|
Dear People of St. Dunstan’s,
Last Friday I took part in Epiphany School’s annual gala. As part of my participation I gave the opening prayer and blessing. Some of your fellow parishioners have asked me to share that prayer with you.
Will you bow your head in prayer?
Generous and life giving God–we know that you call us to be co-creators with you of your kingdom. We are grateful for the slice of your kingdom that is called Epiphany School and how each of us joins in your work there.
We give thanks for the so many co creators that make your dream of this school possible and for all who have had a hand in the creation of Epiphany School and continuing work.
We thank you and pray for the teachers, staff and administrators who day in and day strive to care for and educate their students.
We thank you and pray for the many volunteers who give their blood, sweat and tears–their time and effort and who so very often go above and beyond.
We thank you and pray for all those who donate their many treasures to make the Epiphany school possible and your dream a reality.
We thank you and pray for all parents who entrust their children daily to Epiphany School
But, most especially we give thanks and pray for every student–students who work hard and give their best efforts, students who are striving to know just how beautiful they are and to achieve their limitless potential–may they know they are loved by you and may they discover the beautiful and amazing plan you have for their lives.
And finally
May you bless the food we are about to receive— thank you for all who had a hand in bringing it to our tables tonight–keep us mindful of those who are hungry on this night.
In your son's name we pray.
Amen.
-------------------------------
On Sunday May 19th, we will celebrate the festival of Pentecost and invite you to wear red to church.
On Sunday, June 16th, The Reverend Anne Gardner will serve as our guest preacher, offering a reflection on her experience of walking the famed Camino de Santiago, a 500-mile path that extends across the width of northern Spain.
She has written a book about this extraordinary journey, recently published by Adelaide Books (NY/Lisbon), titled And So I Walked. The book recounts both the challenges of completing a long-distance hike as well as the emotional and spiritual undercurrents her time on the trail revealed.
Gardner currently runs the chaplaincy program at Harvard-Westlake, a private independent high school in Los Angeles. Prior to accepting this position, she spent twelve years as the Director of Spiritual and Religious Life at nearby Phillips Academy, Andover.
For many years Gardner has worked as a freelance writer, crafting pieces for various outlets including NPR, The Boston Globe, The Providence Journal, and the National Catholic Reporter, among others. (see her webpage for more details, https://www.anne-gardner.com)
Please mark your calendars and join us on June 16th as we welcome Reverend Gardner. Copies of her book will be available for sale and signature ($20) following the service (cash, check, or VENMO all accepted).
Your in Christ,
Sean
| 
