Penelope Bridges The sons of Jacob turn on their annoying little brother Joseph and sell him into slavery. The disciples fail to recognize Jesus, and Peter fails the test of faith. Two stories today that reflect humanity’s failure to fully embrace the dream of God. Today’s Gospel story comes immediately after the disciples have participated … READ MORE…
Hello St. Paul’s, The middle of August might seem like an odd time to talk about the Advent season, but we regularly plan at least a liturgical season ahead, and Advent will be upon us before we know it, especially this year. As you know, Advent, the opening season of the church year, has traditionally … READ MORE…
Once again, along with other congregations across the diocese, Simpler Living will celebrate the month-long Season of Creation. During September Sunday services our spiritual roots in God’s creation will be nurtured. The September 24 Faith Forum will empower us to “act now!” to deepen our love of creation, increase our commitment, and advocate for meaningful … READ MORE…
Inequity in the US justice system continues to plague our communities. Next Tuesday at 1PM PT, Fellowship of Reconciliation will present a conversation about policing with the former Executive Director of the National Black Police Association, Ronald E. Hampton. “When I first began working with FOR in late 2022, our team was having conversations about the issues surrounding … READ MORE…
Today we share an alert from our colleague Bill Shreve, ED El Camino Real, and EPPN- CA Creation Care Chair: Many of us are worried about the world we are leaving to our children and grandchildren as we learn more about human caused climate change. We take actions to reduce our carbon footprint, but we also … READ MORE…
Dear St. Paul’s family, Since I returned from my sabbatical a number of people have asked me about the post-pandemic rebuilding of our music ministry. In this letter I will try to give you as full a picture as possible of our progress in each area and of the challenges and opportunities before us. Please … READ MORE…
Rev.Cn.Richard Hogue One could be forgiven for confusing today’s Gospel for a vignette of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. A couple of spirits show up, a person is briefly but profoundly transformed, confusing the daylights out of everyone present, and then life goes on. If anything of this sort happened to me, I would wonder, … READ MORE…
In these hot August days, we are especially grateful for the gift of water. Without it, living things cannot survive. May this beautifully creative story of water inspire and commit us to advocate for all of the ways this gift comes from God: oceans, lakes, rivers, groundwater, and atmosphere. From Yes! Magazine, Terra Affirma: Water Eats, Earth Drinks, by … READ MORE…
Are you looking to deepen your faith? Do you want to know more about the Bible, Christian Tradition, and Church History? Are you hoping to understand how your personal experiences and beliefs bring you closer to God and God’s people? If your answer is “yes,” EfM (Education for Ministry) may be for you. EfM is … READ MORE…
Penelope Bridges My mind is full of questions today, prompted by our Scripture readings. First, I have questions about Genesis. In today’s episode of the Jacob soap opera, Laban tricks his nephew Jacob into marrying the wrong girl; Leah obviously goes along with the deception; and somehow it’s not until the morning after the wedding … READ MORE…