The Second Sunday After the Epiphany

Jesus did this, the first of his signs, in Cana of Galilee, and revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him. — John 2:11

During the season of Epiphany, I am planning on preaching through the Five Marks of Mission which have been established as a guide for the world-wide Anglican Communion. The season of Epiphany is a perfect time for such considerations as it is the season in which the Church is called to reflect on the mission and ministry of Jesus, which as John describes it, is a revelation of his glory. And this is precisely how the Anglican Communion prefaces the list of the Five Marks of Mission—The Mission of the Church is the mission of Christ.

Therefore, over the next six weeks, we will be considering what these “Marks of Mission” are and how we can seek to respond to this call in this parish. This Sunday, I will be setting the stage for the series by looking at and considering the relation of Vision to Mission and briefly introduce the Five Marks themselves, which are as follows:

1. To proclaim the good news of the kingdom
2. To teach, baptize and nurture new believers
3. To respond to human need by loving service
4. To transform unjust structures of society, to challenge violence of every kind and pursue peace and reconciliation
5. To strive to safeguard the integrity of creation, and sustain and renew the life of the earth

I look forward to seeing you all on Sunday!