Dear Friends, 

I have made it no secret that I love hummingbirds. In fact, I get quite giddy upon spotty these little creatures as well as other wildlife. I am an equal opportunity appreciator. I am just as delighted by the bunny hopping around the St. James courtyard or the majestic hawk calling from above. It has become a spiritual practice of mine to welcome these critters when I spot them. I give thanks for them and claim them as little messengers to me that we are all part of this interdependent creation, and all held by a loving Creator. That is as good as any mystical vision for me. 

Our sacraments call us to see God in the ordinary stuff of creation. We take bread and wine made from crops grown in the soil by the labor of others and the nurturance of the elements. We name that bread and wine as the body and blood of Christ. Eucharist we call it, which can be translated as "good gift". Through the blessing of the good gifts of creation we name that God is present to us in this material world. That includes hummingbirds, our family, and that annoying guy in traffic. 

At St. James we seek to serve Christ in our neighbors. We have been at that work for almost 100 years. I know that sharing this work with you helps me know Christ among us. So greeting you is also a message to me, just like the appearance of the hummingbirds. You are revealing Christ present. 

As we dive into celebrating 100 years of ministry, think about the ways you have known Christ revealed in community. Are their particular witnesses to the faith that inspired you over the years? Is there a particular space at St. James that is special to you?

Think on these things, give thanks, and see them as messages to you that you are loved and known by God. 

Peace, 
Fr. John Mark