Weekly Reflections

From June 23-28, deputies from across the Episcopal Church will gather in Louisville, KY for the 81st General Convention, where they will make important decisions for the church, including the election of a new Presiding Bishop to succeed Michael Curry. Please keep all the deputies and bishops in your prayers, asking for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and wisdom in their deliberations.

Our dear brother George Allport passed away on May 29. His daughter wrote a touching obituary that highlights his adventurous, service-filled, and loving life, including his military career, deep commitment to faith and family, and his impact on many through his kindness and leadership.

Our parish thrives on community effort, and we urgently need volunteers to help esure we have backups in all areas, from worship roles to building maintenance and finance. Join us in maintaining the vitality of St. Margaret’s by considering one of the many opportunities to serve, knowing there will always be training and support, and remember, no one should have to do it alone—Jesus sent his disciples out in pairs for a reason!

On June 15th at 11:30, join us at St. Barnabas in Kutztown for a special program about the Underground Railroad featuring an imagined meeting with Harriet Tubman, followed by a talk-back with actors and a barbecue lunch. Space is limited, so please register in advance at stbarnabascenter@hometownu.com to celebrate Freedom Day with us.

Mo. Laura reminds us that Pentecost highlights the presence and activity of the Holy Spirit, encouraging us to recognize the Spirit’s constant support in our lives, especially during times of illness and difficulty. She urges the community to offer support and prayers to those in need, emphasizing the importance of being there for each other as God intended.

As we approach the end of the Easter season, Mo. Laura reflects on the significance of the Ascension, emphasizing the disciples’ astonishment and the assurance it brings of being united with Jesus in the future. Despite the unexpected event, it serves as a powerful reminder of Jesus’ divinity and the hope it instills for the future.

Amidst preparations for a presentation on Celtic Spirituality, Mo. Laura reflects on the interconnectedness of nature and spirituality, drawing parallels between the growth of Egyptian Walking Onions and the spread of evangelism. Encouraging us to immerse ourselves in the beauty of creation, she emphasizes the constant presence of God and the messages of love and nurture found in the natural world.

Mother Laura expresses gratitude for the efforts put into making Holy Week and Easter worship meaningful, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in parish life. She informs the parish about upcoming events, including a diocesan education day and AED/CPR training, urging participation for community enrichment and potentially life-saving skills.

Mother Laura reflects on the profound significance of Easter, emphasizing the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection and the anticipation of her own resurrection, expressing joy and enthusiasm for the 50-day celebration ahead. She encourage others to join in the festivities with ringing bells, singing hymns, and shouting “Alleluia” repeatedly.

The Field Guide to Holy Week Worship outlines the customs and arrangements specific to the period from Palm Sunday to Easter Day, highlighting the importance of adapting liturgies to the parish’s customs while considering deeper spiritual currents and safety measures due to COVID. Services throughout the week, including Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Day, are described with instructions for participation, emphasizing moments of reflection, silence, and joyous celebration of the Resurrection.