Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus Christ,

This week's email comes a few days earlier than usual.  As soon as it is sent, I will be leaving for a week of continuing education at Luther Seminary.  Many of you know that I am in the final stages of my Doctor of Ministry studies and I have reached the point that I need to finish the first draft of my final project.

Over the past five years, I have been doing a lot of thinking and reading about the Eucharist and how it can give shape to congregational transformation.  What we say, do, think, and believe about Eucharist matters.  At table we continue to hope and invite God's Spirit to be present and to work in us (as individuals and as a church).  God does not disappoint.  Through breaking of bread and in the drinking of the cup, Jesus comes to us with gifts of forgiveness, grace, and invitation.  Around the table there is great potential for congregational healing and rebirth.  Already we have seen this to be true at St. James as the Spirit moves us into God's future.

I am grateful for you and the mission that we share together around table and from the table.  If I might be so bold to ask for your prayers during this week of intensive writing - they will be greatly appreciated.

I look forward to seeing you on Sunday - around the table!

In Christ,

Pastor Walt