Clergy Notes — January 1, 2017

A very Happy and Peaceful New Year to all friends and family of St. James’, near and far! We pray that in the midst of what may seem dark times in the political life of the world, and in the fentanyl crisis in our neighbourhood, the light of Christ, God-with-us, will continue to shine, bringing hope, reconciliation and peace. May we respond to God’s call to reflect this light by the lives we lead and the love we share.

I take this opportunity to thank all those who worked hard in so many different ways to prepare for and enable our Christmas worship, those behind the scenes and those “upfront”. The church looked beautiful, the liturgies were offered worthily, and the music was uplifting. It was encouraging to note a good attendance, particularly at Midnight and on Christmas morning.

My Induction as Rector of St. James’ will take place at High Mass on the Feast of the Presentation, Candlemas, Thursday, February 2, at 7.00 pm. There will be a Reception to follow in the Parish Hall. This will be an opportunity to commit ourselves anew to our shared ministry here at St. James’, to proclaim and live out the Good News of God’s love for all through our worship, witness and service. I look forward to this next stage of our ministry together.

Both Deacon Lucy and I will be away on study leave during much of January. Deacon Lucy will be on a course at St George’s, Jerusalem, and then spending a couple of days in Rome where she will attend a Papal liturgy for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. I shall be making a pilgrimage to some of the ancient Coptic churches in Ethiopia. I am grateful to clergy who will cover for us in our absence. Please note that there will be no Mass on Thursdays January 5, 12 & 19, and on Tuesdays January 10 & 17.

With every blessing for 2017 and all it will bring,

Fr. Kevin