Dear Friends in Christ:
Today begins a new liturgical year with the commencement of the Advent Season. Many people often comment that this is their favorite liturgical season as it inspires a sense of wonder and anticipation. As we light a candle each week we are drawn into the mystery of waiting. I pray that you experience Joy in the Waiting this Advent Season. This is a perfect opportunity for us to ask (and be asked)…
What are we waiting for?
The answer is simple and personal: we are not waiting for a particular event or thing but for a deeper relationship with a person — Jesus Christ! He is the light in the darkness who is the only one who can bring us peace, joy and fulfillment whether it be this upcoming Christmas as we remember his birth in Bethlehem OR when we meet Him when we are called home to our final destination in the Kingdom.
Please take time this Advent to reflect upon your relationship with the Lord. Do not be afraid to tell Him the desires of your heart, mind and soul, and to listen and wait with joy and wonder for His personal response to you. When you come before the Lord, thank you for whispering my name to the Almighty. Know that I remember you, your loved ones and your intentions in my prayers. We may not see each other each day, but may we meet each day in our prayers.
In joyful hope,
Very Rev. Stephen D. Parkes, V.F.
Pastor