Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany

After Jesus left the synagogue he went to Simon Peter's house where he saw Andrew, James, John, and Simon Peter's mother - in - law. If you read on into the story previously you'll discover that his mother - in - law had high hopes for her daughter. She had wanted her daughter to marry a man that had money and had a large home so she would be taken care of. However, Simon Peter was the opposite of her wish. He was a fisherman that had a small house and had much less he could provide for his wife. When Jesus entered the house he saw that Simon Peter's mother - in -law was laying in bed with a fever. Jesus took her by the hand and lifter her up. She got straight out of the bed and started to serve them as she had been healed. She was breaking a Jewish law by serving them on Sabbath day. However, she did what needed to be done for what had been given to her. Likewise, all that were nearby had been brought to Jesus with various illnesses and even with demonic possession. He healed each of them and cast out their demons. Early the next morning after being up all night healing them physically and spiritually Jesus went to a deserted place where he prayed. Simon Peter and his companions hunted for Jesus. They told Jesus how everyone was looking for him. Jesus advised them that he came to proclaim the message of God. Jesus and his companions went throughout Galilee, proclaiming the message of God. They also cast out various demons from the people they were ministering to. There was an archaeological dig in which what is believed to be the house of Simon Peter has been located. Archaeologists speculate that the house started out very small and over the years of Simon Peter's life it had additions to make it quite expansive. This historical site is where Simon Peter and his companions would spread the Holy Gospel. This is our roots. This is where Jesus told Peter how his church will stand the test of time. This is the same location where Peter and all his followers would come and partake in the Holy Eucharist. It is fascinating that what we know of Christianity today was started with such simple means. Jesus had been in this place and Peter knew the Lord. Peter even followed the Lord out of the boat and onto the water. Peter knew and trusted in Jesus. May you and I know Jesus the way Peter knew him. May we never forget to partake in the Holy Sacrament. We should take heart and always remember that the love God has for us will endure forever. Would you be willing to follow Jesus even into the waters of the sea if he called you to? May we have a child like faith. May we be made acceptable and pleasing in your sight Almighty Father. Amen.

Collect:
SET US FREE, O God, from the bondage of our sins, and give us the liberty of that abundant life which you have made known to us in your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

We pray for the departed remembering especially: Mary Jane Walburg

Pray for healing especially for:
John Cunningham, Betty Stenger, Terese Gluck, Rose Mauzy, David Garber, Starla Grilley, Pete & Mary Jane Walburg, Tommy Thompson, John & Delberta Allen, Pete Stanish, Nathan McConnell, Peggy Ann Turner, Pam Shinault, Donald Kaltenback, and Susan Beeler.

(1st Reading Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 147:1-12, 21, 2nd Reading I Corinthians 9:16-23, Gospel Mark 1:29-39)

Please also remember to mark your calendars for next Saturday (February 11th) as we will be going to Crowne Plaza Hotel downtown Knoxville as we will process behind the St. Paul Church banner to be recognized as the newest Parish Church within the Diocese of East TN. For all those interested in car pooling meet at the church from 7 - 7:20AM as the car pools will be leaving St. Paul at 7:30 AM. There will be another reminder this week on the Friends of St. Paul Facebook Page. If you have a facebook account and you are not a member I encourage you to join the group.

Death of Mary Jane Walburg

Mary Jane Walburg -- Pete Walburg's wife -- has shed her body so that her spirit could be freed.

Let us pray for Pete and his family that all may be comforted during this difficult time.

To everything there is a season, A time for everything under the sun, A time to be born and a time to die, A time to laugh and a time to cry, A time to dance and a time to mourn, A time to seek and a time to let go. This is the time we remember One who gave meaning to our lives. This is the time we remember the bonds that tied us together, The love that we shared, And the memories that remain with us still. Take comfort in the words of our Lord Jesus Christ: "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest." Having all things put into subjection under Christ, we pray for the soul of Mary Jane Walburg. I have posted the obituary below after reading it I hope you enjoy the hymn. God's Peace.

