Overwhelmed by Joy at St. Paul’s
by Laura Di Panfilo
As we begin a new year, many of us are reflecting on our hopes and prayers for 2025. The start of the year often brings a sense of optimism as we think about the changes we want to make—whether it’s reading more, walking regularly, or setting other goals to help improve our lives. We hope these new practices will bring positive transformation. Similarly, as we turn to our church calendar, we see that the Three Magi were also searching for something at this time of year. After Jesus was born, the three Magi noticed a star in the sky and followed it to find the Christ Child. We celebrate their arrival on January 6th, a day known as Epiphany. Though we may not typically look to ancient stargazers for guidance, their journey invites us to consider our plans for the new year. If we follow their example, we, too, can seek to discover Christ in the year ahead.
Last year the U.S. Surgeon General published a report naming, “Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation.” In this report, the negative impacts of social disconnection are listed as being both physical and mental. While this news was discouraging, it is not entirely surprising to us here at St. Paul’s. Since the very beginning, God has known we are not meant to be alone. This is why the first story of humans in our Bible is one where God creates community in the Garden of Eden. After that we read story after story of God encouraging God’s people to help support and encourage one another. God tells us to come together because God knows that life and faith are too hard to do alone. We need each other!
My favorite part of the Epiphany story is the scene when the Magi finally arrive to the baby Jesus. They see a star in the sky and follow it on a long journey and when they finally arrive to the Christ Child the scripture tells us that they were, “overwhelmed with joy.” (Matthew 2:10). Finding Christ brings them great joy! And similarly, finding Jesus in our community of St Paul’s brings us great joy. Whether it is the delight found in a Women’s Retreat, or the fellowship in Tuesday evening Bible Study, or reconnecting with someone at Coffee Hour, there are so many ways that we gather together.
This year, we invite you to deepen your connection to St. Paul’s by trying something new. Maybe you want to try a new Bible Study, or perhaps you want to explore Scripture in our upcoming series on Parenting & Faith. It can be daunting or even intimidating to join a new group. Some people wonder if they know enough about the Bible to attend a Bible Study, or worry if they will say something that will embarrass them in our community. While this anxiety is understandable, when we gather at St. Paul’s we are not handing out tests as there is no qualifying knowledge you need to be here. God’s love is for everyone, no exceptions. This community is richer because you are part of it and we invite you to deepen your joy at St. Paul’s in 2025.
Peace,
Laura
the Rev. Laura Di Panfilo, Associate Rector
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