 April 28, 2021
Let Us Pray + Tyler's Sermon Reflection + Viburnum in Bloom What does it mean to give up ourselves to serve others, rather than make others give themselves up to serve me? Concluding Reflection from Tyler Jarvis' Sermon Sunday, April 25, 2021 Dear Hearts, In concluding his sermon on Sunday, Tyler Jarvis encouraged us to join in the reflection above. Judging by the responses in the chat and in later conversation, many of us welcomed Tyler's invitation to imagine God's intended order where no one is rejected, or discarded, or "otherized," but all people are treated with the loving concern that all God's children deserve. (The transcription is mine.) Let us pray for all who are commended to the parish's prayers: All who are ill, including Eugenia, Ann S, Jack, Alphonse, Elizabeth, Jim R, Kevin and Danielle; and for all who are contending with Covid-19 disease; for medical caregivers ministering of God's healing gifts; and for all facing financial hardship because of the pandemic. May they all know the healing power of Christ's presence and love. And for all who have died, and for the over 574,000 of our fellow citizens claimed by the coronavirus. Rest eternal grant to them, O Lord; may light perpetual shine upon them. Look with favor, O Lord, upon Bob McNamara, Lois Sawtell and Janice Novak, as they celebrate their birthdays. May they continue to grow in grace and wisdom. Please also continue to pray for Amy B, Virginia, Sonny P, Alex M. Maryanne M, Carol U, Diane L, Jason, Peter, Dale, Buster, Jimmy C, Patrick and family, Felipe, Richard D, Alice M, Elizabeth Ann, Parker, Webb, Jill, Andrew E, Ed C, Pastor Bryan Meyers, Bob C, Sue S, George H, Alex & John H, Jeremy H, Shelly, Philippe, Kate, Frank, Jack, Judy & Ed S, Michael M, Richard D, Dave K, Brian A, Annie, John, Joan G., Lois C., Winnie Z, Bernie and family, Susie & Paul, Pam McG, Julie H, Murray E., Brooke & family, Kate S., Tracy M., Carl, Michael S, Joanne N-R, Madeline H, and Kelly G, Also: Paul D, Susan S, Linda B, Charlie K, Anne C, Mark S, Angela G, Maria, Bob, and Olivia; Please also remember: St. Luke’s School & Church in Martel (Haiti) To add names and concerns for Wednesday's and Sunday's intercessions, and this "Let Us Pray" letter, please send them to YFNR at [email protected] with any details you care to share. Names will move to the longer term list upon request. Wednesday's Order for Evening will offer readings, hymns and prayers for this Fourth Week of Easter, and the new order God initiated in Jesus' resurrection: "...through [Christ] God was pleased to reconcile all things to himself, whether in heaven or earth..." The livestream of the service will start before 7p.m. via www.facebook.com/cecguilford. Thursday Bible Study continues April 29 at 9:30a.m. as we now follow the Israelites' wanderings in the Book of Numbers. Join the conversation via this Eastertide Zoom code. There are no prerequisites or homework! Our discussions of Love is the Way: Holding onto Hope in Troubling Times, Presiding Bishop Michael Curry's latest book, continues Sunday mornings and Tuesday evenings. In our reading, Bishop Curry quotes lay theologian Virginia Dozier's description of the "Dream of God:" "A friendly world of friendly people, under a friendly sky."(p.85) Sunday's worship: Because Guilford remains in a Connecticut "red zone," our indoor 10a.m. service with sung music will continue to be livestreamed via facebook.com/cecguilford . The forecast looks very promising for Prayers in the Garden at 1p.m. The church is accessible via the driveway door between 10a.m. and 3p.m. daily for quiet time, likely alone. Sunday School Families: Please look for Children and Youth Ministries Director Tyler Jarvis' invitation to participate in telling the Pentecost Story. The spoken parts will be recorded during a brief online session Saturday morning, May 1, at 10a.m.; the musical portion will be recorded during Sunday afternoon's Sunday School Family program in the Garden at 5p.m., May 2. Viburnum in Bloom: If you're near the Green, check out the scent of the Korean Spice Viburnum in front of the Rectory! "A Rose for Mother" Returns: Our ECW is pleased to announce its 7th Annual “A Rose For Mother” project. We will once again offer the opportunity to honor the women in your life, -- mothers, grandmothers, sisters, aunts, friends, -- with a red rose for the living or a white rose for the departed. The ECW invites your free-will donations along with the names of the women you wish to honor. Please clearly print the name(s) and indicate a red for the living or a white rose for the deceased. The bouquets of roses on the altar will be removed to the parish hall after the 10:00 am service and remain there for a day or two. You will be welcome to pick-up a rose while they last. So that the names of the honored women may appear in the bulletin on Mothers' Day, please be sure to send name(s) and your contribution to support the ECW's good work to Mrs. Paul Whitman, 21 Aberdeen Way, Durham CT 06422, or Mrs. Diane W. Link, 118 Michael Drive, Guilford, CT 06437, by May 5. Please make checks payable to Christ Church ECW, with "Roses for Mother" on the memo line. Here's my transcription of part of the memorable conclusion to Tyler's sermon: In the aftermath of a miracle, Peter asks his interrogators, Are we a people who rejoices when others are made whole, or are we too worried about our own position? Are we willing to give up ourselves in service to others, or are we a people who prefer to give others up to serve us. Tyler Jarvis preaching on Acts 4:5-12 in the faith, hope and love of Christ, Harrison+ Your Friendly Neighborhood Rector
