Sunday, May 15th — Fifth Sunday of Easter

All are welcome to attend in-person services. We no longer need attendees to preregister, and you will be able to choose where to sit. One side of the church still has some pews blocked off to support those who need to maintain physical distancing. All entry to the building is from the King Street East main doors.

Everyone–without exception–must wear a mask properly at all times while inside the building.

You can join the service, live or later, via YouTube. The live-stream will begin at 9:45 am, and the service itself will begin at 10am. You’ll still be able to watch or re-watch it on YouTube at the same link any time thereafter.

Keep this order of service handy! It has the readings, the responses, and hymn texts–so you can join in as fully as possible from afar.

Peter’s vision as described in Acts 11.

In our first reading, Peter reports to the Church in Jerusalem about his baptism of non-Jewish believers. He shares a vision given to him by God that God’s intention to love Gentiles as well as Jews is revealed in Jesus’ testimony. This vision leads to the authorizing of the mission to the Gentiles. (Acts 11.1–18)

Our second readings is from the Revelation to St. John. John’s vision shows us that in the resurrection the new age has dawned; God dwells with us already. We wait for the time when the tears that cloud our vision will be wiped away. Then we will see the new heaven, new earth, and new Jerusalem. (Revelation 21.1–6)

Today’s gospel pericope takes us back to Maundy Thursday. After washing the disciples’ feet, predicting his betrayal, and then revealing his betrayer, Jesus speaks of his glorification on the cross. This deep complicated love of Jesus, even to death on the cross, will be the distinctive mark of Jesus’ community. (John 13.31–35)

Sundays and Seasons offers this reflection on the week’s readings:

Easter initiates a new day. It anticipates a new heaven and a new earth. The risen Christ is making all things new. In the mystery of holy baptism God has made new people of us. Today Jesus invites us to see everyone in a new light—through the lens of love.