Bishop Lee celebrates Holy Eucharist with LCEM - April 2008

All of LCEM came together at Christ Church, Ottawa, to welcome our new bishop, The Rt. Rev. Jeffrey Lee and Mrs. Lisa Lee. The Holy Eucharist was concelebrated by the bishop, the Rev. John Crist, and as a happy surprise, Father Throop, who is recovering from major brain tumor surgery.

The children waved Allelulia Sticks as they processed in with the bishop to organ music played by Jane Hart of Christ Church, Streator. During his sermon, Bishop Lee shared insights on the gospel from John, chapter 14, speaking of God's presence in Jesus, that the dwelling places of the Father's house are not only in heaven, but in each of us, and contrasting the intent of pagan temples of worship, which were meant to keep the power of "God" under control inside the temple, with the Christian ideal of the Father living in us and sharing God in our community through our lives and works.

Bishop Lee then had the children and Prayer Shawl Ministry volunteers help him bless 46 blankets and 6 prayer shawls for the ministry to children whose parents are in prison. Following a spirited discussion with the children about what a bishop does, the children sang several songs to the bishop.

After the service, a potluck luncheon was enjoyed by all. Before Bishop Lee left, he spent some time in discussion with LCEM board and vestry members. He expressed support for the structural changes LCEM is anticipating and his desire to assist us as we proceed.

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