If you have been following our journey through Advent, you know that we have been lighting candles on the advent wreath at the beginning of each Sunday. The first Sunday of Advent we lit the first violet candle which represented Hope. The second Sunday of Advent we lit the second violet candle and reflected together on peace. This Sunday we will light a rose-colored candle. This candle is often called the Shepherd’s candle and its theme is joy. It is representative of the joy of the shepherds upon hearing the good news of the Christ child. Joy is an important theme in this season of preparation for Christ’s arrival. It reminds us that awaiting hope should be a journey of delight.
Last year, we had our inaugural Feast of St. Stephen/Celebration of Ministry Sunday. On this Sunday, we seek to celebrate ministry in the church and give God thanks for a full year of enthusiastic witness and service by members and volunteers. Traditionally, the Feast Day of St. Stephen the Martyr (and the first deacon) is on December 26, the day after Christmas. However, we have moved the Feast Day up to the rose-colored Sunday in Advent, the Sunday of joy. I hope this liturgical change encourages us to remember that we have a lot to celebrate as members of St Stephen’s, to take pride in our witness and service, and encourages us to remember that we must continue to strive to do all things joyfully as we look to meet Christ in the world.
It is now customary to give two awards on our Celebration of Ministry Sunday. The Jackie Kavanaugh Award for Excellence in Lay Leadership and the Jane Nishiwaki Award for Excellence in Service. These two awards, named after two saints of St. Stephen’s, left an enduring legacy of service and leadership in our midst. We look forward to honoring this year’s recipients as well as all the other members of our community that have made this year a joyful year in ministry.
We also look forward to honoring Carol Fette, our faithful parish administrator for the last few years. Carol, for a number of years, has anchored the church’s most critical operating functions. She kept our church operating during the pandemic and has done above and beyond her role to support staple ministries such as the Vine and the food pantry. She has nourished our relationships with our community partners and done an outstanding job in creating warmth and hospitality in our parish. Carol will be transitioning out of her role at the beginning of the year.
With exceedingly great joy, I give God thanks for each and every one of you. Thank you for all that you continue to do to make our small parish a great one. Henri Nouwen once said that, “Joy does simply just happen to us. We have to choose it every day.” Whether in service, in laughter or in love, the St. Stephen’s and the Vine family chooses joy often and fiercely. Thank you for your witness.
Advent Blessings,
Father Aaron