10th Sunday after Pentecost
2021-08-01
Services in church have resumed
THE GATHERING OF THE CHURCH
Sunday, August 1st, 2021
10th Sunday after Pentecost
St. Andrew by-the-Lake
Toronto Islands
10th Sunday after Pentecost
St. Andrew by-the-Lake
Toronto Islands
We give thanks to our Creator for the earth we share with all creatures, and we acknowledge that we are here on the traditional lands of the Mississaugas of the Anishinaabe, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and the Wendat. We also recognize the enduring presence of all First Nations,
Metis and Inuit peoples, and we seek to live respectfully with them and with the earth. We pray for healing between our cultures and healing from settler arrogance. We believe that Black Lives Matter and that Every Child Matters. We know that love is love, and we welcome everybody who desires to join us in worship. You are a beloved creation of God, and you are most welcome in this place.
Celebrant: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all.
People: And also with you.
The Collect
Celebrant: Let us pray.
Almighty God, your Son Jesus Christ fed the hungry with the bread of his life and the word of his kingdom. Renew your people with your heavenly grace, and in all our weakness sustain us by your true and living bread, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Opening Hymn #397: ‘Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVXbISMGaUg
Praise the one who breaks the darkness with a liberating light.
Praise the one who frees the prisoners, turning blindness into sight.
Praise the one who preached the Gospel, healing every dread disease,
calming storms and feeding thousands with the very bread of peace.
Praise the one who blessed the children with a strong yet gentle word.
Praise the one who drove out demons with a piercing two-edged sword.
Praise the one who brings cool water to the desert’s burning sand.
From this well comes living water, quenching thirst in every land.
Praise the one true love incarnate: Christ who suffered in our place.
Jesus died and rose for many that we may know God by grace.
Let us sing for joy and gladness, seeing what our God has done.
Praise the one redeeming glory, the One who makes us one.
Concordia Publishing recording, from ‘Hymns for All Saints’, no acknowledgement of musicians
First Reading
Reader: A reading from the letter to the Ephesians
I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all. But each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ's gift. Therefore it is said, "When he ascended on high he made captivity itself a captive; he gave gifts to his people." (When it says, "He ascended," what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is the same one who ascended far above all the heavens, so that he might fill all things.) The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. We must no longer be children, tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine, by people's trickery, by their craftiness in deceitful scheming. But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body's growth in building itself up in love.
[Ephesians 4:1-16]
Reader: The word of the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.
Psalm 51: ‘Create in Me’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88vuSKlayD8
Refrain: Create in me a clean heart, O God.
v.1: Have mercy on me, O God. In the greatness of your love, cleanse me from my sin. Wash me. Refrain
v.2: Stay close to me, O God. In your presence keep me safe. Fill me with your spirit. Renew me. Refrain
v.3: Your salvation is joy to me. In your wisdom show the way. Lead me back to you. Teach me. Refrain
THE PROCLAMATION OF THE GOSPEL
Gospeler: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Gospeler: The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to John.
People: Glory to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
So when the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum looking for Jesus. When they found him on the other side of the sea, they said to him, "Rabbi, when did you come here?" Jesus answered them, "Very truly, I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For it is on him that God the Father has set his seal." Then they said to him, "What must we do to perform the works of God?" Jesus answered them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent." So they said to him, "What sign are you going to give us then, so that we may see it and believe you? What work are you performing? Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, 'He gave them bread from heaven to eat.'" Then Jesus said to them, "Very truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world." They said to him, "Sir, give us this bread always." Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty."
[John 6:24-35]
Gospeler: This is the Gospel of Christ.
People: Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
Homily The Rev. Alison Hari-Singh
Sometimes when I preach, I begin with an anecdote – hopefully something amusing – a point of connection. But this morning I want to draw attention to last week’s Gospel, which you may remember is the lesson of Jesus’ miracle of the feeding of the 5000.
