From the Rector ~ May 2024
Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God;
1 John 4:7
Dear Parish Family,
This scripture passage - from the First Letter of John - was a timely part of our lectionary last Sunday morning, April 28th. There John claimed the wonderful truth that God is love, and that as children of God, we are called to model such love in all of our interactions - by word and deed. Importantly, we were reminded that love is the antidote for the anxieties and fears that we face each and every day.
With God’s love in mind and heart, the transition of Associate Rector Cheryl Brainard (with her husband Don) to their new life in Georgia offers a valuable moment to celebrate her ministry, and also to honor the beautiful constellation of pastoral care that exists here at St. James - of which you are a part!
As a family of God, we are here to extend love through presence, prayer, and tangible support during times of celebration and times of challenge. The clergy, staff, and dedicated members of our Congregational Care Commission want to be sure such support takes place, and for you to know how to connect.
This part is very important! We need to know if you or your family are in the midst of a specific pastoral need. If you are someone you love is ill, or in the hospital, or having any manner of difficulty, please let us know. Don’t assume that clergy or pastoral support teams at St. James are immediately aware of what might be happening in your family. We want to hear from you so that we can respond in kind.
Your clergy remain your principal points of contact for pastoral care. If you have important pastoral information to share, please reach out to us through the parish office (910) 763-1628, or through Director of Operations/ Administration MaryPaul Beall ([email protected]). MaryPaul is in our Parish Office every day and will relay information immediately to clergy and support teams. You’ll read more about our lovely care team resources in the pages to follow.
Here is a very good thing. I am thrilled to share with you that the Rev. Deacon Kitty Davis, who served as a beloved Deacon at St. James until 2021, has graciously agreed in this interim season to share in the good work of our ministry team. Kitty will be available ten hours a week “in the field” for visits and pastoral care presence. We are blessed to have her back!
There are many wonderful developments that lie ahead of us. Thankfully, God is already there - leading us in His direction - the direction of love.
I close with the remarkable and fitting words of senior Sophie David, from her Youth Sunday Senior Reflection: “Let us continue to commit ourselves to loving and caring for one another, just as our Heavenly Father loves and cares for us. May we walk together in the light of His love, supporting, encouraging, and uplifting one another, until the day we dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
Amen!
The Rev. C. Phillip Craig, Jr.