Seek, Nov/dec 2009

Volume 2, Number 4 November-December 2009

The Face of Mission at Advent

Our Garden Continues to Growby James Wagner Returning from Lui last Christmas, Fr. Dan Handschy, Rector of Church of the Advent, in Crestwood, described part of his experience there in words not found in the everyday Episcopal lexicon. Dan shared that he’d had a conversion experience.

For the Advent community, life began to change. Dan told the congregation that he expected that by the end of 2009 at least Father Dan Handschy (far left), Bishop Wayne 30% of the congregation would Smith (right), and clergy and people of Advent be involved in hands-on ministry beyond the people and walls of on Palm Sunday, blessing the garden plot. Advent. Dan’s enthusiasm for mission has been so contagious that by mid-2009, the 30% goal was met and continues to grow. Members are volunteering at Feed My People and Ronald McDonald House, serving as listening guests at a nursing home, and a variety of other individual mission endeavors.

vegetables and pickles made from the garden’s squash as well as over 510 pounds of fresh vegetables taken to Feed My People for distribution to their clients. Additionally, one of the garden’s sunflowers, with a visiting bumble bee, appears on Advent’s “Remembered in Prayer” cards that are sent to people who are prayed for at Sunday worship. Church of the Advent’s garden experiment has grown not only vegetables, but raised the congregation’s awareness of new ways of doing mission to the larger community. While the garden’s bounty is slowing as fall begins, consideration Image on Advent’s Remembered is being given to doubling the size of in Prayer cards next year’s garden. Perhaps a garden twice in size will result next year with Feed My People receiving $1,000 and half a ton of vegetables. And maybe 60% of the congregation will be involved in personal mission beyond the local church and congregation. Our garden continues to grow. Author James Wagner and photographers Jan McGrath and Bill Sanders are parishioners at the Episcopal Church of the Advent in Crestwood at 9373 Garber Road. www.advent-episcopal.org

Early on, a group of Adventers decided that one form of mission could be a church garden. The produce would be sold and the money donated to Feed My People, which Advent has long supported. Fresh vegetables not sold would be donated to the clients of Feed My People. Turning over the first shovel of soil.

The idea began to grow. A 15’ x 60’ plot was marked out, and $12 worth of seeds purchased. On Palm Sunday, Bishop George Wayne Smith blessed the ground and the gardeners went to work. The ground was tilled, the seeds were planted, and the garden began to grow. On May 17, Rogation Sunday, the Sixth Sunday of Easter, Fr.. Dan led a Rogation procession around the garden. Rogation is a tradition that began in Western Christendom in the fifth century and Rogation processions became common in the early summer when priests and the townsfolk walked the perimeter of the parish to ask God for blessings on the harvest.

Rogation Sunday

INSIDE:

At first there were peppers, followed by sunflowers, squash and tomatoes. By the end of September, the original $12 worth of seeds has grown into approximately $500 in sales of

This Practice of Mission-Bishop Wayne Smith pp. 2-3 Community Meal at the Red Door Church, p.4 Our Lives Were Changed Forever: Emmanuel Youth Mission to Guatemala, p. 5 Trinity, St. Charles and Bike for Bikes, p. 6 Befriending Women from the Bible, p. 6 Diocesan Convention Nominees, p. 7, Calendar, p. 8

The mature garden.

“Part of what was exciting about the garden this year is that it cost us essentially nothing in terms of dollars, but more in terms of time and talent. We gave of ourselves, and enjoyed the fruits of our efforts. Giving involves us in that web of reciprocal exchanges that gives us hope, gives us the assurance that we have a place in community, that we have something to add. Giving is a part of spiritual discipline to find what God wants us to be.” -Father Dan Handschy At last word from Advent, total yield from this year’s garden is over 650 pounds of food.

This Practice of Mission

-Wayne Smith

and the challenge—of journeying to Sudan. It is a long and expensive journey and living conditions there are physically demanding on Westerners. But it is well worth doing. Our friends and colleagues in Lui cherish the time we spend there with them, so much so that it is humbling. They had felt very much alone, forgotten, and cut off from Christian friendship during twentyone years of war (ending in 2005). They never fail to express gratitude to God that we have come to stand with them.

This November, two missioners from the Blackmore Vale Deanery in Salisbury, U.K., will join nine missioners from Missouri as we travel to Lui Diocese. We depart St. Louis the day after Diocesan Convention, and I am trying to remain calm in the face of countless details that a convention and a mission trip both require.

Whatever little bit of material aid we can contribute to development leverages great change for good. The wells we have helped to drill in Lui Diocese have increased the quality of life, increased it beyond my own ability to imagine. The Moru people (the name of the tribe living in Lui) are more than eager to learn—education having been nearly impossible during the war—and any expertise we might share is gratefully received. It needs not be profound expertise to make a difference, and education is a focus for our November trip.

