Word from Father Tom
Whether we like it or not, all humans have a theology. That is, we all have beliefs about God that affect or influence how we live, why we worship, or why we don’t worship. This is especially true of we, the Anglican Baptized.
One of the reasons that I gravitated to the Anglican Communion during Seminary was that I was growing in my understanding of catholicity and the inescapable influence of some kind of tradition on any form of Christianity. While I am “catholic” before anything else, I also have some Reformational influence.
While the Reformation was often problematic and given to unhelpful overcorrection, I also believe that reform in the church was needed at the time. The Reformation thus shaped the Church of England and its theology while avoiding many of its extremes. These things are perhaps best seen in the shape and content of our Prayer Book.
One of the areas where the Prayer Book was influenced is the Rite of Confession, or “The Reconciliation of the Penitent” (BCP, pgs. 446).
During Lent, I would like to investigate the importance of the Confession of Sin in the believer’s life and why (or how) we Episcopalians approach it.
I leave you with these verses to ponder.
I John 1:8 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.
James 5: Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
Fr. Tom
Upcoming Schedule
Adult Christian Ed Class Sunday, 9 AM.
Wednesday, Mar 1, 2023, 5:00 PM, New Member/Confirmation Inquiry Class
NEW MEMBER/CONFIRMATION INQUIRY CLASS
We will begin our class on Wednesday, March 1st. A light supper will be served at 5:00 pm, and the class will begin at 5:30 pm. Those that can’t arrive until a bit later will still be able to eat during the start of class. If you signed up, please confirm with Father Tom you will be attending for planning purposes.
OUTREACH – ITEMS OF THE MONTH (February)
This is the last Sunday to give. Let’s help The Salvation Army feed and shelter needy people this winter by donating personal hygiene items for both men and women and canned and boxed food such as: regular & travel-sized items like deodorant, shaving cream, lotions, and feminine hygiene products. Food items like hamburger helper, Ramen noodles, macaroni & cheese boxes, peanut butter, and hot sauce. Thanks for your donations!