One of the best parts of this trip has been visiting the small churches around the land.  Today was our second service at St. Anthony of the Desert.  It's an older congregation (after all, this is an older corner of Southern California!), but they still sing energetically, read the lessons with strength and conviction, and share the biddings in the Prayers of the People.

Everyone knows everyone in a small church, and the prayers are about people who are important to each other.  Last week we prayed for a wonderful therapy dog who was lost stolen or strayed.  This week we gave thanks that she was found (in some stranger's car!).

The most comforting aspect about all the churches is the familiarity of the beautiful Episcopal Eucharist services.  In some churches, the service is printed out in the bulletins, but in some places the prayer book is still used.

Some churches use the prayer book Great Thanksgivings, and a few use the Enriching Our Worship prayers.  But wherever we are, the rhythm is the same, the words familiar, and the sermons full of energy.

I miss my own church, but it has been a good experience.  I am hoping when we get settled in Port Isabel for the winter, I can help at the altar.  I realized today just how much I miss being the celebrant.

Today special prayers and blessings were said for the presents the congregation gathered for a local orphanage.  There was a huge pile of gifts under a small Christmas tree.  Considering this is a congregation of around 50 people, the stack of presents was impressive.

I don't know where we will have our Christmas Holy Communion, but I'm sure it will be joyful and moving.  I hope your Christmas will be, too.