July 22, 2022

I have often wondered how our Saint Anne's came to be called Saint Anne's. Why Saint Anne and not Saint.... Someone Else? I've asked around and read through our historical documents, but all I can discover is that the name was voted on by members of the congregation. I can't seem to uncover what inspired the decision. (If you are reading this and you know, let's talk!)

It's an uncommon choice. There are other churches called Saint Anne's, yes, but Anne's story, and her role as the mother of Mary and grandmother of Jesus, isn't recorded in the Bible: oral tradition and extra-biblical writings detailing her encounters with the Holy have told Anne's story through the centuries. This makes her story a bit less-known in today's world, and a less-common choice as the patron saint of a church. 

I love that Anne's uniqueness as a patron saint is reflected in the ethos of our Saint Anne's community. That Anne's story appears in wisdom writings outside of traditional Bible stories has inspired our community's interest in non-canonical wisdom writings. Anne's story as a person who carried hope in her heart and grounded herself in prayer seems to be reflected in the outlook found in the Saint Anne's community. Anne's encounters with nature were an important part of her spirituality, as is true for many at Saint Anne's. And let's not forget Anne's flexibility and willingness to follow Spirit wherever She leads with trust and delight. That is definitely the Saint Anne's we all know and love.

I am looking forward to celebrating our patron saint together this Sunday at our annual Saint Anne's Day celebration. Our service will be at 9:30 as is our regular summer schedule, and we'll have a festive celebration to follow. Come one, come all, Spirit calls us in!