Back at the beginning of summer, the Vestry reflected on Thomas Merton’s description of rest and his statement that we cannot begin to “live more fully” until we have the courage to do less. In October, our reflection from Merton focused again on rest but specifically on the distinction between pleasure and joy. Merton implies that pleasure is fleeting and circumstantial while joy is deeper and God-given. He writes that we were not created for pleasure but for joy, and if we do not know the difference between them, then we have “not yet begun to live.” We found this statement a little accusatory because we feel we do know the difference; yet—and this is exactly Merton’s point—perhaps we think we live fully when really, we pursue worldly pleasures instead of God’s joy. It is interesting to reflect upon rest again as we head into the fall season with its many festivities and traditions. Merton reminds us to be wary of this seasons’ obligatory busyness and the promise of transitory pleasures. Instead, we should seek the joy that will endure after the excitement and parties and meals are over.
Speaking of excitement, the Pledge Drive Committee visited us in October to tell us about their efforts and vision for this years’ pledge season. It was wonderful to hear from John P, Laurie S., and Liz T about how their work is an expression of their gratitude for all that St. Mary’s has done and continues to do. John P. talked about how the slogan “keep calm and pledge on” isn’t actually appropriate because they can’t keep calm. They are excited to pledge on! Pledging is worth getting excited about because there is so much to look forward to in the coming year. The pledge team also expressed their gratitude for Bingham’s pursuit of new technology and the entire staff’s professionalism and hard work in keeping us connected. We are truly blessed at St. Mary’s with an abundance of talent and knowledge, and even more, a willingness to use those gifts for the continual flourishing of our community. We on the Vestry want to express our thanks to the Pledge Drive Committee for your faithful work—not only during this season but year-round—for all your work planning, facilitating, and caring for the financial stability of St. Mary’s. Your work is a blessing, and we can’t keep calm in light of all the great work that you do!
Along with the Pledge Drive, we want to express our excitement for all the improvements happening at St. Mary’s. In addition to the ventilation system upgrade, there have been many smaller projects, like installing better lighting in the choir area behind the altar and improving the overall lighting situation in the sanctuary. In general, there has been much fixing, staining, and filling going on, all working together towards the goal of improving St. Mary’s. Our building is growing and changing for the better, becoming safer, and preparing to eventually welcome our return to full in-person activities. We want to thank Tom B. for all he does to take care of our building. We are truly excited about all of these improvements, and we know that when we gather again in the updated spaces, the experience will be better than ever.
As we move through this season, we hope that you can find rest in God’s joy even as you catch the excitement of the pledge drive and enjoy fall’s many festive pleasures. Let us remember all that we have to be thankful for at St. Mary’s and all the building improvements that we have to look forward to, in steadfast hope and eager anticipation.
