Dear Friends,
Hello from the North Atlantic, somewhere between the Faroe Islands, which we left last night, and the Westman Islands in southwestern Iceland, where we are headed tomorrow for our 10th and final stop on this amazing journey.
One thing that has stood out for me is how far and wide the Gospel of Jesus Christ spread in early times under unbelievably harsh conditions. How powerful the message of the Gospel is that it took root even here and grew and spread. There are churches everywhere, from the grand Hallgrimskirkja in Reykjavik to a tiny grass-roofed church in the Faroes.
Most Nordic countries today are not particularly religious (with the exception of the Faroes, where about 70% of the population goes to church). But what is readily apparent is how deeply Gospel values are embedded in the heart of the Nordic peoples. Common life here is based on trust, which has been dubbed “The Nordic Gold.” Here, the well-being of everyone is the top priority. Yes, taxes are higher than what we pay, but top-quality healthcare is free, and education, including university, is free. Everyone receives both social security and a pension and also has the option to pay into a supplemental account. Retirees live comfortably. And, of course, the environment, God’s creation, is treated with utmost respect.
For me, these are all examples of love in action. Despite many of the Nordic countries not being particularly religious now, Jesus’ commandment to love one another is clearly part of the communal DNA.
I will be back in the office on Wednesday, July 17 and look forward to seeing you all again soon.
In Christ’s love,
Willie+
St. Christopher’s Daughter’s of the King Chapter Prov. IV
The Order of the Daughters of the King held their 2024 Triennial in Louisville, KY, June 26-30 at the Galt House. Daughters worldwide convened to celebrate our mission of the extension of Christ’s kingdom through prayer, service and evangelism.
Excellent speakers, educational and enjoyable workshops, music and inspiring Eucharist services were at the centerpiece. We enjoyed opportunities to build community with Daughters, sharing their experiences, commitment and love of Christ.
In our area’s Episcopal Province IV, there are 20 Dioceses and 9 states, making it one of the largest provinces in the country.
Please continue to pray for all Daughters of the King and the Order’s mission in our world today.
By Ruth Foss
Please Pray For...
As the Body of Christ we are called to pray for each other in times of sickness or hardship, or any form of distress, as well as to give thanks for the bounty and goodness which God has given us.
We are also happy when our prayers have been answered or are no longer needed as the illness, crisis, or concern may have passed. If you have anyone currently on our prayer list who has been blessed in this way please contact Cecilia Braham in the parish office (cbraham@stchriskb.org) to let her know if there are any names to be removed. Many thanks in advance.
St Christopher’s Parish & School Community
Pat Neal, Susie Schradle, Kathy V, Carol, Isabel L.
Family & Friends
Erik, Marilyn, Jane, Stewart, Sherrie, Julian, Charles, Mary Jo, Michael V, Allison, Frances R., Paul, Angie M., Dominique, Debi P., Lisa K., Katrina, Barbara, Eleanor, Nancy, Bill and Family, Lori, Paul J, Hugh, Keith, Barbara, Rebecca, Esteban, Carol, Jack and Marilyn Courtnay, Andy, Jane, Samuel, Niki, Dave, Geno, Patricia, Robert, Jackie, M.F.P., H.H.R., Bella and family, Betsy, Ethan, Danie, Dean and Richard, Gustavo Z., Gary, Mr. Long, Tracy, Shane, Stephen and Family. For Rex and Ruthann. For Ulla Britt Faiella and Ivonete Leite.
+ For the repose of the soul of Rick Faiella, Roberto Weisson & Doris Hodges.
+ For peace in the Holy Land.
+ For refugees and all who are in danger.
+ For the Nominating Committee: Jeff Brosco, Pam Gordon, Callie Holderman, Lynne Nelson, Ken Noto and Peter Verbeeck, and Lynne Libby, their chaplain.
+ Peace, Freedom and the Safety for the people of Ukraine
