Proper 13, 1 August 2021 Today’s Gospel is very important, and in some ways might be considered scandalous.  Some of Jesus’ words were very difficult to understand, to the point that some of His disciples didn’t follow Him afterwards. Today we’re reminded of the Eucharist.  The disciples were sad when Jesus said He would leave;…

Saint James, 25 July 2021 Even when you don’t feel or understand it, God is constantly protecting you.  Perhaps you were rushing to the subway and realised you’d forgotten your ticket, so you went back for it and were late for work – and you were upset.  What if an angel hid the ticket because…

Proper 11, 18 July 2021 Today’s readings remind us of our relationship with God and the way He treats us. Psalm 23 was written by King David, who knew what it was to be a shepherd himself. God says He’s our Shepherd and we’re to be His flock. The Bible is full of images such…

Proper 10 11 July 2021 Many of us have grown through times of difficulty and crisis.  When we’re in the valley, God shows how great and mighty He is.  God is not only in the mountains – He’s with us in the valley, where He prepares us for what is to come.  He has enabled…

by Patriarch Craig Bates 27 June 2021 Foundation Day began early in the life of the CEC.  To celebrate the Patriarch and our founding, it was decided, on the Sunday closest to the consecration of our first bishop, to would take a thanksgiving offering for our Communion and for him.  Abp. Adler, a man of…

by Bp. Rob Northwood Foundation Day, 27 June 2021 As we celebrate Foundation Day, Bp. Elmer has asked me to bring you a word about expansion, the purpose of Church, and the purpose of setting apart sacred space. Sacred space is really important.  The ancient churches put a footprint on the earth, which we hope…

Proper 7, 20 June 2021 Things and people change over time.  I lived in Madrid from 1984 to 1985, and Paris from 1985 to 1999; when I returned to Madrid in 1999, it had changed.  After I’ve lived there another 22 years, it has really changed.  Before the pandemic, some Asian travellers wore masks when…

Proper 6, 13 June 2021 The Church enters the season of Ordinary Time, when the Church should flourish.  After all God has done and given, it’s time to expect the fruit of the cross to be seen in the life of the Church individually and collectively.  Today’s Gospel speaks of the mystery of the Kingdom. …