Interim Rector's Corner

In Sacramental theology there is a principle called “ecclesia supplet”, Latin for “the church supplies”. The term is most often applied to circumstances in which the clergy person forgets something in the sacramental rite, thus the Church supplies what is lacking in the minister. You see, we clergy are adjuncts of the wider Church and cannot act by our own authority or initiative, but rather, are agents of the Church; in reality it is the Church performing the sacramental ritual, thus if the clergy person forgets something the Church supplies the validity.
            Enough of Sacramental theology – what I really want to share with you today is another notion about the church supplying what is lacking. You know, summer time is a time of leisure, going places, laying back and relaxing, and other non-taxing activities. It’s really a neat thing for individuals, couples and families to go on a vacation; perhaps a weekend camping or hiking, or fishing, even visiting old Aunt Georgia. I commend all who are able to get away for a while during the summer.
            At the same time, St. Paul’s Church continues to operate. We continue to have to pay the utility bills, pay expenses, meet payroll, pay our assessment to the diocese, etc. The problem comes when a parishioner forgets that vacation time still means to give one’s pledge or offering to St. Paul’s Church. In other words there is no “eccelesia supplet” for our financial responsibilities during the summer time.
            Another way to always make sure your pledge or contribution always gets to St. Paul’s Church is to arrange for your bank to deduct it from your account and send a payment to the church.
            Please do not forget your commitment to the wonderful work that is going on at St. Paul’s Church and remember to mail your pledge or offering to the church when you are away.
For your convenience:            St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
                                                6518 Michigan Avenue
                                                St. Louis, MO 63111
 
As always, God love you and keep you safe. 
                                          ~ Fr. Al Jewson