The story of the feeding of the 5000, I believe, emphasizes the heart of Jesus’ message of Good News – that the fullness of life is found in sharing our resources and our very selves with those around us. When Jesus blessed and distributed the loaves and fish, that very act compelled others to give up whatever food they might’ve been keeping for themselves. It had a ripple effect that passed over the whole crowd. And when the people did this – when their collective resources were tapped – 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish fed everyone with 12 baskets to spare. It was certainly a miracle – a miracle of people acting in purpose together.
I can only imagine how Jesus was feeling after this event: tired, drained, needing some space to be alone. We’re told that he first withdrew further up the mountain and then, later on that evening, he crossed the Sea of Galilee to the other side. Jesus’ time in solitude, however, was short-lived. He couldn’t inspire such a spectacular miracle of sharing and then expect to hide away from the people. Not a chance! The crowd, realizing he had taken a boat across to the other side of the sea, got into boats themselves and crossed over to look for him. There would be no rest for the weary – not for Jesus’ closest followers and, certainly, not for Jesus himself.
Which brings us to today’s reading. Once the crowd finds Jesus, they immediately plow him with questions. And Jesus’ response, perhaps because he’s still tired, seems a bit testy: “You’re only coming after me because I made sure you got fed, but what is it,” he asks them, “that will nourish you forever?” The people misunderstand his point. So, they ask him, “What must we do to perform the works of God?” The crowd is telling Jesus, we want to do with and for ourselves and others what you just did with and for us. Jesus’ response is simple: “believe in the One – the eternal source of all things – who sent me because the bread that this One gives is true bread.” At this point, the people are desperate to understand. So, they beg him, “Sir, give us this bread always.” What they don’t realize is that the bread they seek is right there in front of them. Knowing this, Jesus makes this iconic statement, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”
We have been led in our tradition to believe that performing the works of God is some kind of magical occurrence that defies the laws of nature – someone is miraculously healed, for example (and this may be so). But I contend to you this morning that performing the works of God is actually a much simpler exercise.
As I’ve listened to David recount to me all the work this church is doing (and has done over the years) on the Island in support of the folks who live here, I see the works of God being performed. Moreover, in just a short time, I have seen among you evidence of what we read today in the letter to the Ephesians – that “with all humility and gentleness, with patience,” you are “bearing with one another in love.” My hope is that in the time that I share with you – walking with you – we might do even greater works than these. And I believe we can! The truth is, the works of God, do not stop, not even for a pandemic. They may look a little different in the moment, but they are still there. My desire is to support everyone who sojourns through this space to feel like this is a place where they are equipped to exercise their gifts on behalf of the community. And when everyone is utilizing their gifts well, the community will grow in the ultimate work of God – which is love.
As we look to the weeks and months ahead, the question “What must we do to perform the works of God?” is going to come up again and again – though the question may take alternate forms. I’m not here to unilaterally answer that question, but rather to nourish this community with that forever bread that sustains us as we figure out the details together. And to that end, I am looking forward to getting to know you all, listening to your stories, your faith journeys, your doubts, your ideas. Each of us has gifts that are so essential to the vitality of this place – and in just one week, I can already see how these gifts are functioning.
On the flipside, I’m also looking forward to all of you getting to know me. I was born in London, England, to parents who hail from India. When I was 6 we moved to a small town in northern Saskatchewan, where my parents worked in the medical field. It was there that we joined the local United Church, and I was baptized and confirmed. Right before I began high school, we moved again, this time, to Mississauga. My parents joined Cooksville United Church, where they are still members. Even though I’m now an Anglican priest, the United Church has left an indelible mark on my spirituality. It gave me a strong sense of the importance of social justice. It also impressed upon me the necessity of lay leadership.
When I became an Anglican many years ago now, I began to see the Eucharist – the sharing of bread – as a subversive political act. The Eucharist is not a tired, lifeless ritual. Rather, it’s a tangible reminder that food matters to our existence and that everyone needs to be fed. And, in fact, everyone will be fed. When you come forward, you will receive bread. The sharing of this bread of life forms who we are to be: no one gets any more than anyone else; no one gets left behind or ignored, regardless of your age, race, ethnic origin, sexuality, gender identity, employment status, and even your theological convictions. We come, and we are fed because it is ultimately God, the source of all goodness, who is before us, inviting us to this table.
