From the RectorDear Parishioners and Friends, In our Baptismal Covenant, we are asked this question: "Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being?" How can we do this individually, and as a Church? One thing is for sure, we have failed on both counts. However, with God's help, we strive to live into this challenging promise. Sometimes we do so with great fanfare, and sometimes quietly and personally with one baby step. The important thing is to keep trying. June is, of course, LGBTQ Pride month, and one way to respect human dignity is to show that we believe everyone to be created in God's loving image. I have been involved with the Pride planning committee at our cathedral, and was there volunteering for "Pride Eve," May 31, for a festive opening reception and the turning on of the "Pride lights." Many of the people in attendance had never set foot in our magnificent cathedral. As I was scanning tickets at the door, I got to see what is called the "Oh, my God!" moment when first-timers enter the sacred space. (There is even a t-shirt in the giftshop with those words on it.) Before the lights were turned on, the Dean said a few words. To paraphrase, he said that he first looked at the lights as pretty, but something of a gimmick. Then he noticed that people were coming from all over New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and elsewhere to see them. They were making a pilgrimage to this great and holy place because it sent the message that God sees you and loves you--we see you and love you, too. Indeed, when I posted pictures of the illuminated cathedral, people asked if they could share it and said how proud they are to be--Episcopalian! I will be back at the cathedral next Monday, June 5 for the Faith Perspectives Panel, which will feature some brilliant panelists. I hope that you can join me. You can learn more and register for the free event here. Happy Pride! Fr. Rick
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