Fr. Lonnie reflected on St. Paul's words in Romans, emphasizing that while nothing can separate us from God's love, Paul also grieved the divisions between Jewish believers and those who did not recognize Jesus as the Messiah. He reminded the congregation that Christianity is deeply rooted in God's covenant with Israel and that our faith is not a replacement for that story but a continuation into which we have been graciously grafted. Just as we have inherited the faith from generations before us, we have also inherited the life and ministry of St. John's, with all its traditions, joys, and challenges. Rather than claiming ownership, we are called to receive this gift with gratitude, faithfully tend it for a season, and pass it on so that future generations may experience "deep roots, true belonging, and abundant grace."