Obituary:
Mary Jane Walburg, age 78, of Seymour, passed away Thursday, February 2, 2012. She was a member of the Holy Family Roman Catholic Church. Mrs. Walburg had previously worked at K-25 and Y-12 in Oak Ridge, TN. She was preceded in death by her son, Steven Caputo and parents, Roy B. and Marie Young Morris.Her survivors include her husband of 31 years, Harry Everett Walburg, Jr.; son, Andrew Peter Walburg; daughters, Ann Trotter and husband Mitch, Helen Deborah Walburg, Nancy Elizabeth Kearly, and Christine Engren Dobyns; grandchildren, Chris Trotter, Michelle Trotter, and Michael Trotter; brother, Roy H. Morris and wife Lillian; several nieces and nephews; special friends, Jay and Sue Craft and Kay Jorden. Funeral Mass 10 AM Saturday (February 11) at Holy Family Catholic Church with Father Thomas O’Connell officiating. Interment will follow in Atchley’s Seymour Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends Friday (February 10) 7-9 PM at Atchley Funeral Home Seymour 122 Peacock Court, Seymour, TN 37865 (577-2807). (www.atchleyfuneralhome.com)

Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany

Jesus and his disciples had come into Capernaum; and when the sabbath came, he entered the synagogue and taught. They were astounded at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. Just then there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit, and he cried out, "What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God." But Jesus rebuked him, saying, "Be silent and come out of him!" And the unclean spirit, convulsing him and crying with a loud voice, came out of him." Jesus commanded in the aforementioned Gospel lesson that his authority as the Holy One be kept unannounced. There are several places in scripture where Jesus does this. At his trial when they ask if he is the Son of God, he says, "you say that I am." Our Lord wasn't being argumentative. Simply stated Jesus was a simple person that came to announce the kingdom. He was about the Father's business, nothing more. His life on earth was about reaching out to others in love and compassion. He never spoke harshly to sinners. Jesus did command us to serve others. The Holy Scriptures make it very clear that we are under grace, not the law. We are free from sin and many other things, but we do not have authority over ourselves. At our Baptism we gave that over to Christ having been sealed by the Holy Spirit. There are disagreements that can arise with theology in the church and in society and we should not be hindered, but rather should follow the risen Lord. A good example is the question posed by others: why does God allow suffering? There are many answers people believe. However, I feel that an answer to this question gives it too much authority that God would play a cruel joke on mankind. This is not what we would expect from a loving God. What the question about suffering should be turned into is a bold statement of faith that states the following: "I acknowledge while I am suffering through all things God will be with me." If no suffering existed life would have absolutely no meaning. Jesus suffered the most gruesome sacrifice anyone could endure all for you and I. Our suffering is minimal compared to the crucifixion. Peace is found by listening to God as spoken by the life and teachings of Christ. Jesus was so compassionate he even helped a man suffering his same fate by allowing him to go to heaven as well. As is often the case we are undeserving of the graces and love that God gives us. We should live our lives with the full knowledge that Christ offers us the peace that passes all understanding through his love, no matter how unlovable society has deemed someone to be. This is the kind of love that would cause God to bankrupt heaven to draw us to himself. Grant that we may find peace and comfort in the words and life of Jesus. May we truly seek to serve Christ in all persons. Amen.

Collect:
ALMIGHTY AND EVERLASTING God, you govern all things in heaven and on earth: Mercifully hear the supplications of your people, and in our time grant us your peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Pray for healing especially for:
John Cunningham, Betty Stenger, Terese Gluck, Rose Mauzy, David Garber, Starla Grilley, Pete & Mary Jane Walburg, Tommy Thompson, John & Delberta Allen, Pete Stanish, Nathan McConnell, Peggy Ann Turner, Pam Shinault, Donald Kaltenback, and Susan Beeler.

(1st Reading Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Psalm 111, 2nd Reading I Corinthians 8:1-13, Holy Gospel Mark 1:21-28)

Third Sunday after the Epiphany

Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news." As Jesus passed along the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the sea -- for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, "Follow me and I will make you fish for people." And immediately they left their nets and followed him. To follow Christ is not always easy. Some churches teach that if you would accept Christ as your Savior there is no need to do anything further to live out your Christian faith. However, let's ponder over some events that could occur in your lifetime from the following list: you could have your marriage fall apart and then end, have a son/daughter diagnosed with an incurable disease, loose family members to death, your own health can fail, your job could end, you could go bankrupt, you could loose everything. If any of the previous conditions should envelop your life would you not question your faith? Of course there would be times you would question, or maybe even doubt your place in life. At these turning points in life would it not be wise to take a breath and look back over your troubles and thank God for all the good? You would need to respond to the same call of grace that you responded to in front of your church community. If just responding to a call to be "born again" by a prayer are all that is required of you then why do you ignore our Lord? We are to respond daily to grace. Every waking hour we must understand this concept that God will do anything to draw us back to himself. God is Father he is waiting to have a relationship with you. The Sacraments are provided so that we may know our risen Lord. Scripture guides us to believe and be baptised. We must also work out our salvation. This Christian life isn't easy and it is full of strife. We must ask ourselves what is this call God is asking us to fulfill? Will you respond to God's grace? If you haven't before what about now? Make haste as we do not know when the Son of Man shall return. O, Lord Christ, we humbly beseech you to open our hearts and our minds so that we may perfectly love you and magnify your purpose to all the peoples of the earth. We acknowledge and accept your call to be fishers of people baptising them in the name, of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Grant us grace and the knowledge to know how to respond to its calling. We want to honor and adore you. We lift up your name. Through the risen Lord Christ, Amen.


