Dear Friends,
This has been a momentous week in so many ways, and all the world has been watching the election of the 47th President of the United States. We pray for the President-elect, and for President Biden as he enters this transitional period. We also pray for Vice-President Harris as she concedes the election to Mr. Trump. May the coming months be marked by calmness, unity, and stability. Here is a prayer ‘for sound government’ from our Prayer Book that you can use:
O Lord our Governor, bless the leaders of our land,
that we may be a people at peace among ourselves
and a blessing to other nations of the earth.
Lord, keep this nation under your care.To the President and members of the Cabinet,
to Governors of States, Mayors of Cities,
and to all in administrative authority,
grant wisdom and grace in the exercise of their duties.
Give grace to your servants, O Lord.To Senators and Representatives,
and those who make our laws in States, Cities, and Towns,
give courage, wisdom, and foresight to provide for the needs of all our people,
and to fulfill our obligations in the community of nations.
Give grace to your servants, O Lord.To the Judges and officers of our Courts give understanding and integrity,
that human rights may be safeguarded and justice served.
Give grace to your servants, O Lord.And finally, teach our people to rely on your strength
and to accept their responsibilities to their fellow citizens,
that they may elect trustworthy leaders
and make wise decisions for the well-being of our society;
that we may serve you faithfully in our generation and honor your holy Name.
For yours is the kingdom, O Lord,
and you are exalted as head above all. Amen.
This week also marked a momentous decision for the Vestry as we decided the future of the Choir School. If you have not already, please take a few minutes to read the letter from the Vestry on behalf of the Rector.
This Sunday is Remembrance Sunday and we will offer prayers for our dearly-departed loved ones at all the masses. At 11am, the choir will sing the beautiful Requiem by Gabriel Fauré. At 4pm, we welcome The Rev. Major Benjamin J. Newland, Command Chaplain to the U.S. Army’s Joint Modernization Command on Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, to be our preacher. During the 4pm service, there will be an act of remembrance for our war dead, and prayers for peace, and we will be joined by representatives of the historic and patriotic societies of New York who will carry their flags and banners.
Your Priest and Pastor,
Carl
