by Cathy Slade

It was fitting that the Ecumenical Prayer Service this past January 24 was held at St. John Chrysostom Church, as newly appointed Rev. David Michael, brought more than twenty clergy together to celebrate Christian Unity. Father Michael’s last assignment was at Brandies University where he worked to solidify relations between Catholics and non-Catholics. He was able to assemble a large group of clergy from the surrounding churches, including Cedars of Lebanon, Emmanuel Episcopal, Stratford Street, Holy Name, and from the Jesuits with whom he has been working with over the years.

The Service began with the processing of all clergy to “The Church is One Foundation,” sung by the entire congregation and led by St. John’s music ministry. Father Michael then welcomed all and introduced each member of the clergy. Next we sang a hymn of praise “Lord of all Hopefulness.” There were readings from the Book of Kings, the Book of Acts, and the Gospel according to St. Mark.

The homily was delivered by Rev. Diane C. Kessler, Executive Director Massachusetts Council of Churches. She is well-known and respected because of her work in bringing people of different Christian faiths together. She told the story of how she had just arrived in Zurich for a conference with people of all Christian denominations from around the world. She felt she had nothing in common with the other participants. On the first night she was there, she received a message from a Jamaican couple who asked if she would be interested in going bowling with them. As it turned out, a group went, and although they were not all speaking the same language, they found they still understood one another.

This turned out to be the basis for finding common ground the next day when they returned to their meetings. She said God works in mysterious ways to show you the common ground that we all share. They found that the convention of “hospitality” was a common thread they all shared. God is the foundation of the hospitality that we share, and we are all bound to be hosts at God’s table and everyday. No matter what the differences between us, we are fuller and more nourished as friends in Christ, because we are members of Christian faith.

The Youth Choir then sang a song of reflection and praise, “Here I Am Lord.” The congregation joined in on the refrain. An Act of Confession was said, followed by the Lord’s Prayer. Then, a collection was taken to benefit the local Roslindale Food Pantry. Prayers of Thanksgiving and Intercession were led from the altar. Bishop Boles then sent us forth with the message to open our hearts, eyes, and ears to others and to be open to the Lord and to each other in the Christian faith. We recessed from the church to the song, “Now Thank We All Our God.”

A collation was held immediately following in the community room, with coffee, soda and a selection of pastries served by St. John’s parishioners. Many people from different parishes chatted and welcomed each other, as the clergy mingled among the congregation. I saw many a familiar face there and enjoyed talking to old acquaintances and meeting new folks. The service was a beautiful portrayal of the many ties that unite the different faiths and all of us.