St. Paul's News - January, 2007

St. Paul's Episcopal Church Lansing Michigan

St. Paul’s News January, 2007

Church and State By The Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller

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hen the framers of the Constitution put that document together in the late 1700s, I don't think they could have imagThe Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller ined where we find ourselves today. Their desire to keep Church and State separate was for the protection of both. They could recall times when the Pope was in control of many of the thrones of Europe, and Roman Catholicism was the only denomination tolerated. They could also remember the reason many of their own ancestors came to America: to escape the religions intolerance of a Protestant England.

less litigious society and communication was less rapid. No one knew what everyone else was doing, perhaps for several months. I hate to blame everything on lawyers and the media, but the quest for power and profit drives people to forget and ignore the moral qualities that were the foundation of our country.

As January approaches, newly elected officers of state, federal and local governments are beginning to take their oaths of office. It is appropriate that we pray for them. They need it. Often they have responsibilities where they have to choose between doing what is right/just or what is expedient. The decisions often pit the greater moral good against the local economy. Too many votes adversely affecting the constituency For 150 years, this separation seemed to work means they are not reelected, and the seductions of position, power and money are great. It very well. Certainly there were instances of infringement, but they never approached the level is easy to see why government moves slowly or we face today. Perhaps that is because it was a (Continued on page 12)

The Year in Review Elisabeth Richardson, Senior Warden

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s I was preparing for this article, I re-read the St. Paul’s News (SPN) for 2006 and was amazed at how busy our church really is. I was also surprised at some of the things we, as a parish, have accomplished this year. For example, we just dedicated the banners in the Merrifield room this past February. Really! It feels as though they have been there forever! It is also hard for me to believe that Susie has been with us for about 18 months already and may be moving on at the end of her two year term this summer. It feels as though she had just arrived. Anyway, as I was jotting notes for this article, I filled three sheets of paper listing the major events and organizations in this parish. I won’t list all of them for you, but here are a few. In the children/youth/young adults/families categories we had:

• Church school • Lock-ins • 30-hour famine (Continued on page 11)

Volume 32, Issue 1

Inside this issue: Calendar

13

Choir Schedule

9

St. Paul’s News

6,8 10-11

Upcoming Activities Vestry News

2-5 7

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Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities St Paul’s In Action

Ongoing Activities • St. Aelred’s Guild, 3rd Wednesday, 5 PM • Book Cart, First two Sundays in December, after 10 AM • B&PW, 6 PM • ECW, 3rd Monday, 7 PM • Family Night Dinner, Wednesdays, 5-6 PM • 4Fs, 2nd & 4th Monday, noon to 2 PM • Infant/Toddler Group, 3rd Saturday, 10 AM-Noon • St. Paul’s Library, open every Sunday • Prayer Group, 1st Tuesday, 5:30 PM, Choir Rehearsal Room • Men’s Breakfast, 3rd Thursday, 7-8 AM, Hill Room • Mid-Week Eucharist, Tuesdays, noon Committee Meetings • Design & Preservation, 2nd Tuesday, 5:30 PM • Evangelism Meeting, 3rd Tuesday, 5 PM

Ash Wednesday Services

February 21, 2006 7AM — Chapel Noon — Chapel 7PM — Church

• • • •

Mission and Outreach, 3rd Monday, 5:30 PM Vestry, 3rd Tuesday, 6:30 PM Vision Statement, 3rd Tuesday, 5:30 PM Welcoming Church, 3rd Tuesday, 5:30 PM This Month at St. Paul’s and Elsewhere • Epiphany Service, Saturday, January 6, 7 PM • Parenting God’s Children, Wednesdays beginning January 10, • Safeguarding God’s Children, Saturday, January 13, 10 AM to Noon • MLK Day event, Sunday, January 14, 10 AM • Toddler/Infant Playgroup, begins again, Saturday, January 20, 10 AM to Noon • Annual Meeting, Sunday, January 28, after 10 AM service Looking Ahead • ERD Book Sale, Spring 2007

A Time for Baptism

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n Sunday, January 7, we will celebrate our Lord’s baptism and welcome new members to St. Paul’s through the Sacrament of Baptism. This time traditionally represents the baptism of Jesus and has been set aside by the Church as an appropriate time to receive persons into the community of Christ. Should you desire to be baptized or have a child baptized, please contact one of the clergy or the parish office.

Epiphany Service

B&PW Meeting

By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F.