The Diocese of Salisbury, in the Church of England, has been in relationship with the entire Episcopal Church of Sudan for thirty-six years. In fact, when Salisbury began a partnership with Sudan, there was a single diocese encompassing the whole country. Now there are twenty-eight dioceses in a rapidly growing Sudanese Church. Salisbury’s long experience with Sudan will no doubt enrich Missouri’s own partnership with Lui. There are nineteen deaneries in the Diocese of Salisbury; Blackmore Vale seeks to focus its own mission with Lui, where there is certainly enough work for everybody who wants to join in. Would that more of God’s people would join in! It is obvious to me that a third Anglican partner could strengthen the bonds of communion during a season when these bonds are under a lot of stress. It has been said that mission is to the life of the Church as flame is to the life of a fire. Without the flame, there is no fire. We cannot dissect one from the other. How would we describe a fire without a flame? So it is with Church and mission.

Is this Mississippi post Katrina? North St. Louis? the Bootheel? Lui?

The very practice of mission produces more energy than it consumes. This seems counter-intuitive but data show that churches engaged in mission have a more robust spirituality, are more engaged in worship, are more adept in welcoming new people, and are more likely to be in good health. This formula works for large churches and small, and it is quantifiable. Mission enhances spirituality and learning, which in turn enhance worship, which in turn makes the community both more authentic and inviting, which in turn gives the community the courage to engage in mission. Lui Diocese cannot be the only venue for the work of mission in our own Diocese. And let me be clear that only a few handfuls of Missourians will ever have the privilege—

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Is this Mississippi after Katrina? North St. Louis? the Bootheel? Lui? What does need look like in your neighborhood or across town?

The Episcopal Diocese of Missouri

Making Disciples • Building Congregations • For the Life of the World

November 22 through December 4, 2009 The exchange of Christian faith between two vastly different cultures helps both to hear the gospel more clearly. It always seems to me that Missourians are the greater beneficiaries in this economy of grace. It is clear to me that no one can go to Sudan without being changed. Every misBrothers in Christ, from the 2006 mission trip. sioner I have known makes this clear. But mission of any sort works the same way with us. Herein lies the great grace for the missioner, and for the church who engages in mission, it changes us. It transforms us. It converts us. And for this reason I yearn for every believer to have the chance for hands-on mission, far off or near—or both. The greater missional value for our partnership with Lui and, potentially, with Blackmore Vale, does not end with whatever good we might accomplish in Sudan. Such practice in mission will open our eyes to what is perhaps more difficult to see, the need and possibility for engaging in mission right here in Missouri. Are we so accustomed to what we see in our own neighborhoods that we fail to take notice? The work of mission for Missouri Episcopalians is not just in Lui. It is in Lui and St. Louis City. Or it is in Lui and in the Bootheel. Or it is in Lui and in the Ozarks. Or it is in Lui and in the locale of wherever you live and worship. Work that is far off and stark, but full of joy, can open our eyes to see possibilities at home—possibilities which may be stark but also brimming over with the likelihood of joy.

The Rt. Rev. George Wayne Smith Tenth Bishop of Missouri

Every mission trip to Lui is an unfolding blessing, emphasis on unfolding. There is much ongoing consultation between Bishop Bullen and his diocesan team with our mission team, our companion relationship committee, and Bishop Wayne. Long and impossible lists are drawn up of needs, long and short term. The mission team’s agenda is influenced by the current situation on the ground, and that can change in a heartbeat. A call goes out for the next mission team and a new blessing of talents arrive to flesh out the work of the next visit. Ideas are exchanged in emails and phone calls. They help organize the team’s agenda—but the work really commences face to face during the trip. From the list of needs identified by Bishop Bullen are pastoral and management conferences for the clergy and lay leadership of Lui Diocese. Bishop Wayne and the Rev. Dan Handschy, Rector of Advent, will be the main pastoral presenters. The two missioners joining the trip from Blackmore Vale, Anne Powell and Warren Ingham-Barrow, will be the main management presenters. The Rev. Anne Kelsey, Rector of Trinity-CWE leads a most ambitious project, the children’s art project (profiled in last edition of Seek). First time travelers to Lui Evelyn Smith, parishioner at Christ Church Cathedral and primary school teacher, and Sam Christy, parishioner at Holy Cross-Poplar Bluff and retired school principal, will support Kelsey’s work with primary school teachers at each art project site (Kedibah, Wandi, Mideh, Buwagyi, and the Lui-Lunjini school). In addition to documenting this trip photographically, Marc Vanacht, parishioner at St. Tim’s-Creve Coeur and international agriculture consultant, will be talking “ag” in each location. He has been in deep conversation with Robin Denney, the Episcopal Church missioner in Sudan. She is an agriculturist and is planning to visit Lui while the missioners are there to consult along with Vanacht. Marc is taking provincially applicable ideas for Lui and for the South in general, as well as ag equipment Denney has requested. Another large project and conversation will center around ideas from the returning nurses, Deb Goldfeder, parishioner at Advent, and Archdeacon Susan Naylor, Deacon at Emmanuel. Their conferences on parish nursing will be with pastors and Mothers’ Union leaders in each place the team visits. Goldfeder has researched African parish nursing and will work to bring this idea forward for the whole ECS province. Mission team leader Debbie Smith, parishioner at St. Tim’s-Creve Coeur and adult literacy administrator, will be working with adult literacy teachers at each stop the missioners make. Again, we invite you to join in a common prayer time with the missioners each day of their trip. We pray at 7 a.m. Missouri time, which is 3 p.m. Lui time. The mission teams blog before, during, and after trips at two locations: http://stl2lui. blogspot.com and http://luinotes.blogspot.com. If you are so moved to help financially, any contribution is to Lui mission is gratefully received at http://diocesemo.org/donateonline.

