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Dear friends—
Sitting in church this past Sunday, taking in the tableaux of animals, angels and Magi, the Holy Family and the Baby Jesus, I thought to myself, it almost feels normal again. It’s been a while since many of us have enjoyed a full-blown Christmas Pageant, and this year’s version was a heartening reflection of where we are right now: cautiously but determinedly moving into the future, full of faith and hope for what God is doing here at St. Mary’s.
As we step into that future with joy, we also remember that Jesus’ commandment to love our neighbors means we must look after the most vulnerable among us. The Advent Giving Tree was just one example of how this parish cares for the wider community. When we gather for Christmas services, let's be mindful of the surge in Covid cases locally, and take whatever precautions we can to protect ourselves and each other.
Finally, let’s remember that for some, this holiday season involves struggling with loss and grief. Please reach out in love and understanding to anyone who may need it.
Let’s also consider what a special blessing it is for us, the Church of St. Mary the Virgin, to celebrate the Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ. After all, it was our patron saint who set everything in motion. Mary’s “yes” to God—despite her fears and misgivings—allowed the divine love to enter the world in human form. The little child born to Mary, a peasant girl from a marginal town, is nothing less than the light of the world, the Lord and Saviour of humankind.
This Christmas, my prayer is that we all take some time to reflect on what might be waiting to be born in us. What new thing is God doing in our community? What will St. Mary’s become over the next few years? What surprises are in store for each of us personally? Inspired by Mary’s bravery, will we say “yes” to the Holy Spirit’s movement in our own lives? Imagine where we
might go if we do.
Wishing you every Christmas blessing,
Chris+
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