Here's what I Love
Hello Brothers and Sisters. As we close out 2021, year two of the strangest, most unexpected, and I feel the most difficult era of our time, we also take a look back at what we, as a church, accomplished together. I’ll share some highlights.
But first I want to thank you all, for encouraging me personally, and us as the staff of the church, in our work to spread love in this valley and beyond. Your encouragement and support have made our jobs easier and more rewarding. You have kept us going and hopefully we have made a positive contribution to your wellbeing, too. In another year of living with the pandemic it’s been clear that we are truly all in this together- this life, with all it’s joy and sorrow. Thank you, people of St. John’s, for being in it with me.
The highlight of 2021 for me was our Wonder in Wyoming gathering in July. Thanks to a generous grant from the Foundation for the Diocese of Wyoming and the brilliance of three poet-priests, Travis Helms, Spencer Reece, and Jason Myers, we hosted a three-day festival on the St. John’s campus. Nationally renowned poets from around the country gave readings and writing workshops highlighting our spiritual connection to creation and to one another. The weekend was well attended by parishioners and locals. Spencer brought us a beautiful service, the Red Door, which featured local poets (I was one) and silent meditation. We were inspired to continue the series here at St. John’s, and it is now an ongoing, monthly offering.
In August and September we hosted kid’s writing camps and a kid’s writing conference, all led by Nanci Turner Steveson. Nanci is an author of novels for older children and is passionate about teaching and mentoring young writers. She also leads a monthly group through the church, Reading with our Daughters, in which parents and children read and discuss age appropriate books. We are thrilled to be able to support Nanci in her good work, and grateful for her sharing her talent with us and the community.
Jimmy, Mary, and I led a series of discussions prompted by films that addressed the issues of race and reconciliation in America. These were provocative, fruitful discussions, held in a Zoom format. When we can gather again in person - I promise, that time is coming! – we will resume the series, because we are committed to offering the opportunity to engage in these difficult, important conversations.
Lynne Matthews led adult formation classes last year, see her report for more info. She will be offering more this year, so try one out. Thanks, Lynne!
We have been gathering at 9 a.m. between services on Sunday to talk about the day’s reading from the Hebrew Scriptures. We’ve had lively discussions, and I’d like to invite everyone to either stick around after the 8 a.m. service, or come an hour before the 10 a.m. and join in. The Old Testament readings are sometimes puzzling, and since we read one every week we might as well tease out what meaning we can from them. Believe it or not, it can be fun.
And finally, the ice cream bike. We’ve partnered with the Presbyterian Church to give away ice cream treats to any and all who want them. In the hot summer months, you can see our bikes, powered by staff and volunteers, riding around town, surprising people with free ice cream. Here’s what I love the most: the looks on children’s faces when they realize that they get a free frozen treat. They never question the gift. Here’s what I love second best: when an adult asks “why are you doing this?” and we tell them we’re doing it to spread a little love. No strings attached. Priceless.
Love to you all. I hope to see you soon.
