We deal with some technical difficulties before diving straight into our conversation about the (sometimes hidden) superheroes of the church – Deacons!
“The words Barber chose for the vocal parts were an ancient part of the Latin mass. The Agnus Dei is a supplication that has used through many centuries since being added to the Latin mass by Pope Sergius (687-701). He imported it from Orthodox Christianity. In the Eucharist service, it is placed between the Lord’s Prayer and the Eucharistic prayer that precedes the consecration of the Eucharistic Elements. It can also be used as a prayer of meditation, much like the repetition of the Hail, Mary when saying a rosary.”
“‘Has thou been a friend? Hast thou lived in the light? Is there one upon the earth who is glad thou hast lived?’ Yes. We can remember and be grateful we were so blessed.”
“Hear the prayers
that tumble from our hearts like fallen leaves,
and gather in your arms those we now name.”
Today is the Feast of All Angels, and, by name, of one of them, the Archangel Michael. Michael is not portrayed in the Bible singing
“…wild and free
slowly
bringing souls in tune with nature’s heartbeat.”
“They would often ask her advice saying, Mrs. Stone what do you think? Her answers were pithy and to the point. Are you getting the picture of “power” here as Jesus would have us see it? Maybe you had one of those grans too!”
It’s human nature to only just seem to think only of ourselves in times of lockdown and difficulties, We are all worried and concerned for our safety, our provisions, our family, food, and shelter, Our focus falls only on ourselves. We should, however, take a moment take a look around. There are people around us who require financial assistance, who do not have enough food for the next week if the lockdown continues. There is much loneliness and frustration in being unable to communicate with their loved ones by phone, Facebook, email, or WhatsApp, as many of us are able.
Readings for the feast of Anna Ellison Butler Alexander, Friday, September 24, 2021: Psalm 78; Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Matthew 11:25-30 Our Gospel reading for the feast
From the NY Times: Four years after removing stained-glass windows honoring two Confederate generals, Washington National Cathedral officials said Wednesday they had chosen an acclaimed