The Rector's Corner
May 2009

Dear People of Emmanuel Memorial Church,

If I may say so, the Season of Lent, this year at Emmanuel Memorial Church was a particularly blessed one. The aura of devotion and dedication of so many this year made this so. I thank of all those who attended the series Knowing Christ in Worship, the attendees at Lenten Suppers, the Thursday Noon Bible Study, the Seder Dinner and the Liturgies of Holy Week; those who “watched for one hour” at the Maundy Thursday/Good Friday Vigil. I am grateful for the members of the parish staff who worked quietly behind the scenes and in public to lead parish programs, make preparations, and lead worship. I am aware of the unnumbered volunteers who served dinners, moved tables and chairs, served in liturgies, sang in the choir and in other ways led us and took care of our physical needs. I am deeply grateful for those who so generously gave of your resources to fund and meet the challenge gift for youth ministry.

Because of your generosity, we have been able to add more than $20,000 to the parish endowment for Youth Ministry. You not only “talk-the-talk, but also walk-the-walk” in supporting this ministry which you identified as your number one priority. I commend all of you, and I thank you. You are part of a very vibrant and healthy portion of the Body of Christ, Emmanuel Memorial Church. You show yourselves to be the Body of Christ in who you are and all that you do. I am honored and humbled to be allowed to be a servant of this community of the Risen Christ.

With my love and prayers,
Fr. Alan, Obl. SSJE
Rector