This Week from Mitch

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I hope and pray that you are well. This week's reading from Romans begins with these words, "Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers."

Paul's instructions in Romans are meant to help us live as Christians while we build the community of God. In the name of Jesus, he tells us to love one another, to outdo each other in the showing of honor, and to hold fast to what is good. At St. Martin's I am an ardent supporter of our welcoming spirit that invites all people into the sacramental life of the church. At St. Martin's I hold fast to our call to service. From the backpack program, to our feeding ministries with St. Luke's, to the Daughters of the King leading worship at Atria, to our disaster relief ministries (a ministry that may be called on soon), to our home visits, to our Safe Space Dinners and community house meetings, to so very much more, we seek to serve. At St. Martin's we are truly blessed to be able to be a blessing.

Paul tells us that we should honor one another. As I read his words, I am reminded that, as a priest, I should honor you. Please know that I do. In many ways being the rector of St. Martin's has been one of the most important and humbling honors of my life. I am grateful for you. As we enter into this Holiday weekend I pray that we can each take a moment to honor and celebrate one another, for it is in the sharing of mutual love and the grace of Jesus Christ that church communities grow stronger. May we share that love and grace always.

In Christ,

Mitch