Weekly News Update

Deans' Note | March 20, 2022

As we approach the third week of Lent, we also get closer to Jesus' journey to Jerusalem and to the cross. As Christians, the cross of Jesus is central to our faith. In the Apostle's Creed we affirm that Jesus: "suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried." Then we go on to say: "he descended to the dead (or into hell), and on the third day he rose again." The Nicene Creed doesn't add much more:"For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again according to the Scriptures."

Both creeds simply make a statement -- that Jesus was crucified for our sake. In and of itself, this is simply a statement of historical fact, not a matter of faith per se. Yet the question remains -- Why the cross, and why is his death "for our sake"? Those are profoundly theological questions and the answer directly impacts how we come to Jesus as our crucified and risen Lord.

Starting this Sunday we will take four weeks during our Christian Education hour to explore this very question. We encourage you to participate in these conversations since this question is at the core of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus.

There is no single answer to the question, why the cross? There are differing approaches in the bible and certainly others throughout the history of the Christian tradition. These approaches emerge from the experiences of Christians in their varied cultures and times. They emerge from reflection on the Scriptures. Yet we each must answer one question for ourselves, Not simply why the cross in a general sense, but why the cross for me? What does the death of Jesus have to do with my life? What does it mean for me to believe in his resurrection?

Reflect on these questions this Lent. Experience the weekly meditations on the stations of the cross on Fridays. Join our conversation on the next four Sundays. Reflect with us on the fifth Sunday in Lent as we tell the passion story. Be with us through Holy Week and Easter as we proclaim the victory of Jesus through his cross and resurrection. "We adore you O Christ and we bless you, because by your Holy cross you have redeemed the world."

Why the Cross? | St. John's Cathedral

Sundays, March 20 through April 10 ( Four weeks) at 11:30 am

In-person and on Zoom

As we enter deeper into the Season of Lenten and our focus turns toward Jesus' journey to Jerusalem, to suffering, and death, the cross becomes a central focus of the church's liturgy. But why the cross?

Upcoming Events

The Stations of the Cross

Friday, March 18 at 12:00 pm

The Stations of the Cross are a time-honored Lenten tradition especially on Fridays. This year we offer short meditations led by our clergy on one station each week followed by a time of brief intercessory prayer. You can access these meditations live at noon on Lenten Fridays our Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

The Third Sunday in Lent

Sunday, March 20, 2022

Said Mass at 8:00 am | In-Person Only

Choral Mass at 10:00 am | In-Person & Online

Watch on Vanco Live

Watch on Facebook

Watch on YouTube

Screen Shot 2022-02-18 at 12.53.05 PM.png

Lenten Book Study with Mother Lyn

Thursdays: March 10, 17, 24, 31 & April 7

at 7:00 pm via Zoom

Come join us in our Lenten Book Study on Zoom each Thursday evening following Evening Prayer.

Daily Meditations
Coordinating Scriptures
African American Spirituals
Discussion Questions
Fellowship

Order your book on online. Scholarships available, contact Mother Lyn.

Click here to download our meeting and reading schedule!

Lenten Mite Boxes

Lenten mite boxes will be available on the welcome table at the back of the church. Boxes should be returned on the Sunday of the Passion (Palm Sunday). It has been a tradition at St. John’s to drop your loose change into these boxes throughout the five weeks of Lent as we remind ourselves of the value in humble giving:

As he taught, he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets! They devour widows’ houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.” Mark 12:38-40

Vestry On-Call

This Sunday's Vestry Person On-Call

Michael Tracy

Vestry members are partners with clergy, encouraging the growth of community and the establishment of common ground in the spiritual life of the congregation. Parishioners are always welcome to speak with these individuals on Sunday morning; they assist in making sure our questions, comments, or concerns are heard.

Community

Food Pantry

Saturday, March 19, 2022

8:30 am-10:30 am

Our next Food Pantry is this Saturday. Every third Saturday of the month we distribute fresh produce and canned goods to families in the community. Thanks to Avie Kimbell and Carol Nicholas we will also be giving out meat and dairy this month.

"Easter Ham Campaign"

We are now accepting donations for our Easter Ham distribution in April on Holy Saturday.

Make your contribution today!

A Note From Our Treasurer

St. John’s Cathedral is very fortunate to have a strong financial base. And while there are many sources of income, one of the most important is that which is generated from pledges. We are grateful to those of you who so generously lend your financial support to the Cathedral. With Easter rapidly approaching, there are additional expenses incurred to enhance the beauty of our worship. To ensure the continued support of our on-going programs, it is essential that we all keep current on our pledges. And if you have not already made a pledge, it is never too late to participate in the ministry of this magnificent Cathedral. We welcome your gift.

Nancy Koehring

Treasurer

Supporting Humanitarian Response to the Crisis in Ukraine

As we pray for an end to violence and for those fleeing Ukraine, please also pray for Episcopal Relief & Development and other ecumenical agencies working to respond to the current crisis. Specific needs will change as the crisis evolves. As of right now, there is a need for cash, blankets and hygiene supplies. Please consider partnering with Episcopal Relief & Development in this response. Visit episcopalrelief.org for more information.

Birdielee V. Bright Elementary x St. John's Cathedral

Dear St. John's,

We are excited to continue our developing relationship with our neighbor, Birdielee V. Bright Elementary School. The principal, Renee Smith, has shared some of the school's activities that we can support. The Kindergarten promotion planning has just begun. St. John's will provide the refreshments for the 70 students who are looking forward to being first graders. The 5th grade culmination planning is in progress. There are plans to purchase a 5th grade t-shirt to wear to the class picnic. St. John's will donate $500.00 to offset the cost to the parents (many of whom lost income during the pandemic.). Please be as generous as possible with your donation. You will find special envelopes on the Welcome Table for the T-Shirt Project. Thank you for supporting our children at Birdielee V. Bright Elementary.

Blessings,

Deacon Margaret