…but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.- Isaiah 40:31

Dear Friends in Christ,

Last year was a time of renewal for St. James. I say that because we were finally able to move past the restrictions and fears of Covid and experience a year filled with the activities and gatherings that mean so much to us. We were finally able to and return to a more normal life of faith through things like holding the Holly Tea and Sale, continuing the Hot Meal Program through the summer months, and returning to passing the bread and cup during Holy Communion.

The pages of this annual report show how we lived as a church of Jesus Christ in 2023. The reports tell of the services held, the special events that brought us together, and the mission we lived out in Antigonish. The words tell of the faith we shared but most of all these reports tell of how we let the Holy Spirit guide us in this renewal.

Looking back over the last twelve months, there are many times and events for which to give thanks to God and there is also a strong foundation for us to move forward in faith as disciples of Jesus Christ. So I would commend each and every report to you. Prayerfully consider this document which tells how God shaped us in the past year and how God calls us to a renewed faith in the year just starting.

Last year was also a time of renewal for me personally. Part of that was being able to go on sabbatical and spend time in prayer and study. Thanks to Rev. Doug, and all the committees and individuals who stepped forward to make that time possible for me. The truth is though that the renewal I felt last year happened not just for those months but continued when I returned to the pulpit because for the first time since the pandemic hit I found our life together filled with energy and joy each week.

May God continue to bless and renew us in 2024,

Yours In Christ’s Service,

The Rev. Peter A Smith