November 7, 2022
Dear fellow St. A’s Parishioners,
One of Jesus’ most famous parables is usually called, “The Parable of the Prodigal Son.” But this is actually a parable designed to teach us about the merciful, generous nature of God. And to the extent that “prodigal” means extravagant or over-the-top, that word is better applied to the father in the story.
The son comes home hoping for a modest meal in exchange for an apology. Before he can say a word, however, his father is lavishing him with love and making preparations for a party. For the prodigal parent, only a splendid celebration will do.
Jesus says that God – the Prodigal Parent – puts grace into action this way: welcoming us home even when we don’t “deserve” it; forgiving us completely before we can even ask; and treating just the sight of us as cause for extravagant joy.
At our best, this sort of celebratory welcome is what St. A’s is all about. Welcoming
visitors and regulars alike into the beautiful choreography of worship and celebration. We strive to be a community of joy – prodigal, extravagant, and free – for anyone who longs for a meal, an embrace, and the reassurance that they are not alone.
This welcome is about repairing the world through love, one celebration at a time. That’s “Grace in Action.” You can hear it in the language we use: we celebrate Communion, celebrate Baptism, celebrate Easter, celebrate Christmas, celebrate Confirmation.
In the next couple of weeks, during our services, you will be hearing brief testimony from
fellow parishioners about what this prodigal celebration feels like here at St. A’s. We
hope you’ll join us to hear their thoughts on joy in our life and work together.
And speaking of celebration: we’re looking forward to celebrating Giving Sunday
with you on November 20th .
Grace and joy,
Mark Anzani & Ingrid Ross
Wardens
