Sermons from St. James Parish in Wilmington, NC.

Reverend Geoffrey Hoare shares a profound homily on the Second Sunday of Advent, reflecting on personal experiences with dementia and the theological insights of Hans Reinders. He explores the concept of humanity and value derived from community and divine love. Drawing parallels from the book of Isaiah, he addresses the challenges of war and suffering, emphasizing the power of love and hope in a broken world. This homily offers comfort and inspiration for finding hope amidst despair.


Scripture:

• Isaiah 40:1-11
• 2 Peter 3:8-15a
• Mark 1:1-8
• Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13

In this Advent homily, Rev. Joseph "Gray" Hodsdon emphasizes the importance of spiritual vigilance and preparation for Jesus's birth and His Second Coming. He draws from the themes of Mark 13:24-37, urging listeners to live each day with kindness and anticipation, embodying the true spirit of Advent beyond mere countdown to Christmas.

Scripture:

• Mark 13:24-37
• Psalm 80:1-7, 16-18

In this homily, The Rev. Phillip Craig delves into the profound teachings of Jesus Christ about love and salvation, as depicted in the Gospels. It emphasizes Jesus' distinct approach to different audiences through stories and parables, focusing on the critical message of recognizing Jesus in the needy and marginalized. The homily underscores the division of humanity into 'sheep' and 'goats' based on their actions towards the less fortunate, illustrating how true discipleship involves seeing every person as an image of God. It challenges listeners to reflect on their treatment of others and live in gratitude for God's grace, embodying the Gospel in words and deeds.

Scripture:
Ephesians 1:15-23
Matthew 25:31-46

The Rev. Cheryl Brainard offers a thought-provoking analysis of the Parable of the Talents, exploring its complex themes of wealth, power, and accountability. She challenges traditional interpretations, emphasizing the parable's relevance to modern stewardship and discipleship. Through her engaging homily, Rev. Brainard invites listeners to a deeper understanding of scripture, intertwining Jesus' teachings with contemporary reflections on faith and responsibility.

Readings:
1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
Matthew 25:14-30

Tick Tock of Faith: Embracing Time and Preparation in the Holiday Season
Dive into an inspiring homily by Rev. Joseph "Gray" Hodsdon, who uses the intriguing symbol of 'Tick Tock', the crocodile from 'Peter Pan', to explore our relationship with time during the holiday season. This thought-provoking homily weaves the parable of the ten bridesmaids from Matthew's Gospel into our daily struggles with procrastination and haste, encouraging listeners to find a spiritual balance in preparation and patience. It's a compelling invitation to embrace each moment with grace, hope, and readiness for Christ's return.


Scripture for this week:
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Matthew 25:1-13

But Wait, There's More! In a compelling sermon for All Saints Sunday, Rev. Phillip Craig of St. James Episcopal Church reveals the profound depths of our identity as God's beloved. Drawing from 1 John 3:1-3 and Matthew 5:1-12, he assures us that being a child of God is just the beginning – there's more to our story and our spiritual journey. As we honor the communion of saints past and present, this message invites us to a deeper understanding and celebration of the divine love surrounding us. Join us to uncover the 'more' that awaits in our faith and life as part of God’s family.

Step into a world where prayer and love serve as anchors amidst life's storms. The Rev. Joseph "Gray" Hodsdon offers a touching reflection on grounding oneself in these turbulent times. Experience a journey through Jesus' teachings and emerge with a renewed spirit.

Scripture from this Sunday:
1 Thessalonians 2:1-8
Matthew 22:34-46

Drawing from Paul's letters and Jesus' encounter with the Pharisees in Matthew, Rev. Phillip Craig offers a contemplative exploration. As Paul celebrates the Thessalonians' faith, we're invited to recognize the Divine in every act of love. Jesus' profound statement about taxation, "Give to the emperor what is the emperor's, and give to God what is God's," becomes not just a historical query, but a reflective call about our deepest allegiances. Through these scriptures, we're gently nudged to align our lives more closely with the boundless grace of the Divine.

Scriptures:
1 Thessalonians 1:1-10
Matthew 22:15-22

On the twentieth Sunday after Pentecost, Rev. Cheryl Brainard connects the dress code in "As Good As It Gets" with the Parable of the Wedding Feast from Matthew. She emphasizes our internal garments of righteousness over external attire. Drawing from Isaiah 61, Genesis, and Exodus, she underscores God's quest for humanity and the call for reconciliation. As Brainard invites the faithful to step closer to God's grand banquet, one can't help but wonder: What profound revelation awaits us at this celestial table? The journey to discovery begins...

Scriptures for today include:
Philippians 4:1-9
Matthew 22:1-14

Rev. Phillip Craig explores Jesus' parable of the vineyard from the Gospel of Matthew. He emphasizes the vital role of tenants and the anticipated return of the landowner, urging listeners to produce the "fruits of the Kingdom." Drawing connections to Paul's writings about the fruits of the spirit, he underscores the theme of stewardship, reminding us that all we possess is a gracious gift from God. As faithful stewards, we are called to remain vigilant and dedicated. But as the parable unfolds, there's a gentle reminder that might just change the way you view your own spiritual journey. Curious? Tune-in to listen.

