I got back yesterday after two glorious weeks away. I went to the tip of the Bruce Peninsula, a small town called Tobermory. While I was there I visited places I had visited before, as a student 10 years ago. I hiked trails, walked through town, ate in local eateries, cooked meals at the cottage where I stayed.
The first Sunday I was there I preached and celebrated at St. Edmund’s in Tobermory and then later that night I preached at St. Margaret’s at Cape Chin. It was a remarkable experience and I enjoyed it immensely. I walked to the lighthouse from the cottage. It was an hour’s walk. I hiked part of the Bruce Trail and part of the Lindsay Tract Trail. Both challenging in their own way.
Two weeks away was just enough time to disengage from the frantic pace of parish life. And driving home my phone started ringing. Thankfully I have Bluetooth technology so was able to screen and answer calls hands-free. And by the time I drove the four hours home, I felt immersed in Church life once again.
While I was away Canada elected a new Prime Minister. The Blue Jays won their division. The winds shifted and the temperatures were very mild. Every day I walked in awe at the majesty of creation. Truly God was with me, with every step I took, every place I stopped, every crisp breath I inhaled. And it was good.
Tomorrow’s gospel is blind Bart. He doesn’t ask Jesus to heal him, but to have mercy on him. There is a lot to reflect on in that passage. So much about our blindness. About our faith, or lack thereof.
This week I’m heading to Walpole Island for an annual service of healing. I’m looking forward to it.
Next week is our Annual All Soul’s Service. A moving and emotional service, but also something I look forward to.
I’ve been remiss in writing lately as life has been crazy. My plan is to journal more frequently, with more observations of a crazy and awesome world.
Stay tuned!
