In July, we will feature the cartoons of Cuyler Black.

I remember my EFM classes for the wonderful relationships we formed and for readings and conversations that challenged my faith. Early in my class, I learned that the people of God followed a regular pattern of creation, sin, judgement and redemption. One of objectives in EFM is the “development of skills in theological reflection. The goal is to learn to think theologically. By examining their own beliefs and their relationship to our culture and the tradition of our Christian faith, participants can learn what it means to be effective ministers in the world. In coming to terms with the notion that everything we do has potential for manifesting the love of Christ, we discover that our ministry is at hand wherever we turn.” This Sunday at 10:00AM, we celebrate the graduation of Dr. Nina Greif. Please join me in congratulating her for completing the Education for Ministry four-year program. Please consider joining our new class in September.

This week’s Gospel is Mark 6:14-29. Herod (Antipas) was a first century Jewish leader in Galilee. John the Baptist criticized him for marrying his brother’s wife.  Herodias had divorced her husband and married her husband’s brother. Herod had a celebration at his compound and was delighted by a dance that his wife’s daughter preforms for his guests. Salome was unmarried at the time, but later would marry her uncle and then her cousin. Herod offers his step-daughter (and niece) anything she wants, up to half his kingdom. Salome talks to her mother and Herodias tells her to ask for the head of John the Baptist, who Herod has imprisoned for speaking a truth that he didn’t want to hear. Herod beheads the prophet because he has offended his wife, Herodias.

At St. John’s, we try and stay focused on our mission to “Know Christ and make him known.” This Sunday at 4:00PM we will celebrate our Friendship Day with St. Augustine’s. There will be great music, witness talks and lots of singing from both of our choirs. You can view the program on zoom.

In Christ's love,

Fr. Duncan

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