0 Comments
 4th Sunday of Easter: Good Shepherd Sunday
April 25, 2021 Sunday School Rehearsal on Saturday morning: Children and Youth Ministries Director Tyler Jarvis has invited all Sunday School students, and their High School friends, to help tell the story of Pentecost. The rehearsal is Saturday, April 24, at 10a.m. Please join the happy throng via this link. The story will be recorded in May for presentation during services on Pentecost Sunday, May 23. A Rose for Mother Returns: Our ECW is pleased to announce its 7th Annual “A Rose For Mother” project. We will once again offer the opportunity to honor the women in your life, -- mothers, grandmothers, sisters, aunts, friends, -- with a red rose for the living or a white rose for the departed. The ECW invites your free-will donations along with the names of the women you wish to honor. Please clearly print the name(s) and indicate a red for the living or a white rose for the deceased. The bouquets of roses on the altar will be removed to the parish hall after the 10:00 am service and remain there for a day or two. You will be welcome to pick-up a rose while they last. So that the names of the honored women may appear in the bulletin on Mothers' Day, please be sure to send name(s) and your contribution to support the ECW's good work to Mrs. Paul Whitman, 21 Aberdeen Way, Durham CT 06422, or Mrs. Diane W. Link, 118 Michael Drive, Guilford, CT 06437. Please make checks payable to Christ Church ECW, with "Roses for Mother" on the memo line. Easter Worship Continues: It's the 4th Sunday of Easter; so expect the 23rd Psalm and Jesus identifying himself as our Good Shepherd. There are more Easter hymns to sing; more Alleluias to shout! During our 10a.m. livestream, we'll be inspired by beautiful music, great hymns, a fine sermon from Tyler Jarvis and Spiritual Communion. As this is written, the forecast for Sunday, April 25 includes a 96% chance of rain; if that's accurate, let's gather again in the Parish Hall at 1p.m. for Prayers at Mid-Day. We'll open all the windows. Please remember your mask. Digital Sunday School was mailed Friday afternoon. Be sure to check out Children and Youth Ministries Director Tyler Jarvis' video introduction to Sunday's readings, as well as his letter with all the links to videos, songs, coloring pages, and discussion topics. He talks asks a basic question, "What is love?" and sparks helpful conversations and reflections on how we can love one another. In his latest book, Love is the Way: Holding onto Hope in Troubling Times, Presiding Bishop Michael Curry wrote a book that responds to Tyler's question. Bishop Curry reflects on how he's witnessed God's love in his life, and the life of the world, through the loving acts of all sorts of folks, including Dolly Parton and Archbishop Tutu. The book is available online; and your favorite brick-and-mortar bookstore can order it for you. Our evening discussions continue Tuesday evenings; and a parallel Rectory Forum conversation continues Sunday mornings at 9a.m. Here's the Zoom link for the Sunday Forum. Virtual Coffee Hour: Check in with folks, and we'll probably commiserate over Sunday's weather. The link to YFNR's Personal Zoom Room seems to work well. So, join the conversation via Zoom on Sunday, April 25 at 11:30a.m. by clicking this link. Wednesday's Order for Evening will continue our Eastertide celebrations. Join our livestream prayers and hymns, Wednesday evening, April 28, at 7p.m. Thursday Bible Study is following the narrative of the Israelites' wandering in the Book of Numbers. There are some truly memorable stories coming up! Our conversation continues 9:30a.m. Thursday, April 29, via Zoom. Intercessory Prayer: Please help shape the Prayers of the People, by replying to this message with the people, birthdays, anniversaries, and concerns you would like included in the Prayers of the People. We are continuing our experiment with leaving the door closest to the Guild Room unlocked between 10a.m. and at least 3p.m. Please enjoy a quiet moment of prayer, likely alone, and pick up a remaining Easter lily to share, and a candle stub for prayers at home. Thanks to all who are mailing in your offerings! Although our in-person connections remain limited, the routine of the parish continues. Thanks to your faithfulness, we are able to continue our shared life of worship and witness -- even while maintaining appropriate distances. Please continue your financial support of our common life by bringing your offering to the altar, or the parish office, or by mailing to Christ Church, PO Box 574, Guilford, CT 06437. Your offering will be presented at the altar; it will be physically present, while you remain safely at home. In the faith, hope and love of Christ, Harrison+ YFNR  April 6, 2021
