Fr. Harrison's Letter for June 26, 2016

Dear Hearts,

As I write this to you, my class time in the Advanced Degree Program of the School of Theology in Sewanee: The University of the South is coming to a close.  Not sure that I have ever read so many poems and short stories, heard so many sermons (4 a day this week!), or thought so much about the use of metaphor and symbol in ministry as I have these three weeks!  And there are out-of-class assignments on these topics to be done in the coming weeks.

In the meantime, your sabbatical continues as well.  I hope you are enjoying your respite from my approach to things, and will take advantage this Sunday and next, June 26 and July 3, of the insights of the Rev. Kent Smith.  Of course, Kent+ is a friend of Christ Church; he and Margaret live in Guilford, are active in our community, and sometimes join us for Sunday worship.  As active participants in the life and witness of Christ Church, New Haven, they also have a different perspective to share.

Our new Sunday School Director, Laurie Varley, has posted an announcement and on-line sign-up for Vacation Bible School.  You can find it here; just scroll down to the bottom of the page.  Called "Deep Sea Discovery: God is With Us Wherever We Go," this looks like a great approach to learning, crafts, games, fun...and oh yes, the all important snacks!

Please consider signing up to serve "Lemonade Under the Balcony," following the 10a.m. service.  As the name implies, this is a simple opportunity for conversation over lemonade, or whatever cool beverage the hosts choose to serve, and maybe a plate of simple treats, served on a card table under the choir loft.  Thanks to the Marks Family who are hosting on June 26.

The July 4th weekend holds special significance for the family of Barbara Letts; so they chose July 3rd as the date to gather with friends to give thanks for Barbara's life and witness.  The service will be at 10:30 a.m. in Christ Church, followed by committal in Alderbrook Cemetery.  It seemed to Barbara's family and  to me that she had a hand in arranging my schedule so that I could officiate, and of course, I will be honored, as always, to do so.

With love and prayers from Tennessee,
Harrison+
YFNR
p.s. The latest issue of GTO: Glad Tidings Online is available by clicking here. It includes details about parish leadership in June and July while I am on study-leave and vacation.