This week, the rector shares a “Prayer for Leadership” by Sister Joan Chittister of the Order of St. Benedict. The church will be open from 9 am to 6 pm on Election Day for prayerful reflection, and the next day, Wednesday, November 6, the 6 pm Eucharist will be focused on our need for healing, justice and peace in our hearts, our nation and our world. Very intentionally we also want to invite our neighbors, who may feel that need and want a safe and welcoming place to be. It seems unlikely that we will have final results of the election already, and it is good to spend some time waiting and praying together. Please join us and invite a friend.

The rector, reflecting on this Sunday’s Gospel lesson, writes: “Bartimaeus cries out for Jesus’ attention despite the attempts of those around him to quiet him. He persists. He seizes the opportunity Jesus’ passing by offers; he insists on being heard. … He does not equivocate or hedge. He speaks the seemingly impossible desire of his heart. Perhaps faith is in this daring and honest desire as well — and in the risk of transformation that comes with it.” Also in this week’s newsletter, a reminder about next week, November 3: Daylight Saving Time ends! Fall back!

This week, Father Ed, just back from his vacation/retreat, asks: “Can we explore what it means to consciously connect our joy in all creation with what we say so many times each year in our baptismal covenant? Could that bring about a spirit-shift in us?” Also this week: We welcome Deirdre Good, ThD, as our guest preacher and Forum Leader. Dr. Good is a New Testament scholar, a retired seminary professor and a lay preacher in the Diocese of Maine.