Prayer for Thanksgiving

We hope you have a great Thanksgiving! As you gather to celebrate with those we love, let us remember to thank God for all of the gifts of this life. To help us do that, we have prepared a litany of prayer from the Book of Common Prayer (p837) for your use.

This short prayer litany can be led by anyone before or during your Thanksgiving celebration. Before you begin, let everyone know their response to each petition will be “We thank you, Lord.” You may also pause briefly at each line and invite specific prayers of thanks for each topic.

 

Thanksgiving Potluck

Many of our parish family are gathering at the church to share a Thanksgiving meal from 4:00 - 7:00 PM. All are welcome. Contact Ang Mattei to RSVP at Angela@rezaustin.com

Given the Light

During our season of stewardship, our community is discerning one question in prayer together, “God, where do you want me in my giving?” We’ve asked our leaders to share stories of gratitude for ways they have witnessed the generosity of God’s people.

By Fr. Shawn McCain Tirres

One of my favorite things to do is baptize. I especially enjoy the packed room around the baptismal font with kids in the “splash zone” and the excitement of welcoming a new member into the household of God. You recall we light a candle from the large “Christ candle” and give it to the newly baptized, saying, “Receive the light of Christ; you have passed from darkness into light.” We are those who are given the light, who turn and give that light to others.

My life has changed because others gave that light to me. From my parents who taught me the love of God, to mentors who helped me grow, and to spiritual tías and tíos in the faith who encouraged me along the way and pointed me to Jesus–the church is given the light to give it to others. Our parish is no different. I witness it all the time at Resurrection!

As one who is given the light, take a moment to ask this question, “God, what can I do to give your light to others?”

In this season, when we discern our financial giving, I want to invite you to financially support the life and ministry of this church as someone given the light of Christ. Whether you’ve been around for a while, you’re brand new, or maybe you’ve been on the edge of things–Every gift becomes a part of giving the light of Christ to others in our church and South Austin.

Would you join us in giving or growing in your giving this year at Resurrection?

Resurrection family, thank you for your generosity and faith. Partnering with you to give the light of Christ in South Austin has made an incredible impact on my life and on the lives of so many others. Praise God.

Gratefully,

Shawn+

A Call to Prayer and Fasting

A Letter from the Rector

For the conflict in the Holy Land

I know that many of us have been following the events in the Holy Land and the tragic loss of life for Palestinians and Israelis. Bishop Andy Doyle recently wrote to the diocese about this, 

The news is devastating and sad. The Patriarchs of Jerusalem reminds us, “Our faith, which is founded on the teachings of Jesus Christ, compels us to advocate for the cessation of all violent and military activities that bring harm to both Palestinian and Israeli civilians.” With them, I ‘unequivocally condemn any acts that target civilians, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity, or faith. Such actions go against the fundamental principles of humanity and the teachings of Christ, who implored us to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31).’

I wholeheartedly agree. As Christians, our faith in a God of justice, peace, and reconciliation compels us to advocate for such things, not as the world would achieve them but in the way of Christ (Mark 12:31, Matthew 5:43-44, 1 Corinthians 14:33, Micah 6:8).

I just learned that Bishop Andy Doyle of the Diocese of Texas, joined with patriarchs of Jerusalem in calling for a day of prayer and fasting on Tuesday, October 17th for an end to the violence unfolding in the Holy Land. I encourage each of you to join us, as you are able, to pray. I have marked my calendar for a time of prayer at 9 AM tomorrow and throughout the day. I ask you to pray for an end to this violence, comfort for those grieving, freedom for the oppressed, and for lasting peace.

Let us pray,
Loving and liberating God, send your Spirit upon all involved in the conflict in the Middle East. Comfort those who mourn or who have been harmed by brutality. Stand with those who are fearful. Protect and provide for the powerless and the vulnerable. Inspire a spirit of forbearance and understanding within all and uphold those who even now work for a just and lasting peace. In the name of Christ. Amen.

Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer. 

 

The Rev. Dr. Shawn Mccain Tirres

P.s. If you have questions about the theological and biblical aspects that some claim support this long-running conflict, please contact me and I would be happy to talk with you. 

Bishop Andy Doyle's Letter