Here, I have seen the love God intends for each of us. I have seen the special way children are cared for by each member. I have experienced the generous and sincere help offered and given to people during some of life’s most painful experiences. Whether it is support for fellows suffering through depression, other illness, death, or any other crisis, St. Thomas has been there to give, to help, and to love. Parishioners are also here to share the happy moments. The joining of two lives in love, the coming of a child, birthdays, and giving thanks to our many wonderful fellows all these bring us closer to that which God desires.

My faith has grown as I continue to witness the role this parish plays in our community and in the larger community that is Washington. Indeed that love and concern extends well beyond the bounds of DC. It can be seen in the special relationships we share with others in the US and indeed outside of this nation.

Today’s Gospel reminds me that in some ways we are as fortunate as those who walked with Christ daily. Of course they knew him first hand, they listened to his voice, saw his miracles, suffered with him, and witnessed his death and ressurection first hand. All this, but we have had the chance to hear his words also and know the truth that “Whoever has seen me has seen the father.” We have and continue to experience that “the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do.” Humbly and filled with love we all continue to work the miracles Christ promised. As a parish we help to support and hold up those in need. We celebrate with them and we share the wonder of the Father and Son with all those we meet. We ask Christ and he fulfills his promise.

These are lessons I have learned here at St. Thomas. These are the experiences that feed and grow my spiritual life. I think that they are what Christ wants for us.