For Eastertide, beginning next Tuesday, we will be reading Dr. Albert S. Rossi’s book Becoming a Healing Presence. Dr. Rossi is the resident clinical psychologist at St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary in Yonkers, New York, and the professor of pastoral theology at the seminary. The premise of his book is that we are called to love our neighbor, and one concrete means to do so is to give them the healing and peace of Jesus Christ. To become this healing presence for others we must first be continuously healed and renewed ourselves through an active relationship with Jesus because we cannot pass on that which we do not possess. In the book, Dr. Rossi points the way toward deepening our love for God and for each other so that others may experience Christ through us. For Dr. Rossi, the key to becoming a healing presence is simply to “Be still, and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10. For it is only in still waters that we can both see beyond the surface and also see a reflection of ourselves. Psalm 23:2
Please consider joining us during Easter as we come to experience the healing presence of Jesus Christ within our lives. Come and be present with God, and listen for that still, small voice to speak. If you need us to order a book for you, please let me know. We can have them at church on Sunday. Dr. Rossi also has a short podcast on Ancient Faith Radio called “A Healing Presence” that can be accessed HERE.
HOLY WEEK SCHEDULE:
Maundy Thursday Services:
Messiah: 12:15 and 7
Trinity: 5:30 Seder Supper, 6:30 Service
Good Friday:
Messiah: 12:15 and 7
Trinity: 12:15 Service, 6:00 John Stiener’s “The Crucifixion”
Hope to see everyone next week.
O Lord, I am not proud; *
Psalm 131
I have no haughty looks.
I do not occupy myself with great matters, *
or with things that are too hard for me.
But I still my soul and make it quiet, like a child upon its mother’s breast; *
my soul is quieted within me.
O Israel, wait upon the Lord, *
from this time forth for evermore.