Happy Thanksgiving

This semester is really flying by! It seems like we just resumed classes, but really the term is almost over. Classes have been great. The focus this term has been on pastoral theology, preaching, and Christian history, especially the early Church. It has been a particular thrill to be working in a church and preaching almost every Sunday because I get to apply the lessons I learn during the week to my preaching work on Sundays. I also visit many elderly persons from my church who cannot attend church. This is a genuinely sweet part of parish ministry and it is always an honor when folks invite you into their homes and allow you to share the good news of Christ with them.

Marti and boys continue to thrive. Brennan and Aidan recently celebrated birthdays, so they are now 11 and 9, respectively. I think it is amazing to be a parent and to watch children grow from small babies into young people. They are both doing great in school, have lots of friends, and are generally pleasant and good guys. We're quite proud. Joshua is almost two and his overall attitude towards life is reflecting the truth of the "terrible twos". He is into everything and loves to scream and cause a ruckus. He is still very sweet in his quieter moments, but those don't last long! Marti is enjoying her class and singing for the choir. Her many friends provide her with a lot of support and fun, plus they all have kids around the same age as Joshua.

We continue to pray for Bishop Howard following his recent surgery. I do not know any details, but I have heard that he is recovering well. Father Mark from St. Andrews visited last month and that was a great treat for us. I am so glad we are staying in contact with our Florida friends and we look forward to a happy reunion when school is finished.

We are spending Thanksgiving in Sewanee this year, but we will be in Jacksonville for at least ten days after Christmas. My last service at our church here is on the 26th, then we'll head for Florida. We hope and pray that you all have a great holiday season and are especially blessed during the quiet and peace of Advent.

Yours in Christ,

Jon