Category Archives: compassion

Shepherd to shepherd.

Posted on December 27, 2023 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

This sermon was offered on Christmas Eve night (2023) by the Rev. Canon Beth Tjoflat at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Jacksonville, FL. Readings: Isaiah 9:2-7; Titus 2:11-14; Luke 2:1-20; Psalm 96) May I speak in the name of God,Father, Son … Continue reading →

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Mary.

Posted on December 26, 2023 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

The following is a sermon preached by seminarian Catherine Montgomery, postulant for holy orders, at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church,Jacksonville, FL, on Sunday morning, Dec. 24, 2023. On the fourth Sunday of Advent, we have one more opportunity to soak in … Continue reading →

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Getting on board.

Posted on December 10, 2023 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

Isaiah 40:1-112 Peter 3:8-15aMark 1:1-8Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 This sermon was preached on the Second Sunday of Advent, Dec. 10, 2023, by the Rev. Canon Beth Tjoflat at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Jacksonville, FL. May I speak in the name of … Continue reading →

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“It is finished.”

Posted on April 8, 2023 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

“It is finished.”Jesus speaks these words.Bows his head.Gives up his spirit. It is finished. Those words must have been confusing to hear.Terrifying for his few followers,close enough to hear, or for thosewho soon would learn of this tragic outcome. It … Continue reading →

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We must do better.

Posted on October 27, 2022 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

Recently I spent several hours in a pediatric Emergency Department waiting room, seeking care for my son.  Many things struck me as I reflected on that evening, but one thing stayed with me: the crowded waiting room included many young … Continue reading →

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A gentle giant.

Posted on August 12, 2022 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory, Dear One.  This dear saint –The Rt. Rev. Charles Lovett Keyser — served as the fourth Bishop Suffragan for the Armed Forces and, upon retirement, served generously in the Episcopal Diocese of Florida. … Continue reading →

Posted in Baptism, Christianity, community, compassion, Diocese of Florida, Episcopal church, faith, Grace, holy, Interfaith, love, reconciliation | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Perspective.

Posted on August 5, 2022 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

Sometimes, when we are in the thick of a struggle or crisis, we lose perspective. That is perfectly normal.  When we are able, stepping back can help us find new eyes to see.  This can be a great gift of … Continue reading →

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Words matter.

Posted on February 16, 2022 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

After the Christmas break, my son began attending a new elementary school. The decision to move was not made lightly but transitions can be challenging.  As we moved through the first few weeks, I prayed a lot and there were … Continue reading →

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There is only now.

Posted on May 30, 2021 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

This sermon was offered on Sunday, May 30, 2021 — Trinity SundaySt. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Jacksonville, FL Isaiah 6:1-8Romans 8:12-17John 3:1-17Psalm 29 In the name of God, Father Son and Holy Spirit. Amen. “There is almost no such thing as … Continue reading →

Posted in 12-step spirituality, Christianity, community, compassion, Diocese of Florida, Episcopal church, faith, Grace, holy, love, reconciliation, Recovery, unity, urban ministry | Tagged | 1 Comment

Strength beyond our strength.

Posted on May 31, 2020 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

  The following sermon was offered at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Jacksonville, Fl, on the Day of Pentecost, Sunday, May 31, 2020, by The Rev. Canon Beth Tjoflat. Numbers 11:24-30 Psalm 104:25-35, 37 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13 John 20:19-23 +++++++++++ May … Continue reading →

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