 August 26, 2020
Let Us Pray O God, your unfailing providence sustains the world we live in and the life we live: Watch over those, both night and day, who work while others sleep, and grant that we may never forget that our common life depends upon each other's toil through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. BCP, p. 134 Dear Hearts, In the last 24 hours, I have participated in Finance Committee and Vestry Zoom meetings, the former from Terminal 5 at JFK and the latter from my brother and sister-in-law's dining room in the foothills of Mt. Hood. Also within this time period, I have observed just how dependent my life is on the labor of others. Yes, of course I knew that; but in traveling outside my usual routine I was reminded again. I saw all sorts of folks, "of every sort and condition," doing their best to protect one another with masks in place and keeping their distance, and scrubbing everything to not allow the virus any refuge. And so, the prayer above came to mind. It's from the beautiful Order for Compline -- the prayers for the cl Our prayers are asked for ---- All who are ill including, Jack T, and Rob vM, for Dale and all others contending with Covid-19 disease, and for all facing financial hardship because of the pandemic. May they all know the healing power of Christ's presence and love. For the repose of parishioner Robert vanMarx, many will remember his friendly greeting as an usher, and for the nearly 180,000 of our fellow citizens, who have died of the coronavirus. Rest eternal grant to them, O Lord, and may light perpetual shine upon them. Let us also remember all who mourn, including Holly vM, Remember your servants, O Lord, according to the favor you bear unto all your children. Let us offer prayers of thanksgiving for the birthdays of Kathleen Jones and Carol Iovanna. Bless these your children, as they begin another year, may they continue to grow in wisdom and grace, Let us also offer thanksgivings for Winnie & Ed Seibert's wedding anniversary. Continue to send your blessings upon them, that they may continue to so love and honor each other, that their home may continue a haven of blessing and peace. Please continue to hold in prayer: Elena P, Judy & Ed S, Frank, Margaret S, Michael M, Richard, D, Dave K, Brian A, 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, Kelly G, Also: Paul D, Susan S, Linda B, June C, Charlie K, Anne C, Mark S, Angela G, Maria, Bob, Olivia, Lois T, 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 then move to the "continuing" list for 30 days, and the longer term list upon request. Sunday School Families There's a survey out there that needs your input! Children & Youth Ministries Director Tyler Jarvis sent out an invitation to participate in a survey of your preferences regarding how Sunday School will meet beginning next month. Your participation will help shape our program. Tyler sent the invitation on Monday afternoon. Wednesday Evening Prayers are on holiday until the middle of September. Thursday Bible Study ... has begun its summer vacation, and will resume in mid-September. Thanks for the kind expressions on Sunday, that followed my reminder that our life together as parish and pastor began ten years ago on Sunday, August 22, 2010. I'm so very grateful for the honor and privilege of your call to join the life and witness as Christ Church. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and our fellowship in the Holy Spirit continue to sustain and kind us through this challenging time and into the years ahead. In the faith, hope and love of Christ, Harrison+ "the luckiest fool in the Kingdom"
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 August 20, 2020
Oh, how good and pleasant it is, when brethren live together in unity! It is like fine oil upon the head that runs down upon the beard, Upon the beard of Aaron, and runs down upon the collar of his robe. It is like the dew of Hermon that falls upon the hills of Zion. For there the Lord has ordained the blessing: life for evermore. Psalm 133, BCP, p. 787 Dear Hearts, I hope this psalm seem familiar; we prayed it last Sunday, and it appears again in the psalmody appointed for today's Daily Office. The first words of Psalm 133 in Latin, Ecce quam bonum, form the motto of Sewanee: The University of the South in Tennessee. You'll see the letters EQB all over campus. It serves as the University's own shorthand for "love your neighbor as yourself." At the same time, the University has made very conscious and public efforts to come to terms with the ways it historically fell short of the psalm's vision of brethren living together in unity by its complicity with, and promotion of, racial injustice. A monument to Edmund Kirby Smith -- the last Confederate General to surrender after the fall of Galveston in 1865 -- stood for many years at a campus crossroads. Two years ago portions of that monument were moved near his grave in the University cemetery (he had taught botany and mathematics), and it was rebuilt and rededicated as the EQB monument. Behold how good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity. Perhaps an even more telling signal that a new era has begun was the University's Regents' (who represent the southern dioceses of the Episcopal Church) election of a new Vice-Chancellor and President earlier this year. Among the ways to describe Ambassador Reuben Brigety II, a graduate of Annapolis and Cambridge and previously dean of the George Washington University's Elliott School of International Affairs, is that he is a Black man. Judging by the photographs I've seen, the new VC favors bow ties; so he'll fit in just fine. Our prayers are asked for ---- All who are ill including, Rob vM, Frank, Judy & Ed S; for Dale and all others contending with Covid-19 disease, and for all facing financial hardship because of the pandemic. May they all know the healing power of Christ's presence and love. For the repose of parishioner Robert vanMarx, many will remember his warm greeting as an usher, (service arrangements are pending); for Robert Meade and Judy Clearwater: and for the over 170,000 of our fellow citizens, who have died of the coronavirus; Rest eternal grant to them, O Lord; and may light perpetual shine upon them. let us also remember all who mourn, including Holly vM, and Ray C. Remember your servants, O Lord, according to the favor you bear unto all your children. Let us send up prayers of thanksgiving for the birthdays of Susan L and Melissa L. Watch over your servants, O Lord, as their days increase; bless and guide them; and may your peace abide with them all the days of their lives. Please continue to hold in prayer: Elena P, Margaret S, Michael M, Richard, D, Dave K, Brian A, 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, Kelly G, Also: Paul D, Susan S, Linda B, June C, Charlie K, Anne C, Mark S, Angela G, Maria, Bob, Olivia, Lois T, 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 then move to the "continuing" list for 30 days, and the longer term list upon request. Wednesday Evening Prayers are on holiday until the middle of September Thursday Bible Study ... has begun its summer vacation, and will resume in mid-September. The national political conventions of this week and next, have sent me to the Prayer Book. "Prayers for National Life" (pp.820-823) include many which I find helpful. Here's one "For an Election:" Almighty God, to whom we must account for all our powers and privileges: Guide the people of the United States in the election of officials and representatives, that, by faithful administration and wise laws, the rights of all may be protected and our nation be enabled to fulfill your purposes; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. BCP, p. 822 In the faith, hope and love of Christ, Harrison+ YFNR  For 10th Sunday after Pentecost, August 9, 2020:
If the crews from Ontario have not reached your street, and you are still out of power, please feel free to come to the Parish House to charge your devices, to fill water containers, and use the WiFi. The password for CECGuilford is lorenzotbennett (The Rev. Lorenzo T. Bennett served this parish as rector from 1840-1880 and bought the rectory as his personal home in 1860.) The Parish House will be open until 8p.m. If you need a shower, please contact me about using the one on the first floor of the Rectory. Summer Worship Schedule Continues: With Phase 3 of re-opening currently on hold as COVID-19 rages in much of the country, our summer pattern of Sunday worship continues in August and early September: Morning Prayer in the Garden is offered at 9a.m., with a brief children's sermon while (Digital) Sunday School goes on vacation. This remains our only in-person worship offering, with masks, distancing and most worshipers bringing their own lawn chairs. Our celebration of The Holy Eucharist is offered via livestream at 10a.m., with Spiritual Communion, hymns, organ and a soloist -- the Vestry having authorized continued engagement of professional vocalists through the end of the year. One major schedule change -- our Wednesday Order for Evening service begins summer vacation on August 12, with September 16 the likely return date. Drive-in for Justice Film Night: Guilford Racial Education Project's "Drive-in for Justice" will show "Just Mercy" on Monday, August 10. The film is a moving account of the work of activist attorney Bryan Stevenson in Alabama. The "Drive-In" is St. George Church's parking lot; it will open at 7:30p.m., and the film is scheduled to begin at 8:15p.m. You can find out more about the work of GREP on their FaceBook pagehere Among the Project's leaders are our own Mariam Kish, Gabby Perez and Natalia Perez. I hope we will support these young parishioners and their colleagues! Attention Gardeners: Whether or not you were part of the mulching brigade in May, the front gardens are calling out for some attention! Well actually, it is Junior Warden Alicia Bacon who is inviting anyone who wants an excuse to be outside in the cool of the morning or evening, to choose a bed to weed along the street front and driveway. Bags are available; feel free to put your "harvest" in the garbage bins. Virtual Coffee Hour: Senior Warden Susan Leonard will host Coffee Hour via Zoom this Sunday August 9, at 11:30a.m. by clicking this new link; please disregard past ones. ECW's Drive for Guilford Food Bank: Our ECW ladies have a keen eye for bargains. When they learned that the Guilford Food Bank could turn a $10 gift into $100 retail value of food, they saw that as too good a deal to pass up. So, they've had a "Pandemic Food Bank" project announced in the weekly letter that Diane Link sends to the ECW's mailing list. If you have questions or want to receive this newsletter, you can reach Diane at (203) 458-1806. If you'd like to participate, contributions may be sent directly to ECW treasurer, Rhoda Whitman, 21 Aberdeen Way, Durham, CT 06422. They are also offering the opportunity for donations to be made in memory of someone who has died, regardless of the cause. They have a card to send to the family of the deceased with the donors' name included. ECW Gift CardHolders are still available! ECW's popular gift cardholders, especially for graduation and birthdays, as well as all-occasions, are still available. Please call Diane at the number above to place your order; be sure and tell her about your graduate's school and school colors, or your special occasion. They are still $1.00 each plus $.50 postage per card. Sunday Intercessions: Next week, please send the people and concerns you would like included in the Prayers of the People to Parish administrator Donna Tafel -- [email protected] -- for inclusion in next Sunday's Prayers of the People. Please remember that Donna's office hours are 10a.m.