Advent Calendar

The Episcopal Diocese of Washington unveiled its first online Advent calendar today as a joint venture with the National Cathedral's Visitor Programs office. The Calendar can be found on-line at: http://www.edow.org/spirituality/advent/index.html

Happy Father's Day

Gracious God, we remember and pray today for fathers everywhere. We ask your blessing on our own fathers, for the fathers of those we love, and for the grace to be fathers ourselves to those who are in need. We ask this and all our prayers in the name of God our Father, through Jesus Christ his child, with the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Thanks to The Rev. Stacey Grossman for this wonderful prayer found on From the Hilltop, the weblog of The Episcopal Church of the Nativity, San Rafael, California.

Anniversaries

The first of June marks two anniversaries for our rector. On June 1, 1996, Whit was ordained a deacon in the Church and on June 7, 1997, he was ordained priest. So, today marks Whit's 7th anniversary as a priest.

Education for Ministry Program

Education for Ministry, affectionately known as EFM, is a program of theological education-at-a-distance of the School of Theology of the University of the South. Students sign up one year at a time for this four-year program. It covers the basics of a theological education in the Old and New Testaments, church history, liturgy, and theology. Students meet regularly, usually once a week, in seminars under the guidance of trained mentors. To see a prospectus, click here.

St. Andrew's hopes to have a group this fall. If you are interested, please contact Fr. Whit or a former EFM student.

Memorial Day

This prayer is from The Book of Common Prayer, page 839.

For Heroic Service

O Judge of the nations, we remember before you with grateful hearts the men and women of our country who in the day of decision ventured much for the liberties we now enjoy. Grant that we may not rest until all the people of this land share the benefits of true freedom and gladly accept its disciplines. This we ask in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Rogation Sunday Celebration

On Sunday, May 16th, Church of the Redeemer will have its annual Rogation Sunday Celebration and blessing of the fields. Crosses will also be blessed for all to take home to their own fields or gardens. The Holy Eucharist begins at 11:00 a.m. Following the Eucharist and blessing, a brunch will be held. Please make plans to join us.