Sunday Reflection: Mark 1:14-20 (from Sermon that Works) Today’s Gospel passage sounds themes of calling and of a world passing away that can also be found in the day’s other readings.  Jesus proclaims the coming of the kingdom of God and calls those who hear him to repent, to turn, at to believe in the good news.  Jesus calls Simon and Andrew, James and John, from their work as fishermen. The four men immediately follow him, leaving behind nets and family and hired workers and fishing boats still floating in the sea. This is a story of a response to God’s call that sounds very different from that of Jonah’s slow and reluctant obedience.

• What might we need to leave behind in order to follow Jesus? And can we ever hope to do so with the swiftness of Simon, Andrew, James, and John?
• What calls do we hear in our own lives? In what ways are we called to follow Jesus in our own time?

Rector’s Corner: In the past couple of weeks, I have observed that our Sunday worship attendance has gone down. I have connected with some of our parishioners and learned that some of them are down due to flu like symptoms. I am not making this as an excuse. However, as I continue to write my report for the Annual vestry meeting, I went back to the Vestry book to see the numbers. It was interesting to look back at these figures.  While numbers may not be everything in church mission, I was in conversation with some of our folks who attend the early service. Some of them were so engaged on this conversation. I think some of them said that church mission should be done together. Meaning, Mission is not just about one person, not just about a parish congregation, not just about a Diocesan family but as Christian-ANGLICANS. Mission is ALL OF US. Perhaps, we could re-read the gospel this week. Then, reflect why Jesus called a group of people to work with him and proclaim the Kingdom of God. I invite you to reflect on Mark 1:14-20. What do you think is at the heart of our mission today? What do you think Jesus is disclosing to us today when he said, “Follow me and I will make you fish for people”?

Annual Reports: All Ministry coordinators are requested to submit your 2017 Annual Reports on or before Sunday, Jan. 28, 2018. This is in preparation for our Annual Vestry Meeting (or A.G.M.) on Feb. 25, 2018.