Preparing for November’s trip to Lui Diocese: Marc Vanacht, Anne Kelsey, Dan Handschy, Evelyn Smith, Deb Goldfeder, Susan Naylor, Sam Christy, Wayne Smith. Taking the photo is mission team leader Debbie Smith.

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Christ Church, Cape Girardeau

Community Meal at the Red Door Church At the most recent community meal at the Red Door Church, known to the diocesan family as Christ Church in Cape Girardeau, the parish hall tables were set for guests, a long table groaned with desserts, and spices from simmering pots filled the air. Chef Shadow declared it was now time for all kitchen help to be wearing either hair nets or scarves, and the kitchen crew set about their tasks.

Father Bob Towner after another successful community meal, on the church kitchen porch.

“What I’d really like our diocesan brothers and sisters to know, is that they can do this too,” said Towner. “If our response to community need is to shake our heads and say we don’t have enough money, we’re missing a great opportunity to trust God.” Yields from money donations, alms baskets, in-kind donations and prayer make this work. “And we try not to worry; worry gets in the system and makes everybody itchy. We have this ‘new idea,’ we will pray that it works and trust God.” Alexis Wright and Mashanda Reed, volunteers.

Song and Kathy prepared to welcome guests. Song’s granddaughter, Alexis, and her soccer buddy Mashanda donned aprons and gloves to work as servers. Song and Alexis volunteer every month. Flash was there early, sharing images caught on his camera of the neighborhood festival held the day before. After grabbing an early plate, he sat down at the keyboard to play. The guests arrived through front door back, some carrying trays of food or bags of fruit, some with stories and jokes to share. For three hours there was the warmth of good food and great conversation.

To advertise, Red Door ministries created a huge yard sign and volunteers walk the neighborhood with flyers the week before the monthly meal. “At our first meal, with the same amount of advertising, we had about sixteen guests,” continued Towner. “Then we met Flash.” Flash added, “Word of mouth is key. When I’m on the streets I talk to everyone I meet, telling them about this place. It’s a good sign when people I meet start telling me about this place.” Currently there are around 100 guests and twenty volunteers; Father Bob tells volunteers to feel free to sit down and enjoy the meal and people. Dr. Kathy Farwell, professor of Nursing at Southeast Missouri State University, and Red Door Church parishioner, said the food ministry committee meets monthly to coordinate the upcoming meal, food pantry, and now a fresh food delivery and pickup. “We learned about food safety and preparation. And we see the miracle of trusting God, in how things come together.”

The people of Christ Church sponsor this community meal on the last Sunday of each month, a time when tightly stretched dollars often don’t cover much food. Some of the guests need the nutrition, some value the fellowship. Guests came with families or alone, The kitchen crew before hair net call. but each person seems to know Father Bob. The Rector of Christ Church, the Rev. Bob Towner, has a very old concept of “parish”— it The day before, the sixth annual includes both the members of the church and the people of neighborhood street fair took over the neighborhood. Awhile ago the Red Door Church made the block. In addition to pony rides, an important decision in the life of their parish. They owned fire trucks, and face painting, Red a piece of land on the outskirts of town, where many other Door ministries set up café tables Christian churches were building on manicured acres. They and served free food, distributing decided to not to move and rebuild but to remain as a part300 hot dogs. Parishioner and chef ner and neighbor in downtown Cape. Every year Towner Doc Cain brought a huge restaurant tries to knock on each door of the neighborhood, each door tray of pulled pork. And when it had of the parish. been gratefully devoured, he brought another.

At the end of the Sunday meal, Flash commented, in his opinion, this is successful because it is a place of genuine welcome. Guest Kevin added, “And that is all we really wanted, you know, just to be welcomed, just to be loved.”

Dr. Kathy Farwell readies the overflow seating in the church narthex.

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Dessert table. This Sunday’s main chef, Shadow, shared some of his Cajun seasoning secrets if you were hanging around the kitchen.

This year’s diocesan convention will be held in Cape Girardeau, Nov. 2021. Saturday Morning Prayer is an excellent time to see Christ Church’s recently completed renovation. Also available at convention, Doc Cain’s smoked turkeys, a fund raiser for Red Door hunger ministries. More information at the parish web site, http://RedDoorChurchCape.org

The Episcopal Diocese of Missouri

Emmanuel’s Senior High Youth Group Reports on Trip to Guatemala

Our Lives were Changed Forever...

