October 12, 2025

 

Dear Family of God,

 

As Christians we are story tellers. We have an ancient narrative, one that describes the beginning of time and the relationship between God and God’s Creation. We see this story grow through the prophetic tradition until our story recounts the life and gifts of the Son of God. But the story doesn’t end with the Resurrection just as it did not end with the Cross, it continues on in each of us today as we encounter and are transformed by the Good News. 

 

Luke’s Gospel is bookended by the animated story-telling of two women named Mary. Early in the Gospel, Mary the mother of Jesus, tells us of her encounter with the Divine who informs her that she will bear a child who will change the world. She proclaims her joy, “Tell out my soul! The Greatness of the Lord!” At the end of the Gospel, another Mary, Mary Magdalene, visits the tomb to discover it empty and receives instructions from the Risen Christ to go tell the others. She carries this Good News with jubilance to the Disciples. 

 

What is your Good News; the idea, dream, challenge placed in your heart by God, that needs to be shared? What is the ministry to which you are called which will change the world, sharing your talents, gifts, and love with your neighbors? 

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Throughout this year I have been inspired by the ways you accompany each other. I have witnessed the way you care for the sick and shut-ins in our congregation. I have sat at the table with you as you share your time and efforts for our community meals and coffee hours. I have watched as you supported each other when you were struggling or needed a hand or a shoulder. You have helped me when I needed it. This is what it means to be in community with each other – this is what walking in love looks like.

 

Our Giving Campaign this year focuses on your stories – the ones inside you, the ones you are still writing, the ones we tell about those who have gone before us. We are all a part of this ongoing narrative – the ongoing Creation. As you pray about how you will share your gifts with us this year, think about how God is calling you to tell out your soul, to spread the Good News far and wide, and share your gifts to do the work of mission in our neighborhoods and communities.

 

I invite you into prayer about what you will share with the Church this year, giving thanks for the many people who have walked with you in love, supported you in your faith, and shared their gifts with you.

 

Tell out my soul! The Greatness of the Lord!

 

Walking with you in Love,

 

 

The Rev. Jennifer Wagner Pavia, Rector