We the people of Saint Stephen's in-the Field

Seek to know Christ, to share Christ, and to serve Christ,

recognizing his presence in all people, and reaching out in love

to each other and to the world around us.

  

Four days ago I received an email from an author I'd never heard of.  It started out like this:

"Rev. Karen,

I understand you are a gay-affirming clergy working in a gay-affirming church. I applaud your decision to embrace diversity!"

I was surprised for a few reasons. One, how did she get my name? Two, how does she know I'm a 'gay-affirming clergy'? Three, how did she come to her conclusion that we are a 'gay-affirming church'? Yes, I am a gay-affirming clergy, because I am a people-affirming clergy, which for me means that God loves all people without discrimination. Are we a gay-affirming church?  Personally, I hope so, for the same reason but that's not for me to decide. I would never speak on behalf of the entire congregation. That said, I for one was happy to find out that someone wanted to include us in that group!

June is LGBTQ Pride Month.  I thought I'd share our Presiding Bishop's statement this week:

"Jesus said: "I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." (John 13:34-35)

In my years of ministry, I have personally seen and been blessed by countless LGBTQ sisters, brothers and siblings. Dear friends, the church has in like manner been blessed by you. Together with many others you are faithful followers of Jesus of Nazareth and his way of love. You have helped the church to be truly catholic, universal, a house of prayer for all people. You have helped the church to truly be a reflection of the beloved community of God. You have helped the church to authentically be a branch of the Jesus movement in our time.

Your ministries to and with this church are innumerable. I could speak of how you often lead our vestries, and other leadership bodies in the church. I could speak of how many of you organize our liturgies of worship, lift our voices in song, manage church funds, teach and form our children as followers of Jesus, lead congregations, ministries and dioceses. But through it all and above it all, you faithfully follow Jesus and his way of love. And in so doing you help the church, not to build a bigger church for church's sake, but to build a better world for God's sake.

During June, Americans and people around the world observe Pride. Today, as we mourn the 49 people who were murdered at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando three years ago, I am mindful that Pride is both a celebration and a testament to sorrow and struggle that has not yet ended. Especially this month, I offer special thanks to God for the strength of the LGBTQ community and for all that you share with your spouses, partners and children, with your faith communities, and indeed with our entire nation."

God bless us all!

Karen+

NEEDING PRAYER SUPPORT?

Prayer is one of those things we often think about, might feel inadequate about, believe in but might be unsure how to proceed.  How we pray is sometimes unique to each of us.  The Church provides help in many ways.  If you find yourself in need, of any kind (emotional, physical, spiritual, guidance, etc) consider how St. Stephen's can support you:

*    there is a Biddings book at the back of the sanctuary where you can write in things before the service starts

        

*    there is a prayer chain of committed pray-ers (who maintain confidentiality).  Contact Robin, our Deacon, who will initiate that for you

*    there is prayer at the altar every Sunday, where we all join you in the privacy of your need with the Priest

       

*    there is a kneeling prayer station at the side of the church with candles, prayer book, all available anytime, not just Sundays

 

*    turn to your neighbors and friends in church to share what's on your heart, ask for support in speaking to God about your needs (and tell them the updates next week!)

 

*    tell people about your answers to prayer!  and the miracles you witness, or how prayer changes YOU.

  

Contact information for Deacon Robin:  

 

Email her at Dcn. Robin, deacon@ssitf.org; Phone: 650-450-0656.