~About St Clement's~
Ordinary Time
Sixteenth Sunday after Trinity
Brothers and sisters,
This week we hear again Jesus' parable of the workers in the vineyard. In short, a vineyard owner hires workers to bring in his harvest. Some are hired to start work at the beginning of the day, whilst others are not hired until the very last hour. When it comes to paying the workers their wages the vineyard owner pays them all the same wage, regardless of the number of hours they have worked and the conditions under which they laboured. Some of the workers complained.
On the face of it this seems unjust. However, it is only an injustice if we presume that the object of the workers' desires, and thus their motivation for working, was their own reward (i.e. the money). But what if the object of the workers' desires was solely to see the harvest brought in? That would be a very different ending to this parable.
When we are asked to help a friend or loved one move house we do not count the hours we have worked, nor do we demand a reward. Certainly, we do not despise those who, for whatever reason, were only able to join the effort later in the day.
The Church is a family. We are children of God and willing servants of the gospel. Some of us are called and respond to our calling to this ministry earlier in life than others. Some of us are called to minister in locations the world might deem less or more desirable than others. Whatever and whenever, we are all called to work in God's mission field to bring in the harvest. What matters is that the work is done, and that together we all delight in a job well done.
Every blessing,
Fr Myles
Rector
For our weekly newsletter for The Sixteenth Sunday after Trinity please click here, and for the Scripture Readings click here.
THE COMMUNITY OF LEIGH
St. Clement's Church, located in Leigh-on-Sea, is a place where everyone is welcome, and we invite you to be part of our vibrant community centered around tradition, charity, family and cultural engagement.
St. Clement's Church, situated in the charming town of Leigh-on-Sea, stands as a beacon of tradition and community spirit. Maintaining the long continuity of tradition into the future; we have many young families and a vibrant Sunday School during Parish Mass.
At St. Clement's Church, we embrace the joy and sacredness of marriage, offering a picturesque setting for your special day in Leigh-on-Sea. Whether you are a practicing Christian or not, we are here to guide you on the path to holy matrimony.
There’s always something happening at St Clement’s! Whether you’re a parent, a creative soul, or just looking for good company and conversation, our regular events bring people together with a warm welcome. Click the link to discover more!