Let Us Pray + "Love is the Way" Discussion + Anselm of Canterbury Those who sail the sea have tales of its dangers which astonish all of us who hear them; in it are strange and wonderful creatures, all kinds of living things and great sea monsters. By (the Maker's) own action his purpose succeeds, and by his word all things are held together. Ecclesasticus 43:24-26, Revised English Version Dear Hearts, The passage above is the conclusion of the first reading during the Burial Office for Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, on Saturday, April 17. The whole passage begins with verse 11: "Look at the rainbow, and praise its Maker." Some of you remarked to me how moved you were by this reading and the whole service; I heartily concur! According to the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Prince had chosen every detail of the service. Indeed, he had previously commissioned the settings for both the canticle and the psalm (104) for other occasions. If you look for the reading in your Bible, be sure you have one that includes the Book of Ecclesiasticus (not to be confused in Ecclesiastes). In many verstions, this book is called "Sirach." Let us pray for all who are commended to the parish's prayers: All who are ill, including Ann S, Jack, Alphonse, Elizabeth, Maryanne M, Alex M, Sonny P, Virginia, Amy B, Jim R, Kevin and Danielle; and for all who are contending with Covid-19 disease; for medical caregivers ministering of God's healing gifts; and for all facing financial hardship because of the pandemic. May they all know the healing power of Christ's presence and love. And for all who have died, including Richard Sutton, Daunte Wright, Adam Toledo and all who perished in the past week's violent confrontations in Indianapolis, Columbus, Detroit, Austin, Kenosha, and Houston; and for the over 567,000 of our fellow citizens claimed by the coronavirus. Rest eternal grant to them, O Lord; may light perpetual shine upon them. Look with favor, O Lord, upon Marsha Brown and David Moore, as they celebrate their birthdays. May they continue to grow in grace and wisdom. Please also continue to pray for Carol U, Diane L, Jason, Peter, Dale, Buster, Jimmy C, Patrick and family, Felipe, Richard D, Alice M, Elizabeth Ann, Parker, Webb, Jill, Andrew E, Ed C, Pastor Bryan Meyers, Bob C, Sue S, George H, Alex & John H, Jeremy H, Shelly, Philippe, Kate, Frank, Jack, Judy & Ed S, Michael M, Richard D, Dave K, Brian A, Annie, John, Joan G., Lois C., Winnie Z, Bernie and family, Susie & Paul, Pam McG, Julie H, Murray E., Brooke & family, Kate S., Tracy M., Carl, Michael S, Joanne N-R, Madeline H, and Kelly G, Also: Leslie P, Paul D, Susan S, Linda B, Charlie K, Anne C, Mark S, Angela G, Maria, Bob, Olivia, and Jo B. Please also remember: St. Luke’s School & Church in Martel (Haiti) To add names and concerns for Wednesday's and Sunday's intercessions, and this "Let Us Pray" letter, please send them to YFNR at [email protected] with any details you care to share. Names will move to the longer term list upon request. Our Tuesday evening discussion of Love is the Way: Holding onto Hope in Troubling Times, Presiding Bishop Michael Curry's latest book, continues this evening, April 20, at 7p.m. Here's the link for Tuesday evenings. Although it helps to have the book available in hard copy or on another device, that's not required. This week we'll learn "What Desmond Tutu and Dolly Parton Have in Common." Our discussion proceeds in parallel tracks on Tuesday evenings and Sunday mornings. Look for Sundays' link in the announcements on Saturday. Wednesday's Order for Evening will commemorate the faithful scholarship of Anselm of Canterbury. and his care for the Church, and all peoples under its protection, during a violent era. Given the horrible toll of gun violence in the past week, our prayers will include a "Litany in the Aftermath of Gun Violence." The livestream of the service will start before 7p.m. via www.facebook.com/cecguilford. Thursday Bible Study continues April 22 at 9:30a.m. as we now follow the Israelites' wanderings in the Book of Numbers. Join the conversation via this Eastertide Zoom code. There are no prerequisites or homework! Thanks to all who shared in our continuing Easter celebrations either via livestream or in-person in the Garden on April 18. Because Guilford remains solidly in a Connecticut "red zone," our indoor "heated" services with sung music will continue to be livestreamed via facebook.com/cecguilford . However, do remember that the church is accessible via the driveway door between 10a.m. and 3p.m. daily for quiet time, likely alone, in the intoxicating scent of Easter lilies. While you're there, check to sea if any Easter pansies or lilies remain. Here are some lines from Psalm 104 that I imagine were particularly meaningful to Prince Philip: There is the sea, spread far and wide, and there move creatures beyond number, both small and great. There go the ships, and there is that Leviathan which you have made to play in the deep. Common Worship, p.717 Services and Prayers for the Church of England In the faith, hope and love of Christ, Harrison+ Your Friendly Neighborhood Rector  April 18, 2021
