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  • This is a recording of the sermon delivered by Rev. Kristen Hawley at St. David's Episcopal Church on Sunday, April 27th, the Second Sunday of Easter. Rev. Hawley underscores the ongoing celebration of Easter, emphasizing the importance of maintaining joy and the discipline of feasting throughout the 50-day season. She critiques the church's label of 'Low Sunday' and discusses the tendency to focus on doubt through the story of Doubting Thomas. Rev. Hawley draws parallels between the fear-filled experiences of the disciples post-resurrection and the communal anxiety felt during Covid-19, encouraging listeners to embrace joy, engagement, and the breath of peace that comes with resurrection. She challenges congregants to practice joy continuously, even in difficult times, fostering a culture of resurrection and connection.

    00:00 Introduction and Easter Greetings

    00:41 The Significance of the 50-Day Feast

    01:54 The Challenge of Sustaining Joy

    02:55 Low Sunday and Doubting Thomas

    05:20 Reflecting on COVID-19 and Fear

    08:45 Resurrection and the Gift of Peace

    11:28 Practicing Joy and Resurrection

    13:31 Conclusion and Encouragement



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  • This is a recording from the sermon preached at St. David's Episcopal Church on Sunday, April 20th, 2025, on Easter Sunday. In this sermon, Rev. Kristen Hawley recalls the Gospel story of the women discovering the empty tomb and encountering angels in dazzling clothes. Amidst themes of grief and joy, Rev. Hawley underscores the unexpected nature of Easter, emphasizing that it defies cynicism and grief, and instead brings astonishing joy and resurrection. The sermon reflects on the importance of recognizing and practicing joy as a discipline, encouraging congregants to embrace the 50-day Easter season as a time for continuous celebration and recognition of God's enduring presence and love.

    00:00 Welcome to Easter Morning at St. David's

    00:42 The Women at the Tomb: A Story of Grief and Astonishment

    02:26 The Dazzling Light and the Idle Tale

    06:05 The Feast of Joy: From Good Friday to Easter

    09:15 The Practice of Feasting and Joy

    11:02 The Invitation to Rejoice Continues



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  • This sermon from Saturday, April 19th, during the Easter Vigil, is delivered by Rev. Jordan Rippy. Rev. Rippy takes congregants on a liturgical journey from the solemn moments of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday to the celebratory joy of the Resurrection. Highlighting the transformation of sorrow into hope, Rev. Rippy recounts the experiences of Mary, Joanna, and other women at the empty tomb, emphasizing the power of resurrection to break open what is closed and make space for something new. The sermon concludes with a powerful message of commissioning, reminding the congregation that they are bearers of this resurrected light, called to bring hope and life where despair once resided.

    00:00 Opening Remarks and Welcome

    00:18 Reflecting on the Triduum

    01:16 Good Friday and Holy Saturday

    02:12 The Resurrection Story

    03:14 The Women at the Tomb

    04:00 The Impact of Resurrection

    06:25 A New Creation and Commissioning

    07:36 Carrying the Light Forward

    08:19 Conclusion and Celebration



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  • On Good Friday, April 18th, Rev. Jim Quigley delivers a poignant sermon on the works of RS Thomas, an Anglican priest and poet whose writings frequently explore the presence of God through His perceived absence. Quigley delves into Thomas' concept of 'via negativa,' where God's presence is felt in His absence, and how this challenges and enriches the spiritual journey. Drawing parallels with the critiques of piety and theology from figures like Rowan Williams, the sermon invites congregants to embrace the darkness of 'the dark night of the soul' as a path to deeper faith. Through passionate reflections and the vivid metaphor of Christ's suffering, Quigley calls for an intimate, unmediated relationship with the divine, urging listeners to find holiness and love in the mystery and silence of God.

    00:00 Opening Invocation

    00:14 Introduction to RS Thomas

    00:37 Themes in Thomas's Poetry

    00:57 Thomas's Influence and Recognition

    03:35 The Hidden God and Negative Theology

    04:26 Thomas's Imagery and Personal Reflections

    05:36 Language and Landscape in Thomas's Work

    06:16 Thomas's Uncompromising Portrayal of Grief

    07:16 The Empty Church 08:16 Rowan Williams on Faith and Doubt

    10:03 The Dark Night of the Spirit

    14:46 The Coming and Christian Belief

    16:29 Conclusion and Final Reflections



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  • Seminarian Daniel Bentley delivers a poignant sermon on Maundy Thursday, reflecting on the events in the upper room where Jesus shared his final meal with his disciples. The sermon highlights the institution of the Eucharist and the deep symbolism of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples, a radical act of service and humility. Bentley emphasizes the brokenness of the world and individuals, and how Jesus meets us in that brokenness, using biblical accounts from John and Paul to illustrate these themes. Congregants are encouraged to embrace their imperfections, allowing Christ's broken body to make them whole and let grace shine through.

