|
From Les: Labor of Love
Dear Philippians,
From our Prayer Book:
“The minister of the congregation is directed to instruct the people, from time to time, about the duty of Christian parents to make prudent provision for the well-being of their families, and of all persons to make wills, while they are in health, arranging for the disposal of their temporal goods, not neglecting, if they are able, to leave bequests for religious and charitable uses.” —The Book of Common Prayer, Page 445
Sunday morning in the Parish Hall at 9:15 you have the opportunity to engage resources and guidance in all of the areas mentioned above. I will be speaking of the importance of leaving your loved ones a burial plan. Linda Keng will provide resources and insight in the areas of will/advance directives creation and leaving legacy gifts to your Parish and other institutions you wish to bless after you have finished your earthly pilgrimage.
This work fittingly happens in the stewardship season. This work is all about Love. Giving your family and your Church a plan for when you die, ensuring that the treasures that none of us can take with us bless your family and Parish as a legacy, are ways to bless as you have been blessed.
This work is not just for the elderly. All of us can and should engage this as part of the work God has given us to do.
Recently, I experienced this kind of stewardship in conjunction with the death of my best buddy's father. He made certain during his three year illness that his family had clear plans, that they knew his intentions. He gave this gift to his church as well, planning his service thoughtfully and in deep consideration of his church, his family, and his friends. His loving gifts were powerfully present as we celebrated his life. Because he had crossed all of the T's and dotted all the I's in all the areas our Prayer Book commends to us, his family is better able to deal with their grief and begin their pathway to healing and joyful living sooner than if he had left these things undone.
I, your Rector, have a confession to make: I have left the above work left undone thus far! Sunday I will begin this labor of Love with you. I hope to see you all there.
Peace,
Les+
| 
