Rector's Note: Fill yourself with hope

Dear Saints,

Former President, Barack Obama, once said, “The best way to not feel hopeless is to get up and do something. Don’t wait for good things to happen to you. If you go out and make some good things happen, you will fill the world with hope, you will fill yourself with hope.”

These words really speak to me at a time when it’s a real struggle not to feel hopeless all over again as it feels like we are moving in the wrong direction with the pandemic. And yet, as I think of the things that bring joy and hope in my life, so often it comes from the things that I have control over and that I can make happen.

I know this last week the simple act of reaching out to people to see how they are doing has put me in a better mental space. Or as I look forward to the Johnson Creek Watershed clean up, where a group from All Saints will get to do something tangible to help our water, animal and plant life. Or meeting with Taylor Stewart from the Remembrance Project, learning about the positive justice work he is doing in Oregon and arranging for him to come and share this work with us. The places where we do something positive for others can provide relief from hopelessness.

When we find ourselves getting discouraged, maybe the question is, “How can we get out and make some good things happen?” Even the smallest gestures help. There are also lots of opportunities at All Saints if you would like help with ideas.

This Sunday, I’ll be talking about the book of Ephesians and what it has to teach us about channeling anger in frustrating times while also finding peace, presence, and connection. Also, be sure to check out the new Compline evening prayers for August [link].

Have a great weekend as you fill the world with hope.

In peace,

Andria+