Lessons from this week:
Philippians 3:4b-14
Matthew 21:33-46

In her reflection on the Israelites' journey in Exodus, Rev. Nancy Lee Jose draws striking parallels to our modern struggles with faith. Using a poignant tale of baby turtles braving their way to the sea, she paints a vivid picture of nature's affirmation of divine plans. But as the sermon concludes, an enticing challenge emerges: do our lives genuinely reflect God's presence, or are we lost in our desires? What truth will we discover if we dare to look within?

Lessons for this Sunday:
Exodus 17:1-7
Matthew 21:23-32

The Rev. Joseph "Gray" Hodsdon brings to the forefront an evocative exploration of fairness through the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard from Matthew 20:1-16. Presented at St. James Episcopal Parish, this homily challenges the listener to reevaluate earthly perceptions of justice in light of God's profound and unexpected generosity. Hodsdon beautifully underscores the contrast between worldly inequities and divine grace, prompting a reflection on the true nature of fairness in God's realm. Join us for an enlightening journey that will reshape your understanding of what it truly means to be just and merciful.

In this profound homily, Dr. Catherine Meeks unravels biblical narratives, shedding light on the tales of Jacob and Esau and their relevance today. She underscores the transformative power of forgiveness and the importance of examining our 'inner community'. Emphasizing pressing societal issues like race and poverty, she implores listeners to be present and conscious of their inner drives. Drawing from her recent book on racial healing and referencing Howard Thurman and Naomi Shihab Nye, Dr. Meeks offers a poignant reflection on life's challenges and the perennial need for kindness. A homily guiding us toward profound understanding and introspection.

Join Rev. Phillip Craig as he explores the essence of our relationships with God and our fellow beings. Drawing from Romans 13:8-14 and Matthew 18:15-20, he illuminates the beauty of love, the intricacies of conflict, and the unwavering presence of Christ in our moments of strife. Realize the profound significance every situation holds, even in conflict. Answer the call to nurture our connections with God and with one another. Embark on this spiritual journey with the St. James Parish community.

"True Religion: An Invitation to Encounter the Living God" by Rev. Jay Sidebotham

Drawing from Romans 12:9-21 and Matthew 16:21-28, Rev. Jay Sidebotham's sermon from St. James Parish in Wilmington, NC, dives into the heart of what true religion embodies.

Inspired by Evelyn Underhill's candid letter to the Archbishop of Canterbury in the 1930s, which emphasized that God should be the center of our religious focus, Rev. Sidebotham suggests that too many view religion as mere routine or ritual. He contrasts this with the teaching of Jesus and insights from Richard Rohr that separate the constructs of religion and the gospel: while religion is the path to encounter God, the gospel is the transformative realization and embrace of God's grace once met.

Highlighting the call of Moses, Rev. Sidebotham notes that sacred encounters aren't reserved for mountaintop moments. Instead, they can be found in daily acts of worship, love, giving, and forgiving. Just as Moses' initial willingness to serve ("Here I am") shifted to uncertainty ("Who am I?"), Christians are also reminded of God's assuring promise, "I will be with you."

Through the Eucharist, hymns, and everyday interactions, believers are invited to see the world as full of divine possibilities, echoing Barbara Brown Taylor's sentiment that the Earth is abundant with "altars" for worship. Howard Thurman's words remind us that everything has the potential for holiness.

In conclusion, Rev. Sidebotham beckons the congregation to reflect on their understanding of true religion, urging them to remain open to encounters with the Living God. Only then can the essence of true religion - an invitation to a deeper relationship with God - truly flourish.

Rev. Joseph "Gray" Hodsdon at Historic Mount Lebanon Chapel

Rev. Hodsdon addresses the human desire to be victorious, comparing it to our longing to be atop the social ladder. He challenges this perspective, proposing a shift: what if true success meant greater sacrifice? Drawing from Jesus's teachings, he underscores that genuine victory might require us to give more of ourselves. Inspired by Saint Augustine, he speaks of the difference between selfish living and a life of sacrificial love. True love, Rev. Hodsdon argues, has no conditions. By living this selfless love, we find a deeper, more fulfilling victory in life.

The Rev. Cheryl Brainard

In this sermon from Wilmington's Historic Lebanon Chapel, Rev. Phillip Craig explores the significance of the word "church" as first mentioned by Jesus Christ in the New Testament. Reflecting on the journey Jesus and his disciples took, Rev. Craig highlights the moment Peter recognizes Jesus as the Son of the Living God. This isn't just about St. Peter's acknowledgment but a profound insight into what the church truly means.

Rev. Craig emphasizes that the church isn't just a building or institution; it represents the body of Christ. It's the community of believers who gather in Christ's name, serving to increase faith, enhance humanity, provide accountability, and commit to service. Through anecdotes and scripture, he underscores the importance of community and shared faith. Concluding with Jesus's pivotal question to his disciples, Rev. Craig prompts listeners to reflect on their personal beliefs, underlining the power of faith and community.

The scripture for this service includes: Romans 12:1-8, Matthew 16:13-20.

The Rev. C. Phillip Craig Jr.

The Rev. Jay Sidebotham