Weekly News Update

Deans' Note | January 23, 2022

When Jesus begins his public ministry, as Luke tells the story, he goes to his hometown of Nazareth and attends the sabbath service in the synagogue and reads from the Prophet Isaiah. He reaches into the rich soil of his tradition to proclaim a vision his people have treasured for generations -- hope against all odds, vision about how the world really is as God sees it, in the face of blindness, freedom in the face of oppression and captivity. But he doesn't tell his hearers that this will be fulfilled someday. He says:this vision is made abundantly clear, and is fulfilled in him today.

That's the mission of Jesus and it's ours as well. Yet it may not look as though there's much fulfillment of that vision especially as we look at our nation and as we at St. John's celebrate Black History month ( from Dr. King's birthday through the Feast of Absalom Jones) what end is there to oppression, to setting the captive free? That's why sight for blind eyes is crucial. Jesus rose up in the synagogue to make a proclamation real through the things he did and the words he spoke. He's making it real today through his body - us.

We have the opportunity to see that vision through the particular lens of the experience of faith filled Black Christians who have held on tenaciously to the vision and the work of freedom in the message of Jesus. We heard that message last week in Avie Kimbell's recollections on the steadfast faith evidenced in the work of Dr. King. We will hear that faith expressed in song as we hear more music from the African American tradition in our liturgy, We will hear that vision articulated by Deacon Dominique Piper as she preaches on the Feast of Absalom Jones celebrated at St. John's on February 13. And we will have the opportunity for some sustained reflection as we welcome Professor Stephanie Crowder as she helps us see Jesus in Luke's Gospel through the lens of the African American experience..

Isaiah's vision is fulfilled in Jesus not so much as an accomplished goal in the past, but a continuing reality in the present as we Jesus' body fulfill it in our presence, and proclamation and action in the world, today.

Upcoming Events

Basic Christian Formation

Saturdays, February 5 through April 9

at 10:00am, Zoom Only

This is the basic course for all those who are exploring the Christian faith, want to reconsider or reclaim their faith, and even if you are new to St. John's. This class has been offered annually over many years for everyone considering Baptism, Confirmation, reception, or to prepare parents of children to be baptized. More information will be available in a separate announcement on this foundational class.

Christian Education | Winter 2022

Meeting Jesus in the Gospel of Luke

Sundays, February 6 through March 13 ( Six weeks)

at 11:30 am, Zoom and in-person

Take a deep dive into the Gospel of Luke, who we read throughout this liturgical year in our Sunday masses. How does Luke tell the story of Jesus? How is his story distinct, and how similar to the other writers who tell the story of Jesus? Like all tours, we will see the whole map, but pay particular attention to key places of interest. We will combine the study of the text with time to allow ourselves to meet the Jesus who speaks in a unique way through this telling of the Gospel.

Why the Cross?

Sundays, March 20 through April 10 (Four weeks)

at 11:30 am, Zoom and in-person

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? What is the meaning of Jesus death for us? What are the ways the Christian tradition understood Jesus' death as atonement for sin and means for our reconciliation? How can we come to understand the grace God gives to millions and to me and you through the cross.

Vaccination Policy

Don't forget to bring your vaccine card to mass if you have not already done so!

Booster shots will be required starting January 16. Facial coverings continue to be required.

Community

Annual Meeting of St. John's Cathedral

January 30, 2022 at 11:30 am

Zoom and in-person

All members in good standing of the congregation are invited to attend. The agenda includes an exciting update on our property redevelopment, our budget for 2022 and ratification of our Vestry slate for 2022.

COVIDtests.gov - Free at-home COVID-19 tests

The tests available for order: Are rapid antigen at-home tests, not PCR Can be taken anywhere Give results within 30 minutes (no lab drop-off required) Work whether or not you have COVID-⁠19 symptoms Work whether or not you are up to date on your COVID-⁠19 vaccines Are also referred to as self-tests or over-the-counter (OTC) tests Read more frequently asked questions

Seeking Experienced Grant Writers

As we explore ways to partner with Birdielee V. Bright Elementary, St. John’s is seeking experienced grant writers who are willing to share their skills. We hope to identify a small team of teachers/administrators who are interested in learning about the grant writing process. Together, we will work to identify a specific project, develop a fundraising strategy, and construct and submit proposals. Our initial goal is to raise sufficient funds to see the project through. Long-term, we hope to equip and empower school staff to pursue grant opportunities that would benefit their students. If you have a grant writing background, and are interested in helping with this project, please reach out to Fr. Dan or Deacon Margaret.

Walt Disney Concert Hall Tickets

With thanks to Earl Lerron Mounge r, a limited number of vouchers are available for members of the congregation to receive two complimentary tickets to any Chamber Music, Organ, or Green Umbrella concert at Disney Hall now through June 7th (dates are listed on the back of the voucher).

Please email churchoffice@stjohnsla.org or call 213.747.6285 if you would like to receive one or have one set aside for pick up.

One voucher per household please.

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