The Churches in our area hold a monthly ecumenical gathering. We rarely if ever foray into theological or polity issues. We come together, pray, eat, and discuss general ministerial issues we commonly face.

We also love to learn from each other. When I was receiving the minor orders everyone was interested in the how and why of the process. When one of our members faces a problem, we support each other with prayer and in other ways. We also hold an annual Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service.

Yesterday’s event was held at St. Peter’s Armenian Apostolic Church. The first gathering I ever went to was held there and Fr. Stepanos as well as all the members there always make us feel so welcome. They put on a tremendous Lenten feast of Armenian food and desserts.

What really resonated with me was the way we began.

We begin each gathering in prayer. We use the format suggested by the host pastor. When my parish hosted the event we did the Liturgy of the Hours.

Well, Fr. Stepanos always pulls out all the stops. We were, as it was my first time there, immersed in Armenian Liturgy. We prayed and chanted in Armenian. At the very beginning Fr. Stepanos said to us, —When we pray we face the Altar and the East.— or words to that affect. We all turned and prayed.

I was bowled over. No, ‘well let’s accommodate everyone’. No theologizing liturgical posture. Rather, he remained faithful to the Liturgy. We faced God and prayed. The words of the Ascription and the following prayers were powerful as well. No gender neutrality or political correctness required.

I especially liked:

Lord God, help the Christian leaders, faithful rulers, their armies and peoples, and keep them in peace. Amen.

…and

By the sign of your holy and precious cross protect us against the visible and invisible enemy, in our places and homes. Amen.

So after prayer, discussion, and a boat load of hummus, the best tabbouleh I ever had, and pita, along with many other wonderful dishes, I just need to say thank you, and God bless your ministry Fr. Stepanos.