From The Desk of Deacon Judy
Leadership Transitions
At this holy time of year when we remember and give thanks for all the saints over the last 2000 years whose faith and works inspire us on our spiritual journey, we are in the midst of leadership transitions in our Episcopal Church and in our nation.
On Saturday, November 2, we witness the investiture of the 28th Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church, the Right Reverend Sean Rowe. We give thanks for the nine years of leadership of Presiding Bishop Michael Curry who always reminded us “If it’s not about Love, it’s not about God.” Presiding Bishop Sean will offer his own priorities and perspectives for our Church for a time such as this. Here’s the link, should you care to watch the investiture: https://www.episcopalchurch.org/investiture/
A Prayer for the Unity of the Church:
O God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, our only Savior, the Prince of Peace: Give us grace seriously to lay to heart the great dangers we are in by our unhappy divisions; take away all hatred and prejudice, and whatever else may hinder us from godly union and concord; that, as there is but one Body and one Spirit, one hope of our Calling, on Lord, one Faith, one Baptism, one God and Father of us all, so we may be all of one heart and of one soul, united in one holy bond of truth and peace, of faith and charity, and may with one mind and one mouth glorify you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (BCP, p 818)
Next week voters will elect a new President of the United States and new national, state, and local government leaders. On Tuesday evening (November 5), The Episcopal Church invites all to join in Election Night Virtual Prayers. Here’s the link: https://mailchi.mp/episcopalchurch/join-election-night-virtual-prayers-find-vote-faithfully-resources?e=b7ea8f6d0c
A Prayer for Our Country:
Almighty God, who hast given us this good land for our heritage: We humbly beseech thee that we may always prove ourselves a people mindful of thy favor and glad to do thy will. Bless our land with honorable industry, sound learning, and pure manners. Save us from violence, discord, and confusion; from pride and arrogance, and from every evil way. Defend our liberties, and fashion into one united people the multitudes brought hither out of many kindred and tongues. Endue with the spirit of wisdom those to whom in thy Name we entrust the authority of government, that there may be justice and peace at home, and that, through obedience to thy law, we may show forth they praise among the nations of the earth. In the time of prosperity, fill our hearts with thankfulness, and in the day of trouble, suffer not our trust in thee to fail; all which we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (BCP, p 820)
God’s peace – in our hearts, in our nation, and in our world, Judy Q+
