For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.    Isaiah 9:6

Isaiah pronounces these words to a people who remember the yoke of slavery laid on their shoulders.  They've been waiting for this child, whose birth transforms that yoke into a mantle of authority.  They are promised that this authority will continue to grow as the peaceable commonwealth is established - with justice and righteousness for all, and for ever.

This promise is spoken anew to people in every age, to those who have lived under oppression or in dark depression, to the hungry and ill and imprisoned.  The birth we celebrate offers hope, in Word made flesh, who comes among us to heal and walk this way with us.  The mantle of authority on his shoulders begins in the swaddling clothes of a child born in the humblest of circumstances.  Yet that authority is recognized even by foreigners from far away.  That mantle of authority does continue to grow, through a life offered for others, raised into new life, and passed on to new generations of fleshly God-bearers.  Wherever justice and righteousness is done, that authority is growing, borne on the shoulders of the Prince of Peace.

He comes again, bearing the grace of the One whose image he wears in flesh.  Seek him, sing his new song, declare his glory, and tell out the good news to all the nations:  God reigns, and he is coming bearing righteousness and truth on his shoulders.

May you discover that humble authority born again on the edges of the world's notice.  May that royal inheritance and authority of the stable be born in you, enliven your heart, and rest on your shoulders.  Bear it abroad in peace, this year and throughout the ages.

The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori
Presiding Bishop and Primate
The Episcopal Church

Now available for group watching and personal viewing is the on-demand video of the Saturday, November 16 sessions of Fifty Years Later: The State of Racism in America.

The videos are available here. To access, click the channel button within the main player. 

"All of these videos are great centerpieces for congregational conversations and curriculum on this important topic," noted Anne Rudig, Director of Communication. "These are truly resources for racism conversations and work at the local level. In addition, there is a facilitator's guide available for Friday information and other resources on the site."

The Social Justice and Outreach Committee of the diocese suggests that parishes consider volunteering to prepare and deliver hot meals to the Severe Weather Emergency Shelter (SWES) operated by Operation Safety Net. During the winter months, the SWES in downtown Pittsburgh opens for the homeless on nights when the temperature falls below 25 degrees or during storm conditions. Volunteer groups are on call for specified dates, and if SWES is open, they are asked to provide and deliver a hot meal of meat, starch, and vegetables for 100 people. Typically, groups are informed at least 48 hours in advance if the SWES is to be open. Additional details and dates can be obtained from Stephanie Chiappini (primary contact) at schiappini@pmhs.org or 412-246-2986.