Spring Training for Connecticut Episcopalians concludes Saturday morning, April 17 with a plenary session focused on "Parish Life After Covid." All Are Welcome. It's not too late to register here. Represent South Central Region on BTC: Our South Central Region's Leadership Team invites applications from clergy and laity willing to serve on the Bishop Transition Committee. Invitation details available here. Responses are due Sunday! Easter Worship Continues: Easter is not a one-day event: Easter lasts for 50 days! There are more Easter hymns to sing; more Easter readings to hear; more Alleluias to shout! Our 10a.m. livestream will include beautiful music, great hymns, and Spiritual Communion. As this is written, the forecast for Sunday, April 18 includes sunshine for our Prayers in the Garden at 1p.m.! A variety of spring flowers have flourished through the rain. Please remember your lawn chair and mask. Digital Sunday School has returned from Spring Break! You'll want to check out Children and Youth Ministries Director Tyler Jarvis' letter with all the links to videos, songs, coloring pages, and discussion topics, as well as his video introduction to Sunday's readings here. He talks about the "resurrection work" that still needs to be done, and asks, how can we participate in that work? Also check out this message about the upcoming "Pentecost Pageant." In his latest book, Love is the Way: Holding onto Hope in Troubling Times, I think Presiding Bishop Michael Curry offers one response to Tyler's question. Bishop Curry reflects on how God's love has come into his life and the life of others to sustain him and them during oppression, loss and sorrow. It's available online, and your favorite brick-and-mortar bookstore can order it for you. Our evening discussions continue Tuesday evenings; and a parallel Rectory Forum conversation continues Sunday mornings at 9a.m. Here's the Zoom link for the Sunday Forum. Virtual Coffee Hour: We didn't get to questions or concerns regarding Bishop Ian's call for his successor's election last Sunday; maybe this week? The link to YFNR's Personal Zoom Room seems to work well. So, join the conversation via Zoom on Sunday, April 18 at 11:30a.m. by clicking this link. Wednesday's Order for Evening will celebrate the faithful theological inquiry of St. Anselm of Canterbury. Far from an abstract discipline, Anselm understood theology as "faith seeking understanding." Join our livestream prayers and hymns, Wednesday evening, April 21, at 7p.m. Thursday Bible Study is following the narrative of the Israelites' wandering into the Book of Numbers. There are some truly memorable stories coming up! Our conversation continues 9:30a.m. Thursday, April 22, via Zoom. Intercessory Prayer: Please help shape the Prayers of the People, by replying to this message with the people, birthdays, anniversaries, and concerns you would like included in the Prayers of the People. We are continuing our experiment with leaving the door closest to the Guild Room unlocked between 10a.m. and at least 3p.m. Please enjoy a quiet moment of prayer, likely alone, and pick up a remaining Easter lily to share, and a candle stub for prayers at home. Thanks to all who are mailing in your offerings! Although our in-person connections remain limited, the routine of the parish continues. Thanks to your faithfulness, we are able to continue our shared life of worship and witness -- even while maintaining appropriate distances. Please continue your financial support of our common life by bringing your offering to the altar, or the parish office, or by mailing to Christ Church, PO Box 574, Guilford, CT 06437. Your offering will be presented at the altar; it will be physically present, while you remain safely at home. In the faith, hope and love of Christ, Harrison+ YFNR April 6, 2021
