A Reflection by Kirsten Farney: So many times we expect that our loving relationships should be free of conflict. That expectation can come from our cultural depictions of relationships or maybe even those that were modeled for us in life. The reality of relationship, however doesn’t always look conflict free. In fact, if I learned anything from our panel last week, it was that no matter how great of a communicator or how much expertise Read more…
You were born together, and together you shall be forevermore. You shall be together when the white wings of death scatter your days. Ay, you shall be together even in the silent memory of God. But let there be spaces in your togetherness, And let the winds of the heavens dance between you. Love one another, but make not a bond of love: Let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your Read more…
February is the month of love – a time for Valentine’s Day and emphasizing the importance of love in our lives. So here at St. John’s, we invite you to participate in these love-spreading opportunities. Thursday Feb. 14 – “Love Never Ends, Neither Does Laundry.” Laundry Love is a ministry with over 30,000 laundromats nationwide that wash the clothes and bedding of low-income families and individuals. We host our community’s at the Jackson Laundromat (850 Read more…
I’ve been thinking a lot these last few weeks about faith. Maybe you’re now thinking, “Well, of course you have, Jimmy! You’re a priest, aren’t you?” I am. AND, I believe faith is something that evolves over time. So, I’m thinking about mine, again. And, I’m thinking about yours, too. It’s my job, after all! When we limit faith to a system of beliefs, particularly as they relate to God, I feel like there’s something Read more…
**New Date! Sunday, March 3 at 3 p.m. The Davenports are hosting an afternoon of sledding, grilling, and hanging by the bonfire at their home in Kelly. Kids and parents are invited for the fun! Bring your sled, gloves and waterproof gear. Food and hot chocolate will be provided. Please RSVP to catherine@stjohnsjackson.org.
What light shines in you? Marianne Williamson says, “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?’ Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened Read more…
Here’s a recap and the full report attached. We were able to review the 2018 Mission Plan and reflect on it’s performance. We took a look at our forecasts for 2019 and the State of the Endowment. We elected new vestry members and delegates for the Diocesan convention and enjoyed one another’s company! Thank you to all of our outgoing Vestry members for your hard work! Here’s a list of our new Vestry Members, and Read more…
Spiritual Practices for the Whole Life in an Era of Anxiety For the third year in a row, St. John’s welcomes Dr. Pittman McGehee for a Saturday retreat, January 12, 2019 from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. Pittman is a licensed psychologist with a private practice in Austin, Texas. He’s a Certified Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) and Compassion for Couples (CfC) Teacher. He also happens to be best buds with the Reverend Jimmy Bartz. If you Read more…
As we reflect on the year in our rear view mirror we have every reason to be proud of all the good work we’ve done here at St. John’s. The Spirit moved among us and through us, as we did our best to embody Christ’s real, tangible love in the world. We’ve spread love in our community and beyond in a myriad of ways, some very public and visible, some very quietly, known only to Read more…
May the new year bring you warmth, love and light to guide your path to a positive destination. We have a chosen a compilation of new songs for your enjoyment to listen to a fresh sound in 2019. “Accept what people offer. Drink their milkshakes. Take their love.” –Wally Lamb