Two-Course Meal

May 25

I suppose a full-course meal sometimes comes in three courses: appetizer, main course, and dessert. Often we put out a single item or a combination in a single course. We keep it simple and simple can be good. A common two-course meal is soup and salad, or soup and sandwich.

The best “two-course meal” is a spiritual one: The Holy Eucharist. Think of it as a sacred meal of two courses. The Ministry of the Word is first; The Holy Communion is second. In a way, they correspond to each other.

The first course hinges on Scripture, Creed, and prayer. We process it with our whole brain, but perhaps mainly in the “left brain.” It offers story, teaching, and discovery. This is the aural Word of God coming to us. The second-course hinges on encounter, movement, and reception. It is the Word of God, experienced. It involves thanksgiving for the saving work of Christ and receiving the bread and wine as his Body and Blood. Sacred drama can fire up the “right brain.”

So, when you come to The Holy Eucharist this Sunday, fully relish both courses. Take in the ancient sacred story made new for you in the present. It is your story. Take in the presence of Christ as you rise from your seat, make your way to the altar, and reach out for nourishment in God’s gift of Self.

Rev. David Price

Fr. Price joined St. Francis as Assistant Rector in September 2016. He says, “I am eager to be part of St. Francis’ efforts to work, pray, and give.” Fr. Price just completed a 10 year pastorate as Rector of Grace Church, Alvin and celebrated his 32nd anniversary of ordained ministry. Originally from Tucson, Arizona, a graduate of the University of Arizona, he completed his theological training at the Seminary of the Southwest in Austin in 1984. He served on parish staffs in Midland, Lubbock, and Palestine, before becoming Rector of St. Mark's Episcopal Church and School, Houston in 1994.

Fr. Price loves the variety of parish ministry: learning, worshiping, serving, and discovering things in small group fellowship. He recognizes the strength and health of St. Francis Church. He is convinced that in parish work, “God draws people in, builds them up and sends them out to be ambassadors of reconciliation in the world”. He has been married to Jennifer for 35 years. Jennifer, a cardiac nurse, works at CHI St. Luke's Health in the Medical Center. They are proud parents of three adult children: daughters, Emily Hatzel and Hannah Loyd, and son, Andrew Price. They are excited that they recently became grandparents. Fr. Price and Jennifer are both interested in improving their personal health through nutrition and physical activity. He has finished several marathons, half-marathons and triathlons in the last few years.

Two-Course Meal

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Just what the Savior Ordered