Collect:
GIVE US GRACE, O Lord, to answer readily the call of our Savior Jesus Christ and proclaim to all the people the Good News of his salvation, that we and the whole world may perceive the glory of his marvelous works; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.


***Pray especially for healing for: Betty Stenger, Terese Gluck, Rose Mauzy, David Garber and family, Pete & Mary Jane Walburg, Tommy Thompson, John & Delberta Allen, Misty McCoy, Jerilyn Swann, Nathan McConnell, Peggy Ann Turner, Pam Shinault, Jimmy Milas, Katie Armstrong, Donald Kaltenback, Harry MacRae, Susan Beeler, and Starla Grilley.

(1st Reading Jonah 3:1-5, 10, Psalm 62:6-14, 2nd Reading I Corinthians 7:29-31, Gospel Mark 1:14-20)

Second Sunday after the Epiphany

God calls on people of all levels to work for Him. Moses was a murderer that fled Egypt to avoid persecution. God made him a leader. The Bible is filled with similar stories of how God uses sinners to do great things. In the First Reading today Samuel, who did not know the Lord heard a voice calling to him and he said, "I am here." Eli told Samuel to answer the voice that called to him by saying, "Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening." What about you? Have you heard the voice of God calling out to you? If you have, did you answer like Samuel? Or, did you just ignore it as a figment of your imagination and continue with your daily business? Last week we heard what was ultimately a call from God to the entire congregation. One of our brothers, Pete, who has health problems, needs assistance with taking care of his wife who is also very ill. There were several people that volunteered to take food, clean their home, and assist with providing transportation and support for doctor office visits. God calls each one of us. God doesn't always call us with a loud thundering request. God calls us in the silence. If you listen you will hear the call of our Lord. He provides all things so that we can live and influence the lives of those around us in ways that compel them to praise His name. In the Gospel today Jesus found Philip in a fig tree and said to him, "Follow me." When you help another in need you are literally following Jesus. Scripture even tells us to help when we are taken advantage of. Keeping that thought in mind helping others should have nothing to do with making ourselves look better in front of people, but they should be done for God's glory. In the Second Reading today we are told, "For you were bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body." St. Paul is reaching out be sure to get involved. If you ever feel left out speak up, it isn't intentional. God is calling us to great things. God is not done speaking. As a church body we are not only internally assisting our members we are likewise involved in Ecumenical work with Boyd's Creek Baptist and Rocky Springs Presbyterian to help the greater Boyd's Creek community. If the body of Christ is to be what we are called to be we will loose all sense of self and only say, "call on me Lord, I'll answer." May we all leave behind any discourse and only look forward. Grant that we may keep our eyes on Christ by seeking to serve our Lord in others. Jesus didn't die for the few chosen, but for all people. Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling..... can you hear him?

Collect:

ALMIGHTY GOD, whose Son our Savior Jesus Christ is the light of the world: Grant that your people, illuminated by your Word and Sacraments, may shine with the radiance of Christ's glory, that he may be known, worshiped, and obeyed to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

***Pray especially for healing for: Betty Stenger, Terese Gluck, Rose Mauzy, David Garber and family, Pete & Mary Jane Walburg, Tommy Thompson, John & Delberta Allen, Misty McCoy, Jerilyn Swann, Nathan McConnell, Peggy Ann Turner, Pam Shinault, Jimmy Milas, Katie Armstrong, Donald Kaltenback, Harry MacRae, Susan Beeler, and Starla Grilley.

(1st Reading I Samuel 3:1-10 {11-20}, Psalm 139: 1-5, 12-17, 2nd Reading I Corinthians 6:12-20, John 1:43-51)

First Sunday after Epiphany (The Baptism of Christ)

