A year ago, Jonathan and I walked into Epiphany for the first time. On somewhat of a whim, we decided to come check out where friend Jeremy Bruns was playing. On a hot summer Sunday, we sauntered into the sanctuary to find that rare New England summer sight — people in church pews. Lots of them. Lots of you.
After being warmly greeted, we sat down, and marveled at the large number of kids in church, the large choir, and general vibe. There is just something special about Epiphany. You feel it as soon as you walk in. About midway through the opening hymn, I turned to Jonathan and whispered, “This just feels like home.” He nodded. (And shushed me for talking during a hymn.)
A year later, we are both so deeply grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of the Epiphany community. It does indeed feel like home for both of us.
I am particularly grateful to be a part of this community as a seminarian, which I described to a group of kids in the parish as a bit like being a priest with training wheels on. Thank you for welcoming me into your pews, into your community, and into your pulpit.
I believe John Wesley was right when he said there is no such thing as Christianity in isolation; Jesus calls us to live out our faith in, with, and through community, a truth Epiphany seems to embody so naturally.
In seminary, there is no shortage of seminars and hand-wringing over how to “reimagine” church and foster much-sought, seldom-found community. As I hear from my colleagues serving in parishes across the country, I am continually struck by the beautiful, unique strength of the Epiphany community. We are a growing, energetic family who understands what it means to be the church, to learn, to serve, and to love one another. We worship so beautifully, from the wonderful Parish Choir to the dedicated Lay Eucharistic Ministers to the stunning flowers. You have also taught me so much about how to connect what we do in worship with how we live our lives.
I am especially thankful to Nick and Janelle, who as mentors, teachers, and friends, continue to teach me about the grace, passion, and dedication necessary for ministry.
I am about midway through my Master of Divinity as part of The General Theological Seminary’s hybrid program, and as the fall semester revs up, I am, with gratitude, looking forward to another great year at Epiphany, another great year with you.
Dear Epiphany friends, thank you for the welcome, thank you for all you teach me, and thank you for being you. What a blessing.
~Clayton McCleskey
