In the days since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, people have become much more aware of things like hand washing and mask wearing in order to stay protected from contracting the coronavirus. Along with protecting us from COVID-19,
An Original Blessing on Aloha Friday
Have you ever heard of the doctrine of “Original Sin”? I’m guessing you probably have. I know I have. The theology of original sin was formed heavily by St. Augustine of Hippo, one of the doctors of the Church
Celebrating Six Months of Aloha Fridays Together!
Today marks six months since the day you called me as your Rector. Every day I wake up and I am so grateful to the Holy Spirit and to you for calling me to serve with you. I am
“Hail Mary , Full of Grace…”
Earlier this week, we celebrated the Feast of Mary, the mother of Jesus. In some places, this feast day is known as the Assumption, following the belief that Mary did not die, but was assumed into heaven in both body and soul.
Get Ready to Ask the Clergy!
Have you ever noticed that sometimes a preacher will refer to the words they’re about to speak as a sermon, while other times that person might reference a homily? Are a sermon and a homily the same thing? In
Negative Political Ads Have Really Worn This Priest Out!
I have a confession to make. This week was election week in Arizona and I did not vote. I’m sad to admit it, really. I take pride in exercising my right to vote and I encourage you to vote
Prayers for Bishop Reddall as she attends Lambeth
While we always make sure to keep Bishop Jennifer in our prayers, this week we send out extra special prayers on her behalf as she joins hundreds of bishops from around the world to participate in the Lambeth Conference.
From the Father? or From the Father and the Son?
Last week we discussed some of the liturgical options that come from the series entitled Enriching Our Worship. While we explored the expansive language choices, we also brushed briefly on the alternate translation of the Nicene Creed. You may
Enriching our Worship as our Language Evolves
Sometimes at St. John’s we use alternative prayers during our Rite II services. For example, the readings frequently conclude with “Hear what the Spirit is saying to God’s people,” instead of the more traditional “The Word of the Lord.” We
To Read, Mark, and Inwardly Digest
What does your Christian faith mean to you? That is a good question for all of us to ponder from time to time. Why would we do that? Obviously our faith is important to us. After all, we go to