Great Cloud of Witnesses
Dear Friends,
In our New Testament Epistle for this Sunday, the author of Hebrews writes to a small band of Christians who are weary, unsure of the path ahead, and tempted to lose heart. To them he says, “You are not alone.” He reminds them of Abraham, Moses, Rahab, David, the prophets--all those who, by faith, faced uncertainty and hardship, yet kept going. He then adds the beautiful image that has carried the church for centuries: “Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us.”
This passage names an essential truth: faith is rarely about having a clear map. More often it is about continuing, even when the way ahead is unknown. Abraham left without knowing where he was going. Rahab risked her life by welcoming strangers. The saints of old did not receive all that was promised, but they lived and died trusting that God was at work through them.
We Episcopalians know something about remembering saints. Our calendar is full of them--well-known figures like Francis and Julian, but also less familiar witnesses whose lives stretch our imagination of what holiness can look like. Think of St. Hubert the Silent, remembered for his humility and quiet devotion, or St. Neot, who prayed daily while standing neck-deep in a well. Their variety reminds us that there is no single mold for sainthood!
But saints are not only those with feast days. They are also those who sat among us here at St. John’s, embodying God’s love in ways that shined a new light on our landscape, making our common life more expansive and inclusive. This past year we’ve said goodbye to many such saints. Among them, Paige Chargois, whose life we will celebrate here at St. John’s on August 23, shared her gifts of reconciliation with the city of Richmond and her joy and warmth with this community. Others, less widely known, nevertheless shaped us with faith, generosity, and quiet steadfastness.
As I continue my own gradual return from medical leave, this passage has become very personal. Like Abraham, I have no clear map, no timeline or signposts for full recovery. But your witness of care and patience has reminded me that I am not running this race alone. Together we keep the faith, not by having all the answers, but by trusting the One who goes before us--the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, Jesus.
This week, I invite you to remember the saints in your own life--the parent, teacher, friend, or neighbor who helped you glimpse God’s love more clearly. Who are the witnesses who shine light on your path today?
In Christ,
Amelie+
