SAINT JOHN'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
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From the Prayer Journal of Fr. Jack Tolley

3/2/2020

 
  "He knows what is in the darkness" - Daniel 12:17-30 

Have you ever been ashamed of something you did or said, and then deeply regretted it ?  I think we all have.
The author of this reflection was ashamed and in despair  and found God's love and forgiveness.
Blessings, love, and hugs, 

Fr. Jack.

I was ashamed and in despair, carrying a burden of guilt that seemed suffocating.  I had hurt someone  dear.
​I would have done anything to have taken it back,  but the deed was done. The more I tried to come up with a way out, a way to "fix" the problem, the more hopeless things seemed to be. 

I needed help and didn't know where to turn. Panic set in.  I went to church still stewing. Despite my distractions, the Lord made sure I listened to familiar words of the opening collect from Holy Eucharist: " Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid..."

   My muscles began to relax as I slowly exhaled.  Gradually, palpably, the realization spread over me that God already knew full well what I had done and loved me anyway. I poured out my heart, asking for forgiveness and guidance. I no longer felt alone. There is darkness in all of our lives. 

What do you need to share with God "from whom no secrets are hid."
     
 ( Forward Day by Day, 2006. Unknown author. )

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Saint John's Episcopal Church 
760 First Ave.  Chula Vista, CA 91910
Office: (619)422-4141

Office Hours 
Monday-Thursday
9:00 am -3:00 pm

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  • Home
  • Welcome
    • Welcome to St. John's
    • Our Church Campus
    • Our History
    • Our Rector >
      • Rev. Roger Haenke
    • Clergy and Staff >
      • Clergy and Staff
      • In Memoriam
    • Our Organist/Choir Director
    • Vestry
    • Our Stained Glass
    • Photo Gallery
  • Worship
    • Worship Schedule
    • Lectionary Readings
    • Sunday Hospitality
    • Life Celebrations >
      • Baptism
      • Confirmation / Reception
      • Marriage
      • Funerals
      • Quinceañera
    • Previous Services
    • Previous Sermons
    • Prayer List
  • Our Centennial
  • Serve
    • Liturgical Ministries >
      • Our Ministries
    • Care Ministries >
      • Pastoral Visits
      • Prayer Quilt
    • Outreach Ministries
    • Men of St. John's
    • Women of St. John's
    • Daughters of the King
    • Veteran/Military Friendly Congregation
  • Grow
    • Morning Prayer and Bible Study
    • We Are Here For You!
    • Spiritual Gifts
    • Childrens Sunday School
    • SD Episcopal Cursillo
    • ECS - Head Start Program
  • Connect
    • Calendar and Events
    • E-Newsletter
    • Connect!
  • Resources
    • Facility / Hall Rental
    • Columbarium
    • Annual Reports
    • Vestry Minutes
  • Give