So, St. Andrew’s…“What must we do to perform the works of God?” Let’s keep sharing our gifts and doing all the things that makes this place so special. Let’s continue to gather together, in whatever way is possible, as long as the lifted pandemic restrictions allow, to be inspired by Scripture, to celebrate the Eucharist and share bread. And let’s undertake the journey of discerning the works of God for this present moment and in the years to come.
Silence is kept.
THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
As we prepare for the prayers of the people, let us hear and reflect on the first Call to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission:
Child welfare 1. We call upon the federal, provincial, territorial, and Aboriginal governments to commit to reducing the number of Aboriginal children in care by:
i. Monitoring and assessing neglect investigations. ii. Providing adequate resources to enable Aboriginal communities and child-welfare organizations to keep Aboriginal families together where it is safe to do so, and to keep children in culturally appropriate environments, regardless of where they reside. iii. Ensuring that social workers and others who conduct child-welfare investigations are properly educated and trained about the history and impacts of residential schools. iv. Ensuring that social workers and others who conduct child-welfare investigations are properly educated and trained about the potential for Aboriginal communities and families to provide more appropriate solutions to family healing v. Requiring that all child-welfare decision makers consider the impact of the residential school experience on children and their caregivers.
Let us pray for ourselves and each other, and for those that we do not know, but who you know, God.
We continue to pray for those whose lives have been changed by Covid.
We pray for those who face anxiety and stress working in “essential” jobs with greater exposure to infection.
We pray with gratitude for the gradual opening up of life as vaccination numbers grow.
We remember those we know who are sick in body, mind, or spirit, especially Donna, Michael, Penny, Enid, Freda, Anne & family, Charlotte, Rose, Gail, Bob, Douglas, and Marian
We pray for those who are close to death or who have passed through death, remembering Ron, Joey, Mick, Paulette, Bev, Fred, Cathy, June, Barbara, Craig, Les, Maxine, Peter, Rose and Wally
In the Anglican Communion cycle of prayer, we pray for the Church of the Province of South East Asian. In our Diocesan cycle of prayer, we pray for Camp Couchaching – for the programs that they deliver and for all the participating families and campers – that they would have a safe and enjoyable time this summer.
Silently or aloud, take a few moments to hold before God all who you are carrying in love and care...
All of our longings and our fears, our hopes and our desires we bring to you. Hear our prayers, gracious God. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Confession and Reconciliation
Celebrant: Dear friends in Christ, God is steadfast in love and infinite in mercy; he welcomes sinners and invites them to his table. Let us confess our sins, confident in God’s forgiveness.
Silence is kept.
Celebrant: Most merciful God,
People: We confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbours as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us, that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Amen.
Celebrant: Almighty God have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in eternal life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Peace
As you are able, please stand.
Celebrant: The peace of the Lord be always with you.
People: And also with you.
THE GREAT THANKSGIVING
Celebrant: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Celebrant: Lift up your hearts.
People: We lift them to the Lord.
Celebrant: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
People: It is right to give our thanks and praise.
Celebrant: It is indeed right that we should praise you, gracious God, for you created all things. You formed us in your own image: male and female you created us. When we turned away from you in sin, you did not cease to care for us, but opened a path of salvation for all people. You made a covenant with Israel, and through your servants Abraham and Sarah gave the promise of a blessing to all nations. Through Moses you led your people from bondage into freedom; through the prophets you renewed your promise of salvation. Therefore, with them, and with all your saints who have served you in every age, we give thanks and raise our voices to proclaim the glory of your name.
All: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.
