Friends and Neighbors, 

Sometimes I drive by the campus of St. James and wonder what those cars are doing parked there. I like that I am not always sure what is going on because we do make a point of sharing our space with others in the community. Various non-profit organizations meet here, and we rent out space for other purposes. St. James also has many opportunities to study, serve, and pray together. Some of you know this and find community and connection here. 

Some of the things we do take us off the grounds of 1101 North Broadway. We have a good showing for Justice Knox events, a team feeds folks at VMC, groups meet on Zoom to pray, and sometimes take pilgrimages to community events. I often find myself being a priest to our neighbors in conversation, assistance, and sometimes officiating holy moments for people who don't have a spiritual community. 

I often follow the optimistic notion of "changing the world". Certainly, we want to see justice and mercy flowing, and all of creation flourishing. I am reminded that Jesus came teaching that love is the way to bring those changes. I appreciate considering policies and methods that will make a difference. I also particularly believe that followers of Christ are called to love the world. That means that we see others and ourselves as beloved children of God. As simple as that sounds, we all know that it isn't easy to follow. Sometimes it is messy. Remember that God joined us in the flesh of Jesus Christ. God got down in the messiness with us. 

Loving one another often starts with being present to each other. I celebrate that St. James makes ways for us to be present to each other and our community. Take a look at all the opportunities coming up. I particularly ask that you consider coming to have pancakes and conversation on August 2 (see below). Be present to your community and find Christ present in relationships. You have modeled to me what it looks like to accept people and walk in the messiness of life. May you know that God loves you and walks with you. 

Peace, 

Fr. John Mark