The Online Society of St. Barnabas
The Third Sunday of Advent
Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
The Advent season has me pressed for time and wisdom, but in the spirit of Rose Sunday I would link to the following. It’s a good story about reclamation through unlikely means.
Sugar the surfing dog inducted into Surfers' Hall of Fame
When reading this article I was reminded of how those early San Diego and Malibu surfers were often WWII and Korean War veterans seeking to self-treat what we now call PTSD.
That is among the forgotten or unknown stories of surfing’s “Gidget” days. It wasn’t all just Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello and the gang. It was a way to explore and address something darker.
Given surfing’s subsequent light and fun reputation, it appears that, at some level, it worked.
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In our weekly intercessions, I would ask your prayers for the following: Robert, for the repose of his soul and in thanksgiving of a life well-lived. He fought the good fight, he kept the faith, he has finished the race. Let light perpetual shine upon him.+ G, in thanksgiving for his release from prison and the re-building of his life A, as she looks for new work E, for order in her marriage M, for continued healing N, that continued chemotherapy will sustain her R. for relief from old trauma J, that she may continue to rejoice in reunion with her children For the victims of The Church of England's indifference A, incarcerated and abused by her malevolent government J., as she responds to a daunting diagnosis A Collect for Christian Service: O God of all, whom the entirety of heaven adores: Let those who also serve among the discarded people in the unruly portions of the world know your grace-filled providence until all tongues may proclaim your holy Gospel in peace, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. [© all rights reserved] Please send along petitions and thanksgivings and they will be shared within our community. ___
This week’s book recommendation: The Surfer’s Bible.
As with last week, Advent is a perfect season for reading one’s Bible; or for expanding our horizons and looking to see the range of applications to which a Bible, its stories, wisdom, and power, may be applied.
Copies may be obtained for free from the linked website.
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May the Father’s hand
keep you from stumbling,
the footprints of Jesus
give you confidence to follow,
and the fire of the Spirit
keep you warm and safe
in your walk with God this day. Amen.
May God and Mary and St. Barnabas be with you.
(The Online Society of St. Barnabas is a Christian community affiliated with, but not limited to, The Episcopal Church in the United States. Members support one another in prayer, seek opportunities for meditation, and share in readings designed to expand their spiritual knowledge and facility.)