As many of us gather with friends and family to give thanks for the blessings and joys of our lives this week, this may also be a time that brings up sorrow, grief and division for some. As we are well aware, many people do not have enough to eat or safe places to sleep in this season. Whatever emotions or challenges Thanksgiving brings up for you and yours, I am thankful for all of you.
Gratitude for Stewardship
I am thankful to all of the faithful and hopeful people who have already pledged their financial support to the ministries of the Episcopal Church of St. Stephen’s and the Vine in 2026 and all who will do so. The future of the ministries of our church cannot be taken for granted. It will take all of us contributing our time, talents and our treasure to cultivate a continued, intentional Episcopal presence in Ferguson.
Giving thanks to God
I pray for safe travels for all who are traveling and that we may be joined together again to Give Thanks to God in the Holy Eucharist this coming Sunday, Nov. 30, at 10 a.m. in person and online. The Greek word εὐχαριστέω (eucharistéo) means “to give thanks” or “to be thankful.” It is the verb form from which the word “Eucharist” is derived, and it is composed of “eu” (good) and “charis” (grace), signifying a thankfulness that comes from the awareness of God’s grace.
A Season of Hope
This Sunday, Nov. 30, is the beginning of the Season of Advent and a New Year in the Church. As Bishop Deon Johnson explains in his introduction to Advent, which was shared in last week’s Grapevine, Advent is meant to be a season of quiet, a season of hope, a season of preparation and waiting. There are resources available to help you engage in the Advent season, distinct from preparing for Christmas celebrations.
The Season of Advent at St. Stephen’s and the Vine
Sundays at 10 a.m. – Holy Eucharist
– Nov. 30, Dec. 7, Dec. 14, Dec. 2
Saturdays at 5 p.m. – Lectio Divina
– Dec. 6, Dec. 13, Dec. 20
Please gather at 4:45 p.m. in the Chapel downstairs for this meditative form of Bible study. The service will end no later than 6 p.m.
Advent Resources
click the links to download documents
– Advent Eucharist, developed by Bishop Deon Johnson – we will be using this for all four Sundays of Advent
– Advent Meditations, by Bishop Deon Johnson – a booklet of short, daily reflections
– Advent Posters: “Shh! Quiet, it’s Advent!” – pick up your poster at church to use during Advent
