The reading of Holy Scripture reminds us of the historical and contemporary relationship we have with God. A Gospel Book, Evangelion, or Book of the Gospels (Greek: Εὐαγγέλιον, Evangélion) is a codex or bound volume containing one or more of the four Gospels of the Christian New Testament, centering on the life of Jesus of Nazareth and the roots of the Christian faith, and it is an important part of our worship.
From ancient times the gospels have been collected in a large book with an ornate cover, often illustrated and adorned with icons and jewels. In the Middle Ages, the production of copies of the Bible in its entirety was rare because of the huge expense of the parchment required. Individual books or collections of books were produced for specific purposes. From the 4th century, Gospel Books were produced for liturgical use as well as private study and as “display books” for ceremonial and ornamental purposes. The Second Council of Nicaea in 787 decreed that icons, crosses, and gospel books may be venerated as sacred images, just as the incarnate Christ is the image of the invisible God. This practice was recovered with the 1979 Book of Common Prayer (BCP), which suggests that the lessons and gospel “be read from a book or books of appropriate size and dignity” (BCP, p. 406). Following this advice, several publishers have produced gospel books for use in the Episcopal Church.
The Gospel book at St. Thomas’s is often clad in gorgeous decorative fabrics. And this week will be no exception. Martha H. and Sue H. have worked together to reuse an older tapestry with amazing embroidery, golden ribbon details and plush blue velvet, that had been damaged by water. Together, they have designed this book cover, and multiple other altar pieces. You will get to see these beauties as we progress into Ordinary time.
As I was admiring the newly sewn book cover, I noticed the brass stand on which it sits. It is also a special piece, and looking closely, you can see an inscription. Now, this piece is quite old, and has been lovingly polished countless times so the text is a bit worn. What I can make out is, “To the Glory of God, and in loving memory of W.A. Hopkins, 1844-1898. Presented to St Thomas’ Parish by his wife, Easter 1902.”
Wow; 119 years ago! I haven’t been able to find any history on W.A. Hopkins, but I invite anyone to share what they know or can find. Isn’t it awesome to be a part of a church with such history!
We treat these special objects with much care and respect because they help us connect to God: everything that helps us connect to God is worthy of respect. Appreciating these special historical glimpses of our parish renews our awareness that we are part of something much greater, not just globally, but historically. We are reminded that our parents, and grandparents, and ancestors are in communion with us through communion with God in worship, and that communion will continue from here to eternity. We warmly welcome everyone to be part of this great heritage of faith and love, because God loves us ALL.
Written by Cana Hartman, Parish Administrator
StThomassOffice@googlegroups.com or (302) 368-4644