This Week.

Almighty God, whose Son our Savior Jesus Christ was lifted high upon the cross that he might draw the whole world to himself: Mercifully grant that we, who glory in the mystery of our redemption, may have grace to take up our cross and follow him; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.

Today is the Feast of the Holy Cross. Unlike Good Friday which focuses on Christ’s Passion, this feast is a remembrance of the Cross itself. The date is tied to the dedication of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher 335. This church was built by Constantine on the believed site of Golgotha and where his mother, Helena, found a relic of the true cross.

I was fortunate to go on pilgrimage to the Holy Land a few years ago and to go to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. The steps leading up to where you can touch the stone of Golgotha are worn down by the thousands of pilgrims’ footsteps. The church may not mark the actual Golgotha (there is an alternative site outside the old city), but I found that didn’t really matter. The place was made holy by the faith of the pilgrims that came there seeking the grace to take up their cross and follow Jesus.

Holy Cross Day also marks the beginning of the Ember Days. This is a period that invites special discernment and prayers for Christian ministry. All of us as Christians are invited to take up our cross and follow Jesus.

Where is God calling you?

-Kelley

SCHEDULE

• 11:45 am Worship at BSC
  I will be on in front of Norton around 10 a.m., come by and say hello. Then join us in Norton 121 for a short service of prayers and scripture.

  I won’t be at Trinity Commons this Tuesday afternoon but come by next week.

• 6 pm Worship at Trinity Commons & Zoom
  Join us for Church in the chapel. Wear a mask and invite a friend. You can also join us via Zoom.