Celebrant: Holy God, source of life and goodness, all creation rightly gives you praise. In the fullness of time, you sent your Son Jesus Christ, to share our human nature, to live and die as one of us, to reconcile us to you, the God and Father of all. He healed the sick and ate and drank with outcasts and sinners; he opened the eyes of the blind and proclaimed the good news of your kingdom to the poor and to those in need. In all things he fulfilled your gracious will. On the night he freely gave himself to death, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread, and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, “Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.” After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, “Drink this, all of you: this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.” Gracious God, his perfect sacrifice destroys the power of sin and death; by raising him to life you give us life for evermore.
Therefore we proclaim our hope:
All: Dying you destroyed our death, rising you restored our life. Lord Jesus, come in glory.
Celebrant: Recalling his death, proclaiming his resurrection, and looking for his coming again in glory, we offer you, Father, this bread and this cup. Send your Holy Spirit upon us and upon these gifts, that all who eat and drink at this table may be one body and one holy people, a living sacrifice in Jesus Christ, our Lord. Through Christ, with Christ, and in Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory is yours, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
The Lord’s Prayer
Celebrant: As Jesus has taught us, let us pray:
All: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and for ever. Amen.
Celebrant: We break this bread to share in the body of Christ.
All: We, being many, are one body, for we all share in the one bread.
Celebrant: The gifts of God for the People of God.
People: Thanks be to God.
Song during Communion: ‘Eat this Bread, Drink this Cup’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1szB_qtDpw
Refrain: Eat this bread, drink this cup, come to me and never be hungry. Eat this bread, drink this cup, trust in me and you will not thirst.
v.1: I am the bread of life, the true bread sent from the Father. Refrain
v.2: Your ancestors ate manna in the desert, but this is the bread from heaven. Refrain
v.3: Eat his flesh and drink his blood and Christ will raise you up on the last day. Refrain
v.4: If you believe and eat this bread, you will have eternal life. Refrain
Taize hymn recorded by the choir of the Parish of St. Frances de Sale, Ajax, Ontario
Come up to the altar following the lead of those ahead of you. If you would like a blessing, as well as, or in place of the wafer, indicate this to the priest.
The Silence
Prayer after Communion
Celebrant: God of grace, we have shared in the mystery of the body and blood of Christ. May we who have tasted the bread of life live with you for ever. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
All: Glory to God, whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine. Glory to God from generation to generation, in the Church and in Christ Jesus, for ever and ever. Amen.
Blessing
Celebrant: May the blessing of the Risen Lord be upon you. May the presence of the ascended Christ live within you. May the Spirit of Christ flow in your soul. And may you have joy in your life; in the name of God: eternal Source, incarnate Word, and Holy Spirit. Amen.
Closing Hymn #484: ‘In Christ There Is No East or West’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpITJOShix0
In Christ there is no east or west, in Christ no south or north;
But one great fellowship of love throughout the whole wide earth.
In Christ shall true hearts everywhere their high communion find;
His service is the golden cord, close binding humankind.
Join hands, disciples of the faith, what e’er your race may be!
Who serves my God in truth and love is surely kin to me.
In Christ now meet both east and west, in Christ meet north and south;
All faithful souls are joined in one throughout the whole wide earth.
Lyrics by John Oxenham, tune ‘McKee’, African-American spiritual adapted by Henry Burleigh
Leader: Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God. Alleluia!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Today we welcome the Rev. Alison Hari-Singh as Priest-in-Charge (half-time) of St. Andrew’s by-the-Lake. Since her ordination in 2018, Alison served as chaplain at The Bishop Strachan School before moving to St. Martin in-the-Fields to complete her curacy. Alison is married to the Rev. Jeff Nowers, Associate Priest of St. Aidan’s in-the-Beach; they have one daughter (Ava). Alison is completing a PhD in systematic theology at the Toronto School of Theology and teaches sessionally at Trinity College. Alison is looking forward to meeting the island community joining in ministry with St. Andrew’s as we re-emerge from “covidtide.” Welcome Alison!
There are several ways you can support St. Andrew’s:
Amber Stage Guidelines (Diocese of Toronto)
Click on the link above to see the Diocesan Guidelines for safe worship in Church under Stage 2 Covid protocols.