Emmanuel’s Senior High Youth Group Missioners to Guatemala presenting a check for $10,000 to the The God’s Child Project and founder Patrick Atkinson at Adult Forum, Sunday morning, September 20, 2009.

On June 7, 2009, twenty-nine youth from Emmanuel’s Senior High Youth Group and eight adult leaders arrived in Antigua, Guatemala—excited, apprehensive and eager to begin this long awaited adventure. Over the course of the next week we built seven houses, worked with the homeless at Central America’s only homeless shelter open to the general public 365 days a year, fed Since its founding in 1991, the and nurtured babies at two separate Infant Malnutrition Centers, God’s Child project has welcomed thousands of volunteers visited two schools, and accompanied social workers on home visits each year. Presently they care for and educate 4,000 orphaned, into the surrounding mountainabandoned, and poverty-strick- side villages.

en children, and nearly 9,000 widowed, abandoned, and single mothers and their dependents in many of the world’s poorest neighborhoods. http://gcpnc.org/

On September 20, 2009, during Emmanuel’s Adult Forum, the Senior High Youth Group described how their mission trip to Guatemala changed their lives. They were joined by God’s Child project founder Patrick Atkinson, an international educator and human rights worker. Patrick is a native of Bismarck, North Dakota, and a naturalized resident of Guatemala. In an emotional presentation facilitated by Atkinson, the youth and leaders told their stories. Many were caught up in the conflicting emotions of happiness for what had been accomplished and sadness for what is left to do. We could easily talk about the hard, physical work we did and the homes we gave to seven very deserving Guatemalan families. We built the seven homes without power tools. We hauled tons of building material—gravel, sand, cinder blocks, lumber, wallboard, sheets of corrugated tin—up hills at every work site. We mixed at least 9,000 pounds of concrete by hand and gave the homes concrete floors, which not only keeps homes dry, but greatly reduces the parasites that infants and children can pick up from the soil. It was not as easy to convey what we received in return. We shared the brilliant smiles of the children of Guatemala amid overwhelming poverty. We felt deep gratitude and love from the families who received the homes. We saw hope shining in the eyes of people who have experienced more war, poverty, and violence than we could possibly imagine. We learned in a way we will never forget just how lucky we are to be born into families that live in suburban St. Louis. In an experience too powerful for words, some of us had the honor of throwing one 11-year old boy his first birthday party, complete with cake and balloons. It was his

Making Disciples • Building Congregations • For the Life of the World

first day in a one of the “When we help a homeless new homes we had built. person, or a sick person, we

deepen your own relationship

Kelly Murphy told the story of one older, with humanity, we deepen our homeless man. The first relationship with God.” - Patrick Atkinson time she met him in the homeless shelter, he told her of his life’s many troubles, including constant pain because one leg was shorter than the other. He couldn’t find or keep a job because of this disability. The second meeting was on the streets of Antigua, where from a short distance, she observed the man stumbling down the street and stopping when he saw a little girl sitting on the sidewalk begging. He reached into his pockets and gave the girl the few coins he could find. Who knew the tough guys and girls in our group who reluctantly took babies to hold at the malnutrition centers would actually warm to the experience, or how hard it would be to pry the babies away from them. Though the roads were steep and rock-strewn, we gladly climbed back up the mountains to accompany social worker visits. It’s true we often laughed with joy, but as we turned over the homes to the families or put children back down in their places at the malnutrition center, we had tears streaming down our faces. And as we prepared to leave the Dreamer Center, the people, and the children, we knew our lives were forever changed. As we related these stories, we were transported back to the tender moments of the love, pain and heartache we experienced. Because of the tremendous support of parents, parishioners and the surrounding community, very generous donations from parishioners, and hundreds of items donated for the Raising Homes-Raising Hopes auction in February, we were able to present the God’s Child Project $10,000. We vowed to continue to support the project: sharing with others the incredible work they do in Guatemala and worldwide; through our weekly collections at the 10:30 service in colorful Guatemalan bags; and through daily prayer for the people of the God’s Child project and the people they serve. We hope to return each four years with our youth group to keep this circle of hope alive and to inspire continued work for the poor. Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Webster Groves at 9 S Bompart Ave www.emmanuelepiscopal.org Seek

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Trinity-St. Charles’ annual

Bike-for-Bikes

Bike for Bikes, the fifth annual bike-a-thon organized by the people of Trinity, St. Charles, was held on October 10th. While participation was down this year, fellowship was high. If you’ve not participated individually or with your parish, in this bikea-thon participants meet at the south end of Frontier Park and travel out for an hour then return. Youth and adults ride and walk taking advantage of water stops and checkpoints to keep everyone safe and hydrated. After the ride, carpools ferry participants back to Trinity for a great outdoor meal around a bonfire, including everyone’s favorite, s’mores. Riders and churches contribute money for bicycles for the Diocese of Lui. Diocesan participation has been great over the five years, with representatives riding from Transfiguration, St. Tim’s, Trinity St Charles, All Saints-St. Louis, St. Martins, St Matthew’s-Warson Woods, St. Stephens, Calvary-Columbia, Trinity-Central West End, Church of St Michael and St George, Campus Ministry Mizzou, Grace-Jefferson City, and Christ Church Cathedral.

