Prayers of Intention for our Nation in the Coming Days

Dear friends,

Many of you have expressed concern for our nation facing the threat of recurring violence in the coming days, even as we long for a peaceful transition of leaders, which is one of the most defining and distinctive elements of our democracy. As citizens we have a voice to share in the public sphere, offering words of reason and justice, and as people of faith, we have a voice of prayer to share for the common good. Both are important, and I bid you strike the balance in your rhythms in the coming days. Resist the temptation to consume so much news and social media that you end up being consumed by their anxious energy. Ground yourself in prayer, too, and carve out times for quiet so that you might find a perspective that offers you some peace—a peace which can then be shared with others, and with our nation.To that end, I would like to highlight a few things in the coming days, and encourage you to consider how you might choose to engage these practices. They are by no means exhaustive, but they are meant to help.

The Very Reverend Steven L. Thomason, Dean & Rector

The Holy Eucharist, with a Sermon by Saint Mark's new Theologian-in-Residence

THIS SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 11 A.M., via livestream

The Rev. Canon Walter Brownridge, 2021 Theologian-in-Residence for the Cathedral, will preach as part of our observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Among his calls, Canon Brownridge served as Associate Dean of the School of Theology at Sewanee, Tennessee, and recently was called as Canon to the Ordinary and Canon for Cultural Transformation for the Diocese of Vermont. He shares, “As followers of Jesus Christ we are invited to participate in God’s mission of bringing a reversal in our society which reflects the Dream of God.”

Daily Prayer Services Leading to the Inauguration

MONDAY, JANUARY 18

6:30 p.m.: Evening Prayer with special prayers for the nation. Canon Jennifer King Daugherty will officiate. Join using this Zoom link.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 19

6:30 p.m.: Evening Prayer with special prayers for the nation. Jo Ann Bailey will officiate. Join using Join using this Zoom link.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20 (INAUGURATION DAY)

8:15 A.M.: Morning Prayer with special prayers for the nation and our leaders. Dean Steve Thomason will officiate. (The service will conclude before the inauguration ceremony begins). Join using this Zoom link.

6:30 P.M.: Evening Prayer with special prayers for the nation and our leaders. Canon Nancy Ross will officiate, with a debrief conversation following. Join using Join using this Zoom link.

In-Person Prayer in the Nave for Inauguration Week

At designated times on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, the nave will be open for personal prayer. Time slots must be reserved in advance, and masks, distancing and screening procedures must be observed. Time slots are available during the following periods:

Monday, January 18, 12–2 p.m.
Tuesday, January 19, 4–6 p.m.
Wednesday, January 20, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Click here to make your reservation.

If you need assistance with making a reservation, please call Erik Donner in the cathedral office: 206.323.0300 x 217. Email info@saintmarks.org or any of the clergy with any questions.