    00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene

    00:17 The Last Supper: A Solemn Feast

    00:50 Transition to Darkness and Betrayal

    02:14 The Commandment of Love

    02:57 The Radical Act of Foot Washing

    04:39 The Banquet of the Victim

    05:27 Brokenness and Redemption

    07:16 The Imperfect Symbol of the Eucharist 08:00 Conclusion and Final Blessing



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  • This recording is from the sermon preached by Rev. Jim Quigley at St. David's Episcopal Church on Sunday, April 13th, Palm Sunday. In his sermon, Rev. Quigley reflects on the Passion narrative and the holy work of believers between Palm Sunday and Easter. He emphasizes the importance of not taking the resurrection for granted and encourages the congregation to embrace vulnerability, risk, and transformation. The sermon urges believers to stand with Jesus, confront their contradictions, and strive for personal spiritual renewal. By accepting and acknowledging where they are, congregants are called to seek greater clarity, truthfulness, and purpose in their faith journey. Rev. Quigley concludes with a prayer for the courage to be judged and loved by Jesus, reinforcing the theme of experiencing the cross to deepen one's relationship with God.

    00:00 Introduction and Reflection Setup

    01:10 The Holy Work Between Palm Sunday and Easter

    02:48 Believing in Jesus: Embracing Vulnerability and Mortality

    05:25 Personal Transformation and Acceptance

    08:14 Finding True Joy Amidst Fear

    10:09 Standing with Jesus: The Experience of the Cross

    13:45 Conclusion and Prayer



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  • This is a recording from the sermon preached by the Right Reverend Mariann Budde, Bishop of Washington, at St. David's Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C. on Sunday, April 6th, 2023, the Fifth Sunday in Lent. In this sermon, Bishop Budde explores the evolving relationship between God and humanity through personal anecdotes and scriptural references. She emphasizes God's continual initiative in seeking a relationship with human beings and highlights how Jesus' interactions with his disciples reflect deep mutuality and heartfelt connection. The sermon encourages congregants to cherish their relationships and to ponder what it means to be a friend of Jesus, not just a follower.

    00:00 Opening Blessing and Introduction

    00:53 Admiration for St. David's and Its Leadership

    01:32 Exploring the Congregation's Online Presence

    02:39 God's Initiative and Relationship with Humanity

    04:09 Personal Story: High School Commencement

    06:27 Mutuality in Relationships

    08:08 Jesus' Heartbreaking Words

    12:36 The Anointing at Bethany

    17:36 Cherishing Relationships and Final Reflections

    18:56 Concluding Thoughts on Friendship with Jesus



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  • This is a recording of the sermon preached by Rev. Jordan Rippy at St. David's Episcopal Church on Sunday, March 30th, the Fourth Sunday in Lent. In today's sermon, Rev. Rippy delves into the parable commonly known as 'The Prodigal Son,' exploring alternative titles and perspectives for this well-known story from the Gospel of Luke. Through an in-depth analysis, Rev. Rippy highlights the roles of both the younger and older sons, but ultimately focuses on the compassionate and unyielding love of the father. Emphasizing themes of reunion, mercy, and the sacrifices required for grace, Rev. Rippy encourages listeners to consider the cost of pride and the power of a welcoming heart, as exemplified by the father who relentlessly seeks to bring his children back into the fold.

    00:00 Introduction and Opening Prayer

    00:28 Reimagining the Prodigal Son

    02:23 The Younger Son's Return

    04:00 The Father's Unconditional Love

    07:08 The Older Brother's Resentment

    08:51 The True Heart of the Story

    09:50 Conclusion and Reflection



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    This is a recording from the sermon preached by seminarian Daniel Bentley at St. David's Episcopal Church on Sunday, March 23rd, 2023, the third Sunday after Lent. In this sermon, Daniel Bentley addresses the human need to find meaning in tragedy, countering the notion that suffering is indicative of divine punishment. Using examples from recent history and scripture, Bentley explores Jesus' teachings on repentance and the importance of returning to God. Through the stories of Moses and the parable of the fig tree, Bentley emphasizes God's initiative to bring people back and the severe, yet loving call to repentance that is central to the Lenten season.

    00:00 Introduction: Uncomfortable Gospel Lesson

    00:17 Finding Meaning in Tragedy

    02:24 Jesus' Severe Words on Repentance

    04:44 The True Meaning of Repentance

    06:03 Personal Reflection on Needing God

    07:30 God's Initiative to Bring Us Back

    08:01 Moses' Calling and the Parable of the Fig Tree

    10:19 Conclusion: God's Love and Redemption



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  • Listen to the audio here or on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

    In this sermon preached by Rev. Jordan Rippy at St. David's Episcopal Church on Sunday, March 16th, the Second Sunday in Lent, Rev. Rippy invites the congregation to explore their deepest desires and reflect on their spiritual significance. Drawing from Psalm 27 and the stories of Herod and Jesus, she examines the nature of human desires and the concept of 'disordered desires' as discussed in Ignatian spirituality. Through the story of Saint Ignatius and an anecdote about an elderly Cherokee warrior, Rev. Rippy illuminates the ongoing battle between good and evil desires within us. She challenges listeners to discern and align their desires with God's will, urging them to feed virtues such as generosity and trust over fear and pride. The sermon concludes with an invitation to embrace God's desire for us during the season of Lent.

