Recently, I came across a quote from J.R.R.Tolkien that is on my mind during this Thanksgiving week. The creator of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, once wrote, "If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world." Imagine that. What would it look like if we placed a higher value on the things that bring people together to share and enjoy life rather than monetary wealth? Things would not only be merrier, but we would be a lot closer to the concept of peace/shalom.

As we make preparations to celebrate a time of Thanksgiving, I am grateful for the food, cheer, and song that we share at St. James for it has truly made my life merrier. I am thankful for ministry that involves food – from the weekly sacrament of communion to the monthly comfort meal pack to the regular potlucks and cookies/coffee on Sunday mornings. I am thankful for the good cheer that characterizes our worship and fellowship time. Across the generations, we are sharing something special. A good example is the weekly ‘noisy offering’ which allows for interaction of young and old during worship. I am thankful for the song that we raise together each week. The beautiful music that is made by so many faithful hearts is truly inspiring.

Throughout November, daily emails have been sent to the congregation highlighting a different aspect of the ministry that we share in Jesus’ name. These emails have been put together in the office, and I’m delighted to see what each day brings. With each new image, there is more reason to give thanks for the community of faith and struggle that is St. James. If you would like to see the whole series of pictures, (CLICK HERE) or access it through the homepage of the St. James website. There is much to be thankful for here at St. James! Please join me in praying for and supporting ministry through the sharing of time, talent, and treasure.

Thanksgiving blessings to you and your family. May Thanksgiving be a day of food, cheer, and song for you.

In Christ,

Pastor Walt