November Newsletter

Dear St. John’s, 
November is all about gratitude. With Thanksgiving around the corner, we are reminded to step back from our lives and take note of all the many ways God shows up for us – of all the many things we have to be thankful for. Here are a few things I am thankful for recently. 
The cool breeze in the morning. The sound of Theo’s laughter. Moments of quiet in my office. A meeting with my spiritual director. Time with family. Seeds sprouting in my garden. Bees pollinating our lime tree. My daily cup of tea. Walking Pua. All of you. 
Even as I made the list, there were so many other things that popped to my mind. Because gratitude is like that – a muscle we strengthen as we use it, or a skill we build as we practice it. The more you sit back and reflect on what to be grateful for, the more things you will see as gifts in your life. I wish you a season of gratitude – of remembering that every day, we have many gifts from God. 
                                    Rev Jazzy
 
 
Mahalo
Mahalo to Mary Elizabeth and Jordan for being our representatives to the Diocesan Annual Meeting; to Debbie for being responsible for picking up and dropping off the black folder with our accountant, Jazz; to everyone for making such an effort at our Trunk or Treat; and to all who have signed up to be a part of our Christmas Parade contingent. Thank you for being a part of our church ‘ohana, and for all you do to make it so beautiful. 
 
Diocesan Convention
At our Convention this year we had five resolutions. The first was one we always expect - on raising clergy compensation to keep up with the rate of inflation. The second was similar, one we always pass - the budget. The third and fourth were both about establishing more permanent relationships with the Diocese of Guam and Micronesia, respectively. And the last was one from the floor, which had the most discussion - calling for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. All resolutions passed, and you can find their exact wording on our Diocesan website. 
 
Continuing Education Update
As you know, Bible study has been on sabbath during this month to facilitate some ongoing learning for me. I signed up for a class through my seminary that was held on Tuesdays, 4-6am. As predicted, by Theo’s bedtime my brain wasn’t moving too quickly! The class was titled, “Innovation on the Daring Way”, taught by the Rev Dr. Hilary Raining. It was using Brene Brown’s research, and leading from vulnerability. Mostly, I appreciated the time to pour into myself and my ministry. I’m excited to see what seeds this course may have planted in me! 
 
Ice Palace Huaka’i
On December 3rd, from 1:30-3:30, join in a time of fellowship and come to the Ice Palace with your church ‘ohana! Let me know if you are coming to hang out, or coming to skate. The church will cover the costs of our outing. 
 
November Birthdays 
3 Chabrynne Kekua and Puamaeole Cook
 
Mark your calendars
Kids Klub: Tuesday November 14th and Tuesday November 28th
Bishop’s Committee Meeting:  Tuesday November 21st at 6pm
Potluck: Sunday November 26th  
 
**Bible study will be on sabbath until 2024.** 
 
Other Important Dates
Christmas Parade Saturday December 9th at 10am
Christmas Eve service Sunday December 24th at 10:30pm