Despite what the calendar may say, I’ve always regarded the beginning of September as the “real” start of the new year.  For this is the season when school starts, when regular programs and activities resume, and when things return to “normal” after a summer hiatus.  Depending on our life situations, the advent of fall may or may not be welcome.  And I confess that there have been years when I’ve found it challenging to get enthused about the coming year. 

But this is NOT one of those years.  Indeed, I’m delighted to be returning to St. Mark’s after being away for July and August.  I’ve certainly missed being with you over these past weeks.  And I’m especially excited by the great new initiatives that are on tap for the fall.  Over the summer, our new 55+ Coordinator Debbie McLeod organized two delightful evenings of “Music on the Lawn” and a lively Walking Group that continues to meet on Wednesdays.  As well, she’s also done a great job of lining up a terrific range of programs and activities for the months to come – which look great!  I sense a new spirit and energy around the place – and am really happy to be part of this new chapter of ministry here.

So I look forward to seeing you this coming Sunday as we launch our Fall Programming and join together for a “welcome back lunch.”  In worship we’ll also be focusing on Paul’s short letter to Philemon in the New Testament and on what a welcoming and inclusive church community can look like.  This topic, I think, is especially timely.  Over the coming year, we’ll have a unique opportunity to build some new relationships with the wider community and provide some important opportunities for grace and care to be experienced and shared.  According to Paul, that’s what the life of faith is all about – and benefits abound for everyone when this wisdom is heard and heeded.  In the weeks and months to come, may we seek to do just that. 

I hope to see you this Sunday morning at 10:30.