San Angelo District Lay Leader
The Epiphany of Our Lord
By Wade Powell
Epiphany is the celebration of the Incarnation of Christ. It is one of the most important of the liturgical feasts or commemorations, but sadly, one that many know little about. Traditionally, the Epiphany of our Lord is celebrated on January 6th. Since this date often falls during the week, the church will observe Epiphany on a Sunday near the 6th. Officially, it is a Christmas feast that usually emphasises the visit of the Magi, followed by the baptism of the Lord, and often then with the miracle at the wedding in Cana.
These events, remind us that God came to be with us on earth. He became one of us, and moved among us. It is likely that the observance of Epiphany even predates Christmas. We certainly find it worthwhile to gather together to give thanks to God for taking on the flesh of man in order to reveal His salvation to the world.
As we move into the new year, we will celebrate many things within our churches. After Epiphany we will celebrate the transfiguration of the Lord, followed by the season of Lent when we will remember Christ’s sacrifice, his death and triumphant resurrection. We will celebrate Holy Humor Sunday as a way to remember Christ’s joyous victory over death. We will rejoice at the birth of the Church at Pentecost, followed by Advent in which we look to the birth of our Savior. All of these wonderful events as well as others throughout the year begin with the fact that God loved us so much that he came to us, though undeserving as we are, in human form as Christ Jesus.
He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God. --- John 1:10-13
What is the Vespers Service?
Recently, the Order of Saint Luke, began holding Vespers services on the first Wednesday of each month in the sanctuary at Hilda UMC. So, what exactly is a vespers service? The term “vespers” simply means evening. It is a daily prayer service that is part of an ancient tradition of services or offices that occur at different times each day. As a member of the Order of Saint Luke, I will typically pray six or seven times daily. To put vespers in its proper place, the order of offices goes something like this: A morning service called lauds, followed by three shorter services spaced throughout the day usually mid morning, noon, and afternoon called diurnal offices, then a vespers service in the evening, followed by an office known as compline before bed.
So, what can you expect if you decide to attend this vespers service? A vespers service is designed for prayer, confession, meditation on the scriptures, and more prayer. There is no sermon or message. The emphasis is on reflection and meditation.
We open with quiet personal prayer followed by a prayer of Thanksgiving to God. And, because incense has been a long tradition within the Jewish and ancient Christian church associated with prayer, we will burn incense and recall the scripture in Revelation 8:3-4, “An angel, holding a golden censer full of incense, stood before the altar. The smoke of the incese went up before God, mingled with the prayers of the people.” We will make ample time for confession together as well as silent confession. You can expect to hear a reading from the Psalms, followed by Old and New Testament readings with significant time between each reading to meditate on God’s Word. We will then pray for each other and pray with confidence and conviction for God’s blessing on the concerns we have and give thanksgiving for the joys and blessings He has given us.
This is the type of service that strives to create an atmosphere in which we are able to set aside outside influences and really connect with our God. It was following this type of service that John Wesley attended a Bible meeting in which he had his Aldersgate conversion experience that influenced his ministry from that day forward. In his words, John Wesley declared that he felt his heart strangely warmed and, “an assurance was given me that He had taken away my sins, even mine, and saved me from the law of sin and death.”
Next Vespers service: February 3rd at 6:00 PM Hilda UMC
Sainthood
I assume you are reading this article on or around All Saints Day. The idea of All Saint’s Day and Sainthood are terms that many Protestants are uncomfortable with. The terms seem so Roman Catholic, and unfortunately, some Protestants believe that Catholics worship Mary and the other Saints. With this article I hope to address some of the common questions I hear around the issue of Saints.
Since many of us are familiar with the Hail Mary, let’s start there. It begins, “Hail Mary, full of Grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and Blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.” So far, those words are taken almost directly from scripture. Read the first chapter of Luke and see if you don’t agree. The next part of the Hail Mary continues, “Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death.” Have you ever asked someone to pray for you? I asked the men in my Emmaus reunion group to pray for me this morning. This prayer is not claiming Mary as God or equal to God. It is simply a request that she pray for us, just as you would ask a friend to pray for you.
I don’t know a single Christian that would hesitate to ask another Christian to pray for them in their time of need. Why does that have to end with death? In death, we don’t lose connection to our Lord. And, by the same token, those Christians that have preceeded us in death are not lost to us. We are connected though Christ as the communion of saints. Just about every week we affirm our faith by stating the Apostle’s Creed in which we believe in the “communion of saints.” Death merely transforms the way we LIVE, but whether we live here on Earth or in Glory, we live in Christ Jesus our Lord. We have victory over death through Jesus Christ. Death does not separate us from the love of God or from the Community of Faith.
