A Letter of Introduction from the Incoming Priest-in- Charge
Dear Friends in Christ, Grace, peace, and blessings to you! I am looking forward with great excitement to starting our time in ministry together on September l51. I have heard of the tremendous openness and warmth of the parish of St. Thomas, as well its commitment to living out the Good News - not only in word, but in action. I see a family of faith who are welcoming and inclusive towards all, embodying the radical love of Christ. I see a faith community with thoughtful, inquiring minds who nurture learning and spiritual growth across all generations, inspired by the teachings of Christ. I see a parish whose worship and community life reflect the words of the prophet Micah: "Do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with Go<;l." I see a people who are shaped and upheld by the living hope of Jesus, and by that hope are equipped to meet challenges and adversities with courage and conviction. It truly is a blessing to have been appointed as your incoming priest-in-charge. I look forward to supporting St. Thomas in the work of ministry that you have been undertaking since 1869, as well as encouraging the parish as it continues to grow and adapt for ministry for the next 150 years. As I prepare to move to Brooklin to start with you in September, I am grateful for your prayers as I navigate a sea of change. Be assured also of my prayers for you as a parish as you journey through this period of transition. This is a season of fresh, new beginnings, which bring not only excitement and joy, but also nervousness and challenge. I trust that the Holy Spirit will be at work in all of us, granting all that is needed as we collectively undertake the ministry to which God is calling us. I wish you all a safe, healthy, and renewing summer. Yours in Christ, The Rev. Benjamin H. Gillard, B.A. (Hons), M.Div. Incoming priest-in-charge
Our thanks to Lisa Delbono and all participants.
Thank you to the multiple parishioners, of all ages, who contributed to our Pentecost mosaic. Our extended St Thomas’ family from the childcare centre also participated, allowing us to complete two mosaic posters! They turned out beautifully, and are a great reminder that we can find ways to come together, while apart. The completed mosaics are now hanging in the front window of the church, in time for tomorrow’s Day of Pentecost |
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An Act of Spiritual Communion
Our services are being pre-recorded. We alternate weekly between BCP and BAS liturgies. The services are uploaded to Youtube and the link sent out to the congregation early on Sunday mornings and available from then on.
The virtual congregation may wish to gather with family around a quiet space with a cross or lighted candle, in preparation to participate in the service.
Our bulletin with the full liturgy will be posted on our website as well as Emailed with the video link.
Please say aloud the parts in the liturgy said by the congregation.
At the end of the Eucharistic Prayer, while those gathered in-person are receiving Communion, please join with the presider in saying the Prayer for Spiritual Communion as posted in the bulletin.
You may also wish to do the following whenever you make your Spiritual Communion:
- Reflect on the day and on your relationships.
- What good things have come from God today?
- Where have I fallen short?
- What might I do tomorrow?
- Pray for the needs of the world, for your local community, and for those close to you.
The New Spring Grapevine is available now under Information.
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