Father Paul’s Ponderings

 
Fall is a busy time for an Episcopal church. We haven’t escaped it. This fall we have been busy with stewardship, a yearly Diocesan convention, an annual meeting and a change in some of the leadership positions. All this keeps us from being lazy!
 
A worship group or a parish needs structure to maintain its’ function and so the items mentioned above are very important. We do have to keep in mind though, that Jesus didn’t say “Go ye into all the world and build a church” instead of serving others. We have to keep that in perspective. Being a small group and in a rented space has created restrictions but also frees us from too many burdens of building management and other issues. We are able to conceive our ministry and carry it out in a more imaginative way with fewer restrictions. Also, our funding has met our goals and we have listed outreach as our number one priority. Good work!
 
Our convention, held at All Saints in Hilton Head, was a joyful occasion. There was a great sermon from Bishop Skip, delicious food and warm hospitality on Friday followed Saturday by a challenging presentation about the “Wisdom of the Body.” Through the exercises all of us were able to get to know something new about ourselves and others. Congratulations to The Rev. Fred Thompson, who was elected to Diocesan Council, which serves as the Bishop’s vestry and council of advice.
 
The recent decision by the Supreme Court of SC continues to clear the way for a resolution of the dispute by rejecting a rehearing request of their decision. We still have months ahead before the property returns to the Diocese but we’re heading in the right direction. There will be information provided through public media outlets that will tell our story of the Episcopal Church in South Carolina in a very positive way-as it should be told.
 
Thanks go to our Mission Council members who are completing their terms as of December. Sophie Sanders and Jim Gettys have our gratitude for their leadership. I’m especially grateful for getting to know Jim. His sense of humor, gentle demeanor and quiet way of getting things done has been a real asset. I will miss his presence on the Mission Council but I know he will be serving our worship group in other ways in the future.
 
This December Advent we will focus our attention on the arriving majesty of Jesus as Son, who brings light and life to all us. Our Diocesan Bishop, The Rt. Reverend Skip Adams will visit us on December 17. A reception will follow the service hosted by Taylor and Nancy Skardon at their home. I know I’ll see you all during this month to come and look forward to celebrating with everyone.
 
Blessings and peace,
Fr. Paul