Deans' Note November 21, 2021

Thanksgiving is right around the corner. It's hard to believe the holiday season is upon us especially after having had such a different experience last year as most of us were hunkered down and connected digitally, but not in person. Our worship this year is hybrid, providing the opportunity to connect in person or online.

Still, the lesson we learned during the pandemic is that while in person worship is ideal in many contexts, there are other times when digital services are highly appropriate. Thanksgiving Eve is one of these. Over the years many of us have braved the freeways on Thanksgiving Eve to get to St. John's -- those who travel "over the river and through the woods" have it easy compared with commuting Angelinos.

While the service we have traditionally celebrated in the choir was lovely, it was not always well attended -- in part because of the difficulty getting there. Last year, out of necessity, we had a service live from clergy house. This year we will continue that tradition but through the magic of Zoom, we will include music from our Cathedral musicians as well.

While a digital service will allow us all to have a less stressful Thanksgiving Eve, it also conveys its own meaning for this holiday. You will be able to experience worship in your own home, maybe even as you prepare for your gathering the next day. This holiday, more than others, is a celebration that takes place around the family table, giving thanks to God for the abundance we have received. Together, our prayer will sanctify this time joining us together wherever we may be, near or far, some here in Los Angeles and others who may be traveling. We will all be home together as our St. John's community.

Please know that on Thanksgiving and every day:

"We always thank God for all of you when we mention you constantly in our prayers. This is because we remember your work that comes from faith, your effort that comes from love, and your perseverance that comes from hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father."

(I Thessalonians 1:2-3)