“Someday, you will have something very important to say, and the world will listen,” my Dad said. I gazed quietly out the window of his Volkswagen camper van as it slowly carried us down the mountain. My brothers, sprawled across the plaid banquette seats, were busy reading comic books on the table between them. I recall Teddy’s auburn hair glinting in the sunlight and the pleasant sound of Nicky’s encouraging comments on our brother’s newfound reading skills. We were 12, 8, and 4.
Dad had established a free legal aid clinic to serve the Western Band of the Cherokee, and we joined him there for a summer visit. After spending the night at a campsite in the national park, where we had feasted on a supper of Ruffles and Daddy-burgers, we set out to make a home visit to one of his clients who was unaccustomed to using the telephone.
My brothers and I spent the morning hunting for arrowheads in the pine straw that covered the forest floor while Dad and his client sat conversing on the cabin’s front porch. Later, we visited the legal clinic so Dad could do some paperwork. The clinic was housed in a trailer that sat in a shady grove of pines. A young lawyer named Bill, who had a ponytail and wore Earth shoes, entertained us by playing country music on a portable radio and offered us Bazooka bubblegum.
Memories of this summer day came to mind last month following Dad’s passing in August. I was inspired to write them down today with the hope that they will illustrate the “very important thing” that Dad predicted I would say to the world.
As Episcopalians, we believe that the Holy Spirit is present among us in the small moments of our daily lives. The rhythm created by mealtimes, trips to the library, yardwork, birthday parties, homework on the kitchen table, and visiting the grandparents is a pattern where God’s love flourishes. You are already doing God’s holy work by simply loving and caring for your family. Whether you are at church every Sunday or every Easter; whether you arrive early or rush in late with coffee spilled on your shirt; whether your child quietly dozes or loudly crunches Cheetos through the sermon; or whether you stay home on a Sunday to make pancakes and wear your pajamas all day; God thinks you are AMAZING, and so do I!
While growing up in the Episcopal Church in the Diocese of North Carolina, I came to value the comfort of its consistency and the beauty of its language. The familiar hymns, gracious people, and scent of candlewax and wood polish gave my brothers and me a warm and rich environment. Later, as a prep school student in New England, memories of quintessentially Southern Sundays brought me inner strength and stability. Life in the Episcopal church grounded me and prepared me for independence and success. As director of children and family ministries at Calvary, I strive to provide a similar foundation for your children and give back to the church I love by creating a safe place to explore and celebrate the Christian faith. Please know my door is always open, and I am here to support you!
What a great piece! Your father sounds wonderful, and your descriptions of your time in the camper and in the woods made me feel like I was there.
And I certainly agree with your message. It is the small moments in our daily lives where the Holy Spirit is most present. Thanks for being part of the rhythm you described.
Beau,
What a wonderful first comment to receive! It’s an honor to know that you felt transported when reading my reminiscence from 50 years ago. Looking forward to seeking the holy together as we continue in community at Calvary!
Your friend,
Jocelyn
Thanks for sharing a bit of your life history. What a lovely, meaningful vision of your family and your childhood.
Glad to be your neighbor!
Dear Scott,
Thank you so much for your comment. I truly appreciate the connection. I am humbled that you found beauty and meaning in my childhood vignette. How reassuring it is to consider God at work in our daily lives!
Your friend,
Jocelyn
Thank you for your kind and supporting words. I love being an Episcopalian!!
Dear Mary,
You are very welcome, and I thank you for your reply! I am thankful to partner with you as we strive to connect with those who enter our doors. As the old saying goes, “The Episcopal Church Welcomes You.” What a clear, powerful message! Thank you for helping all who come among us to feel warm, welcome, and fed.
Your friend,
Jocelyn
A delightful memory and a remembrance of sweet times that speak to a child’s need to treasure the small moments that bring meaning to everyday life as age comes upon us…travel, giving and receiving, caring for others and dreaming of someday leading a life dedicated to being a good person.
Dear Mom,
Thank you for the comment, and for your unique perspective on this particular story! I am happy that you found it delightful. We three children had great adventures with Dad on those trips.
and YOU are amazing, Jocelyn!
Kristin,
What a kind thing to say! Thank you, friend. All of Calvary is inspired by the wonderful music you create and the way it enriches our worship. The bustle and joy of your little choristers on Wednesday evenings warms my heart. I have read that “singing is praying twice!”
Jocelyn
What a wonderful memory to share with all of us, Jocelyn. I enjoyed reading it so much.
Dear Clay,
Your enjoyment means so much. Thank you for reading and caring, and for your work as an usher, shepherding the families who visit us on Sunday mornings!
Your friend,
Jocelyn
Thank you Jocelyn, for your precious childhood memory. I am one of 8 children my parents raised. When we get together we love remembering our childhood. Precious memories…how they touch my soul!
You touched my soul today❤️
Dear Linda,
What wonderful comments to receive! I’m happy that you related to my reflection. How blessed you are to have a large family and a wealth of good memories!
Thank you for your kind words.
Jocelyn
Oh, Jocelyn! Thank you for sharing these special childhood memories, and for the beautiful images you’ve painted of time with your brothers and father. A flood of my childhood moments rushed through my head as I read of yours. And I absolutely identify with your “Why I Love Being An Episcopalian” list! There are so many seemingly little things that come together to create the warmth and the tradition that make up both the Episcopal Church as a whole, and Calvary as our church home. Thank you for this very special offering.
Dear Madge,
I am very touched that my post rang true for you! Thank you for your kind comments. I imagine we have many similar experiences and joys. How much a life in the church can mean! I spend my time creating space for children and families to experience our Episcopal faith because a life in the church is one of inclusivity and graciousness.
Your friend,
Jocelyn
What a legacy he left you. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Dear Bill,
Thank you for the kind words! Looking forward to continuing our shared ministry together in children and youth formation.
Jocelyn
I love this. Thank you Jocelyn!
Jocelyn- thanks for sharing your special memories. And thanks for the work you do at Calvary. Mary