Worship with Intention

Dear Friends in Christ,

This past week I attended the Diocese of Texas Clergy Conference. Bishop Doyle holds what he calls a “fireside chat” (that is not by a fire or a chat) every year. This is the time when he goes through a list of things he wants clergy to do, or not to do. Examples are; go to the dentist, clean your albs, don’t put glitter in the ashes, and (new this year) no clown Eucharists, and don’t use water guns to asperge the congregation.

This year Bishop Doyle focused on the integrity of the liturgy. So, following his suggestion, I will not be reading all the announcements in your bulletins. There will be a brief moment of welcome between the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Table. After we try that for a few weeks, if people feel they need more time dedicated to announcements, we have the option of doing announcements before the service begins.

The other liturgical suggestion made by the Bishop, was to put birthday, anniversary, and travel prayers with the prayers of the people. I am holding off on that until I can find a way to be sure people are blessed on these occasions.

Worship has an intentional form of proclamation and response. I will always do my best to stay true to its structure and intent.

Wishing you all joy,

Mother Catherine