Metis and Inuit peoples, and we seek to live respectfully with them and with the earth. We pray for healing between our cultures and healing from settler arrogance. We believe that Black Lives Matter and that Every Child Matters. We know that love is love, and we welcome everybody who desires to join us in worship. You are a beloved creation of God, and you are most welcome in this place.
Celebrant: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all.
People: And also with you.
The Collect
Celebrant: Let us pray.
Almighty God, your Son Jesus Christ fed the hungry with the bread of his life and the word of his kingdom. Renew your people with your heavenly grace, and in all our weakness sustain us by your true and living bread, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Opening Hymn #397: ‘Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVXbISMGaUg
Praise the one who breaks the darkness with a liberating light.
Praise the one who frees the prisoners, turning blindness into sight.
Praise the one who preached the Gospel, healing every dread disease,
calming storms and feeding thousands with the very bread of peace.
Praise the one who blessed the children with a strong yet gentle word.
Praise the one who drove out demons with a piercing two-edged sword.
Praise the one who brings cool water to the desert’s burning sand.
From this well comes living water, quenching thirst in every land.
Praise the one true love incarnate: Christ who suffered in our place.
Jesus died and rose for many that we may know God by grace.
Let us sing for joy and gladness, seeing what our God has done.
Praise the one redeeming glory, the One who makes us one.
Concordia Publishing recording, from ‘Hymns for All Saints’, no acknowledgement of musicians
First Reading
Reader: A reading from the letter to the Ephesians
I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all. But each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ's gift. Therefore it is said, "When he ascended on high he made captivity itself a captive; he gave gifts to his people." (When it says, "He ascended," what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is the same one who ascended far above all the heavens, so that he might fill all things.) The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. We must no longer be children, tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine, by people's trickery, by their craftiness in deceitful scheming. But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body's growth in building itself up in love.
[Ephesians 4:1-16]
Reader: The word of the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.
Psalm 51: ‘Create in Me’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88vuSKlayD8
Refrain: Create in me a clean heart, O God.
v.1: Have mercy on me, O God. In the greatness of your love, cleanse me from my sin. Wash me. Refrain
v.2: Stay close to me, O God. In your presence keep me safe. Fill me with your spirit. Renew me. Refrain
v.3: Your salvation is joy to me. In your wisdom show the way. Lead me back to you. Teach me. Refrain
THE PROCLAMATION OF THE GOSPEL
Gospeler: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Gospeler: The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to John.
People: Glory to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
So when the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum looking for Jesus. When they found him on the other side of the sea, they said to him, "Rabbi, when did you come here?" Jesus answered them, "Very truly, I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For it is on him that God the Father has set his seal." Then they said to him, "What must we do to perform the works of God?" Jesus answered them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent." So they said to him, "What sign are you going to give us then, so that we may see it and believe you? What work are you performing? Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, 'He gave them bread from heaven to eat.'" Then Jesus said to them, "Very truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world." They said to him, "Sir, give us this bread always." Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty."
[John 6:24-35]
Gospeler: This is the Gospel of Christ.
People: Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
Homily The Rev. Alison Hari-Singh
Sometimes when I preach, I begin with an anecdote – hopefully something amusing – a point of connection. But this morning I want to draw attention to last week’s Gospel, which you may remember is the lesson of Jesus’ miracle of the feeding of the 5000.
The story of the feeding of the 5000, I believe, emphasizes the heart of Jesus’ message of Good News – that the fullness of life is found in sharing our resources and our very selves with those around us. When Jesus blessed and distributed the loaves and fish, that very act compelled others to give up whatever food they might’ve been keeping for themselves. It had a ripple effect that passed over the whole crowd. And when the people did this – when their collective resources were tapped – 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish fed everyone with 12 baskets to spare. It was certainly a miracle – a miracle of people acting in purpose together.
