![]() It appears that we have worked out a reasonable and affordable solution, but for a few moments this week, I almost wished I had taken a vow of poverty like Francis and his Friars. There are better ways to use those funds. I cannot imagine spending so much money to move our stuff 360 miles. This point was driven home when we contacted movers! I won't go into the details, but the costs for a full-service move took my breath away. Even though we have reduced our inventory with each successive move, we find that we still have too much stuff. Then, we bought a 3200 square foot house in Galveston that had a full attic and an above ground "basement" in which to accumulate things. There was a time (1996) when all of our worldly possessions would fit in a 900 square foot apartment and one 10 x 10 x 10 foot storage unit. Each time it happens and we start packing for the move, we realize that we have accumulated too much stuff. This happens every year or two for interim clergy. Francis comes to me at a time when Gay and I are preparing for a move to a new place of ministry. This second reminder from the life and witness of St. We were reminded of our relationship with our possessions. Take no gold, or silver, or copper in your belts, no bag for your journey, or two tunics, or sandals, or a staff for labourers deserve their food" (Matthew 10:7-10). You received without payment give without payment. "As you go, proclaim the good news, 'The kingdom of heaven has come near.' Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. Today, as I celebrated the Holy Eucharist, I shared with the congregation how literally Francis and his companions took Jesus instructions to his disciples when he sent them out on their mission: We were reminded of our relationship with the other living creatures with whom we share this planet and, in particular, those for whom we are protectors. Most high, omnipotent, good Lord, grant your people grace gladly to renounce the vanities of this world that, following the way of blessed Francis, we may for love of you delight in your whole creation with perfect joy through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Last evening, our congregation and Ashland's First Christian Church hosted a service of Blessing of the Pets, using the Collect of the Day for St. Francis of Assisi, who reminds us of our uniquely human capacities and responsibilities as stewards of creation.
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