We believe all Christians are Saints. God continues to work on us, but those that follow the Lord are indeed Saints. All Saint’s Day is a wonderful way to honor those Christians that have helped lead the way to Christ. We give thanks for the saints of the universal church as well as the saints of this congregation and saints connected to the people of this congregation. We give thanks to them and ask them to pray for us as we pray for one another. Glory to God for his love and this wonderful communion we share.
(Thank you to Dr. Gregory Neal as his writings were very influential in the development of this article. Please visit Dr. Neal's website, Grace Incarnate Ministries by clicking the link)
Ritual Realism in Worship
By Wade Powell
I’m borrowing the term Ritual Realism from an article written in Sacramental Life, a publication of the Order of Saint Luke, by Taylor W. Burton-Edwards for this article, because it is a term that I believe captures the essence of “what we do in church to enhance our worship experience and make it real.” The term ritual realism uses two words instead of fourteen, and is more eloquent. Okay, now that proper acknowledgement has been given, “What is ritual realism?”
Ritual realism is the combination of acting out a ritual in the context of worship in a way that evokes the senses to experience worship in a profound way. We all know that students learn in different ways. Some are very auditory, some are visual, and others prefer individual study and reading. Most will agree that incorporating several methods in learning is best. What about worship? There are hymns, liturgies, reading aloud from the Bible, common prayers, candles, incense, specific movements made by the pastor, acolytes, pastoral vestments, bread, wine, holy water, and the list goes on and on.
Of course, any time we begin discussing things such as traditional vs. Contemporary worship, we start to see each side get very protective of their favorite worship styles. I will admit that I come from a very traditional, high church preference of worship. I love to hear the congregation recite common prayers, I love seeing the light brought into the church and later carried out into the world. I like the use of incense offered up mingled with our prayers. I want to stand as the Gospel is read. I like the pastor to be clothed in a liturgical vestment such as an alb and chausable. I like the hymns to be accompanied by a piano or even better, a pipe organ. These are symbols of “church” that help me enter into an attitude of communion with Christ. I feel a strong connection with the ancient church, and appreciate the beauty of the worship service and adoration of the Holy Trinity.
Is traditional the only way to connect with Christ and the ancient church? Certainly not! When a contemporary service is constucted along the same guidelines as traditional worship, the elements of complete worship are there although they may not look the same as the traditional. Just a thought, but could a well orchestrated lighting display convey the same symbolism as an acolyte carrying in a flame? Can an electric guitar evoke the same emotions as a pipe organ? Can prayers be offered to God through hymns or even liturgical dance? Rather than using incense, is it possible that a person can raise their palms toward the heavens in a gesture that asks the Lord to hear our prayer? I believe each of these is possible.
Does that mean I believe that services should be altered strictly for entertainment value? No, it does not. I believe it is dangerous for us to begin viewing worship as a means to entertain, rather than a means to worship the living God. The bottom line is this: what we say and symbolize and do in worship matters. Whether pipe organ or electric keyboard, our minds are wired to connect our actions in worship with the real presence of God. By virtue of our rituals, either traditional or contemporary, the presence of the Holy Spirit not only surrounds us, but also begins to materialize in a very real way.
My Emmaus Experience
I arrived in Junction for my Emmaus walk on a Thursday and was greeted by a lot of very friendly people. Some I knew and some I did not. I wasn’t sure what to expect from the weekend. And by reading this article, you won’t know what to expect either. You see, you wouldn’t tell your friend everything that happens in a movie before they see it. You wouldn’t ruin a good book by reading the last chapter first. So, although I will tell you a little about my experience, I promise not to spoil your Walk by revealing too much.
It was Saturday afternoon. We had heard a talk on Means Of Grace immediately followed by a service of Holy Communion. After the service, we made our way to the cafeteria and ate. (We Methodists love to eat, and apparently so does the Emmaus community.) After lunch, we were given a break before returning back to our activities. During this break, I decided to make my way down to the Llano river that flows just a couple hundred yards from the campus in Junction. But instead of walking toward the river, I found myself walking toward the chapel. Even on my way, I wondered aloud, “why am I not going down to the river?” I got about five or six steps from the chapel door, and again thought to myself, “it is such a beautiful day, and the river is so peaceful, what am I doing about to walk into a building?”
