Download this seasonal reflection as a bulletin insert (PDF).
Gospel Readings
Matthew 18:15-20; Matthew 18:21-35; Matthew 20:1-6; Matthew 21:23-32
Reflection for the Season
The latter part of the Pentecost season (Ordinary Time) brings scripture readings that focus on life within the community of believers. They remind us that repentance, forgiveness and reconciliation are all part of the spiritual life in which we live and move and have our being. When we give ourselves over to this spiritual rhythm we become more fully aware of how limitless God’s mercy is for us and how boundless Jesus’ compassion is for each one of us.
This generosity of God proclaims that the first shall be last and the last shall be first; the generosity of Jesus calls us to give freely with no strings attached; the generosity of the Kingdom is to give without regard for merit or outcome, not just when someone deserves it or earns it. To engage in this holy generosity is to taste divine goodness and sacred mystery.
-- The Rev. Mary E. Laney, ECS Parish Relations Committee
ECS Story of Hope
Every year our parish, St. Christopher’s, Gladwyne, looks forward to participating in the Angel Tree Program during the Advent season. Parishioners delight in selecting names of children and shopping for one or more of the suggested gifts that are listed along with the age of the child. Many adults find this to be the only opportunity they have to browse through toy stores and acquaint themselves with some of the latest technological gadgets they have seen advertised.
Some members expressed disappointment when the request was a gift card instead of a gift. “It doesn’t seem as much fun to just purchase a gift card,” shared one adult; “I really enjoy spending time looking for just the right puzzle, book, or toy,” shared another. It was then that we heard about how seldom some of the children, youth and even parents have an opportunity to go shopping and select a gift for themselves.
A gift card not only results in someone receiving a gift, it also gives the opportunity for the “experience” of a shopping trip and selecting something they would not be able to buy. This knowledge brought a whole new understanding of giving a gift card. Now parishioners usually select names that have requested gift cards and often try to imagine not only what gift might be selected but how much fun the experience may be.
Christmas With ECS
Each year, parishes and organizations from the Philadelphia community gather gifts for ECS kids, making sure that every child we serve enjoys the warmth of the Christmas season. ECS provides instructions for hosting an angel tree at your parish, and a contribution of any amount is appreciated.
This year, we need gifts for all 400 of the children of all ages in our programs. Gifts are generally valued at $30 to $60. ECS will provide detailed lists of children’s ages and wishes so that you can select appropriate gifts for them this holiday season. Celebrate the holidays with Episcopal Community Services and answer a Christmas wish! Contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 215.351.1478 to participate.
ECS is faith in action. Together we are protecting children, sheltering homeless families, helping seniors live safely at home and educating youth and adults. Thank you for all you do for them and for ECS.