Greetings, Epiphany!

Plenty good room, plenty good room,

plenty good room in my Father’s kingdom.

Plenty good room, plenty good room,

just choose your seat and sit down.

This year’s stewardship theme comes from a beloved Negro Spiritual. This hymn reminded enslaved people that God had a place prepared for them – an eternal home in God’s presence where suffering is no more and injustice has no place. Today, this hymn reminds us that we are called to live the reign of God now – here in this place.

The table we share has plenty good room. As members of this congregation, we have each chosen a seat and accepted the work of God together in our worship and service. The ministries, outreach and fellowship of Church of the Epiphany matter – our love moves some eschatological needle in the right direction. Our welcome to all who enter is a sacrament – a real encounter with the love of Christ. Our common life is a sign that God is near, God cares, and God loves through us.

As you prayerfully consider your annual pledge, know that whatever you give, God will make it more. Whatever you set aside in thanksgiving for the blessings of life in this community, God will multiply. For all who have gone before us and all who will follow, we steward this living community of faith for the glory of God and for the healing of the world. I am blessed to serve Christ with you, Epiphany! Together, we will imagine new ways to embody the love of God in this place.

In the faith we share,

The Reverend Vicki Ix

Rector