Together in Grief
Mary stood at the foot of the cross and watched the suffering of her firstborn child. John’s Passion Gospel gives us this intimate and devastating image: a mother witnessing the death of her son. She does not turn away. She does not keep her distance. She stands close—near enough to see, near enough to hear, near enough to feel the weight of what is happening.
Mary’s vigil is anguished. But Mary is not alone.
2025 Rector’s Report
Swoboda and Gupta describe “slow theology” as a countercultural rhythm of faith in which resilience is built not through speed or certainty but through steady spiritual practice. We live in a turbulent world of instant reactions, constant headlines, social media outrage, and quick theological takes. Faith formed in that environment can become shallow and fragile — easily shaken.
The authors suggest something different: a theology paced by patience, rooted in Scripture, practiced deliberately, and lived in community.
In many ways, our church embodies this truth. Community is one of our greatest strengths. We support and help each other. We laugh, cry, pray, celebrate, and work together. Here, you can be known and come to know others in ways that deepen both life and faith. In the natural ebb and flow of community life, we say goodbye to some members and welcome others. The community shifts and changes — and yet we still stand.