Weekly Update | December 8, 2024
Earlier this week Mr. Rick Nordin, Co-chair of the Centennial Committee, wrote that he and the other Co-Chairs, Deacon Margaret H. McCauley and Mr. Arcadio Morales, were “ecstatic with our collective results” last Sunday with Advent Lessons and Carols and the festive reception that followed. Indeed, what a glorious launch of a second century! From planning, preparations and rehearsals to the promotion, decorations and physical labor of it all, we give heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed and to everyone who celebrated with us. Thank you for blessing us.
In addition, I wish to extend gratitude for our beautiful new Advent vestments, and the work of art given by Bishop John Harvey Taylor and the Diocese to St. John’s Cathedral on the occasion of its sanctuary’s centennial. The art is a glorious rendering of a quote from the First Epistle of John, chapter 4 and verse 16: “God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.”
This love reflects the new mission of St. John’s Cathedral. While we continue to wordsmith this guiding statement, the call that the people of St. John’s has discerned is close to what is written below:
St. John’s Cathedral seeks to be a community that offers a new relationship with God given by Christ Jesus, bringing us into the kingdom of God, and giving us fullness in life. We are required to love God, to love our neighbors, and to love one another as Christ loved us.
St. John’s Cathedral is committed to radical hospitality; to traditional and diverse liturgy and music; and to giving abundantly, using resources wisely, and engaging in vibrant ministries. We seek peace, justice and reconciliation.
The work of a new vision, mission and values are also labors of love given by the Vestry of St. John’s, and members of the Cathedral congregation who gave gracious support along the way.
Lastly, a note about stewardship. As of December 4th, we have received 48 pledges, ranging in amounts from $50 to $24,000, and we have raised 38% of our pledging goal (at the same goal as last year). This means that we have yet to hear from well over half of our pledging members.
Please remember to pledge as soon as possible, and give abundantly as you have discerned we are called to do. If you are giving online, please let us know what you intend to pledge this year. This will allow us to plan and budget accordingly, as we move toward shining the light of Christ throughout the diocese and beyond.
Thank you for your presence among us, and gifts of time, talent and treasure. We give thanks for you.
Blessings and love,
Anne+
