Dear Friends,

I had a chance this afternoon to walk in the Arboretum with my little dog. The sun was shining, and the air was sweet, with a hint of springtime. Friends and families were enjoying time together. Strangers smiled and happily greeted fellow walkers, eager to affirm our common humanity and the gift of life, while also practicing proper social distancing. I felt the love of God in our community and was filled with hope. As I walked, I prayed for our city, our church family, and a world in need of healing.

My friends, our world is facing a significant challenge, and we are called to offer hope, for that is what it means to be the church. On Sunday at 10 am, we will continue our sermon series, Raised to Life, and will deliver a hope-filled message to your inbox that will also be available online for replay. At 10:30, we will offer content for children, followed by Morning Prayer. At 11 am, I suggest you visit the online worship at Washington National Cathedral with Presiding Bishop Michael Curry preaching.

I look forward to praying with you online this Sunday, beginning at 10 am. Please invite your friends and neighbors to join our online community of hope at ccclex.org, Facebook, and Instagram, as we add more calming and empowering content in the days ahead. "For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and love and a sound mind."

(2 Timothy 1:7)

Your priest and friend,