The Sunday Sermon: let the light find you

I had a friend once who worked very hard to make sure that all of his plans went the right way. He followed all the rules. He worked hard. He found a spouse. He had children. He saved money. He did everything he was supposed to. But one day, his world came crashing in, and … READ MORE…

The Sunday Sermon: The season of Hope

Hope is the thing with feathers That perches in the soul And sings the tune without the words And never stops at all. New Englander poet Emily Dickinson knew the power and necessity of hope, in a land where winter seems to go on for ever. Today we face a mess of contradictions. It’s the … READ MORE…

The Sunday Sermon: Advent’s Fragile Flame

I invite you to close your eyes and imagine yourself in a room in your house at night. Do whatever you can to make it as dark as possible — shut the door, close the curtains tightly — and now light a match. Watch its flaring flame, its flickering dance along the walls, and its … READ MORE…

The Sunday Sermon: How Can It Be?

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. … READ MORE…

St Paul’s Inside Out!

Did you get a chance to see the transformation of St Paul’s for Balboa Park’s December Nights event?  By day, we have a mild-mannered neo-Gothic Cathedral, but by night, the building became something really different as the lights cycled through different colors and effects.   Here are a few photos.  You can find more here.  … READ MORE…

The Sunday Sermon: What Shall I Cry?

A voice says, “Cry out!” And I said, “What shall I cry?” On this second Sunday of Advent, we are back at the beginning. The beginning of the good news; the beginning of Mark’s Gospel; the beginning of John the Baptist’s prophetic ministry; the beginning of a healing word to God’s people from the ancient … READ MORE…

Oh come let us adore him

Dear people of St. Paul’s, “In this holy season, let it be our care and delight.” Whenever I hear or say these words, I know that we are welcoming the Christmas season in our uniquely Anglican way. The seasonal Service of Lessons and Carols is one of those traditions that connects us with our spiritual … READ MORE…