Time and Tide Wait For No Man

group of people gathered in a cemetery at sunset
photo by Sharon Smith
By Louise Smith
Photography: 
Sharon Smith and Pauline Noel

In the rush and flow of one’s daily commitments, it has often been expressed and repeated that time is just a fleeting moment. Then, as we look back at the past eight months since starting our busy yet enjoyable calendar year here at St. John the Evangelist, Topsail, to us the expression is recognizable—not a cliché, but indeed a truism.

In harmony and fellowship with affiliated teams of the ACW, choir, altar guild, and the congregation at large, it’s been a busy time, but an exceptionally rewarding journey. The many spiritual and holy occasions listed in our Church calendar were all recognized and duly celebrated with worship, thanksgiving, food, and fellowship.

On the secular spectrum, such as the fall fair, the flea market, the Holly Tea, and take-out dinners, events were similarly celebrated, all relevant to the sustainability of our mission to the glory of God.

We are now winding down to make way for a brief diversion into a summer hiatus, which began with a closing dinner at Ye’s Wok on Topsail Road on May 12th, where our altar guild, ACW, choir, and Canon Jotie and Pauline all gathered for a relaxing time, sharing food and informal conversation.

As I write this, I have just witnessed an estimated 200 people file past the wrought-iron gate of the cemetery, emerging from the flower service. Rain threatened but held off, and made way for brilliant sunshine. Music echoed throughout, and speakers enabled the multitude to hear the service loud and clear. Canon Jotie delivered a message of encouragement and hope in his usual inspirational way.

a man, dressed in green vestments, preaching from an old wooden pulpitAgain this year, our Old Heritage Church was painstakingly prepared for the regular summer Eucharist service on July 20th. We look forward to greeting the many visitors, as well as the local residents, who join us in celebration of this annual summer worship.

Then, just like a fleeting moment, the fall season is catching up with us, and with it regular activities are prepared and will be embraced.

“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might. For man does not know his time.”

—Ecclesiastes 9:10, 12