Praying before the ride

Trinity’s Rector, the Rev. Tamsen Whistler explained how this effort began. About six years ago Bishop Bullen visiting from Lui diocese, stopped by Trinity on a Wednesday evening. He spoke about the civil war that had just concluded. He related the horrific story of his being removed from the cathedral at gun point by a young soldier, of thinking that he was Last minute directions from the Rev. Tamsen going to be killed, of asking the Whistler, Rector of Trinity, St. Charles soldier if they could first pray together, and of praying with the soldier in Arabic. In the silence surrounding Bullen’s stories of the faithfulness and hope of the Christian people of Lui, a Trinity parishioner asked, “Is there something that we can do that would make a difference…something simple, something our young people could participate in, something meaningful?” The Bishop replied that such a simple thing as providing bicycles would help enormously. Lui clergy often walk three to four hours between churches they are visiting. Bicycles would cut those hours dramatically.

he replied no, so we made him one and when we gave it to him. I don’t think he was quite sure what to do with it, but he took a bite and he said ‘Ooooh! It is good!’ We explained to him that s’mores are a big camping/campfire thing in USA. He seemed impressed.” Dokolo graduated and returned to Lui Diocese, where he is now also the Diocesan Secretary. For several years Dokolo won the award for bike-a-thon participant from the farthest distance. Saturday those honors went to Bastian Tolksdorf, a 16 yr. old from Ludwigsburg, Germany, who is in St. Charles as a part of their sister city program. After this year ride, organizers reported funds collected were at $1635, down a couple of hundred dollars from last year’s high record. The cost of a very sturdy bicycle from Uganda, shipping It’s not too late to support Bike for Bikes, even if you weren’t able to ride this year. Checks will be gratefully accepted at Trinity Episcopal Church, 318 S. Duchesne St. Charles, MO, 63301. On Saturday, riders received bright orange wristbands that read on opposite sides “Biking for Lui” and “Praying for Lui,” and there are a few wristbands left. Until the supply runs out, a minimum donation of $5 will secure one of the remaining wristbands. Please note on your donation check for Bike for Bikes and if you would like a wristband. Trinity Episcopal Church in St. Charles at 318 S. Duchesne Street www.trinity-stcharles.org

Everyone at Trinity wanted to participate, particularly the youth. Being so close to Katy Trail helped birth the idea to ride the trail to raise funds for a few bicycles each year. Trinity parish was also touched by the visits of the Rev. Stephen Dokolo, a priest from Lui that Missouri diocese sponsored for two years at Eden Seminary. Bikefor-bikes organizer and Trinity parishioner Katie Lillard said, “We asked him if he had ever heard of s’mores and

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The Rev. Stephen Dokolo with a second s’more.

Befriending Women of the Bible Twenty two women gathered at St. Matthew's, Warson Woods in October for a day of reflection on friendship; with selected women of the Bible, and with the women in our lives. They came from St. Matthew's, St. Mark's, Emmanuel, Trinity-St. Charles, Grace-Kirkwood, St. Francis Xavier, Christ Church Cathedral, and one other Catholic church. The day was structured around four meditations led by the Revv. Tamsen Whistler, Lydia Speller, Doris Westfall, and Ms. Deborah Caby. There was time and space for individual reflection followed by small group discussion of four biblical women—Eve, the visit of Mary with Elizabeth, Deborah, and Mary of Magdela. Attention to details made the day retreat a great success, from journals for writing, markers and craft materials to reflect using color and texture, and even strategically placed bowls of chocolate. Participants were so receptive, most wanted to return with friends, and this retreat will be repeated in the spring. Watch iSeek for upcoming announcements. www.diocesemo.org/subscribe

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The Episcopal Diocese of Missouri

The Rt. Rev. George Wayne Smith Tenth Bishop of Missouri Executive Editor: Bishop Wayne Smith Editor: Ms. Beth Felice Editorial Board: Ms. Jodie Kuhn Allen, Glendale; Ms. Martha Baker, St. Louis; the Rev. Joe Chambers, Columbia; the Rev. Ralph McMichael, Canon for Ministry Formation, Diocese; the Rev. Bob Towner, Cape Girardeau; the Rev. Dan Smith, Canon to the Ordinary, Diocese. Vol. 2, No. 4, November-December 2009

Episcopal Diocese of Missouri Offices of the Bishop 1210 Locust St, 3rd floor St. Louis, Missouri 63103 314-231-1220 Diocesan members may request a complimentary subscription by mail; send your address to the Offices of the Bishop, attn.. Seek subscription. Seek is also distributed in each parish, mission, and preaching station in the diocese. Seek is available online at diocesemo.org. Submissions by post, attention Beth Felice, or by email to [email protected]

updated information online at diocesemo.org

Diocesan Convention Nov. 20-21 in Cape Girardeau Candidate for Diocesan Council

Electing Two At-Large Members-Trustees of COEDMO

Mr. John S. (Jerry) Martin Parishioner, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Carondelet, St. Louis Having been involved in various aspects of church governance for some time, I would like to continue in that arena, and feel that I have experience and perhaps some degree of perspective and insight to offer. It has been my honor to serve in two parishes of the Diocese as junior and senior warden, senior minister of ceremonies, delegate to Diocesan Convention, member of Diocesan Council (representing Metro III Convocation), as well as licensed lector and cup bearer.

