Author: websexton

In this week’s newsletter, Mother Liz celebrates Earth Month alongside Eastertide, noting how resurrection speaks not only to humanity but to “the groaning of the whole creation” and God’s determination to make all things new. She observes that when Mary Magdalene mistakes the risen Christ for a gardener, we glimpse the deep interconnection of all beings—and when we touch creation’s wounds with reverence and compassion, we meet God. Quoting Robin Wall Kimmerer, the rector reminds us that “when we work to heal the earth, the earth heals us,” and invites us to deepen our love and commitment to our fragile, beautiful planet.

This week, the rector reflects on the road to Emmaus, where two grief-stricken disciples walk with a stranger who listens to their trauma, reframes their despair, and reminds them that God works even in brokenness. Only when he breaks bread with them do their eyes open and they recognize the risen Christ. Mother Liz asks when we have encountered the Risen One—in deep listening, unexpected hope amid trauma, familiar liturgy, or the faces gathered around the table—inviting us to notice where Easter life continues spreading among and through us.

In this week’s newsletter, Mother Liz offers heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to a beautiful Holy Week and Easter at Ascension—from Passion readers and lay preachers to those who kept the Maundy Thursday watch, prepared altar flowers, served at Easter brunch, and made the liturgies flow with grace. She gives special recognition to the choir and Dr. Dennis Keene for his “astonishing 45 years of love, artistry and dedication,” noting the congregation’s standing ovation after the Widor Toccata on Easter Sunday as more celebrations of his ministry continue before his Pentecost retirement.

In her message this week, the rector connects Palm Sunday’s ancient story to present-day witness, planning to join Saturday’s No Kings March calling for democracy, justice, and peace. She explores how Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem was itself a public protest: a humble prophet on a borrowed donkey contrasting sharply with Pilate’s simultaneous imperial procession through another part of town. The tension between these two visions of power and authority plays out throughout Holy Week and history, asking where we will put our bodies, feet, and hearts as we follow Jesus’ way of vulnerable, self-giving love.