God's light shines through us

Last week three of us from St Francis took part in our diocesan convention in San Diego. I found myself deeply impressed and excited about the work and ministry of this diocese. It is not a large diocese, and it does not represent a great number of people. Yet churches here are shining lights, far brighter than their numbers might suggest. Ministries to and with youth, our military, immigrants and migrants, the homeless and people needing affordable housing, students...the impact of this diocese extends far out, all of it based explicitly and joyfully in the good news of Jesus Christ. Sometimes we can be overwhelmed at the problems of the world and the forces of darkness. The convention was a powerful witness to me of how much we can do to help, with God's help. Small is mighty in God's kingdom! Which is exactly what Jesus showed and taught in his lifetime, gathering only a few in his inner circle, never establishing a "successful" ministry, giving it all up on the cross. 

This Sunday we bring our pledges for ministry in 2026 to the altar to bless. God's promise is that whatever we can faithfully give, God will multiply it for good. I hope to see all of us ready to place our gifts on the altar, ready to offer to God's work in this place!