Let Us Pray + Thanks so much! + "Love is the Way" Discussion Accept, O Lord, our thanks and praise for all that you have done for us. We thank you for the spendor of the whole creation, for the beauty of this world, for the wonder of life, and for the mystery of love. A General Thanksgiving, BCP, p.836 Dear Hearts, The thanks above, begin a series of thanksgivings that we offered at the conclusion of last Sunday's Mid-Day Prayers in the Parish Hall. The following petitions express gratitude for the communities of love where we know God's love for us, and "for accomplishments that satisfy and delight us," as well as "failures that lead us to acknowledge our dependence upon [God] alone." Apparently, the Holy Spirit knew about the secret plans for both services that Sunday, because I couldn't have chosen a more apt prayer if I had tried. As it happened, I was taken totally by surprise by Sunday's second celebration of our ten-plus years together as Parish and Pastor! I had absolutely no clue that this was coming; you all did a superb job of keeping me in the dark! I have enjoyed looking through the photo book, and inspecting the framed photo collages, and have begun enjoying your gracious and too-kind greetings and appreciations. Words fail to express my gratitude; so, I fall back on this prayer of gratitude for all that you and God have done for me. Nonetheless, I do want to note special admiration for the clever rascals who appear to have been ringleaders in Sunday's celebrations -- Susan Leonard, Kate Haggans, Donna LaFata, the Rev. Mary Anne Osborn, and their unnamed co-conspirators Let us pray for all who are commended to the parish's prayers: All who are ill, including Jack, Alphonse, Maryanne M, Alex M, Sonny P, Virginia, Amy B,Jim R, Kevin and Danielle; and all who are contending with Covid-19 disease; for the medical caregivers who minister of God's healing gifts; and for all facing financial hardship because of the pandemic. May they all know the healing power of Christ's presence and love. And for all who have died, including Prince Philip, those who perished in this week's violent confrontations; and for the over 563,000 of our fellow citizens claimed by the coronavirus. Rest eternal grant to them, O Lord; may light perpetual shine upon them. Look with favor, O Lord, upon Joshua Brause and Paul Whitman, as they celebrate their birthdays. May they continue to grow in grace and wisdom. Please also continue to pray for Carol U, Diane L, Jason, Peter, Dale, Buster, Jimmy C, Patrick and family, Felipe, Richard D, Alice M, Elizabeth Ann, Parker, Webb, Jill, Andrew E, Ed C, Pastor Bryan Meyers, Bob C, Sue S, George H, Alex & John H, Jeremy H, Shelly, Philippe, Kate, Frank, Jack, Judy & Ed S, Michael M, Richard D, Dave K, Brian A, Annie, John, Joan G., Lois C., Winnie Z, Bernie and family, Susie & Paul, Pam McG, Julie H, Murray E., Brooke & family, Kate S., Tracy M., Carl, Michael S, Joanne N-R, Madeline H, and Kelly G, Also: Leslie P, Paul D, Susan S, Linda B, Charlie K, Anne C, Mark S, Angela G, Maria, Bob, Olivia, and Jo B. Please also remember: St. Luke’s School & Church in Martel (Haiti) To add names and concerns for Wednesday's and Sunday's intercessions, and this "Let Us Pray" letter, please send them to YFNR at [email protected] with any details you care to share. Names will move to the longer term list upon request. Our Tuesday evening discussion of Love is the Way: Holding onto Hope in Troubling Times, Presiding Bishop Michael Curry's latest book, continues this evening, April 13, at 7p.m. Here's the link for Tuesday evenings. Although it helps to have the book available in hard copy or on another device, that's not required. This Tuesday and Sunday, we'll return to his quotation from a poem by Elizabeth Barrett Browning: Earth's crammed with heaven And every common bush afire with God; But only he who sees, takes off his shoes; The rest sit around and pluck blackberries. Our discussion proceeds in parallel tracks on Tuesday evenings and Sunday mornings. Look for Sundays' link in the announcements on Saturday. Wednesday's Order for Evening will introduce us to Zenaida, Philonella and Hermione, early saints of the Eastern Church, who are revered for their medical insights and as "unmercenary physicians." That they are remembered as physicians and not as nurses, seems a miracle to me! Our prayers will include a Litany for Healing. The livestream of the service will start before 7p.m. via www.facebook.com/cecguilford. Thursday Bible Study continues April 8 at 9:30a.m. as we finish up with the Israelites' wanderings in the Book of Exodus; the narrative picks up again in the Book of Numbers. Join the conversation via this Eastertide Zoom code. There are no prerequisites or homework! Thanks to all who shared in our continuing Easter celebrations either via livestream or in-person in the Parish Hall on April 11. Given the imminent rainfall, Mid-day Prayers moved into the Parish Hall with all the windows wide open and the heat turned off. There were almost 30 of us, at appropriate distances, and with masks. This Sunday's forecast makes a return to the Garden seem likely for Mid-Day prayers. Because Guilford remains solidly in a Connecticut "red zone," our indoor "heated" services will continue to be livestreamed viafacebook.com/cecguilford . However, do remember that the church is accessible via the driveway door between 10a.m. and 3p.m. daily for quiet time, likely alone, in the intoxicating scent of Easter lilies. While you're there, pick up Easter pansies