A Reflection from the Rev. George R. Stevens, Interim Dean

Dear Friends-

This Sunday, the Third Sunday after the Epiphany, we traditionally hear the 'Calling of the Disciples.' This year (the third year of our three year lectionary) we instead hear about Jesus' first sermon at the Temple in Jerusalem.

As you know, sermons are how faith leaders interpret for parishioners (and all who are listening) the word of God. Usually, sermons don't make the news. Earlier this week, The Rt. Rev. Maryanne Budde, Bishop of Washington delivered a remarkable sermon at the Washington National Cathedral's Ecumenical Prayer Service. If you haven't listened to it, please set aside fifteen minutes. Here's a link to the sermon. CLICK HERE.

Jesus' sermon, the one we'll hear about on Sunday, also made the news. In fact, it was so important that we're still talking about it.

I'm grateful for prophetic voices that invite us to consider what God is up to in the world.

I look forward to seeing you all on Sunday.

Blessings-

The Rev. George R. Stevens

Interim Dean

UPCOMING

Please join us for our Annual Meeting:

11:30AM Sunday 23 February in the Cathedral Nave

We will elect a Senior Warden for a two-year term, three vestry members for a three-year term and five delegates to diocesan convention, plus alternates.

The 2025 Budget will be presented as well as information regarding next steps in our search for a new Dean. Note: Vestry’s approved Budget 2025 is available in posted minutes and will be discussed at a forum on Sunday, February 9 at 11:30 a.m.

‘Episcopal 101’ Begins Sunday, March 1

Interested in the History of the Episcopal Church? How Episcopalians view scripture? The Book of Common Prayer and its history?

This ten-week series is open to all, but specifically for those interested in Confirmation, Reception or Baptism in the Church. We’ll meet after the 10:00 a.m. service on most Sundays in March, April and May. Meetings will be live streamed and recorded. Interested in more information? Contact the Rev. George R. Stevens via email at gstevens@cathedralofstluke.org

Mark Your Calendars for our annual COOKIE WALK! Sunday, February 9. Boxes of Sweets for your Valentine will be sold to benefit outreach efforts of the Cathedral. Questions? Contact Jeri Edgar at jeriedgar1@gmail.com

COMMUNITY NOTES

A Prayer for Los Angeles from Bishop Thomas James Brown

“Gracious and loving God, you are beyond and yet within this moment of devastating loss in Los Angeles. Open our eyes that we may see you. If we cannot see you, show us others who can, so that we respond to help your people in Los Angeles who now face incalculable loss, for we know that within this destruction, you are present, and always ready to equip us with faith in Jesus Christ to support your people. Amen.”

The Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles needs your financial support, direct service, and prayer:

To make financial contributions give directly to the Diocese of Los Angeles.

or to Episcopal Relief & Development, who are on the ground helping to coordinate disaster responses and giving money. Contributions can be given to ERD's dedicated fund.

Link for Diocese of Los Angeles Fire Response Page

Link for Episcopal Relief and Development

Letter from the Wardens and Vestry regarding next steps for the Cathedral.

Last week, a letter from the Vestry and Wardens was shared with our community. The letter identified four areas of focus necessary for preparation for calling our next Dean. Areas of focus are:

Mission: Refining and restating the mission of St. Luke’s Cathedral.

Stewardship: Faithfully and creatively addressing the cathedral budget deficit.

Hospitality: Increasing our practice of hospitality with our parish family and community.

Identity: Clarifying the relationship between the cathedral parish and the Diocese

of Maine to answer the question, “What does it mean to be a Cathedral?”

Hard copies of the letter are available in the Parish Office and at both entrances to our worship space.

Minutes of last week’s Vestry meeting available by clicking this link:

January Vestry Meeting Minutes

OPPORTUNITIES & RESOURCES

Camp Bishopswood Summer Registration is Open!

Since the 1960’s Camp Bishopswood has been owned and operated as an arm of the Episcopal Diocese of Maine. Open for youth aged 6-17, Camp Bishopswood offers an affordable, fun and faith centered summer experience. More information can be found by visiting, www.campbishopswood.org. Scholarships are available!

The Healing Team

Prayers of Healing are offered at the 10AM service each Sunday, during or after communion and to the end of the postlude. Two members of the Healing Team offer these healing prayers in All Saints’ Chapel (the small chapel to the right of the communion rail.)

Soul Talk

Every Fourth Tuesday of the Month

10-11:30AM in the Oratory

Soul Talk is an informal coffee and discussion group exploring our faith and experience of God meeting on fourth Tuesdays, 10-11:30 in the Chapter Room.

Come once a month or once in a while!

If you’d like to receive materials prior to each month’s meeting contact Linda Carleton via email.

The Biblical Study Group

The Biblical Study Group meets in the Chapter Room at 8:30AM.

In January, we will learn about the development of Jesus. We will look at how he grew from being a rural peasant apocalyptic preacher to later become the son of man, the son of God, the Risen Christ, the person of God, and finally the sovereign Ruler of the Universe. In February, we will consider how to live the vital life of Christ. Stay tuned!

We are led by Bob Hanson, retired university professor, Episcopal priest, author, peace activist, and Jungian analyst. Contact Bob at (207) 405-8250.

Sing With the Cathedral Choir

The Cathedral Choir is welcoming new members! We hope you’ll join us for fun, learning, fellowship, and the joy of music-making in community.

Previous singing experience is not required. Short-term commitments are possible.

Rehearsals most Thursdays 7-9PM, singing most Sunday 10AM liturgies & for several additional services throughout the year.

If you are interested in joining, please contact Christian Clough.

Sunday 5:15PM Service of Holy Eucharist

The 5:15PM Service is a lay-lead worship service of Holy Eucharist and meditation which gathers each Sunday in Emmanuel Chapel. Each week we welcome a member of the clergy to celebrate the Holy Eucharist.

The service invites all in attendance into a space of quiet and stillness, with music, scripture, and reflections.

We look forward to welcoming you to future services. Please join us!

The Kneeler Guild and

Prayer Shawl Knitters

Tuesday

2:30PM

The Upper Hall.

For additional information contact Jeri Edgar 207-303-8447 or Nancy Mawhinney 207-775-7500

Everyone is welcome, whether you are curious or want to begin. Kneeler kits cost $75, which include directions, yarn, needles & canvas. Novices are welcome; we will teach you as needed. Prayer Shawls: 26-29” by 60”; select your yarn & needles. Coffee & Tea available.

Contemplative Prayer

Contemplative prayer meets every Thursday at 4:30 PM on Zoom.

Please join us for a half hour of silent meditation followed by a brief conversation about our experience. All are welcome. No experience is necessary.

For more information email Sarah Braik.