Candidates for Standing Committee

In 2009 Electing One Clerical and Two Lay Members

The Very Reverend Ronald Clingenpeel Retired Clergy Serving on Standing Committees in two other dioceses, and consulting in a number of dioceses in the Church, I believe I bring a wide perspective to the ministry of the Standing Committee in Missouri. In addition, I have been the Dean of Christ Church Cathedral for seven years and twice served as a General Convention Deputy in this diocese. The Commission on Ministry works closely with the Standing Committee and having served on the former I believe my presence on the latter will be of great value. The ministry of the Standing Committee is to give advice and consent to the Bishop of the diocese and to make decisions that can affect the entire Church. I believe I have both experience and the background to approach these decisions with an open mind and a sense of commitment to the mission and ministry of the Episcopal Church. I am currently retired from parish ministry, but am very active in the life of the Church assisting at Trinity Church in the Central West End and supplying in a number of congregations. I also am a consultant for the Office of Pastoral Development of the Episcopal Church.

The Reverend Daniel Handschy Rector, Episcopal Church of the Advent, Crestwood I would like to serve on the Standing Committee as it takes over and continues the work of the Design Team. The Design Team, which I have served, sought to find ways for the Diocese to make the shift from thinking about the institution toward becoming missional. I am passionate about this work, and think the new purpose of the Standing Committee will make this good work, and a good match for my passions and abilities.

Ms. Nan Haynes Parishioner, Church of the Transfiguration, Lake St. Louis Some years ago after spells of attending church and often not, I was drawn back to the Episcopal Church, the church I was born into. My rector nudged and gave me gentle encouragement to become an active member. I have been given many opportunities to grow into my God given gifts of leadership and mentoring. Being involved gives me the chance to give back what has been and continues to be so freely given. When I first served at the Diocesan level, I really found one of my passions. I have had many occasions to work at the parish level; vestries, Senior Warden, with and without a rector, rector’s search committee, delegate, Stephan Minister Leader and EFM mentor to name a few. My Diocesan service in Missouri includes Commission on Ministry where I had the privilege of being part of the Discernment Committee. While living in Montana from 2000 to 2005, I served on the Diocesan Council and also on the search committee for the current Bishop of Montana. I currently serve on the Bishop’s Committee at Transfiguration and we are beginning our visioning process as we move into parish status in November 2009. Every time I am able to serve my Church I feel I have the opportunity to grow in my spiritual journey. I would consider it a privilege to serve as a lay member of the Standing Committee.

These are nominations received by our canonical deadline. Our Diocesan Constitution and Canons allow nominations from the floor. Nominees should fill out a nomination application and on the floor of convention present “to the presiding officer of a written petition signed by at least five voting members” of convention. There are thirteen resolutions which will be presented to convention, in addition to the 2010 budget. Complete text is available online at diocesemo.org

Making Disciples • Building Congregations • For the Life of the World

Candidates for Cathedral Chapter

In 2009 Electing One Clerical Member and One Lay Member

The Reverend Daniel S. Appleyard Priest-in-Charge, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Webster Groves I was a member of Christ Church Cathedral, St. Louis from 1976–1983 (prior to ordination to the priesthood), and would consider it an honor to serve the Cathedral household and support its ministry in the city and diocese. From 1994 to 1998, I was elected to the Chapter of the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Detroit MI and served as Chair of its Finance (1996-98), as it wrestled with issues of finance, property, developing the Herlong School and it’s identity as a Diocesan center and a parish community seeking to serve Christ in the world. The Bishop appointed me to the Evaluation for Bishop’s Capital Fund’s Campaign Committee, 1997-1998, and as Co-chair of The Diocesan Mission Budget Committee, 2002–2005. I have served on The Episcopal Church’s Standing Commission on Ecumenical and Interreligious Relations, (SCEIR) TEC, 2003–2009, chairing its Interreligious Relations Subcommittee (2003–2009); been a member of The Advisory Council to the Anglican Observer at the United Nations (2000-present, Chair, 2008-present), served as the Ecumenical Officer of the Diocese of Michigan, 2006–2009; and, as Community Advisor for the Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion, Detroit from 1995–2009 (formerly the National Council for Community and Justice—N.C.C..J.) and its Bridging the Congregational Divide Task Force (anti-Racism), 2004-09. I believe it would be a creative opportunity to serve the Chapter and the diverse racial, religious and cultural community that lives in the City of St. Louis and our Diocese because I have a passion for these ministries.