I walked into the empty chapel and noticed that everyone else must have wanted to spend time outdoors in God’s beauty. But, I walked to the front of the chapel and noticed that the bread and the cup were still on the altar table. I was drawn to them, and placed my left hand upon the bread, and my right upon the cup, then I just stood there in silence intending to pray. I concentrated on knowing the presence of Christ’s body and blood. I thought about how special it was to be able to know God in such an intimate way. I felt my left hand gripping the loaf a little tighter. The way you grip hands with someone as you pray. At that moment, I heard gentle weeping from another “pilgrim” just a couple of rows back. I assumed I must have just overlooked not seeing him there as I entered the chapel. I continued praying, and thanking God. I reaffirmed His presence in my life, and made the commitment to turn my life over 100% to him.. And for a control freak financial advisor in the middle of a bear market, that’s a pretty big deal! As I prayed, and the person behind me gently wept, there was something about that cry that touched me. I wanted to turn around so badly to see who it was that was filling my heart with both joy and sadness. I took my hand away from the bread and cup, and moved over to the altar rail to kneel, but as I did, the curiosity got to me, and I turned to see who was with me. I saw no one. My eyes scanned the room, and no one was there. I was a little stunned. I didn’t even get to my knees. I just stood there. I glanced over at a bunch of lit candles, took a deep breath and remained puzzled. And, I no longer heard the soft sobbing. With more than just a little hesitation, I stepped back over to the bread and cup, placed my hands back and closed my eyes. This time I didn’t hear the same cry I heard before, but a deep breathing that comes when someone stops crying and begins to compose themselves. I took my hands from the elements again, and stood there amazed and a little disturbed. I began sweating and my heart was racing. I looked throughout the room for a “logical” explanation. Was there someone hidden from my view? Was someone down one of the halls? Did the airconditioner come on and make a noise that could sound like crying? Was the wind blowing through a cracked door or window? I found no explanation, and there was absolutely no one around, nor did I hear foot steps on the hard floor, a door open, or any other movement that would indicate that someone came or left.
For the next several minutes, I walked around the campus trying to keep from throwing up, and trying to calm myself. Any doubts I may have had about truly feeling Christ’s presence in our hearts, and in Holy Communion are no longer there. When we sing Emmanuel, that name has a much stronger meaning to me now. Emmanuel = God with us. Although, I have had a very special place in my heart for the Sacrament of Holy Communion, and I believed that Christ was truly present in the bread and cup, Communion was still largely symbolic for me. Now, that symbolism has been replaced by reality and truth. I heard my Lord in the sadness and joy of his death and resurrection. I know he weeps for me and my sins. And he weeps for you and yours. He was raised from the dead and made known to his disciples and to us through the Sacrament so that we may fully understand his unfailing love and grace.
Being Contageous
As I write this, it’s Friday afternoon. It’s a rare occasion lately that I am home, but today I spent the day in my home office/dining room. Since I am away from the fast pace of my office, I’ve had a chance to reflect on Lent. What have I done different during this season? I hate to admit it, but not much really. Sure, I have given up eating poorly. (Vague enough to cheat a little) I have abstained from meat on Fridays, only to realize about 2pm that it’s Friday and I had a turkey sandwich for lunch! And, what service have I done? Aside from confessing my shortcomings during Lent in this article, not much. A few days ago, I said to Cindy that I thought it would be great if someday, I could afford to take off from work during the entire season of Lent and spend that time in service to others. Visiting homebound people, delivering meals for the elderly, community service work, and at least a few hours a day in prayer. Of course, Cindy reminded me that I didn’t have to wait until I could afford to take a 40 day vacation. “Why don’t you start with Fridays during Lent? “ I know that we’re a couple of weeks into Lent by the time I’m writing this, but I intend to start....now. When I decided to write this article for the newsletter, I had no idea what to say. So, with the confidence of a Christian, I picked up Cindy’s Bible and asked God for some inspiration. Cindy’s Bible is always within reach of her chair. I’ve usually left mine in the backseat of my car, or in my desk drawer, or underneath a stack of magazines... you get the point. I opened the Bible and found Acts 2:42-47. 42They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. 44All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. 46Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. I thought, that’s exactly what we are working to be at Hilda. Fellowship, breaking of bread (A reference to Holy Communion), and prayer. The verses that follow layout how these Christians were taking care of each other. It speaks of the importance of being in the company of other Christians. They ate together and fellowshipped together with glad and sincere hearts. They praised God and created an environment that others wanted to be a part of. As part of God’s spirtitual family it is our responsibility to help one another. And a thriving Christian community attracts others. It just makes sense. Who doesn’t want to be a part of something wonderful? Who doesn’t want to enjoy the company of people who rejoice in being in service of God? Let’s be contageous. So, when people ask you what you’re doing this weekend, let them know that you’ll be in beautiful downtown Hilda worshiping at 11 am (Or where ever and when ever your church