The Season of Creation begins officially on September 1, 2023 and lasts until the feast of St. Francis on October 6. During this special season, are invited to celebrate, mourn, and collaborate with God's vibrant and fragile Creation.
The firstfruits of hope - Romans 8:19-25
In the letter of Paul the apostle to the Romans, the biblical image pictures the Earth as a Mother, groaning as in childbirth (Rom 8:22). Francis of Assisi understood this when he referred to the Earth as our sister and our mother in his Canticle of Creatures. The times we live in show that we are not relating to the Earth as a gift from our Creator, but rather as a resource to be used.
And yet, there is hope and the expectation for a better future. To hope in a biblical context does not mean to stand still and quiet, but rather groaning, crying, and actively striving for new life amidst the struggles. Just as in childbirth, we go through a period of intense pain, but new life springs forth.
Our 10:00 service uses contemporary language and expansive imageries. We use the Book of Alternative Services as the foundation of our celebration of the Eucharist, but frequently add to or adapt it, drawing from other sources, both Anglican and non-Anglican based on seasonal themes. The music of this service is under the direction of Music Director Katherine Hume. The character of this service is celebratory and joyful.