-3p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Wednesday Order for Evening & Thursday Bible Study .. are now on summer vacation until mid-September.. "You'll Be Back" Viral Video ... For those who have missed the Rev. Lonnie Lacey's parody of this song from the musical Hamilton, and for those who have enjoyed it, here's a link to an interview on "Today" with the Rector of St. Anne's Episcopal Church, Tifton, Georgia. Please note that I have no plans to don either a biretta or cope (his cap and cape), but I may dance a bit when y'all are back in-person! Vacation/Leave Schedule With my usual summer study at Yale and Sewanee cancelled, this year's "Continuing Education" leave will be devoted to catching up on my reading. The Rev. Mary Anne Osborn will lead both services on August 9 and 16. I will be available for pastoral emergencies; but will check my email only once a day. This newsletter will next appear August 21. The "Let Us Pray" letter will next appear August 18. Parish Administrator Donna Tafel will be away August 18-20. Sexton Sheward Hagerty will be away August 22-29. Thanks to all who are mailing in your offerings! Although our in-person connections remains limited, and some of our programs are going on summer vacation, the routine of the parish continues in all the ways that support and maintain our common life. So, as you are able, in your current financial situation, please continue your financial support of our common life by sending your offerings to Christ Church, PO Box 574, Guilford, CT 06437. Your offering will be presented at the altar; it will be physically present, even as you remain safely at home. In the faith, hope and love of Christ, Harrison+ YFNR August 5, 2020
God of the present moment, God who in Jesus stills the storm and soothes the frantic heart; bring hope and courage to all who wait or work in uncertainty. Bring hope that you will make us the equal of whatever lies ahead. Bring us courage to endure what cannot be avoided, for your will is health and wholeness; you are God, and we need you. - Adapted from A New Zealand Prayer Book, p. 765 Dear Hearts, I hope this finds you safe and with power this morning! According to the morning report from our First Selectman, most of Guilford is without power, and there are tree limbs down all over. Our buildings do have power. Please feel free to come and charge your telephones and use the Parish Hall WiFi. The Parish Hall doors will remain unlocked until 8p.m. Aside from some significant wind pruning of our trees, and an arborvitae at a rakish angle over the driveway, the Parish's properties apparently came through yesterday's storm unscathed. Our prayers are asked for ---- All who are ill including, Charlie K, Elena P, and Ann B: for Dale and all others contending with Covid-19 disease, and for all facing financial hardship because of the pandemic. May they all know the healing power of Christ's presence and love. For the repose of Joan Ahrens, Bishop Laura's mother: and for the over 156,000 of our fellow citizens, who have died of the coronavirus; Remember your servants, O Lord, according to the favor you bear unto all your children. Let us send up prayers of thanksgiving for the 99th birthday of Charlie K Watch over your servant, O Lord, as his days increase; bless and guide them; and may your peace abide with him all the days of his life. In gratitude, for our InReach Team led by Susan Leonard and all who organized and delivered bread, to celebrate Jesus' Feeding the 5,000, We thank you for calling us to tasks that require our best efforts, and leading to accomplishments that delight us. Please continue to hold in prayer: Margaret S, Michael M, Richard L, Richard, D, Dave K, Brian A, Emily L, 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, Kelly G, Also: Paul D, Bob vM, Susan S, Linda B, June C, Charlie K, Anne C, Mark S, Angela G, Maria, Bob, Olivia, Lois T, 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 then move to the "continuing" list for 30 days, and the longer term list upon request. Wednesday Evening Prayers this week, fall on the Eve of the Feast of the Transfiguration. So our hymns, reading and prayers will celebrate this mountaintop revelation of Jesus as God's Beloved Son. You can join the service onwww.facebook.com/cecguilford . A service bulletin will be available later today here. This evening's service will conclude our summer offerings of this service; it will resume mid-September. Thursday Bible Study ... has begun its summer vacation, and will resume in mid-September. This "Let Us Pray" letter will next appear on Tuesday, August 18. As previously announced, I will be taking a "Reading Fortnight" beginning tomorrow, August 6. This will take the place of my usual Continuing Education leave at Yale and Sewanee. At the same time, I'm aware that some are already, or soon to begin, a new academic adventure. So, let us pray for all who are involved in any educational endeavor: Almighty God, the fountain of all wisdom: Enlighten by your Holy Spirit those who teach and those who learn, that, rejoicing in the the knowledge of your truth, they may worship you and serve you from generation to generation; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.. Amen. For Education, BCP, p. 261 In the faith, hope and love of Christ, Harrison+ YFNR |
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