Ms. Sandra L. Coburn Parishioner, Episcopal Church of St. Michael and St. George, Clayton I would like to serve on the Cathedral Chapter for a number of reasons. While I worked for Bishop Smith as Canon for Communications for the Diocese of Missouri, my perspective of the diocese and its “family of faith” grew immensely—as did my fondness for the Cathedral itself. You don’t pray somewhere each and every day and not develop a deep sense of reverence for “that place.” Working there also afforded me a unique relationship with the staff and members of the congregation. The Cathedral is the natural “seat” of our Bishop and our diocese, both in the historical sense, and spiritual sense: it is the natural hub and touchstone for important events and celebrations, and it serves as the symbol of our faith to those outside the faith in St. Louis and to visitors from out of town. It carries a special significance in who we are as a church and how we serve and are known in our community. I care deeply what happens there. I want to see the Cathedral grow and thrive and flourish; yet I understand how challenging that course has become. I feel I could serve the Chapter well based on the perspective of all of its intricacies which I have garnered over the last few years working at the Cathedral, and will devote my time and energy to the important work ahead.

Mr. David J. Johnston, Jr. Parishioner, Episcopal Church of the Advent, Crestwood I wish to serve on the Cathedral Chapter. I believe serving in this Ministry gives me an opportunity to offer my service to the Diocese in a broader manner than I have been able to do in the past. Church related experience that I bring to this position includes current Verger for Church of the Advent; a 3 year term on the Advent Vestry including 2 years as the Clerk. I am now and have been a delegate from Advent to Metro III for the past 3 years. My professional experience includes 25 years as a member of the Federal Government, primarily with the U.S. Department of State Foreign Service. I served many years in foreign countries, many of which were underdeveloped. Upon retirement, I served as a Director and Program Manager within the Aerospace industry. All of this gave me valuable experience in the areas of leadership, budgeting, program development and management. My foreign experience gave me the opportunity to interact with numerous peoples with several different ethnic, social and religious backgrounds. I look forward to serving you and the Diocese.

Mr. Sandy Peters Parishioner, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Ladue Several years ago, I was asked to fill an unexpired term of an individual who was moving out of the diocese shortly after that person took office as an elected member of Cathedral Chapter. Back then I had no idea what I was getting myself into, but things are different now and I do know what lies ahead. My eyes are wide open and I have the benefit of past experience to guide me. Not only did I agree to fill that seat for the entire first term of office, but I eventually stood for election when that term expired and won it for a second term. Those years were tumultuous at best. I stood for re-election and ran for that office at a time when many members chose not to do so. Members on that board were under intense financial pressure to make ends meet. It was not easy then and it will not be easy going forward. As that time, the cathedral’s finances came under heavy scrutiny and, from what I am able to gather, still do. What makes me qualified to serve on Chapter again is I know the finances of this institution and all of its various funds cold. When I rotated off, I picked up the Cathedral’s banking business and became its banker. I can advise and participate in conversations in a very meaningful way, almost immediately. At the time I acquired the Cathedral’s business I was a Vice-President at Midwest Bank Centre in Clayton. I am no longer in the banking industry, but am the Director of Development of the Animal Protective Association in Brentwood, Missouri., a non-profit organization. While there are many people who share with me the devotion to this great Cathedral, my financial background informs my desire to serve.

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November-December 2009

DioceseMo.org

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from the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri

Nov/Dec 2009

1210 Locust Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103

Christ Church Cathedral, St. Louis • All Saints’, Farmington • All Saints’, St. Louis • Church of the Ascension, Northwoods • Calvary Church, Columbia • Calvary Church, Louisiana • Christ Church, Cape Girardeau • Christ Church, Rolla • Church of St. Michael & St. George, Clayton • Church of the Advent, Crestwood • Church 45 congregations the eastern of theWe Goodare Shepherd, Town & Country in • Church of the Holy Communion, University City • Columbia Hope Church • Emmanuel Church, Webster Groves • Grace Church, Jefferson Cityhalf • Grace Church, Kirkwood • Holy Cross Church, Poplar Bluff • St. Alban’s, Fulton • St. Barnabas’, Florissant • St. Francis’, Eureka • St. John’s, of Missouri Eolia (Prairieville) Making Disciples Workshops • Clergy Conversations with the Bishop • COEDMO • Standing Committee • Companion Diocese Relationship We are •31 parishes and 14 missions Committee • Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation • Grace Hill • St Andrew’s Resources for Seniors • Missioner to Jerusalem • Episcopal School for Ministry • We are Campus Ministry United Thank Offering • Episcopal Campus Ministry • Care and Counseling, Inc. • Paseo Con Christo • St. Luke’s Hospital • Community of Hope • Youth Ministry • are 13,485 baptized members Christian We Formation • Commission on Dismantling Racism • Episcopal Church Women • Episcopal City Mission • Episcopal Recovery Ministry • Task Force for the Hungry • Oasis Missouri • CampAccording Phoenix • The Happening • Diocesan Mission Trips • Diocesan Convention • Conversations with the Bishop • General Convention to our 2008 Parochial Reports • Waters of Hope • St. John’s, Tower Grove • St. Luke’s, Manchester • St. Mark’s, Portland • St. Mark’s, St. Louis • St. Martin’s, Ellisville • St. Matthew’s, Mexico • St. Matthew’s, Warson Woods • St. Paul’s, Carondelet • St. Paul’s, Ironton • St. Paul’s, Palmyra • St. Paul’s, Sikeston • St. Peter’s, Ladue • St. Stephen’s, Ferguson • St. Thomas’ Church for the Deaf, Kirkwood • St. Timothy’s, Creve Coeur • St. Vincent’s-in-the-Vineyard, Ste. Genevieve • Church of theTransfiguration, Lake St. Louis • Trinity Church, Jefferson County • Trinity Church, Hannibal • Trinity Church, Kirksville • Trinity Church, St. Charles • Trinity Church, St. James • Trinity Church, Central West End Christ Church Cathedral, St. Louis • All Saints’, Farmington • All Saints’, St. Louis • Church of the Ascension, Northwoods • Calvary Church, Columbia • Calvary Church, Louisiana • Christ Church, Cape Girardeau • Christ Church, Rolla • Church of St. Michael & St. George, Clayton • Church of the Advent, Crestwood • Church of the Good Shepherd, Town & Country • Church of the Holy Communion, University City • Columbia Hope Church • Emmanuel Church, Webster Groves Making Disciples • Grace Church, Jefferson City • Grace Church, Kirkwood • Holy Cross Church, Poplar Bluff • St. Alban’s, Fulton • St. Barnabas’, Florissant • St. Francis’, Eureka • St. Building Congregations John’s, Eolia (Prairieville) • Making Disciples Workshops • Clergy Conversations with the Bishop • COEDMO • Standing Committee • Companion Diocese Relationship Committee • Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation • Grace Hill • St Andrew’s Resources for Seniors • Missioner to Jerusalem • Episcopal School for Ministry ForHospital the Life of theofWorld • United Thank Offering • Episcopal Campus Ministry • Care and Counseling, Inc. • Paseo Con Christo • St. Luke’s • Community Hope • Youth Ministry • Christian Formation • Commission on Dismantling Racism • Episcopal Church Women • Episcopal City Mission • Episcopal Recovery Ministry • Task Force for the Hungry • Oasis Missouri • Camp Phoenix • The Happening • Diocesan Mission Trips • Diocesan Convention • Conversations with the Bishop • General Convention

November-December 2009

DioceseMo.org

Complete diocesan calendar is online at http://diocesemo.org/calendar

Episcopal Youth Event at the City Museum’s Architectural Hall w/live band

Fri, Jan 15, 7:00 p.m.

Celebration of New Ministry: The Rev. Dr. Aune Strom, Christ Church, Rolla

Thurs, Jan 14, 7:00 p.m.

Diocesan Lessons and Carols at Christ Church Cathedral

Sun, Dec 6, 6:00 p.m.

Dedicatory Concert of Trinity’s new Quimby Pipe Organ, Zach Hemenway, organist

Sun, Nov 15, 4:00 p.m.

St Mark’s, St. Louis, Eucharist to dedicate new Juget-Sinclair pipe organ featuring six parishioners. Reception following,

Sun, Nov. 15, 10:00 a.m.

Episcopal Church Women’s Speakers Series presents the Rev. Irene Jones at Grace, Kirkwood.

Sat, Nov 14, 10:00 a.m.

Preventing Sexual Exploitation in Communities of Faith. Required Safeguarding workshop held at Care and Counseling, Ladue.

Sat, Nov 14, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Next Mission trip to Diocese of Lui, Sudan.

November 22- December 6

170th Diocesan Convention, Cape Girardeau.

Fri-Sat, Nov 20 & 21

An Afternoon of Sacred Music for Organ, Trinity, St. James with Deaconess Dawn Riske. Free will offering for the St. James Caring Center and GRACE of Rolla.

Sun, Nov 8. 2:00 p.m.

Health and Wellness Fair, St. Martin’s-Ellisville

Sat, Nov 7, 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.

Christian Education events with Kathleen Capcara on Godly Play.

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Fri, Nov 6, 7:00-8:30 p.m., St. Martin’s-Ellisville Sat, Nov 7, 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Cathedral

Sunday, Nov 1 Good Shepherd, Town & Country Sunday, Nov 8 St. Barnabas’, Florissant Sunday, Nov 15 Grace, Kirkwood Sunday, Dec 13 Church of St. Michael and St. George Sunday, Dec 20 Trinity, St. James Sunday, Jan 3, 2010 St. Paul’s, St. Louis Sunday, Jan 10 St. Luke’s, Manchester Sunday, Jan 24 St. Matthew’s, Mexico Sunday, Jan 31 Trinity, St. Charles Sunday, Feb 7 Hope, Columbia

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Selected Upcoming Events

Bishop Smith’s Visitation Schedule

We Are the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri