Sr Warden's Report - St. Peter's Episcopal Church

From the Vestry

A May Reflection: Spirit, Sacrifice, and Love

May is a month that invites us to remember, to celebrate, and to be renewed in God’s grace.

On Mother’s Day, we give thanks for those who have nurtured life in us. Scripture reminds us, “As a mother comforts her child, so I will comfort you,” (Isaiah 66:13). In their care, we glimpse the tenderness of God—-steadfast, patient, and life-giving.

At Pentecost, we rejoice in the gift of the Holy Spirit, poured out upon the Church as tongues of fire (Acts 2:1–4). The Spirit gathers us, as our baptismal covenant proclaims, to “seek and serve Christ in all persons” and to “strive for justice and peace among all people.” We are not left alone; we are empowered to live the Gospel with courage and joy.

And on Memorial Day, we remember those who gave their lives in service to others. Our Lord tells us, “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13). In their sacrifice, we are called to honor not only their memory, but the way of love that Christ sets before us.

In the words of the Book of Common Prayer, we pray to be made “instruments of [God’s] peace.” This May, may we remember with gratitude, be renewed by the Spirit, and live lives marked by a love that nurtures, serves, and endures.

A Prayer

Gracious God, whose love is revealed in the care of those who nurture us, the courage of those who serve, and the fire of your Spirit poured upon your people:

Kindle in us, we pray, the gift of your Holy Spirit, that we may be strengthened to love as Christ loves, to serve as he serves, and to walk in the way of sacrifice and peace.

Comfort those who mourn, bless those who have given of themselves for others, and guide us all in the paths of justice and compassion.

All this we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

Blessings to all,
Charlie Pfeifer