Today we reflect on the Baptism of our Lord. In particular this causes us to reflect on our own Baptism. One thing Christians worldwide do is the Sacrament of Baptism. Some churches sprinkle, dunk, or pour water on the participant. In Baptism we are marked as Christs' own and sealed with the Holy Spirit. In the Second Reading and in the Gospel today we see such is brought on through this act. Holy Baptism is so important that when Christ was baptized the Holy Spirit descended on Him like a dove and he heard the words, "You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased." During the ministry of St. Patrick he performed a Baptism in which he used his Bishop's staff and a small shallow stream to perform the Holy Sacrament. The individual he baptized started to limp when he was leaving the stream and St. Patrick thought that he must have accidentally had the staff on the man's foot instead on on the ground for balance. St. Patrick inquires as to why the man didn't say anything during the baptism. The man replies I remember you telling me about the wounds of Christ. I remember how you said Christ was pierced with nails in his hands and feet. I thought this pain was what we should feel having made the choice to be baptized. During our Baptism there are some questions that we must answer. Of course, if a baby is being baptized then this is later answered during confirmation. There are six questions posed to us at Baptism by the celebrant. Do you renounce Satan and all the spiritual forces of wickedness that rebel against God? I do. Do you renounce the evil powers of this world which corrupt and destroy the creatures of God? I do. Do you renounce all sinful desires that draw you from the love of God? I do. Do you turn to Jesus Christ and accept him as your Savior? I do. Do you put your whole trust in his grace and love? I do. Do you promise to follow and obey him as your Lord? I do. These questions posed are to be taken seriously. Following Christ as Lord isn't simply promised as a yes in front of a congregation. It means truly following the risen Lord in though, word, and deed. Yes, we should follow the will of God even when others will not find out about it. Yes, we should follow the will of God even if others disagree with us. Today we received Aspergence and we all reaffirmed our life in Christ. We do this as we remember that not even death itself can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our risen Redeemer and Lord. What if all Christians of every persuasion (Episcopal, Roman Catholic, Baptism, Methodist, Presbyterian, Pentecostal, etc...) all followed the risen Lord in truth? What if we all shared the goodness of God with others? What kind of world would this be then? What state would the world be in if we truly lived out our Baptismal Covenant to seek to serve Christ in all persons. Serving Christ in ALL regardless of agreement, disagreement, or any form of judgement. The judgement seat belongs to God alone. We are to live out our life in Christ with joy and thanksgiving. Let the Holy Spirit work. If someone does something wrong the Holy Spirit will convict them of it. We should have the same compassion as Christ. May we strive to be more like our Redeemer Jesus. Amen.

***Collect:

FATHER IN HEAVEN, who at the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan proclaimed him your beloved Son and anointed him with the Holy Spirit: Grant that all who are baptized into his Name may keep the covenant they have made, and boldly confess him as Lord and Savior; who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.

We convey our deepest sympathies to Vikki McCombie in the death of her mother, Madeline Vaught. We pray for all who have died in the hope of the resurrection, and for all the departed. Amen.

***Pray especially for healing for: Betty Stenger, Terese Gluck, Rose Mauzy, David Garber and family, Pete & Mary Jane Walburg, Tommy Thompson, John & Delberta Allen, Misty McCoy, Jerilyn Swann, Nathan McConnell, Peggy Ann Turner, Pam Shinault, Jimmy Milas, Katie Armstrong, Donald Kaltenback, Harry MacRae, and Susan Beeler.

(1st Reading Genesis 1:1-5, Psalm 29, 2nd Reading Acts 19:1-7, Gospel Mark 1:4-11)

Feast of the Holy Name (Sunday 1.1.12)

Luke tells us about the 12-year-old Jesus, at the temple confounding religious teachers with wisdom beyond his years. He ends with a summary: “And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years, and in divine and human favor.” The ancient Romans had among their pantheon a “god of doorways.” His name was Janus. With two faces, one looking forward and the other looking back, he was the god of beginnings as well as endings. He gives his name, of course, to this month, “January,” and to “janitors,” the keepers of doorways. The ancient Romans had among their pantheon a “god of doorways.” His name was Janus. With two faces, one looking forward and the other looking back, he was the god of beginnings as well as endings. He gives his name, of course, to this month, “January,” and to “janitors,” the keepers of doorways.

Just as the ancient Romans felt the need for a “god of beginnings,” and gathered to pay him homage when the wheat was sown, or when the harvest began, or when a baby was born, there is, within our human nature, a deep yearning for new beginnings, and a natural hope that this year will be better than the last. After Pentecost, in a time of transition, the early Church struggled with its identity and purpose, longing in the face of persecution and Luke tells us about the 12-year-old Jesus, again at the temple, confounding religious teachers with wisdom beyond his years. He ends with a summary: “And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years, and in divine and human favor.” The ancient Romans had among their pantheon a “god of doorways.” His name was Janus. With two faces, one looking forward and the other looking back, he was the god of beginnings as well as endings. He gives his name, of course, to this month, “January,” and to “janitors,” the keepers of doorways. The ancient Romans had among their pantheon a “god of doorways.” His name was Janus. With two faces, one looking forward and the other looking back, he was the god of beginnings as well as endings. He gives his name, of course, to this month, “January,” and to “janitors,” the keepers of doorways.

