Dear Friends,

As some of you know, I tested positive for Covid upon my return from Toronto last Sunday evening, and I have had to remain at home to rest and recover. Sadly, this meant missing our Juneteenth Celebration, which ended up, from all accounts, being an inspiring and spirit-filled event. As the morning wore on, I held all of you in my heart from a distance, with gratitude for everyone who chipped in and made the celebration all that we had hoped it would be.

As I reflect upon this experience in light of our gospel for today, I am struck by the truth and the gift of Jesus’ words to his disciples as he sends them out to do the work they are called to do. “Those who find their life will lose it, and those who will lose their life for my sake will find it.” I am reminded of the art of letting go, not only when you choose to do so, but when the choice is made for you! Whether or not we are able to accept this at the time, it often isn’t until we let go of the reins we hold so tightly that we get to see how the Spirit steps in to empower others to grasp them and create a new way forward.

That is my meager offering to you for this week. And here's my advice: be okay, at least now and then, with letting go. You may be surprised at who picks up what you put down, and what beautiful new thing they manage to do with it!

In Christ,

Amelie+