Friends and Neighbors, 

As we feel the heat in East Tennessee, our hearts go out to those who have lost their lives to weather-related events. The news from Camp Mystic in Texas is devastating. We keep those affected by hurricanes in our prayers as well. I am a big fan of Episcopal Relief and Development as an agency that gets resources on the ground quickly. You can donate to them at this link.

Those are just a few of the crises our world faces at the moment. I am often in conversation with the organizations that help the vulnerable folks of our city. We are all concerned about the wave of deep and drastic cuts that have the potential to harm our community. I am also encouraged by creative minds working together to creatively serve our city, even when the flow of resources changes. We will continue to feed our neighbors and help people with housing needs. 

We are talking about neighbors here. Platitudes about the issues, name-calling, and warmongering get the ratings. Love of neighbor guides us as we seek to follow Christ. St. James will continue to be a place that gathers neighbors around the table to be fed with the Body and Blood of Christ. We then go forth as the Body of Christ to love and serve the people we meet. Our prayers, our study, and building community sustain us as we share the love of Christ that can heal us all. 

I name these hard things because many of us are sad, angry, and afraid. That is OK. I also want to name the Good News that the broken body of Christ meets us in the broken places of our world. May the cascade of emotions never blind us to the people right in front of us. 

Our life as a community helps welcome folks looking for some healing and hope in these times. I am always grateful to walk with you in this journey with Christ. 

Peace, 

Fr. John Mark