A god who gives us strength

July 2, 2022

Dear PJ's Community,

This holiday weekend, I'm feeling like there is a lot to pray for in our nation. There always is. A lot to despair about, a lot of news to make hearts weary. 

But I'm also trying to hold on to good news, to hope. I'm remembering the countless people: activists, organizers, teachers, leaders, who are tirelessly working for justice, peace, healing, and freedom in this world. I'm celebrating that Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson was sworn in this week as our first Black female Supreme Court justice. I'm smiling because despite a rough start to the season, my little tomato plant is now growing big and strong.

And I'm remembering the best news of all - that we follow a God who loves everyone as children, a God who gives us strength in our lowest moments, a God who calls us to stand up against injustice, inequality, and oppression.

I share with you the Collect for Social Justice from our Book of Common Prayer:

Almighty God, who created us in your own image: Grant us grace fearlessly to contend against evil and to make no peace with oppression; and, that we may reverently use our freedom, help us to employ it in the maintenance of justice in our communities and among the nations, to the glory of your holy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy  Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Peace,
Claire Cody, co-warden

P. S. Mark your calendars now for out "church exchange" with St. Thomas's! More details are below. On July 17th, let's show up at St. Thomas's as a strong representation of St. PJ's - to make new friends, to worship with our neighbors, and to learn from each other!