We will, with God's help

There was a time, in the not-too-distant past, when it was assumed that the work of the church was accomplished by the Rev. Mr. Whatsit (and of course it was always a Mr.) and a few ladies of the congregation who dutifully tended the sacristy and cooked in and cleaned parish kitchen. Father Whatsit alone visited the sick, prayed the prayers, offered intercessions, and distributed communion. He alone was the face of the church and often he alone (or at least it seemed) bore the burden of keeping the place going.

Thankfully those days are gone in the Episcopal Church. Over the last 30 or 40 years, we've come to understand that the work of the church is accomplished by all God's children. That's what those promises in the Baptismal Covenant are about. It was a major shift in our understanding of church life and one that has served us well, I think.

I was reminded of those old days yesterday when I saw the article in the Mercer Island Reporter about the Great Vigil of Easter. It was written by Jeanette Petersen, daughter of Emmanuel Church and currently a member of the vestry. She wrote with enthusiasm and authority and the article did not need Father Whatsit's photo or byline to make it legit. If you didn't already read it, click on the  link above. Then thank her for that work of evangelism on behalf of the Good News.

When I think about Emmanuel, I see the people who are doing the work of the church. The very public liturgical ministries we all see and appreciate. And there's also what happens more quietly: the Altar Guild, Flower Guild, staffing the office every day, caring for the building and grounds, visiting the sick and home bound, organizing and executing big parish events and dinners, serving on diocesan committees and boards, intercessory prayer groups, teaching Sunday school to name just a few.

And yet, we need to cast the net wider, you and I. There are many people in our environs who need to know the healing love of God in Christ. We are called to be channels of that love and acceptance and grace. I am convinced that it's not more programs and activities that people are looking for from the Church. Today's Seekers are looking for an authentic community of people where they can imagine themselves being accepted "just as they are," to paraphrase an old hymn, and to then grow as children of God.

This, my sisters and brothers, is such a place. On Sunday, when you see someone who hasn't been around for a while, tell him or her how glad you are to see them. And when you encounter those Seekers (and they will be with us on Sunday), tell them what a great thing we have going here. Because we do!

We have much to accomplish together. People are hurting, but "there is a balm in Gilead" (as the old spiritual reminds us) "to make the wounded whole." We have some information about that that others need to know about.

Blessings for the Triduum and for Easter Day. I hope to see you often these next few days.

Comments

[Mark Greaves]

When I read your remarks about the people doing the work of Emmanuel, I was reminded of a quote that I've occasionally heard attributed to St. Francis: "Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words." Good thoughts for Emmanuel...