    00:00 Opening Prayer and Introduction

    00:23 The Question of Desire

    01:05 Herod's and Jesus' Desires

    02:31 Ignatian Spirituality and Desire

    03:46 The Story of Ignatius

    05:39 The Cherokee Warrior's Tale

    07:15 The Battle of Desires

    08:35 Lenten Reflection and Conclusion



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  • This is a recording from the sermon preached at St. David's Episcopal Church on Sunday, March 9th, 2025, the first Sunday after Lent. In this sermon, Rev. Kristen Hawley explores the significance of the Great Litany and personal Lenten practices. Highlighting the metaphor of Jesus' journey into the wilderness and parallels to our own lives, Rev. Hawley urges congregants to reflect on their spiritual 'carry-on luggage'—their sense of belonging and identity in God. Through personal anecdotes and insightful commentary, the sermon encourages listeners to reconnect with their spiritual roots and navigate life's challenges with a steadfast sense of self and divine love.

    00:00 Introduction to Lent and the Great Litany

    01:52 A Personal Story of Travel and Love

    05:05 The True Meaning of Lent

    06:53 Jesus' Journey and Our Own

    10:18 A Poem for Reflection

    11:39 Conclusion: The Lenten Journey



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stdavidslittlethings.substack.com

    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stdavidsepiscopaldc.substack.com
  • This is a recording from the sermon preached at St. David's Episcopal Church on Sunday, March 2nd, the Last Sunday After Epiphany. In this sermon, Rev. Kristen Hawley engages the congregation with interactive storytelling about St. David's Day and explores the transition from the season of Epiphany to Lent. Through discussions of the biblical stories of Moses and Jesus, both experiencing moments of divine radiance, Rev. Hawley uses a disco ball as an analogy to illustrate how spending time with God equips us to shine our light.

    The message encourages listeners to embrace their inner light and let it shine brightly as they enter the season of Lent.

    00:00 Welcome and Introduction

    00:35 Celebrating St. David's Day

    04:36 Understanding Epiphany

    07:00 Transition to Lent

    08:23 The Stories of Moses and Jesus

    10:42 The Disco Ball Analogy

    12:37 Shining Our Light

    14:32 Conclusion and Encouragement



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stdavidslittlethings.substack.com

    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stdavidsepiscopaldc.substack.com
  • This sermon, delivered by Rev. Kristen Hawley at St. David's Episcopal Church on Sunday, February 23rd, the 7th Sunday After Epiphany, delves into the profound concept of love as illustrated in the Gospel. Emphasizing that 'without love, whatever we do is nothing,' Rev. Hawley challenges the congregation to transcend transactional love, advocating instead for unconditional love as taught by Jesus Christ. With references to biblical figures like Joseph and drawing from personal and contemporary examples, Rev. Hawley urges listeners to embrace a love that expects nothing in return, transforming relationships and reflecting true Christian teachings.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stdavidslittlethings.substack.com

    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stdavidsepiscopaldc.substack.com
  • This is a recording from the sermon preached at St. David's Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C. on Sunday, February 16th, 2025, on the Sixth Sunday After Epiphany.

    In this sermon, Seminarian Daniel Bentley speaks to the congregants at St. David's Episcopal Church. He delves into the importance of how we read and interpret the Bible within the Episcopal Church, emphasizing the need to move beyond binary thinking. Through personal anecdotes and scriptural analysis, Bentley explores the themes of trust and hope in Jeremiah, Psalms, and the New Testament. He challenges listeners to seek a nuanced understanding of God's word and to find hope as a tangible possession, transcending current circumstances and looking toward the eternal promise of resurrection.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stdavidslittlethings.substack.com

    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stdavidsepiscopaldc.substack.com
  • This is a recording from the sermon preached at St. David's Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C. on Sunday, February 9th, 2025, on the Fifth Sunday After Epiphany.

    In this sermon, Rev. Kristen Hawley reflects on the lessons found in a favorite hymn's final verse and the Gospel story of Simon Peter's miraculous catch of fish. Through storytelling and analogies, Rev. Hawley explores themes of struggle, astonishment, and compulsion within the Christian faith, encouraging the congregation to live into the dual realities of hardship and divine abundance. Ultimately, the message urges listeners to embrace both life's challenges and God's promises, compelling them to follow Christ passionately.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stdavidslittlethings.substack.com

    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stdavidsepiscopaldc.substack.com