A Word from the Rector: January 6 - Epiphany & US Capitol Events

Dear Epiphany Community,

 What a disturbing and sad day. This afternoon and evening we have all been witnessing with horror the shocking riots and chilling infiltration of our US Capitol building by a mob of violent extremist citizens convinced of utter falsehoods, endangering so many lives and instigated by the current President. The Episcopal Church's Presiding Bishop, Michael Curry, has denounced this action as a coup attempt. The scenes we have witnessed today pile such pain onto our hearts already burdened by a year of pandemic and loss.

Further saddening many hearts was the recognition that if these rioters had been people of color rather than white, the response would have undoubtedly been swifter and stronger (contrast today's measured response to the forceful military clearing of a peaceful Lafayette Square last summer). An unmistakable display of white privilege and supremacy. May God have mercy upon us and deliver us from all evil. These days call upon our resolve to pray while we remain faithful to the work of righteousness. The deepest darkness will yield to the dawn as God has always promised.

 Today also marks the Feast of the Epiphany, when we remember three Wise Men from the Far East who followed the star to bring the child Jesus gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. The power of God was revealed to them, to the whole world, not in the might of an earthly king, but in the innocence and grace of a child. In Jesus, the Wise Men worshipped and adored the depth of God's amazing love that God would enter into the messiness of humanity for our salvation. In fact, having met the ruler Herod on their way to find Jesus, the Wise Men recognized him as a dangerous leader and wisely chose to "go home by another road," as the Gospel says. We are finding our way home by another road in the coming weeks as our democracy will undoubtedly move forward as it should. May the days ahead be peaceful and safe for all.

 In the midst of it, I am here with you in prayer and solidarity, for justice, for truth, for safety and for the well-being of our country. May we breathe deeply through these days and remain centered in the Holy Spirit to keep our hearts fixed only on faith, hope and love.

Ever Yours in Christ,

Rev’d Jen

From the Book of Common Prayer: A Prayer for our Nation (page 258)

 Lord God Almighty, you have made all the peoples of the

earth for your glory, to serve you in freedom and in peace:

Give to the people of our country a zeal for justice and the

strength of forbearance, that we may use our liberty in

accordance with your gracious will; through Jesus Christ our

Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one

God, for ever and ever. Amen