Dear Friends, Last weekend, the events that took place were unacceptable. Violence must have no place in our politics. Sadly, what happened on Saturday was not an isolated incident of political violence in our country, but a recurring event. So, what are we to do? How are we to react [...]
Dear Friends, This summer, I continue to read Life After Dom: Wisdom and Courage for a World Falling Apart by Brian McLaren. He shares some insights that I would like to share with you. He begins one chapter with a quote from C.S. Lewis: It may be hard for an [...]
Dear Friends, Earlier this week, I read something that I want us all to consider, especially as we have recently heard Gospel readings about the reign of God. The following is a reflection from the Center for Action and Contemplation written by spiritual director Ruth Haley Barton who describes [...]
Dear Friends, Many of us who stay in Naples year-round dislike the summer. They mostly cite the heat as their biggest issue. I don’t blame them. On the other hand, I deeply appreciate the frequent rains and beautiful clouds and sunsets they produce. It is a time to just [...]
Dear Parishioners of St. Monica's, I have heard from some Christian writers that the church should be like a school for love; a place where you learn to love. I love that! I am always convicted when I come across the paraphrased scripture: "They will know that we are [...]
Dear Friends, This past week has been particularly slow. And that’s not a bad thing. Normally, summers are a bit slower anyway, with so many away for the season or on vacation. The recent heavy rains have given us a moment to refresh oneself, to contemplate, to reflect, and to [...]
Dear Friends, These slower days of summer invite deeper reflection. This week, I came across a beautiful devotion written on cac.org. I can’t say it better than the writer, so I’ll simply share the text with you. Please take a moment to read and contemplate what this may mean for [...]
Dear Friends, As we enter the summer season and many go away on vacation or have gone to their northern home, we have a wonderful opportunity. In this more intimate setting, we can deepen relationships. We can take more time with one another. We have a slower pace and a [...]
Dear Friends, Last weekend, as we celebrated Pentecost, I spoke about the Spirit and the process of God bringing new life into our lives. In light of being open to new life, I mentioned that we will be engaging in visioning and strategic planning. That is, we will be [...]
Dear Friends, I am away this week on study leave as I work in the last phase of a Doctorate of Ministry in Congregational Development from Bexley Seabury. In my place, we are blessed to have Fr. Tara McGraw with us this weekend. Peace and grace, Fr. Jonathan [...]
