Pastoral Message from the October Beacon
10/01/2018
Dear Parishioners of our Beloved Assumption,
Today, as I write this message, there is a garbage can behind me under the leak in the office ceiling and water is running down the exhaust pipe of the water heater in the closet of the men’s room; gutters have fallen off the building and the roof has become unattached due to rotten wood; and, there is evidence of decay, and all that comes with it, in the walls.
To have faith is to have complete and total trust in someone or something. Most times, the word faith is specific to faith in God. Many confess to having faith in God, but what exactly is this confession? For many, I would argue that having faith in God is conditional – faith in God is based on perceived need. Many have no problem trying to rely on God when they or a loved one is facing an illness or operation, when we struggle with our finances, when we feel like danger is eminent, or any other potential hardship or torment presents itself. What about when all is well?
The Apostle Paul says in 2 Corinthians 8:12-15 (paraphrased) that one should give “according to what one has, and not according to what he does not have” that no one may be burdened and that no one will lack.
True faith in God is manifested in our actions. Our faith allows us to know that He will provide – but how does He provide – simply, He provides through His faithful. His faithful provide for us in our times of shortfall, but as faithful, are we not also to provide when we are in excess? This is what St. Paul is speaking of.
The time has come for us to build a new fellowship home for our parish. Over the past 2 years, many (including myself) have answered the call. I beg of you to follow our example. We have been blessed beyond what we deserve. Let us move to action and confess our faith by making a pledge and offering today. Help those who have already committed.
In His Service,
Rev. Father Jon Boukis
Proistamenos
“Attract, Serve, Illuminate”