In the evening, people started arriving early.  The Rt. Rev. Mark Beckwith, other diocesan clergy, clergy from other denominations, and the choir were ready for the procession at  5:30 PM.  The service of the Holy Eucharist began with the Hymn, “Alleluia, Sing to Jesus”.   The lighting ceremony from the liturgy of the Church of South India added a new flavor to the service.  As the candles were lit the choir and the congregation chanted, “The Light of Christ has come into the World”. 

The youth read the lessons for the evening with such clarity much to the delight of all who were present.  The Rev. Pamela Bakal preached a thought provoking sermon.  She pointed out that the temple is for all and that St. Paul’s and Resurrection modeled such an inclusive multicultural ministry.  She recalled the accomplishments of the Rev. Jacob David for the past 25 years.  She very fondly remembered her visit to India and her visit with the family of the Rev. Jacob David.   Her sermon packed with humor was touching, moving and inspiring.

Bishop Beckwith then enthusiastically invited all the people to communion and more 150 people received communion that evening.  The service concluded with a rededication of all the members of St. Paul’s & Resurrection to a continued ministry.

The service was followed by a meeting when two senior most members of the church. Martha Brinkman and Edith Hager spoke.  They shared their rich experience in the church recalling many activities they were a part of.  The Warden, Varghese David shared his experience in the congregation for the past 24 years and highlighted the pastoral and preaching ministry of Fr. David.  Rachel Koshy representing the women of the church, and Philip Koshy the youth spoke of the valuable experiences.   Vinu Varghese, one of the youth members, did an excellent job as Master of Ceremonies. 

There were many who represented many churches in the Tri-State area who came with their tributes. 

The choir sang a few songs of praise in Malayalam and English.  A fitting finale to the evening was the dinner that was served in Cosby Hall.  Fr. David thanked all the members for their love, generosity and support.

St. Pauls and Resurrection church choir performing “Rivers of Babylon” conducted by Jacob David. Dwight Morrow High School auditorium. NJ on June 24, 2007

John 2:13-22  – The Real Temple

The story of the cleansing of the Temple gives an image of Jesus that is totally different from what we have conjured up in our minds.  Do we see Jesus from that famous hymn “Gentle Jesus Meek and Mild”?  Would such a Jesus show such anger and disturb such traditionally established practices?  Why is he so angry?  Apparently, the merchants who sell animals for sacrifice and the money changers were doing service for worshippers though there was corruption in their dealings.

Here Jesus gives a new understanding of what real Temple is.  The True Temple, Jesus claims, will be raised in three days after destruction.  Here Jesus is doing far more than responding to the corruption he saw.   He is challenging the very system of the Temple itself, its religion, its authority and its worship.

Jesus is the fulfilment of the Temple.    Thousands and thousands of sacrifices had been offered in that temple for forgivenss of sins.  With Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice of himself there would be no more need for temple sacrifice.  Note that John has altered the reference to Pslam (69:9) past to future.  “Zeal for your house has consumed me to “Zeal for your house will consume me.”  Jesus knew he will be consumed- killed and crucified – out of his zeal for obedience to his Father.  Through death not only would Jesus cleanse the temple, he would replace it.  He would fulfil its purpose.  God’s purposes would be fulfilled in Jesus.