday

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 19:37:00 GMT

So the Father is God, the Son is God, and the Holy Spirit is God; And yet they are not three Gods, but one God. - excerpt from the Athanasian Creed. Trinity Sunday, this week, highlights perhaps the greatest mystery of our Faith: the nature of the Godhead. As part of the foundation of our Faith, we hold that God is three Persons in One Being. There is an old joke among the clergy that it only takes 30 seconds to err into heresy in a Trinity Sunday sermon amidst our feeble attempts to [...]

Pentecost and Patience

Thu, 28 May 2020 14:45:00 GMT

Perhaps as we live through these days of the pandemic we can relate a bit more than ever to the pregnant pause they experienced. Waiting and uncertainty have become increasingly familiar. As things begin to open up we may have excitement mixed with anxiety over things beginning to return to some semblance of normal. In the midst of these days, may we heed two reminders from Scripture leading up to Pentecost.The first is patience. Practicing patience is never easy. However, it allows us to [...]

What are Rogation Days?

Thu, 14 May 2020 13:57:00 GMT

What will reopening look like at Saint Barnabas?

Thu, 07 May 2020 14:01:00 GMT

Beloved in Christ Jesus, I trust by now you’ve heard, seen and read about the Governor’s order to reopen the State of Texas in phases that began this past weekend. After much prayer, reading through guidelines, and in consultation with the Bishop, colleagues and staff, we will return to in person services on Sunday, May 17. However, as you discern what is best for you and your household we will continue to livestream for the foreseeable future for those who c [...]

Thoughts for Good Shepherd Sunday

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 14:07:00 GMT

Historically Good Shepherd Sunday is celebrated on the Fourth Sunday of Easter which is this week. All of our readings point to the reality that Jesus is the Good Shepherd of our souls. He alone gives us access to God through His sacrifice upon the cross, and He alone knows, desires, and purposes what is best for us. It is a comforting image, but also a challenging one for us to consider as well.Elsewhere in the Anglican Communion it is called Vocation Sunday. A remi [...]

The Easter celebration is just getting started!

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 13:34:00 GMT

Alleluia! Christ is Risen!We are nearing the end of the first week of Easter, but the celebration is just getting started! Easter, as you may recall, is not just one day, but fifty days. It is fitting that it is the longest festival in the Church Year, because it is the very pinnacle of it. Jesus’ triumph over sin and death, which opens access to God to all who believe and are baptized, is cause for great celebration! During these difficult days before us, we need cause for cel [...]

Ministry marches on at Saint Barnabas

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 14:38:00 GMT

I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. & [...]

Anglican Church | Fort Worth, TX | Saint Barnabas Church - RECTOR'S REFLECTIONS

Holy Saturday

Staying Watchful: Reflecting on Jesus’ Sacrifice

Observing a Holy Lent

Ash Wednesday

Reunited with God

Christ Manifest in You

Stepping into Creation

Kwashi Zambiri Appeal

Building Community as Stewards

Why Do You Do What You Do on Halloween?

Season of Celebrations

Celebrating Major Feast Days with Feast and Fellowship Events

Trinity Sunday

Ascension Day

Good Shepherd Sunday

Alleluia! Christ is Risen!

Holy Saturday

Holy Week

Prayer During Lent

Almsgiving

Fasting During Lent

Observing a Holy Lent

From One Celebration to Another

Lessons from the Church Fathers for Father's Day

Our children fulfilling the Great Commission

Trinity Sunday

Big updates at Saint Barnabas!

Fall Parish Update

Church Fathers and Father's Day

Thought on Trinity Sunday

State of the Parish Update

Ascension

Good Shepherd Sunday

Walking through Holy Week

Spring 2022 Quarterly Update

Small groups and the way forward

Lessons from Trinity Sunday this week

Preparing for Pentecost

Ascension

What are rogation days?

Where do we go from here?

Where do we go from here?

The celebration has just begun!

Making sense of the silence of Holy Saturday

Walking with Jesus through Holy Week

The power of prayer - a Lenten Pillar

Lenten Almsgiving

Confession

Lessons from Fasting

Embarking upon the Lenten Journey

What is Ash Wednesday all about?

Chaplaincy at Work: The “Final Frontier” of Missions

Find out more:

Read more here about the Faith@Work ERG Conference, registration, and topics.

Read more here about the featured frontline chaplains, including Fr. Greg McBrayer; Rear Adm. Margaret Grun Kibben, Chaplain of the U.S. House of Representatives; and Karen Diefendorf, Director of Chaplain Services at Tyson Foods.

Click here to read an excellent article on Fr. Greg published by the ACNA’s The Apostle magazine, republished by Anglican Compass.

God never transitions power and that remains our hope

Religious Freedom and Business Conference

Epiphany and House Blessings

The celebration continues!

The Twelve Days of Christmas Song has Christian roots

Discipleship Plans for 2021

Why is there a pink candle on the Advent wreath?

Giving thanks safeguards our hearts

What is the meaning of the Advent wreath?

What is Advent all about?

Christ the King Sunday

Asking Why - Why do you have painted pictures of the saints on the walls of the church? Isn't that idolatry?

Asking Why - Why do you baptize infants and how do you justify it with Scripture?

Asking Why - Why is there water in stoups by the door and in a bowl in the back of the church?

Asking Why - Why do you have a crucifix instead of a cross in the church?

Asking Why - Why are the robes worn by the priest and servers?

Asking Why - Why all the fuss about Mary? And why do you pray to the saints?

Asking Why - Why do you celebrate saint's in the church year? Isn't that idolatry?

Asking Why - Why do you pray written prayers, rather than praying freely?

Asking Why - Why all the bowing and crossing of oneself during the service?

Asking Why - Why do you use candles in broad daylight, and what is with the 'golden box' up front?

Asking Why - Why are churches built the way that they are?

Things are not right...