My gratitude to my beloved brothers in Christ (Fr. Seraphim and Dn. Joseph), the Parish Council and all of the faithful who prayed services as well as those who stayed for our General Assembly. What a blessing it was for us to come together in prayer and then in fellowship - just an hour and 15 minutes - to discuss our building program, our capital campaign, and our ministries - all with such joy. Why such joy? Thankfully, because we attempt to remain cooperative with, prayerful, hopeful and steadfast in our Lord who so richly blesses us through the intercessions of Saint Anna.
In all honesty, there really are no greater gifts in a Christian community than this, be it in a parish or a monastery. When we remain focused on Christ, everything just works...unto salvation. This isn’t naive, but honest as we reflect upon both Scripture and Holy Tradition; our sacred history is replete with examples of this truth for the Body of Christ.
As one of our dear stewards has affirmed, we can never out-give God for this blessing. Yet, as she wisely suggests, we can thoughtfully, joyfully, intentionally and graciously respond to His love which remains so abundant for all of us who call this parish our spiritual home, especially at such a remarkable time in this history of Orthodox Christianity in our region. Thanks be to God!
I remain humbled to serve as one of the clergy of this community and pray that the Lord grants each of you every good gift of health, joy, long life, prosperity and blessing unto salvation.
Most Respectfully and with great gratitude,
Fr. Christopher