Weekly News | 9.19.25

In the book of Exodus, chapter 12, Moses is giving the Israelites instructions for the Passover as they prepare to make their exit from Egypt, out of slavery. Already, they are called to commemorate this feast for generations to come.

We read:

And when your children ask you, ‘What does this ceremony mean to you?’ then tell them, ‘It is the Passover sacrifice to the Lord, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt and spared our homes when he struck down the Egyptians.’”

There is a lot to unpack in those words, but for now we can at least say this: what they were doing was odd. Blood on doorposts, unleavened bread, even modifications to their clothes. It is rightly assumed people will have questions!

But it is meaningful. The Israelites were to tell and embody the story of God’s real and necessary rescue, not with vague concepts and ideas, but particularly, tangibly.

This Sunday our worship will look a little different. Rather than a traditional sermon over a singular passage, I will be taking moments throughout the service to tell the story of our worship.

Anglican worship is a bit odd. We’re going to have questions!

But it is meaningful. The liturgy gives our community a way to not just tell the story of God - of Jesus the Paschal Lamb of God and the exodus from sin's enslavement - but to participate in it. We share this embodiment, this way of worship, with brothers and sisters throughout the world.

It is good to ask - and to ask again - “What does this ceremony mean to you?” May the Lord grow our curiosity and our confidence in the real and necessary rescue of God.

Peace,

Sarah+

P.S. Roots will remain with us this Sunday for the Liturgy Tour! Briana has crafted guides so our 3rd-5th graders can learn and engage the service.