I can only imagine how Jesus was feeling after this event: tired, drained, needing some space to be alone. We’re told that he first withdrew further up the mountain and then, later on that evening, he crossed the Sea of Galilee to the other side. Jesus’ time in solitude, however, was short-lived. He couldn’t inspire such a spectacular miracle of sharing and then expect to hide away from the people. Not a chance! The crowd, realizing he had taken a boat across to the other side of the sea, got into boats themselves and crossed over to look for him. There would be no rest for the weary – not for Jesus’ closest followers and, certainly, not for Jesus himself.
Which brings us to today’s reading. Once the crowd finds Jesus, they immediately plow him with questions. And Jesus’ response, perhaps because he’s still tired, seems a bit testy: “You’re only coming after me because I made sure you got fed, but what is it,” he asks them, “that will nourish you forever?” The people misunderstand his point. So, they ask him, “What must we do to perform the works of God?” The crowd is telling Jesus, we want to do with and for ourselves and others what you just did with and for us. Jesus’ response is simple: “believe in the One – the eternal source of all things – who sent me because the bread that this One gives is true bread.” At this point, the people are desperate to understand. So, they beg him, “Sir, give us this bread always.” What they don’t realize is that the bread they seek is right there in front of them. Knowing this, Jesus makes this iconic statement, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”
We have been led in our tradition to believe that performing the works of God is some kind of magical occurrence that defies the laws of nature – someone is miraculously healed, for example (and this may be so). But I contend to you this morning that performing the works of God is actually a much simpler exercise.
As I’ve listened to David recount to me all the work this church is doing (and has done over the years) on the Island in support of the folks who live here, I see the works of God being performed. Moreover, in just a short time, I have seen among you evidence of what we read today in the letter to the Ephesians – that “with all humility and gentleness, with patience,” you are “bearing with one another in love.” My hope is that in the time that I share with you – walking with you – we might do even greater works than these. And I believe we can! The truth is, the works of God, do not stop, not even for a pandemic. They may look a little different in the moment, but they are still there. My desire is to support everyone who sojourns through this space to feel like this is a place where they are equipped to exercise their gifts on behalf of the community. And when everyone is utilizing their gifts well, the community will grow in the ultimate work of God – which is love.
As we look to the weeks and months ahead, the question “What must we do to perform the works of God?” is going to come up again and again – though the question may take alternate forms. I’m not here to unilaterally answer that question, but rather to nourish this community with that forever bread that sustains us as we figure out the details together. And to that end, I am looking forward to getting to know you all, listening to your stories, your faith journeys, your doubts, your ideas. Each of us has gifts that are so essential to the vitality of this place – and in just one week, I can already see how these gifts are functioning.
On the flipside, I’m also looking forward to all of you getting to know me. I was born in London, England, to parents who hail from India. When I was 6 we moved to a small town in northern Saskatchewan, where my parents worked in the medical field. It was there that we joined the local United Church, and I was baptized and confirmed. Right before I began high school, we moved again, this time, to Mississauga. My parents joined Cooksville United Church, where they are still members. Even though I’m now an Anglican priest, the United Church has left an indelible mark on my spirituality. It gave me a strong sense of the importance of social justice. It also impressed upon me the necessity of lay leadership.
When I became an Anglican many years ago now, I began to see the Eucharist – the sharing of bread – as a subversive political act. The Eucharist is not a tired, lifeless ritual. Rather, it’s a tangible reminder that food matters to our existence and that everyone needs to be fed. And, in fact, everyone will be fed. When you come forward, you will receive bread. The sharing of this bread of life forms who we are to be: no one gets any more than anyone else; no one gets left behind or ignored, regardless of your age, race, ethnic origin, sexuality, gender identity, employment status, and even your theological convictions. We come, and we are fed because it is ultimately God, the source of all goodness, who is before us, inviting us to this table.
So, St. Andrew’s…“What must we do to perform the works of God?” Let’s keep sharing our gifts and doing all the things that makes this place so special. Let’s continue to gather together, in whatever way is possible, as long as the lifted pandemic restrictions allow, to be inspired by Scripture, to celebrate the Eucharist and share bread. And let’s undertake the journey of discerning the works of God for this present moment and in the years to come.