Just as the ancient Romans felt the need for a “god of beginnings,” and gathered to pay him homage when the wheat was sown, or when the harvest began, or when a baby was born, there is, within our human nature, a deep yearning for new beginnings, and a natural hope that this year will be better than the last. After Pentecost, in a time of transition, the early Church struggled with its identity and purpose, longing in the face of persecution and skepticism for a new beginning, for the coming of the “heavenly Jerusalem” that John so vividly describes. The first followers ached for “a second chance.” After Pentecost, in a time of transition, the early Church struggled with its identity and purpose, longing in the face of persecution and skepticism for a new beginning, for the coming of the “heavenly Jerusalem” that John so vividly describes. The first followers ached for “a second chance.” As a sign that it is indeed a new beginning, that God is crossing a threshold that has not been crossed before, as a “sign” that things are to be different, the news of the second chance is told first to shepherds, keeping watch over their flocks. Not to kings or sages. Not to the rich and the mighty. And where are the shepherds to find him? Not in Jerusalem. Not in the temple or in a palace, but in Bethlehem of all places, in a barn, wrapped in rags and lying in a feeding box. An old way is ending, and a new one is beginning. The Word becomes flesh and dwells among us. ?

God in Christ has chosen us – adopted us – and given us a new beginning; and even more than a new beginning, a whole new life, a new birth, a new creation in which to live. We are no longer slaves but children of God. And so on this wonderful morning, on the threshold of another year, the news is good: God so loved the world, that in Christ, he gave us another chance, so that we may not perish, but have eternal life. God is not finished with us. God is still at work in our lives and in creation. And so, fellow holy janitors, “keepers of this new day,” let us pray that God may fill our hearts with joy and hope in believing; save us from our fears and doubts; and give us courage and strength to be instruments of the in-breaking of his promised kingdom. AMEN.

***This week please remember in prayer the family of VIKKI MCCOMBIE as her mother MADELINE VAUGHT is now in eternal repose.***

Christmas Day

The puritan colonists did not acknowledge Christmas. In their belief structure it was prohibited from being celebrated. They also had very peculiar names that they would give to their children. If someone had the surname Smith their name may be Jesus Is Coming Soon Smith. One might think some of these names are made up, however they are documented in legal papers so they are accurate names that were chosen. There is a lot that can be said in a name or title. Jesus the Christ child was called many different things according to scholars. A lot of the names given to him were the same as those of the King. There are many reasons this may have been, but there is one thing we can be sure of. Christ was not created in a manager. Scripture tells us that Jesus has been around infinitely. He was in heaven with the Father before the earth was created. No one in heaven wanted to come to the earth to give up glory and peace for this world of torment, persecution, hate, disappointment, violence, and death. None except one. This is Emmanuel. In the city of David was born God with us. God loved us so much (as imperfect as we are) that he wanted to be present among us. He lived as we live. After he was crucified he gave up the spirit that we too one day will give up. It is amazing to know such love could exist. The Second Reading today provides us with hope through this birth that came to pass. "...through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. This Spirit he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life." We accept your gift of love and peace that only you can provide in our souls, Lord Jesus. Thank you for coming to a cruel world and being born and living and walking among us. You shared in our struggles and you love us through it all. Through Emmanuel. Amen.

Collect:
O GOD, you have caused this holy night to shine with the brightness of the true Light: Grant that we, who have known the mystery of that Light on earth, may also enjoy him perfectly in heaven; where with you and the Holy Spirit he lives and reigns, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.

Midnight Mass

A full transcript of Fr. Swann's Homily:

It is easy to think Christmas, and it may be easy to believe Christmas, but it is hard to act Christmas,”
This year ---where is the intersection of the truth of our “frenzied lives” and the truth of the Christmas story? How will we “incarnate it” anew—in each other, in the power of the Holy Spirit—at this “crucial time” in the world’s struggle for true “peace on earth—and good will toward ALL persons” For most of us-- Christmas is the birthday of Jesus—and it is that! For the New Testament, and for the Church…. it is rather the “birthday” of The Good News, of The Great Revelation. The “Good News”- being that God was in Jesus the Christ—revealing himself and---reconciling (re-connecting) all humanity to Himself in love.Christ, himself, did not “begin to exist” on the first Christmas Day. He was with God the Father from all eternity. The world was made through him, and without Him nothing came into being. He was and is “the brightness of the Father’s glory.” He was “in the world” as John tells us in his gospel, long before the Incarnation through Blessed Mary. The “Great Revelation”—the Incarnation-- was made in the “fullness of time”—that is to say “at the earliest possible moment” in the “evolution” of humankind. The “seed was sown” as soon as it could possibly take root. The Anglican Church /the Episcopal Church- with its great emphasis on the Incarnation—the Eternal Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us—could easily be labeled The Church of Christmas. This church festival occupies the pinnacle in our worship and celebration. How do you “explain” the Incarnation? How do you “explain” God’s ultimate self-expression? Theologians through the years have “stammered” and “stuttered” at explanations—but never quite succeeding. Perhaps the best we do is this:
The Ultimate has become limited.
The Undifferentiated has become differentiated.
The Undefined has become defined.

The Infinite has become finite.
The invulnerable has become vulnerable, all through the birth of a baby over two thousand years ago.

Maybe, if we can’t “explain” it we can enter in to it marveling along with the shepherds of old. In Jesus, we declare the ultimate availability of God. For in the little child lying in the straw, with only livestock, a few shepherds and young parents looking on-- the Great Mystery of the Incarnation unfolds. Father David Adam, longtime Vicar of St. Mary’s Anglican Church, in Lindisfarne- that ancient Christian center in the extreme north east of England—told of the time when he was a teenager going on a camping trip in the “wilds” of the moorlands in North Yorkshire. He says it was very late in the afternoon—when he decided that he might go off on his own for a “hike”- leaving the other campers behind.He “wound” his way - quite a distance from the other campers. Suddenly he noticed that it was dark, “pitch dark”- as he began to walk this way and that- he became very frightened, and was on the verge of tears, he felt very inferior, alone—he was lost.

Then just as he was about to “give up”--he saw it—a tent lit up in the darkness of night. It glowed. Inside he could see the “shadows” of familiar forms. He says-- I knew that I was among friends, I was not alone. Father Adams said--- that years later—that experience helped him to understand the concept that “God pitched his tent among us.” God “tabernacled” among us- and we are not alone. God was made flesh and dwelt among us--- we beheld his glory. For those of us with ‘eyes to see’—Jesus is the “clearest” glimpse we have of the Divine. Not only is this a “glimpse”- but—He is the light of the world, and His presence “shines” through his creation. WE are called to “share” that light. Old Zacharias rejoiced at the coming of Jesus saying; “Through the tender mercy of our God….the dayspring from on high has visited us, to give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.”

[Remember my summary sentence]-- How do we ACT CHRISTMAS- after we have “thought” Christmas and “believed” Christmas. To help us – let me share a story from Fred Craddock. Dr. Craddock is a New Testament scholar and homilitician- retired from Emory University- who has East Tennessee connections—over the hill- just a way to Johnson University.
His story involves a Missionary who was sent to India toward the end of World War II… After many months, the time came for the missionary to have a “furlough” and return home for a time. His church had wired him money to book passage on a steamer; but when he got to the port city, he discovered that a “boatload” of Jews had been allowed to land temporarily. These were the days when Jews were actually sailing all around the world-- literally looking for a place to live. These particular Jews were staying in attics and warehouses and basements all over the city. It happened to be Christmas, this missionary walked in and with a loud voice said “Merry Christmas.” The Jews, in a mean, loud tone of voice said “we are Jews” and looked at the missionary as if he were crazy. “I know that” said the missionary. “What would you like for Christmas?” In utter amazement- the Jews said “Why, we would like some good pastries like the ones we used to have in Germany.”

So the missionary went out and used the “money for his ticket home”—to buy pastries for all the Jews he could find staying in the port. Of course, he had to wire home “asking for more money”- to book passage. As you might expect—his superiors wired back asking what happened to the money that they had already sent. The missionary wired – and said that he used it to buy pastries for the Jews. His superiors wired back-- “Why did you do that—THEY DON’T EVEN BELIEVE IN JESUS.” He wired in return—“Yes, but I do." That is “acting” like Christmas.
The truth of Christmas is that God has done something new and unique in history---and in our individual lives. “For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given…and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, and Everlasting Father."

AS you receive Him—truly present --in Bread and Wine-- in the Holy Sacrament of the Altar- may He kindle in you and me the ability to THINK, BELIEVE AND ACT CHRISTMAS. Amen.

