John Lennon's anthem and musical plea to a violent-prone world still and rightly so, rings loud and clear..."all we are saying, is give peace a chance." All Christians certainly should embrace this mantra. All who are advocates of sound and peaceful ethics and morals that uphold and preach non-violence must cling to the hopes of lasting and enduring peace and war not being the solution to our worldly disagreements. Yet, sadly, each day in our fragile world there is a conflict that involves one warring force against another; one tribe at odds with another; one nation with a raised sword about to strike a blow against their opponent whose swords are at the ready. We humans seemingly have not learned our lessons, have we?

As a people we live our lives, we go about our business and do what we can to help make this world a better place.   Unfortunately, there are those among us who invent and create more sophisticated and devastating means of destroying those who oppose "the will of a nation" or "threaten a particular way of life."   And all the while, in a special corner of my heart, I can hear John Lennon's words ..."give peace a chance."  

2000 plus years ago, our world was overwhelmed by such a force of peace that the reverberations of that human and divine presence are still felt today. This peace, brought forth from on high, in human form and in the condition of our mortal state, less sin, lived a life of utter peace; full acceptance and appreciation of all others, because of their race, because of their religious beliefs and because of the poor behavior and displays of hatred and because all are God's children, His own sisters and brothers.   And if He Himself could not nor would not love all people unconditionally and without hesitation, how then would He or could He teach us to love in this manner? This incarnate force of peace, this all loving entity was, is and forever will be Jesus the Christ, the Redeemer, the King of kings, the Prince of Peace.

To all my sisters and brothers, my family that is the Community of St. Nicholas, my warmest and most heart-felt wish for all is that full peace, full joy and the fulfillment of the Word be with us, sustain us and empower us throughout this joyful season and in the New Year about to dawn.

Merry Christmas,

Felix Navidad,  

Joyeux Noel,  

Sretan Bozic,  

Geseede Kersfees,  

Nollaig Shona Dhuit,  

Idah Saidan Wa Sanah Jadidah,  

Mo'adim Lesimkha. Chen tova,  

Buone Festa Nataizie,  

Froehliche Weinhnachten,  

God Jul,  

Il-Milied It-Tajjeb ...

however we say it, let's say it from our hearts and share it with all we meet!

manny@stnicholasepiscopal.org 

The final numbers for the Fannie May sales are in - a total profit of $643.  A big thank you to everyone who participated.

Bishop James Allan, our Nancy Allan's relation: he has taken a turn for the worse and his health is in rapid decline; pray for his peace and comfort and strength and acceptance for his family. 

Shirley Martinez, a friend of our Scott Cummings: she is battling cancer; pray for her health and well being.   

Vivian, sister to our Thelma Malacek, who is battling ovarian cancer: for successful surgery and a full and complete recovery.  Also, Vivian's friend, Peggy, who has been diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer: for strength and peace for Peggy and family. 

Linda Buzard, choral director of St. John the Divine in Urbana and a friend of Bob DeHaven, is battling breast cancer: pray for full recovery and sound health.

Marcia Kizior, sister of Bob DeHaven, who is in poor health.

Pamela Joy DeHaven, in thanksgiving for recovery and continued remission.   

Hope Smith, whose cancer has reappeared: for strength, peace and guidance.

For those in transition: those searching for work, those who are moving and those encountering changes in life.

 
Click here for the readings appointed for Saturday, December 22 / Sunday, December 23.