Silence is kept.
THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
As we prepare for the prayers of the people, let us hear and reflect on the first Call to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission:
Child welfare 1. We call upon the federal, provincial, territorial, and Aboriginal governments to commit to reducing the number of Aboriginal children in care by:
i. Monitoring and assessing neglect investigations. ii. Providing adequate resources to enable Aboriginal communities and child-welfare organizations to keep Aboriginal families together where it is safe to do so, and to keep children in culturally appropriate environments, regardless of where they reside. iii. Ensuring that social workers and others who conduct child-welfare investigations are properly educated and trained about the history and impacts of residential schools. iv. Ensuring that social workers and others who conduct child-welfare investigations are properly educated and trained about the potential for Aboriginal communities and families to provide more appropriate solutions to family healing v. Requiring that all child-welfare decision makers consider the impact of the residential school experience on children and their caregivers.
Let us pray for ourselves and each other, and for those that we do not know, but who you know, God.
We continue to pray for those whose lives have been changed by Covid.
We pray for those who face anxiety and stress working in “essential” jobs with greater exposure to infection.
We pray with gratitude for the gradual opening up of life as vaccination numbers grow.
We remember those we know who are sick in body, mind, or spirit, especially Donna, Michael, Penny, Enid, Freda, Anne & family, Charlotte, Rose, Gail, Bob, Douglas, and Marian
We pray for those who are close to death or who have passed through death, remembering Ron, Joey, Mick, Paulette, Bev, Fred, Cathy, June, Barbara, Craig, Les, Maxine, Peter, Rose and Wally
In the Anglican Communion cycle of prayer, we pray for the Church of the Province of South East Asian. In our Diocesan cycle of prayer, we pray for Camp Couchaching – for the programs that they deliver and for all the participating families and campers – that they would have a safe and enjoyable time this summer.
Silently or aloud, take a few moments to hold before God all who you are carrying in love and care...
All of our longings and our fears, our hopes and our desires we bring to you. Hear our prayers, gracious God. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Confession and Reconciliation
Celebrant: Dear friends in Christ, God is steadfast in love and infinite in mercy; he welcomes sinners and invites them to his table. Let us confess our sins, confident in God’s forgiveness.
Silence is kept.
Celebrant: Most merciful God,
People: We confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbours as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us, that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Amen.
Celebrant: Almighty God have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in eternal life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Peace
As you are able, please stand.
Celebrant: The peace of the Lord be always with you.
People: And also with you.
THE GREAT THANKSGIVING
Celebrant: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Celebrant: Lift up your hearts.
People: We lift them to the Lord.
Celebrant: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
People: It is right to give our thanks and praise.
Celebrant: It is indeed right that we should praise you, gracious God, for you created all things. You formed us in your own image: male and female you created us. When we turned away from you in sin, you did not cease to care for us, but opened a path of salvation for all people. You made a covenant with Israel, and through your servants Abraham and Sarah gave the promise of a blessing to all nations. Through Moses you led your people from bondage into freedom; through the prophets you renewed your promise of salvation. Therefore, with them, and with all your saints who have served you in every age, we give thanks and raise our voices to proclaim the glory of your name.
All: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.
Celebrant: Holy God, source of life and goodness, all creation rightly gives you praise. In the fullness of time, you sent your Son Jesus Christ, to share our human nature, to live and die as one of us, to reconcile us to you, the God and Father of all. He healed the sick and ate and drank with outcasts and sinners; he opened the eyes of the blind and proclaimed the good news of your kingdom to the poor and to those in need. In all things he fulfilled your gracious will. On the night he freely gave himself to death, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread, and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, “Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.” After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, “Drink this, all of you: this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.” Gracious God, his perfect sacrifice destroys the power of sin and death; by raising him to life you give us life for evermore.