Midnight Mass Celebration (with Carols)

It is time again to celebrate Emmanuel. We await again the birth of our Lord. St. Paul has a historic building and it is fabulous when it's decorated for this celebration. Come hear the chancel choir sing great Christmas selections. Come hear the organ, piano, and guitar. Come and hear a beautiful Homily. We share this time together. Most importantly the congregants at St. Paul share laughs and make memories together. You could not be around a better group of people than those at St. Paul. We would love to have you in our number. We seek to serve Christ in all persons as part of our Baptismal Covenant. Come and help us adore Him. Merry Christmas. Midnight Mass will start at 10:30PM. Christmas Day Mass will start at 10:30AM. There will be fellowship after the Midnight Mass. We want to get to know you so stick around and share some laughs and some pretty good snacks too. Tell your friends you'll be at St. Paul on the corner and invite them to attend as well. All baptized persons are welcome to partake in the Holy Eucharist. No matter who you are or where you are on your life's journey you're welcome here. See you at St. Paul.

Fourth Sunday in Advent

Thank you Deacon Steve Thompson for your beautiful Homily!

The Holy Gospel today reflects on Gabriel coming to Mary and telling her of a child she would conceive through the Holy Spirit. Gabriel said, "Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you." Mary is perplexed and she asks Gabriel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?" Mary said, "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word." It is no secret in East Tennessee that Mary is often ignored, or talked about very little. We (no matter the Protestant denomination) will talk about Saint Paul, St. Mark, or some other person from history, but not about the mother of our Lord. Mary found such a high favor with God that she was trusted to give birth to Emmanuel. That is not a small accomplishment. Often speaking of Mary leads some to misinterpret that you are a Roman Catholic, or to possibly believe you partake in worshiping Mary. However, this is simply a misconception and does not have any truth. There is a difference between veneration (deep respect or regard) and worship (only for the Holy Trinity). At any rate what would Mary say if she were here to provide a lesson today? Mary would make the point that life is hard, God is good, and love is stronger than hate and wins out over darkness. Mary suffered a great deal in her life. From the Gospel accounts it seems Joseph (Jesus' stepfather) died when Jesus was around age 12. In those days it was terribly hard for a widow to survive. Now, can you imagine how gripping a thought to have your baby grow up and be ran out of town? What about the thought of watching him die in front of you. If you have ever lost a child you know the worst low a parent could ever have. This is the most grief stricken you could ever be. She not only watched her son die, he whom she knew he was the Savior of mankind. She watched in horror and agony as they nailed each nail into his precious body. She watched as he was put to the death of a common criminal. She watched helplessly as he was beaten. Through it all she remained faithful to God and never doubted His word. She did not show any ill thought, nor did she make any wish of destruction on those that beat and killed her beloved Son. To Mary Jesus was Messiah, but first of all he was her precious boy. While Mary stood on the promises of God she knew he always kept his word and would always be there for her. Mary's love for Jesus is beautiful. God's love for Jesus and for Mary speaks about what he thinks of you and I. God doesn't have to care about us. However, the same God that sent his only Son to die for us loved us enough to purchase us. He bankrupt heaven for us. We have the free will to accept that grace of which we obtain through faith, not by money or merit. When you begin growing older you will will start to realize that HIS love has won out over all the troubles of life. Let us listen to the Holy Mother as she shares with us three points to always remember: 1.) Life is hard 2.) God is good and keeps his promises 3.) Love always wins out over darkness and hate. Lord, let us ever be mindful of Holy Mother Mary as we fully embrace the love of Christ which would not have came forth without this favor which you found in her. Amen.

***Pray especially for healing for: Terese Gluck, Rose Mauzy, David Garber and family, Pete & Mary Jane Walburg, Ginny Henline, Tommy Thompson, John & Delberta Allen, Misty McCoy, Madeline Vaught, Nathan McConnell, Camden Albano, Peggy Ann Turner, Pam Shinault, Jimmy Milas, Katie Armstrong, Donald Kaltenback, Harry MacRae, and Susan Beeler.

Collect of the day:

PURIFY OUR CONSCIENCE, Almighty God, by your daily visitation, that your Son Jesus Christ, at his coming, may find in us a mansion prepared for himself; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

(1st Reading 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26, 2nd Reading Romans 16:25-27, Gospel Luke 1:26-38)

Third Sunday of Advent

COMPLETE TRANSCRIPT OF FATHER SWANN'S HOMILY:

