The Struggle Ends When Gratitude Begins

The Struggle Ends When Gratitude Begins

As the holiday season approaches, picks up momentum, and kicks into full speed, there is a wonderful sense of joy and excitement. Warmth and happiness surrounds my heart as I think about what fun gifts I’m going to give and the precious time I get to spend with those...
Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone

Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone

The van crossed the border after a much shorter drive than expected. I had not been to Mexico in many years and to Tijuana in many more. Within a few minutes of getting into the van at St. John’s in Chula Vista we were across the border. I was excited to be back in...
Some May, None Must, All Should

Some May, None Must, All Should

There is a saying in Anglican circles regarding the Sacrament of Confession: All may, none must, some should. I admit to initially liking this aphorism. Mostly because I had never made my confession and I had no intention of ever doing so. I liked the “none must”...
Trick-or-Treat

Trick-or-Treat

Seeing children’s faces light up when they go trick-or-treating is heart-warming. They like dressing up and they love getting treats. But that’s only half the fun. The best part is seeing the joy on the faces of those who give. This Halloween children from...
Surrounded by a Great Cloud of Witnesses

Surrounded by a Great Cloud of Witnesses

St. Benjamin was a Christian martyred in the year 424. Coincidentally, I was born on 4/24 some 1,539 years later. I’m pretty sure I wasn’t named after him, though. My older sisters Brenda and Belinda, and our dogs Boots and Buffey prove that my mother had things other...

A Woman With a Vision

About a decade ago, a Carlsbad resident heard about Operation Christmas Child through a Bible Study group. Inspired by what she heard, she quickly became an unofficial ambassador for Operation Christmas Child and facilitated her first shoebox drive. She started...
Sacrifice and Service

Sacrifice and Service

Like many churches in San Diego, St. Michael’s has a deep connection with the U.S. Armed Forces. Many long-time parishioners have served, a substantial number retired from active duty. We also have a population of parishioners currently serving who join us as...