Therefore we proclaim our hope:
All: Dying you destroyed our death, rising you restored our life. Lord Jesus, come in glory.
Celebrant: Recalling his death, proclaiming his resurrection, and looking for his coming again in glory, we offer you, Father, this bread and this cup. Send your Holy Spirit upon us and upon these gifts, that all who eat and drink at this table may be one body and one holy people, a living sacrifice in Jesus Christ, our Lord. Through Christ, with Christ, and in Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory is yours, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
The Lord’s Prayer
Celebrant: As Jesus has taught us, let us pray:
All: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and for ever. Amen.
Celebrant: We break this bread to share in the body of Christ.
All: We, being many, are one body, for we all share in the one bread.
Celebrant: The gifts of God for the People of God.
People: Thanks be to God.
Song during Communion: ‘Eat this Bread, Drink this Cup’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1szB_qtDpw
Refrain: Eat this bread, drink this cup, come to me and never be hungry. Eat this bread, drink this cup, trust in me and you will not thirst.
v.1: I am the bread of life, the true bread sent from the Father. Refrain
v.2: Your ancestors ate manna in the desert, but this is the bread from heaven. Refrain
v.3: Eat his flesh and drink his blood and Christ will raise you up on the last day. Refrain
v.4: If you believe and eat this bread, you will have eternal life. Refrain
Taize hymn recorded by the choir of the Parish of St. Frances de Sale, Ajax, Ontario
Come up to the altar following the lead of those ahead of you. If you would like a blessing, as well as, or in place of the wafer, indicate this to the priest.
The Silence
Prayer after Communion
Celebrant: God of grace, we have shared in the mystery of the body and blood of Christ. May we who have tasted the bread of life live with you for ever. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
All: Glory to God, whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine. Glory to God from generation to generation, in the Church and in Christ Jesus, for ever and ever. Amen.
Blessing
Celebrant: May the blessing of the Risen Lord be upon you. May the presence of the ascended Christ live within you. May the Spirit of Christ flow in your soul. And may you have joy in your life; in the name of God: eternal Source, incarnate Word, and Holy Spirit. Amen.
Closing Hymn #484: ‘In Christ There Is No East or West’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpITJOShix0
In Christ there is no east or west, in Christ no south or north;
But one great fellowship of love throughout the whole wide earth.
In Christ shall true hearts everywhere their high communion find;
His service is the golden cord, close binding humankind.
Join hands, disciples of the faith, what e’er your race may be!
Who serves my God in truth and love is surely kin to me.
In Christ now meet both east and west, in Christ meet north and south;
All faithful souls are joined in one throughout the whole wide earth.
Lyrics by John Oxenham, tune ‘McKee’, African-American spiritual adapted by Henry Burleigh
Leader: Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God. Alleluia!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Today we welcome the Rev. Alison Hari-Singh as Priest-in-Charge (half-time) of St. Andrew’s by-the-Lake. Since her ordination in 2018, Alison served as chaplain at The Bishop Strachan School before moving to St. Martin in-the-Fields to complete her curacy. Alison is married to the Rev. Jeff Nowers, Associate Priest of St. Aidan’s in-the-Beach; they have one daughter (Ava). Alison is completing a PhD in systematic theology at the Toronto School of Theology and teaches sessionally at Trinity College. Alison is looking forward to meeting the island community joining in ministry with St. Andrew’s as we re-emerge from “covidtide.” Welcome Alison!
There are several ways you can support St. Andrew’s:
- The Collection Plate
- E-Transfer – email: standrewbookings@gmail.com
- PAR - Pre-Authorized Remittance. You direct your bank to deposit your donation into the church account on the 20th of each month. To apply contact Joyce Rogers at standrewbookings@gmail.com
- Canada Helps – Visit the church website www.standrewbythelake.com, go to the Home Page and click on the Donate button.
Amber Stage Guidelines (Diocese of Toronto)
Click on the link above to see the Diocesan Guidelines for safe worship in Church under Stage 2 Covid protocols.