and a lily from the chancel to share with someone. Sunday Lectors: Thanks to Gabrielle Johnson for recording the Epistle for Sunday's 10a.m. service. If you would like to offer a reading for an upcoming Sunday, please let me know. You can make a video recording on your phone and send it as an Mp4 file via Dropbox. Spring Training for the Episcopal Church in Connecticut continues through Saturday, April 17. You can find all the details here regarding the workshops that range from nuts-and-bolts concerns to worship and spiritual practices. The workshops are 90 minutes long. Saturday morning's two-hour plenary session will be devoted to the challenges of "Parish Life after COVID." I'm registered. Here are three more petitions from A General Thanksgiving: We thank you for the blessing of family and friends, and for the loving care which surrounds us on everyside. We thank you for setting us at tasks which demand our best efforts, and for leadling us to tasks that satisfy and delight us. We thank you also for those disappointments and failures that lead us to acknowledge our dependence up you alone. ... BCP, p. 836 In the faith, hope and love of Christ, Harrison+ Your Friendly Neighborhood Rector  2nd Sunday of Easter, April 11, 2021:
Bishop Douglas' Big Announcement: On Wednesday in Easter Week, Bishop Ian Douglas called for the election of the 16th Bishop of Connecticut and announced his plan to retire upon the consecration of his successor in October 2022. His announcement is available here, and a letter from the Standing Committee is here. Our South Central Region's Leadership Team has invited applications from clergy and laity willing to serve on the Bishop Transition Committee. That information is available here. Easter Worship Continues: Easter is not a one-day event: Easter lasts for 50 days! There are more Easter hymns to sing; more Easter readings to hear; more Alleluias to shout! Our 10a.m. livestream will include beautiful music, great hymns, Spiritual Communion, and the chancel still decked out to celebrate the Risen Life. Unfortunately, the forecast is not promising for our Prayers in the Garden at 1p.m. Look for an announcement early Sunday morning. Digital Sunday School is on Spring Break this weekend. Look for its return via email about noon on Friday, April 16. For those of you who like me, look forward to each week's "The Sunday Paper" and "The Sunday Paper Jr.," click on the titles to get the papers to read and to print out and color! Love is the Way: Holding onto Hope in Troubling Times is Presiding Bishop Michael Curry's latest book, and some say, his best yet. Bishop Curry reflects on how God's love has come into his life and the life of others to sustain him and them during oppression, loss and sorrow. It's available online, and your favorite brick-and-mortar bookstore can order it for you. Our evening discussions began on Tuesday, April 6; a parallel Rectory Forum conversation starts this Sunday, April 11 at 9a.m. Here's the Zoom link for the Sunday Forum. Virtual Coffee Hour... this week might be a good opportunity to consider any questions or concerns regarding Bishop Ian's call for his successor's election. The link to YFNR's Personal Zoom Room seems to work well. So, join the conversation via Zoom on Sunday, April 11 at 11:30a.m. by clicking this link. This week, our Wednesday Order for Evening will return our focus to prayers for healing as we give thanks for three totally unfamiliar saints -- unfamiliar, unless you participate in Lent Madness! Namely Zenaida, Philonella and Hermione, three early Christian "unmercenary" physicians. Join our livestream prayers and hymns, Wednesday evening, April 14, at 7p.m. Thursday Bible Study will likely conclude our journey with the Israelites' wandering in the Book of Exodus. But their wandering continues: Expect some amazing stories to come in the Book of Numbers. Our conversation begins 9:30a.m. Thursday, April 15, via Zoom. Intercessory Prayer: Please help shape the Prayers of the People, by replying to this message with the people, birthdays, anniversaries, and concerns you would like included in the Prayers of the People. We are continuing our experiment with leaving the door closest to the Guild Room unlocked between 10a.m. and at least 3p.m. Please enjoy a quiet moment of prayer, likely alone, in the church all decorated for Easter, and after this Sunday pick up Easter flowers, and a candle stub for home, or to share. Spring Training: Connecticut Episcopalians are gathering on-line for learning, prayer and fellowship during an array of workshops that began this week and conclude next Saturday with a plenary session focused on "Parish Life After Covid." All Are Welcome. The 90-minute workshops address topics ranging from parish administration, to helpful spiritual practices, to how-to-lead Morning Prayer. Find details about the workshops here. Thanks to all who are mailing in your offerings! Although our in-person connections remain limited, the routine of the parish continues. Thanks to your faithfulness, we are able to continue our shared life of worship and witness -- even while maintaining appropriate distances. Please continue your financial support of our common life by bringing your offering to the altar, or the parish office, or by mailing to Christ Church, PO Box 574, Guilford, CT 06437. Your offering will be presented at the altar; it will be physically present, while you remain safely at home. In the faith, hope and love of Christ, Harrison+ YFNR p.s. Many thanks to all who helped us celebrate the Lord's Resurrection on Easter Day:
April 6, 2021
Let Us Pray + Easter Wednesday + "Love is the Way" Discussion Begins "Wherever love is found, God's own self is there." Ubi Caritas ..., Medieval Hymn Text Dear Hearts, Love is the Way: Holding onto Hope in Troubling Times,Presiding Bishop Michael Curry's latest book, is the focus for our Eastertide discussion on Tuesday evenings and Sunday mornings starting this evening, April 6, at 7p.m. Right away, Bishop Curry makes clear, "The love I'm talking about isn't love on a Valentine's card. Those are nice, but they're not what I have in mind ..." Instead, "Love is the firm commitment to act for the well-being of someone other than yourself." This love is "the way to a new world that looks something more like God's dream for us and all creation, what Dante spoke of as 'the love that moves the sun and stars.'" (pp. 13, 14, 16) Our discussion will proceed in parallel tracks on Tuesday evenings and Sunday mornings. No need to have read anything for the first session. Here's the link for Tuesday evenings. Look for Sundays' link in the announcements on Saturday. Let us also pray for all who are commended to the parish's prayers: All who are ill, including Kelsey (recovering from organ donation), Maryanne M, Alex M, Sonny P, Duffy, Virginia, Amy B, Jim R, Kevin and Danielle; and all who are contending with Covid-19 disease; for the medical caregivers who minister of God's healing gifts; and for all facing financial hardship because of the pandemic. May they all know the healing power of Christ's presence and love. And for Timothy Lykes (Yvonne dePotter Scott's nephew), and all who have died, including the over 555,000 of our fellow citizens claimed by the coronavirus. Rest eternal grant to them, O Lord; may light perpetual shine upon them. Look with favor, O Lord, upon Ian Robinson, Ginger Sheppard and Jack Trotter,, as they celebrate their birthdays. May they continue to grow in grace and wisdom. Please also continue to pray for Carol U, Diane L, Jason, Peter, Dale, Buster, Jimmy C, Patrick and family, Felipe, Richard D, Alice M, Elizabeth Ann, Parker, Webb, Jill, Andrew E, Ed C, Pastor Bryan Meyers, Bob C, Sue S, George H, Alex & John H, Jeremy H, Shelly, Philippe, Kate, Frank, Jack, Judy & Ed S, Michael M, Richard D, Dave K, Brian A, Annie, John, Joan G., Lois C., Winnie Z, Bernie and family, Susie & Paul, Pam McG, Julie H, Murray E., Brooke & family, Kate S., Tracy M., Carl, Michael S, Joanne N-R, Madeline H, and Kelly G, Also: Leslie P, Paul D, Susan S, Linda B, Charlie K, Anne C, Mark S, Angela G, Maria, Bob, Olivia, and Jo B. Please also remember: St. Luke’s School & Church in Martel (Haiti) To add names and concerns for Wednesday's and Sunday's intercessions, and this "Let Us Pray" letter, please send them to YFNR at [email protected] with any details you care to share. Names will move to the longer term list upon request. Our Order for Evening for Wednesday in Easter Week will include the Road to Emmaus story; the only time we hear it in this year's lectionary. Our hymns include one from my childhood. The livestream of the service will start before 7p.m. via www.facebook.com/cecguilford. Thursday Bible Study continues April 8 at 9:30a.m. as we finish up with the Israelites' misbehavior while Moses lingers with God on Mt. Sinai. Join the conversation via this Eastertide Zoom code. There are no prerequisites or homework! Thanks to all who shared in our Easter Day Worship either via livestream or in-person in the Garden. There were over 32 of us, at appropriate distances, and with masks, for the Garden service; the sun was shining, Natalie Bryan and Olivia Ste. Marie provided two inspiring Easter string duets for us. It was a glorious Part B to the day's worship . Sadly, the forecast for the coming Sunday does not look as promising. Because Guilford remains solidly in a Connecticut "red zone," our indoor services will continue to be livestreamed viafacebook.com/cecguilford . However, do remember that the church is accessible via the driveway door between 10a.m. and 3p.m. daily for quiet time, likely alone, in the intoxicating scent of Easter flowers. While you're there, Easter pansies may be claimed from the table in the chancel. Sunday Lectors: Thanks to Sunday readers Diane Kyle and Chris Robinson for leading the way, recording their readings for our 10a.m. service on Easter Day. If you would like to offer a reading for an upcoming