Message from the Rector
By The Rev. Dr. Vincent Joseph Kopp
Dear Good People of St. Stephen’s,
Last Saturday I had the privilege of being the celebrant at Holy Eucharist at St. Cyprian’s. The occasion was a Quinceanera for a parishioner, a young woman of Mexican descent who had turned fifteen.
The tradition of marking the transition to womanhood gets a variety of expressions in Hispanic cultures. Saturday’s event in Oxford was remarkable and unique because it brought together folks from different races, cultures, and walks of life as Children of God renewing their Baptismal promises on this special occasion.
What moved me most was hearing the cacophony of voices present as all prayed the same prayers with different languages, accents, but not intentions.
It was as if Pentecost was happening right then and there. United in the Holy Spirit, voices rose up strong and loud to profess our common faith, pray the Lord’s Prayer, and give thanks for the Body and Blood of Christ in Holy Communion. It was confirmation—literally—that the Gospel is for all and differences should never be permitted to stand in its way.
Let Us Pray:
3. For the Human Family (BCP, p. 815)
“O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”
In Christ,
Vincent+
