St. Thomas Lutheran Church

Though nearing the end of the season, the hydrangeas on Sao Miguel Island in the Azores are still blooming here and there. Planted by hand, they flank the roads as well as delineate borders throughout the vineyards. In the parks, their vibrant blue and enormous blossoms extend an invitation to pause for a moment, rest and take it all in. During a visit at “The Bay of Silence” I did just that; pausing to rest for a moment while taking in the beautiful surroundings.​​​

Strong and steady as the world around it changes, the cross, however, remains the same; well worn but looming still as a focal point. Like the hydrangeas, it extends an invitation to pause and rest and take it all in. Naturally, that is exactly what I did.

In the midst of a constantly changing world, may you also find rest in the constancy of the cross of Christ, whose Spirit is still alive and at work all around and in us.​​

Blessings,

Pastor Wynemah +

​God’s creative force is very apparent here. So, it didn’t surprise me that one of our lodging places was on Rua do Espirito Santo (Holy Spirit Street). And furthermore, it sits on a site that dates back to the 17th century; once the Monastery of Alpendorada. Back then, it was the largest property in the parish and included several adjacent quintas, which have all undergone changes throughout the centuries. Even today the Holy Spirit is breathing new life into the old bricks and mortar that surround the modern accommodations we are enjoying.​

​The Rev.  Wynemah​ Hinlicky

Stat crux dum volvitu orbis is a Latin motto which means "The Cross is steady while the world turns".

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