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

12/3/2019

 
"In one sentence, Jude gives some of the best advice ever offered for spiritual growth: build your life on a Holy faith... receive these gifts for Christmas." 
I placed this reflection in my Prayer journal in December 2001. It comes from a Forward Day by Day reflection.
Author unknown. It gave me a lot to think about this Advent season. Remember always how much Jesus loves you. 
Blessings, love, and hugs, 
Fr.Jack.

Jude 17-25. But you, beloved, must remember the predictions of the apostles.

On a quick sortie for some last minute Christmas shopping I hurried through a large bookstore. I wanted a book about the late Henri Nouwen so I proceeded directly to what had been the religion section of the store. They had remodeled and now there was a new "Religion and Spirituality" section. I knew it was now a major department because there were lots of soft chairs for engaging one's selections before making a purchase. In addition to the usual religious books from Christian, Jewish and Eastern traditions there were two new sections labeled "Self help" and "Spiritual growth." They were filled with lots of how-to books which promised enlightenment or at least a more serene journey through the trials of life. In one sentence, Jude gives some of the best advice ever offered for spiritual growth: build you life on a Holy faith: pray by opening yourself to God's Holy Spirit; keep yourself in the Love of God-let it be like the air you breath and the nourishment you need. Wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ-give Him the last word about who you are, and what value you have to God. Receive these gifts for Christmas.
​They are yours 
to have and enjoy. They cost less than any book.

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Saint John's Episcopal Church and Day School
760 First Ave.  Chula Vista, CA 91910
Office: (619)422-6414
Fax: 619-422-6946
Office Hours 
Monday-Friday
9:00 am -4:00 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
    • Prayer Journal and Reflections
    • Spiritual Gifts
    • Childrens Sunday School
    • SD Episcopal Cursillo
    • ECS - Head Start Program
  • Connect
    • Calendar and Events
    • E-Newsletter
    • Connect!
    • Small Parish Groups
    • Support Groups
  • Resources
    • Forms and Policies
    • Facility / Hall Rental
    • Columbarium
    • Annual Reports
    • Vestry Minutes
    • Treasurer's Report
  • Give