This morning at St Alban’s Anglican Church in Richmond, something truly special unfolded. We gathered to celebrate Holy Cross Day, a moment in the church calendar that invites us to reflect on the mystery and meaning of the cross. We also welcomed a new member into the Body of Christ through adult baptism—a powerful act of faith and transformation.

It was only my second Sunday as rector, and already I’m seeing signs of new life. Several new and younger people joined us today, bringing energy and curiosity that enriched our worship. Whether you’ve been part of a church for years or are just beginning to explore faith, St Alban’s is a place where tradition meets renewal, and where everyone is welcome.

Our sermon theme was The Foolish Power That Saves Us, drawn from John 3 and 1 Corinthians 1. We explored the paradox of the cross—how something that looks like weakness to the world is, in fact, the power of God. Paul writes, “The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”

We shared the story of Mary Reed, a missionary who chose to live among leprosy patients in the Himalayas. Her life was marked by humility, sacrifice, and love—the kind of holy foolishness that mirrors the cross. She wasn’t seeking recognition. She was living the Gospel.

In baptism today, we saw that same foolish power at work. To the world, it may look quaint. But to us, it is everything. It is death and resurrection. It is belonging. It is grace.

St Alban’s may not be flashy, but we are faithful. We are a community marked by the cross, renewed in the water, and committed to walking the way of Christ together. We believe in resurrection, even when the world says decline is inevitable. And we believe that small churches and ordinary people are exactly who God loves to work with.

If you and your friends and family members are looking for a church where faith is lived with sincerity, where tradition is honored but not rigid, and where newcomers are truly welcomed, St Alban’s Anglican Church might be just the place for you.

We gather every Sunday at 8:30 am or 10:00 am to worship, pray, and grow together.Whether you’re exploring faith for the first time or returning after a long journey, there’s room for you here.

Come and see what God is doing among us.