Almighty and everlasting God, by whose Spirit the whole body of your faithful people is governed and sanctified: Receive our supplications and prayers, which we offer before you for all members of your holy Church, that in their vocation and ministry they may truly and devoutly serve you; through the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
— Book of Common Prayer
Note: We Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles staff members gathered today for our weekly 11:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist service at St. Athanasius Episcopal Church, Echo Park, followed by a festive lunch, where we honored five milestone employees, including Melania Garibay, center, a 25-year veteran, and Canon Janet Reinecke Kawamoto, technically 20 years, though she first began working in the communications shop 40 years ago. Diane Pound is at left. Also honored today were Canon Gail Urquidi, marking 15 years’ service, and the Rev. Canon Melissa McCarthy and me at five years each.