Service notes: Saint John of the Cross, Bristol, Indiana

So put me down as being a fan of the Bishop of Northern Indiana.

The Rector (or rather, if I understood correctly, the interim Rector) was out sick, but the Bishop was there, presumably for his regular visitation. Maybe it was the restraining effect of Rite One, or maybe -- as I hope -- he's just a good celebrant, but he led us in a worshipful, rubrical, prayerful service. He preached a very fine sermon on forgiveness, without notes, but obviously not without preparation. There were some personal anecdotes, used to illustrate the Gospel and not to replace it. And he ended the sermon with as moving a reminder of the cost of our redemption as I have heard in years. What more could I want?

Well, I could want music and incense and general liturgical outlandishness. I'm going to be in DC tomorrow. Maybe I can make it to Solemn Evensong and (hang on to your mitre) Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament at Saint Paul's, K Street.