Celebrating 20 years of awe, silence, and radical welcome
On the first Sunday in February 2006, St. Stephen’s Church held its inaugural Celtic-inspired worship service, recasting ancient and traditional Christian worship in a mold of radical hospitality, beauty, and contemplative authenticity. On Sunday, February 1, on the 20th anniversary, we will cap a weekend of activities honoring what this service has contributed to the life and people of St. Stephen’s.
The weekend events include the following.
Retreat with Westina Matthews | Saturday, January 31, 12:30-4:30 p.m.
Simple Presence: contemplative living for contemporary life
We’ll gather in Palmer Hall Chapel for this special retreat exploring contemplative living in the context of contemporary life. In a noisy world and anxious time, how are we to live faithfully, now? This half-day retreat will feature holy listening and discernment that nourishes body, mind, and heart through prayer, reflection, laughter, movement and music. The retreat is crafted for St. Stephen’s and led by Westina Matthews, a highly-sought speaker, teacher, author, and spiritual director. Come and rest in peace, be awakened in joy, and listen for the simple presence of God in our midst. RSVP here.
Preaching and Sunday Forum | Sunday morning, February 1
Westina Matthews will preach at the 9 and 11:15 a.m. worship services on Sunday, February 1. In the Sunday Forum she will share a teaching in conversation with the Rev. John Jenkins at the Sunday Forum about contemplative practice in contemporary life.
Celtic service, supper, program, and the dedication of the portrait of the Rev. Gary Jones | Sunday evening, February 1
All are invited to gather for the 5:30 p.m. anniversary service featuring special music and prayers, and to stay for the Sunday supper and a brief program honoring the legacy and future of the Celtic service and celebrating the valued place of contemplative ministry within the life of St. Stephen’s Church. The program will feature a festive meal, the sharing of “love letters” to the Celtic service, a panel of parishioners offering stories and reflections, and the dedication of the portrait of our previous rector, the Rev. Gary Jones, whose creativity and gifts in ministry included the creation of the Celtic service and centering radical hospitality and contemplative life at St. Stephen’s.
Write a ‘love letter’ to the Celtic service
If at any point in the past 20 years our 5:30 p.m. service has touched your heart and soul, we invite you to write a “love letter” or note expressing what this special liturgy of contemplative worship means to you. Visit this page to submit a message. Or you may send one to St. Stephen’s Church in care of the Rev. John Jenkins, St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 6000 Grove Ave., Richmond, VA 23226. We will share these compiled messages during our 20th anniversary celebration, Sunday evening, February 1.