worships). Or that you’re helping at a workday. And, don’t forget to let them know that we’d love to have them come too. Why Can't Laity Preside at Holy Communion? Holy Communion is not merely a representation or memorial of the Last Supper. Holy Communion is a Sacrament given to us by Jesus Christ in which he makes himself present for us in the bread and cup. It is important that this be acknowledged by anyone presiding over and administering the Sacrament. By having a pastor that is properly educated in the understanding of the depth of Holy Communion, we also help ensure that proper respect and reverence is shown in this wonderful gift. The church in Corinth was scolded by Paul for not properly taking and administering the Sacrament. In fact, he said that those who break the bread and drink the cup in an unworthy manner have committed sin against the body and blood of Christ. I don't believe he was speaking to the worthiness of the people, but rather to the recognition of the body and blood. So, it is extremely important that the celebrant have a proper understanding of the Sacrament, and assigning that task to pastors helps to ensure that. Further, I believe it is important for the presiding pastor to communicate the depth of the Sacrament to those preparing to receive it. For a deeper understanding of the gift of Holy Communion, I would suggest reading the following passages: Matthew 26:26-30; Mark 14:22-26; Luke 22:14-22; John 6:32-35; John 6:53-59; Luke 24:13-32; Acts 2:42-47; Romans 6:8-10; 1Corinthians 10:14-17 & 11:17-33. These are just a few of the passages that address Holy Communion. Don’t stop here, though. Search the scriptures for other references. For a real challenge, don’t limit your search to the New Testament. The references may be a little more abstract and prophetic in the Old Testament, but they are there. New Year Article Well, here we are going into 2009. I figured I’d start the year by placing an article in our monthly newsletter, but what should I write? For the last few months, Cindy and I had developed a daily ritual of waking up early, around 5:00 a.m. and after I got the coffee going and got ready for work, we’d share a cup of coffee and read the Upper Room devotion. While, we didn’t always agree 100% during our discussions, I am amazed at how those few minutes each morning impact my life. So, the first thing I would recommend as a new year’s resolution is to find someone you love and take a few minutes to read the Bible together first thing in the morning. Usually a spouse is a convenient study buddy, but you can also do it long distance with an old friend, a son or daughter, or even a parent. So, as I was reflecting on how those mornings impacted my life, I realized that I had an even stronger hunger to know and be close to God. Several years ago when I took my first Advanced Lay Speaker Training course, the instructor, Rev. Roger Baker, casually mentioned that he was a member of the Order of Saint Luke, a society that originated in the Methodist Church. Well, for the past couple of years I have toyed with applying for membership to the OSL, but have been putting it off. I think part of me was a little intimidated by the vows that a member is asked to take. But, after spending that time each morning, and realizing my need to grow in my relationship with God I think it is time to make that commitment. Okay, so now you are thinking, “Fine, Wade, but what does that have to do with me?” My answer lies in the vows and affirmations that I have made. In a nutshell, my commitment is to lead a life serving God in the tradition of the Apostles. Seeking to serve the Church. The Church being the Body of Christ that is catholic, apostolic, and universal to all christians no matter denomination. Seeking to be aware and lift up Christ’s presence in the sacraments. Through the baptismal covenant, we are incorporated into the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. And, as early as the Emmaus experience, Christ revealed himself through the breaking of bread. We are called to experience the body and blood of Christ in the Eucharist as a gift from Jesus in which we are strengthened and empowered to represent Christ to the world. I am committed to promoting corporate worship and education, and serving God in the community by study, service, gifts, and practice. As we head into 2009, my resolution is to lead a more sacramental life. And, throughout the year, I hope to update you on my progress in this endevour. Actually, my hope is that 2009 is only the beginning of my commitment. But I intend to share with you in future newsletters my discoveries through Christ.
This was a question posed recently to a group of Pastors at a meeting I attended. It was also a question they said they had been asked many times. I understand that it would be difficult for a pastor to explain without seeming to come across as “holier than thou.” But it is not a matter of Holy, it is a matter of proper understanding. So, with that in mind, I’ll attempt to give my take on the importance of clergy presiding over Holy Communion from a lay person’s perspective.
Tailgate Party at Puncher Stadium
The Hilda United Methodist Church turned out to support the Mason Puncher Football team with a tailgate party. The weather didn't exactly cooperate, but praise God for the rain. Despite the heavy rain, people turned out for the game, and several took shelter under our little tent to eat free hot dogs and have a glass of lemonade. This is an event that we are planning to do at every home game. Being our maiden voyage, we hit a few snags, and the rain didn't exactly help in the carrying out of the event, but we still were able to serve over 50 hotdogs. Somehow, we neglected to buy buns before the party, and when we made a last minute trip to the local Super S grocery store, there were only two packages of buns available. Other than that, it was a very inexpensive way to support the football players at our church, as well as the rest of the team, and let the community know Hilda UMC is more than just a place to go, but also something to do.
