A Pastoral Note from Christ Church Cathedral
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace, so that you may
overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13)

Dear Friends,

How are you doing today? Where are you finding hope, and where do you need help?

The journey continues
We are journeying through the second week of finding connection across distance. As we reimagine our lives together, we wonder how God is now calling us to love and serve. I know, it’s challenging! So many ordinary tasks feel like stretch goals right now. Our desire to pray, think, plan, and act is easily met by overwhelm. Yet, what wondrous things you have done this past week!

Finding hope
I have seen you reach beyond yourselves for the love of others with wisdom, devotion, and care. Your lives fill me with joy and peace. Your willingness to learn and try new ways is impressive! I want you to know that I am finding hope in you.

Our ministries are alive and overflowing
While you may not be physically meeting at the cathedral right now, your church and its ministries are active and overflowing with the power of the Holy Spirit.

Online offerings and worship
Weekly offerings of a midweek written meditation delivered by email begin today. Assistant Organist Lisa Hall will offer a Word of Hope on the theme of light. Thursday night, Devin Brown will offer a Lenten meditation on courage available on YouTube. Following guidelines from the CDC, and communication from Bishop Mark, our Sunday worship for adults and children will continue online for now. We have received photos of you worshiping at home with the Cathedral Sunday services on your screen, and they are such a joy to see.

Online groups
Last week, our fantastic staff leaped into action and convened most of our small groups online. Bible studies, centering prayer, Education for Ministry, dream groups, the young adults, youth, Godly Play, and more, are up and running, and we are working on adding more online groups.

The joy of connection
Everyone felt great joy in seeing one another onscreen and found strength. The Holy Spirit was present, and we realized how much we mean to each other and how much we love one another. Even our youngest choir members, the Imps, ages 4-8, gathered online for their Saturday rehearsal. They were fascinated to see themselves onscreen and thrilled to connect with their friends.

You’re invited
If you would like to join a group for formation, prayer, and hope, we will help you to connect. Please contact Diane Milburn at dmilburn@ccclex.org.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace so that you may overflow with hope.


With gratitude and love,
Dean and Rector, Christ Church Cathedral