Love Casts Out Fear | All Saints Episcopal Church

Dear Saints,

Sometimes the world can feel like a scary place.

This last week, with the anniversary of the attacks on the U.S. Capital, images of LA burning, and the announcement that Meta plans to end its fact-checking program, there are good reasons to be concerned, even afraid.

It’s okay to be afraid. And also, our faith reminds us that fear is not where we are meant to take up residence. Jesus tells us to abide in his love. The Apostle Paul tells us that love casts out fear.

Love is our true home.

To the extent we find ourselves anxious or afraid, we are called to invest ourselves even more in our love. Love in every interaction. Love in the way we show up in the world. Love as the place we find our center.

Love is not a platitude. It is a powerful response. As the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

This Sunday in our services, we will explore themes of divine love and belonging through the story of Jesus’ baptism. The following Sunday we hold special services remembering the life and ministry of Martin Luther King. And the last Sunday of the month is our Annual Meeting and parish lunch. I hope you can participate in some of these wonderful opportunities for increasing love through community.

In peace,

Andria+

Tags: Weekly Rector's Note

Welcome to All Saints – we are a community desiring to transform our lives through following Christ’s healing example of gentleness, humility, compassion, forgiveness, and peace toward all. If you are visiting Portland or if you are looking for a church home with an active intergenerational community, All Saints is a church where you will find a place of quiet reflection, or joyous celebration and fellowship. No matter where you are on your journey of faith, you will find there is a place for you here—just come as you are.

The Rev. Andria Skornik, Rector

The purpose of All Saints Church is to celebrate God’s love, to seek and to serve Christ in all persons, and to go forth into the world rejoicing in the power of the Spirit. Your presence is a blessing regardless of your background, sexual orientation, gender identity, race or ethnicity, age or family structure, abilities or limitations or wherever you are in life’s journey.

All Saints Episcopal Church is a Believe Out Loud Congregation. Click here this link for more information.

Our 8:00 A.M. Holy Communion, Rite 1 Service, held in the Chapel, is our most traditional service. All are welcome. Our 10:15 A.M. Holy Communion, Rite II Service, held in the Sanctuary, includes a Sermon, Readings, and Hymns. You can participate In-Person or in the Live Premiere on our Facebook page or watch on our website. The current bulletin and service can always be found in the Online Worship section of our website. All are welcome.

Here are four ways to give to All Saints Episcopal Church. We sincerely appreciate your generosity in support of All Saints, and together, we will continue to do God’s amazing work.

Give through the Donate Now button below.
Text dollar amount to 503-843-8279
You can have your Banking Institution issue a check sent directly to All Saints.
Mail a check to the Church Office at 4033 SE Woodstock Blvd Portland, OR 97202.

If you would like to make a Pledge to help support All Saints Episcopal Church for 2025, click on the Make a Pledge Button below.

Donate Now Make a Pledge