We entered the Nave to find a celebratory atmosphere in anticipation of the service and the rite of Holy Baptism. This was our first visit to St. John’s. The joy was palpable as Sari lifted each of the babies to be welcomed into the community as the newest members of the body of Christ. As Anne read announcements, we received a flower from that day’s Lay Eucharistic Minister.
We had just moved to Chevy Chase and were in search of a church home in a city new to us. Our move from Texas meant that we had left our longtime church and scores of friends. At that time, we knew no one in the area outside of our son and his family. We were looking for a church community, a church home.
My husband, Norman, and I wanted to be intentional about widening our circle. We soon joined the usher corps for the 11:15 am service. I became a lector and was delighted when several parishioners complimented my scripture reading. We joined a Koinonia group. We were making the new friends we wanted and needed.
We noticed that the atmosphere of celebration we felt at that first service was a common occurrence. We also saw the shared pain and caring at difficult times. The people of St. John’s are there for one another; they truly care for each other.
As I listened to the J2A pilgrims and the Camp Joy volunteers tell their stories on October 5, I understood what they meant by being present, by being drawn close to a group, by feeling the sense of community.
Norman and I are pleased to call St. John’s our church home. We have found our new community, our new church family, our home. Please join us in pledging to support St. John’s.
- Frances Kittrell