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The Inviation May 16, 2007
We have notes In this past Sunday’s readings, Jesus offers the disciples, and us, the assurance that we need not fear being alone because the Father will send a Counselor, the Holy Spirit. Note we don’t have to “catch the Spirit”; the Spirit is God’s gift to us. Note also the Spirit’s, the Counselor’s, role, --- to teach and to remind. Our responsibility is to learn and to remember.As I related in the homily, my students often asked me, “How do you know all that information?” and I answer that I have studied---practiced---for 38 years and taught for 34. Also, I have notes. We have notes – scripture, the prayer book. We must use them. My students frequently want to know “how much do I have to read?” “All of it” is the answer, though if you work on it each day, instead of just trying to cram it all in right before a test it is not as daunting a task. Likewise, if we spend a little time each day studying the scripture, in learning, in remembering, in prayer, we are better prepared to respond in love and to experience the presence of God in those times of crisis, those tests.Just as students come together in classes to discuss what they have read, to raise questions, and to seek clarification, so too it is helpful for us to come together in fellowship, service, and study. At St. Matthias there are a number of opportunities to do so on a regular basis. Beginning June 3, I will be leading a class that meets in the McMichael room each Sunday after the 10 o’clock service. Father Ben’s Wednesday morning Bible study will be meeting at ten a.m., and my class will meet Wednesday evening after the 6 p.m. Holy Eucharist. There will also be special opportunities for our youth and children. Vacation Bible School is scheduled for July 9-13. The Diocese offers a wonderful opportunity for our young people through Camp Hardtner’s summer camping program that begins June 7. There are still places available in each age group. Detailed information and applications are available on the table outside the church office. The Diocese also offers an intensive Christian Education program through the Diocesan School of Theology which meets here in Shreveport on the third Saturday of the month, August through May.Please plan to take advantage of one or more of these opportunities to grow in the knowledge and love of God and to fellowship with fellow pilgrims on our journey of faith. God’s peace, Bill+
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