The Light That Shines for All

Lee Davis • December 31, 2024

The Light that Shines for All

As the season of Christmas concludes, the Church enters the season of Epiphany, a time that calls us to reflect on the manifestation of Christ to the world. Epiphany, which means "revelation" or "manifestation," centers around the story of the Magi in Matthew 2:1-12. These wise seekers from the East followed a star, searching for the One who had been born King of the Jews. What they found was not a worldly king in a palace but a child in humble surroundings, embodying God's love and grace for all creation.

The story of the Magi is rich in meaning. These travelers were not Jews, nor were they part of Israel's story. Yet they were drawn to the light of Christ, guided by a star that broke through the darkness of their world. Their journey reminds us that God's love knows no boundaries—cultural, national, or otherwise. The light of Christ is for everyone, calling all people to come and see, to worship, and to leave transformed.

In many ways, the season of Epiphany is an invitation for us to look for God's light in unexpected places. Where do we see Christ at work in our world today? Like the Magi, are we willing to follow where that light leads, even if it takes us into unfamiliar territory?

Epiphany also challenges us to consider how we reflect Christ's light to others. The Magi not only found Christ but returned to their homeland by another road, undoubtedly changed by their encounter. How might our own encounters with Christ inspire us to live differently? Are we willing to be light-bearers in a world that often feels overcome by darkness?

At The Episcopal Church of St. Mary Magdalene & St. Martin, our ministries strive to be a reflection of this light. Whether it’s through food distribution, supporting local shelters, Laundry Love, or our Care Portal Ministry, we seek to embody the inclusive, transformative love of Christ revealed at Epiphany.

As we journey through this season, let us remember that Christ’s light shines not only for us but through us. Just as the star guided the Magi, we are called to guide others toward the love and hope found in Christ. May we, like the Magi, offer our gifts—our time, talents, and treasures—in service to God and one another.

This Epiphany, let us pray for eyes to see the light of Christ, hearts open to receive it, and hands ready to share it with the world. May we boldly proclaim, in word and deed, the Good News that Christ has come for all people.

"Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you." (Isaiah 60:1)

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Celebrating Pride Sunday at The Episcopal Church of St. Mary Magdalene and St. Martin

By Andrew Butler • June 19, 2025

This Sunday, as a community of faith, we come together at The Episcopal Church of St. Mary Magdalene and St. Martin to celebrate Pride Sunday. This is a special day where we recognize and honor the LGBTQ+ community, reaffirming our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and love. The Episcopal Church has a proud history of supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Since the 1970s, The Episcopal Church has been at the forefront of advocacy for inclusion and equality. In 1976, the General Convention declared that "homosexual persons are children of God who have a full and equal claim with all other persons upon the love, acceptance, and pastoral concern and care of the Church." This pivotal declaration laid the groundwork for the Church's ongoing commitment to equality. Over the years, The Episcopal Church has continued to affirm the dignity of every human being, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Our liturgy is a celebration of God’s love for all people, and this Sunday, we will sing hymns that reflect our inclusive values. Among these hymns is "Draw the Circle Wide" by Mark A. Miller. This beloved hymn invites us to open our hearts and extend our circle of love, compassion, and acceptance. The lyrics remind us of the power of inclusivity, urging us to "draw the circle wide" and "no one stands alone." Other hymns to be sung include "There's a Wideness in God's Mercy," which reminds us of the boundless love and grace of God for all creation; "All the Colors of the Rainbow" by Carl P. Daw, celebrating diversity and the beauty of God's creation; and "I Am the Bread of Life," which brings us together in unity and spiritual nourishment. Join us this Sunday as we celebrate Pride Sunday with open hearts and open arms. Let us come together in worship, song, and reflection as we continue to strive for a world that reflects God’s love and justice for all. We look forward to rejoicing with you in this special service. Welcome, all, to a place of belonging and hope.

Feeding Bodies & Spirits

By Lee Davis • June 18, 2025

Sts. MM&M partners with the Coral Springs Police Summer Camp to provide weekly food bags and daily snacks for at-risk youth, showing our faith in action by feeding both bodies and spirits all summer long.

paint can overflowing with rainbow with words Equality for All

Until All Are Free

By Lee Davis • June 16, 2025

Pride Sunday is not just a celebration of LGBTQ+ identity—it’s a bold theological affirmation that in Christ, no human difference can separate us from belonging. Rooted in Galatians 3:28, it proclaims the Church’s call to embody radical welcome, justice, and unity for all people.

Celebrate Trinity Sunday and Juneteenth

By Andrew Butler • June 12, 2025

How we will sing combining both Juneteenth and Holy Trinity Sunday

Wisdom

By Lee Davis • June 9, 2025

As Trinity Sunday approaches, we turn to a surprising voice in Scripture—Holy Wisdom, calling out from Proverbs 8. Long honored in both Jewish and Christian traditions, this feminine figure of divine presence offers us a powerful window into the relational and joyful nature of God.