The Splendor of God's Creation

The appointed Psalm for today is Psalm 105.  The Psalmist prays:

O give thanks to the Lord, call on his name,

   make known his deeds among the peoples.
Sing to him, sing praises to him;
   tell of all his wonderful works.
Glory in his holy name;
   let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.
Seek the Lord and his strength;
   seek his presence continually.
Remember the wonderful works he has done,
   his miracles, and the judgments he has uttered.   (Ps. 105: 1-5).

I love the mountains!  When Mary and I have a chance for a little time off, we go to higher elevations.  In the mountains, I experience the majesty of God; I revel in God’s might and splendor.  You and I see God’s wonderful works in creation around us, and God’s creation is an expression of love.  The beauty we encounter reminds us that we are not alone.  It reminds us that God desires to be in a relationship with us.  God’s gift of beauty uplifts us and makes our hearts glad.

Those of you who may be beach people no doubt have the same experience when you witness the beauty of God’s creation.  Give thanks for the Lord is good!

Let us pray:  Almighty and everlasting God, you made the universe with all its marvelous order, its atoms, worlds, and galaxies, and the infinite complexity of living creatures: Grant that, as we probe the mysteries of your creation, we may come to know you more truly, and more surely fulfill our role in your eternal purpose; in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

CALENDAR REMINDERS

Bishop’s Committee Meeting this Sunday after the Eucharist.

The Feast Day of St. Augustine will be celebrated on Sunday, 26 August starting with Eucharist Rite II at 9 a.m. We will have the Blessing of the Backpacks as well, and a luncheon after the service.

New Adult Christian Education Series starting September: Lord, Teach Us To Pray: Six Studies on the Lord’s Prayer from the Kerygma Series.  This study will be led by Jillian Bain on Sundays and by Tammie Taylor on Mondays.  Please join in this wonderful study of God’s Word.

The Roots of Christian Mysticism, a 3-Year Course of Study, Year 1,  September 8, 2012 -May 4, 2013, Houston, Texas.  This 3-year course offers a unique opportunity to explore, in depth, the history of Christian Mysticism. It is structured and taught by leading scholars and practitioners and focuses on the key figures of the mystical tradition. Classes will be held 1 Saturday a month for 9 consecutive months at the Dominican Sisters Spirituality Center, 6501Almeda (at Holcombe), Houston, Texas. Annual tuition is $225.

Art in and Around St. Augustine’s:

         The 4^th Annual Art Show at St. Augustine’s.  This year’s theme is “Peace”. 

         Art Walk at St. Vincent’s House on 25 September, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Please remember everyone on our prayer list, especially, the family of Corlie Jackson whose mother died recently, for the health of Lee Runion’s mother, Steve, Gladys, for all of those who are traveling, and for all those who are about to start a new school year.

Your servant in Christ,

Fr. Chester J. Makowski+

St. Augustine of Hippo Episcopal Church
Galveston, Texas 77550