As a Regional Synod of New York, we call Classes and Consistories earthen vessels that hold God’s presence and bring God’s gifts to the world, so too, this very world and all that is above, around, and within it are earthen vessels – just as easily shattered, just as much in need of our loving attentiveness and support in our church communities. May our hands align with God’s in caressing and shaping these vessels and restoration of God’s Creation.