This Week’s Lessons
First Lesson: Isaiah 6:1-8, [9-13]
The Psalm: Psalm 138
New Testament: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11
The Gospel: Luke 5:1-11
A Message From Rev. David Prentice and Bishop Alan Gates
Even if we cannot gather in person, Emmanuel God is with us.
I have, on occasion in the past, worked with a guest preacher. This is the first Sunday I have had a guest writer. We were scheduled for a visitation from Bishop Alan today and after some discussion of how we were worshiping on Sunday, he offered to write the reflection for today. A more traditional visitation will be scheduled for later this year.
From Bishop Alan:
Dear people of Trinity Church,
For some time I have been looking forward to my visitation with you this Sunday, February 6th. However, Fr. Prentice and I have agreed that given the current shape of things, we would not be able to connect personally in the way which is meant to be the mutual blessing of a Sunday together. We will reschedule the visitation, and continue to offer our prayers and dearest hope that this pandemic will subside soon.
Meanwhile, I am sending along a homily for this Sunday, in my absence. More importantly, I send you my blessings, my warmest regards, and my gratitude for the ways you are maintaining your commitment to the church and your identity as a Christian community.
Faithfully,
+Alan
The Rt. Rev. Alan M. Gates
Bishop of Massachusetts
When Alan and I spoke before the visitation scheduled for today, we spoke of the importance of presence – the act of actually being together in worship. He described it in his introductory note describing it as the “mutual blessing of a Sunday together.”
We will have that opportunity with Alan again on November 13 – but I also want us to start regathering nest Sunday, February 13 for our regular 10:00 service. We will still take the appropriate precautions, bring and wear your mask, and we will have Spiritual Communion for the next few weeks. I’m unsure of coffee hour but will advise before then. I do look forward to seeing you all again!
Life is short,
And we do not have much time to gladden the hearts of those who travel with –
So be swift to love,
Make haste to be kind,
And go in peace to love and serve the Lord.
In Christ,
David +
Dprentice @ trinityofwoburn .com