"Sometimes the folks who put together the lectionary—the list of Sunday readings—do a great job of making them “fit together” and carry the same theme. They certainly did so for our readings on this 3rd Sunday of Advent—sometimes called--- Gaudete Sunday- for the Latin words of the ancient opening introit. Some call this : “Rejoicing Sunday.” Isaiah, in our first lesson strikes the “Rejoicing tone” “rejoices” over the “day of the Lord”--- the seventh year sabbatical when work stopped, debts were cancelled, slaves were set free, crimes were pardoned, sins forgiven and property was returned to its owner. It was a “fantastic” unreal time—a time to let God break into human affairs. Things were “turned upside down” and looked at from God’s point of view: “The lowly were lifted up—the proud were put down. Time stood still. Many Anglicans call this Sunday “Stir up Sunday”- because of the Collect that is always said on this day. We are just ten days away from the “longest” – darkest day in the year. Our brothers and sisters-- in the high northerly latitudes-- must have it “tough” since it is dark- most of the day. The “darkness” is all around them—they eagerly await the “return of the light.” This is the time of the year when the natural world “slows down”- ponds freeze over, mountains get snowy tops, animals and plants hibernate, our bodies slow down, we want to sleep more. But in all our modern lives--- we pay little heed to rhythms of nature—besides—it’s the holiday season – there is so much to do. On this third week into Advent—our “companion” is again John the Baptist. He too—is waiting. In contrast to last weeks Gospel reading – where John was really engaged in “revivalist preaching”—this week – he isn’t saying much. Those around John—were waiting too. They were waiting for the Messiah—the one who would come and redeem the people of Israel. They were a bit anxious and irritated—and confused—they wanted to know just WHO this person was—that was baptizing—if he was NOT the Messiah. John answered them, “I baptize with water. Among you stands one whom you do not know, the one who is coming after me; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandal.” They were more interested in the “ONE” --who John speaks of as the hope of the world. The ONE who will fulfill his promises—to bind up the brokenhearted, to set the captives free, and bring liberty to the oppressed. Beyond simple “optimism” there is Christian HOPE. Christian hope does not “bury its head” in “yuletide cheer and artificial lights”—but like a traditional Advent Wreath—the light grows stronger week by week. This “hope” pushes its way into the “darkness” of the world. Christian hope is the courage to work for Isaiah’s vision of justice, healing and liberation. John the Baptist saw everything in his world—the good and the bad- as God’s action. He sought to “make straight the path of the Lord”-- in times no more or less troubling, confusing, and demanding than our own. King Oehmig- writing in Synthesis-- suggests that there are 3-R’s of inward preparation for Advent: RETURNING, REVERENCE, AND RELATIONSHIPS. FIRST--Returning: “Be still and know that I am God” the Psalmist says. We should carve out a time in which we desist from outward activity, from trying to control or change things—and learn once again how to be with our God. Emily Dickenson writes: “Not knowing when the dawn will come, I open every door.” SECOND- Reverence: Albert Einstein, who many incorrectly assumed was not religious at all- said, “There are only two ways to live your life. One as though everything is a miracle. The other as though nothing is a miracle.” He chose to see it all as a miracle. To cultivate a sense of reverence for God’s working in and through all things--- is to come alive spiritually, to become more closely aligned with God’s purposes—even when we experience the “worst” that life can bring. To experience the Holy Spirit opening our eyes to- what is truly around us means to become aware of the interconnectedness of all things. Anthony de Mello has written : “Spirituality means waking up. Most people, even though they don’t know it. – ARE ASLEEP. They go through life “asleep.” They never understand the loveliness and beauty of this thing we call human existence.” To be “spiritual” means--to “see” ---to truly see others in our lives as God sees them—priceless, unrepeatable gifts given only for a time. THIRD- Relationships: Frank Bianco has written, “If you begin to live life looking for the God that is all around you---every moment becomes a prayer.” At no time in our history is it more important to see barriers broken down—so that our “thoughts” and “actions” become one. The way to “show that” is through acts of stewardship and relief. WE began our Liturgy this morning with the Collect: “Stir up your power, O Lord, and with Great Might come among us.” Will we, on this Third Sunday of Advent,- be like John of old—and be men and women that will bear witness to the “Light” that was sent from God—to those who are desperate to see and know the “Light.”
AMEN


***Pray especially for healing for: Terese Gluck, Rose Mauzy, David Garber and family, Pete & Mary Jane Walburg, Ginny Henline, Tommy Thompson, John & Delberta Allen, Misty McCoy, Madeline Vaught, Nathan McConnell, Camden Albano, Peggy Ann Turner, Pam Shinault, Jimmy Milas, Katie Armstrong, Donald Kaltenback, Harry MacRae, and Susan Beeler.

Collect:
STIR UP YOUR POWER, O Lord, and with great might come among us; and, because we are sorely hindered by our sins, let your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.

(1st Reading Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Psalm 126, 2nd Reading I Thessalonians 5:16-24, John 1:6-8, 19-28)