Dear friends,
REFLECTION
Over the weekend I was in Kelowna, BC, for the funeral of my sister. Twenty-seven years ago, she was diagnosed with incurable cancer. At the time, she had two sons, ages five and two. It was a hard struggle, but she fought for them in order to see them grow and mature. In fact, she lived long enough to see both of them marry and present to her four grandchildren.
She fought for the future. She did it with the stark realization that it could only be one day at a time.
As I returned to Toronto and the emergency measures, it has helped to have this on my mind. And with the uncertainty of the days ahead, to remember what is true for us all:
Day at a time, our life received as a gift from God.
In each day, as well as possible, to apply the strength and talent God has given.
At the end of each, to finish with a clear conscience and to receive the night’s rest thankfully, in preparation for our final rest.
O LORD, support us all the day long of this troublous life, until the shadows lengthen and the evening comes, the busy world is hushed, the fever of life is over, and our work is done. Then, Lord, in thy mercy, grant us safe lodging, a holy rest, and peace at the last; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
NOTICES
*We are updating our email contact information as quickly as possible. If you would prefer not to receive these notices, kindly let us know. If you know someone who would like to receive them, please have them pass along their email addresses.
*Of greatest immediate concern is the welfare of any member who is frail and/or on their own. Please check in with those you know. Don’t hesitate to contact us if there is any one in need or distress.
*At 10.30 am on Sunday, March 22, the parish of St. Paul will be called to prayer. An order of service will be sent and an audio recording of the service will be provided for members to follow along.
*I wrote to the clergy, staff and officers of the parish yesterday, noting that this time falls under the heading, "I’ve never done this before." For that reason, I am eager to receive any good quarantine advice and tips. Here’s one from Annette Brownlee - Coronavirus Tips.
*A basic schedule of services continues at the church: the daily offices and a Sunday eucharist. From home, every member is invited to join.
*The financial needs of the parish remain and your faithful support is sought - through the mail service or the Pre-Authorized Giving Program.
*The clergy of St. Paul’s are all in the vicinity. If any one of us can be of service, don’t hesitate to call or write.
Church phone: 416-499-1545
Church email: stpl@stpl.ca
Fr. Dean Mercer: deanmercer@hotmail.com
God bless you.
Fr. Dean Mercer+
ALMIGHTY God, who art afflicted in the afflictions of thy people: Regard with thy tender compassion those in anxiety and distress; bear their sorrows and their cares; supply all their manifold needs; and help both them and us to put our whole trust and confidence in thee; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (The Book of Common Prayer)
By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." (John 13:35, NRSV)