Dear Friends,

We have been given the information that the Clubhouse will not be available to us this Sunday - and perhaps for one or two more more - because of ongoing utilities work in Dart Park. Mr. Peter has kindly let us know that his living room at 615 South Church Street over the road will be available for us to hold service there this Sunday. I know we will all be as grateful to Peter and Loretta as I am.

The Collect for the Third Sunday after the Epiphany is

Almighty and everlasting God, mercifully look upon our infirmities, and in all our dangers and necessities stretch forth thy right hand to help and defend us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

The Collect seems to (or could be taken to) refer to an “epiphany” of healing - like the many times when The Lord Jesus stretches forth His hand to heal some afflicted person, even on the Sabbath to the deep concern of some. Such healing is an important part of the Christian Church’s ministry in every age, there being aspects of health that fall outside the secular sphere, and others that best incorporate the ministry of both ministers of the Gospel and physicians. There is no “infirmity” (a highly descriptive old word) that should be kept outside the bounds of this prayer, for the almighty and everlasting God mercifully to “look upon” the condition, and stretch forth His hand to help and defend us - “through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

“Infirmities” is a fascinating word indeed. The old word “infirmary” comes to mind, a place occupied by those who are “infirm” as well as those who look after and help them. Most of us have some knowledge about our own infirmities at a given time.

But it also strikes me that there are conditions that make not only individuals but societies “infirm” too. I am concerned at the present time to see even the Cayman Islands and indeed “western” societies far afield becoming “infirm” because of a lack of grounding upon what is true and what is not true. Obviously we need the ground upon which we are to be supported to be firm and not “infirm”. But the characteristics of “infirm” grounds are plain to see all around us. I am not thinking of physical grounds, but rather of the grounds of truth. 

Should a person receive high honours from a society that claims the values of truth at his or her retirement if he has left behind a legacy that conflicts with truth? This may be contrasted with a persistent truth-teller at http://www.truthwithlanguage.com/BenedictXVI.html

For directions about the services this Sunday the 22nd January 2023, the Third Sunday after the Epiphany, please see the website www.TruthWithLanguage.com and also this letter, above. The zoom Evening Prayer Sunday services will continue again at 6 pm our time. Do look for the invitation!

In faith in the holy Name of our Lord Jesus, who will continue to provide guidance in all matters and joy, by the Holy Spirit, to all His people.

+ Nicholas