The rector, preparing for her sabbatical from August 6 through November 1, writes: “I am so grateful to everyone who is making it possible for me to have this time of ‘listening to what (my) heart would love to say.’ I know it will be a wonderful fall at Ascension; many exciting things are planned, and I will be eager to hear about them when I return.” And among the first events planned is this month’s “Second Wednesday” barbecue on August 9, after the 6 pm service. Bring a side or dessert to share; we’ll provide the meat or vegetarian items to grill in the back garden and then we’ll all eat in the front garden.

In this week’s newsletter, the rector discusses this Sunday’s gospel lesson, in which Jesus compares the kingdom of God to a mustard seed, yeast, a treasure hidden in a field (see the painting above, by either Rembrandt or Gerrit Dou), a “pearl of great value,” and a fishing net, full of its catch: “I love the message that God is at work in ways that we do not control but can trust, collaborate with and be attentive to,” she writes. Also this week: “People Who Lunch,” Wednesday, August 3 at 12:30 pm.

This week, the rector reflects on the upcoming 49^th anniversary of the first ordinations of women as priests in the Episcopal Church in Philadelphia, July 29, 1974, and its meaning for the church today — and for the many women since who have served our parish as priests or have been sponsored by our parish for ordination. Also this week: the Sunday Forum, following the 10 am service, will discuss the formation of a parish “Green Team” to focus our commitment and response to the varying ecological crises that are already here, now.

The rector writes: “As many of you know, last Sunday I preached about Jesus’ invitation to come and rest. It seems to have been timely — several people said, ‘How did you know? You were speaking directly to me!’ The truth is, I was speaking to myself as well. Learning how to rest deeply is vitally important and so difficult in these days.
 
“Accordingly, this Sunday our forum [following the 10 am service] will be about rest, and it will be an opportunity to share our struggles, questions and wisdom with one another. It just seems like a worthwhile conversation!”

This week, the rector reflects on the importance of Sabbath rest for ourselves and the world. Also this week: July’s “second Wednesday” parish BBQ on July 12th!
 
On a more sobering note: a request for prayers after sad news from our brothers and sisters in Martel, Haiti.