Sunday, please let me know. You can make a video recording on your phone and send it as an Mp4 file via Dropbox. Spring Training for the Episcopal Church in Connecticut begins today, April 6, and continues online through April 17. You can find all the details here regarding the workshops that range from nuts-and-bolts concerns to worship and spiritual practices. The workshops are 90 minutes long, and will be offered more than once. ECCT's eNewsletter for this week has so much information regarding Camp Washington, news and reflection articles, and online events, that I'm just going to share a link to it for your perusal. Here's the Collect for today: O God, who by the glorious resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ destroyed death and brought life and immortality to light: Grant that we, who have been raised with him, may abide in his presence and rejoice in the hope of eternal glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be dominion and praise for ever and ever. Amen. Collect for Tuesday in Easter Week, BCP, p. 223 In the faith, hope and love of Christ, Harrison+ Your Friendly Neighborhood Rector  Easter Day, April 4, 2021:
Easter Worship: Since Guilford remains a solidly "red" zone, our celebrations of the Resurrection will occur via Livestream and outdoors. The 10a.m. livestream will include special music, great hymns, Spiritual Communion, and the chancel decked out to celebrate the Risen Life. Our Prayers in the Garden at 1p.m. will have a string duo and take-away flowers for children in place of our traditional Easter egg hunt. Here is our Bishops latest version of "Living with COVID-19: Protocols and Directions for Clergy and Vestries in the Episcopal Church in Connecticut." They continue to counsel against in-person worship for parishes in State of Connecticut red zones. See the latest map here. Digital Sunday School: Children & Youth Ministries Director Tyler Jarvis must have had an extra cup of coffee before recording this week's insightful video introduction to Easter. I thought he was going to reach through my screen! As usual, Tyler poses some great questions for your consideration in the email that went out on Friday about noon. You can find it and the rest of Tyler's email here. Love is the Way: Holding onto Hope in Troubling Times is Presiding Bishop Michael Curry's latest book, and some say, his best yet. It comes highly recommended by everyone from Al Roker to the Archbishop of Canterbury -- and our Bishops, as well. One chapter title reveals the wit for which Bishop Curry is so well known: "What Desmond Tutu and Dolly Parton Have in Common." Our discussion begins Tuesday, April 6, at 7p.m. with parallel conversations beginning Sunday, April 11 at 9a.m. Here's the Zoom for the Tuesday Discussions. Virtual Coffee Hour... is a great opportunity to "see" one another. The link to YFNR's Personal Zoom Room seems to work well. So, join the conversation via Zoom on Easter Day, April 4 at 11:30a.m. by clicking this link. Our Wednesday Order for Evening will continue our Easter celebrations. Join our livestream prayers and hymns, Wednesday evening, April 7, at 7p.m. Thursday Bible Study will continue with God dealing with the Israelites and their "golden calf" debacle. Join the conversation, at 9:30a.m. Thursday, April 8, via Zoom. Intercessory Prayer: Please help shape the Prayers of the People, by replying to this message with the people, birthdays, anniversaries, and concerns you would like included in the Prayers of the People. We are continuing our experiment with leaving the door closest to the Guild Room unlocked between 10a.m. and at least 3p.m. Please enjoy a quiet moment of prayer, likely alone, in the church all decorated for Easter, and pick up a candle stub to light during your prayers at home.Spring Training: Gather with Connecticut Episcopalians for learning, prayer and fellowship during an array of workshops beginning this Tuesday, April 6. All Are Welcome. This year's Spring Training will take place over the course of twelve days and be offered on ZOOM. Each workshop is 90 minutes long and most are offered on two different days and times. Find details about the workshops here. Thanks to all who are mailing in your offerings! Although our in-person connections remain limited, the routine of the parish continues. Thanks to your faithfulness, we are able to continue our shared life of worship and witness -- even while maintaining appropriate distances. Please continue your financial support of our common life by bringing your offering to the altar, or the parish office, or by mailing to Christ Church, PO Box 574, Guilford, CT 06437. Your offering will be presented at the altar; it will be physically present, while you remain safely at home. In the faith, hope and love of Christ, Harrison+ YFNR |
AuthorWe feature various authors from around our parish, commenting on topics of interest to our community. Enjoy! Comment if you are so moved! Archives
August 2022
Categories |
RSS Feed