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.

This week, the rector writes about the upcoming election, the sharp divisions in our country, and the attendant anxiety many are feeling — and what, together, we might do to help mitigate that anxiety leading up to Election Day, including many of the activities and get-togethers described in this week’s newsletter. (And the church will be open for prayer and quiet reflection from 9 am – 6 pm on Election Day.)

From the rector: “This Sunday we offer the Blessing of the Animals, prayers of thanksgiving and care for our animal companions in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, who was a great friend of all living creatures. It is without a doubt one of the happiest events at church every year. It attracts neighbors. People I don’t know ask me when we are doing it and if they can bring their pets. ‘Of course!’ I always say.” Join us at the 11 am service and following for the Blessing of the Animals. We always look forward to seeing all the animals and their people on this Sunday!

The rector writes: “In this Sunday’s reading from the end of [his] letter, James calls us to pray. This is the bedrock and the lifeblood of the community of faith. Whether we are suffering or cheerful, we are to offer prayer and praise. When we are sick or struggling, we are to ask for the prayer support of the community. Prayer is linked with honest conversation and sharing each other’s burdens- the vulnerability of confessing our sins to each other, forgiving and praying for each other’s healing and wholeness.” At the Sunday Forum following the 11 am service as part of our “Season of Creation,” Mark Larrimore, Professor of Religious Studies at the New School, will lead us in a discussion of trees and the unique, sacred relationships we share with them.