By Elisabeth Richardson, Treasurer

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piphany is a Major Holy day in the life of the Church. Celebrated on January 6, it marks the end of the season of Christmas and the beginning of the season of Epiphany. Contrary to most secular thought, the coming of the Magi is not celebrated until Epiphany. Correspondingly, the season of Epiphany is a season when we celebrate the many ways God has made himself known to humankind in history. To mark this day and season, there will be a celebration of Eucharist on Saturday, January 6, beginning at 7 p.m. Please mark you calendars and plan to attend.

he Business and Professional Women will meet for dinner on Tuesday, January 9 at 6 p.m. Our guest speaker will be Joann Mills from the Sparrow Hospital Gift Shop. Board members will meet at 5:15 p.m. in the Van Atta Room for a brief planning session. Dinner is $8. RSVP to Nancy Milne at 882-0573 by Sunday, January 7, 2007.

Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities

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4 F’s to Continue Study of “The Children of Abraham” By Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music The “4 F’s” group will continue meeting on the second and fourth Mondays through the beginning of Lent, February 21. (Our normal schedule is 12 noon, Holy Eucharist; 12:30 p.m., lunch; 1-1:15 p.m., Bible Study; and 1:152 p.m., program.) Our programs will include: • January 8 - A presentation of “The Fourth Wise Man” by Stephen Lange • January 22 - A presentation and discussion on Orthodox Christianity, led by Stephen Lange • February 12 - A trip to the Greek Orthodox Church

During Lent, the schedule will change slightly to allow for book reviews occurring on the first five Mondays of Lent (Holy Eucharist at 11:30 a.m., with lunch and a book review to follow from 12 noon until 1 p.m.) Following this five-part series of book reviews, the programs will be: • April 9 - Nancy Sheldon leading a discussion of Judaism • April 23 - A trip to the local synagogue to meet with the rabbi • May 14 – A year-end party at Nancy Sheldon’s

People are welcome to attend any part of or all of each meeting, as their schedule permits. Please be sure to sign up if you plan to eat lunch with us (soup and salad for $4, provided by A Catered Affaire).

Parenting God’s Children By Pastor Susie Shaefer, Curate Parenting is so many things: joyful, frustrating, confusing, rewarding. And it can be all of those in just one day! Parenting is also an exercise of faith, and, therefore, the Church should be a place where we can gather to reflect on our role as parents, to sharpen our skills in raising children, and support one another on our different journeys. To that end, the Adult Education Committee will be sponsoring a series called “Parenting God’s Children,” on Wednesday evenings, from January 10 through February 14. Our focus will be a curriculum entitled “Parenting 101: The Basics of Becoming a Proactive Parent,” with an introductory and closing session. We will do Bible study, reflect on our own experiences as well as those presented by the curriculum, and learn practices to strengthen our parenting. We hope that in the course of the series, we will develop a sense of mutual support among the group that will also strengthen our faith lives as parents. This series is open to parents with children from infants to teens. Of course, we know that parenting has its own emergencies, but because the curriculum builds upon material from the previous week, we ask that parents really make a commitment to the group for the six weeks, and plan to attend all sessions. Child care will be available during the class. We are very excited about this opportunity, and hope you will join us. Class conveners are Millie Ericson, Martie Repaskey and Susie Shaefer. Please contact any of us with questions, and sign up outside the Merrifield Room or through the church office.

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Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities

Annual Meeting By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

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n January 28, 2007, St. Paul's will again hold its Annual Meeting. It will begin with a Service of Eucharist and reconvene around 11:30 a.m. in the Merrifield Room for the business portion. The Annual Meeting of the Parish is the single most important business meeting of the year. This year is especially important because of the changes in the By-Laws which are proposed. Copies of the proposed changes are available on our Web site, on bulletin boards at Church, and in the parish office, if you desire to stop in and pick one up. These ByLaw revisions are the most significant in the past 10 years. In addition, the normal Annual Meeting will take place. New Vestry members will be elected, the year 2006 will be reviewed and 2007 visions presented, and people who have given to the life of the parish will be recognized. Please plan on attending. A light luncheon will be served and child care will be provided.

Playgroup By Pastor Susie Shaefer, Curate

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he Toddler/Infant Playgroup will be meeting on Saturday, January 20 from 10 a.m.-12 noon. We will be making fleece blankets (no sewing required!) to support the Linus Project. This is an organization that gives blankets to infants and children who are ill or have experienced trauma, such as a house fire. We will also be planning our spring programs, so attendance is especially encouraged! Childcare is provided. An RSVP is not required, but appreciated. Call the church office to sign up!

Lenten Programs By Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music

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t. Paul’s will once again offer several special proUnited Methodist Church will describe their open grams during the season of Lent. On five consecudoor ministry and share how we can help them tive Mondays at noon, beginning on February 26, pa- • March 7: “Naked and You Clothed Me” - Mary Ann rishioners will review books of a broadly spiritual naHarkema of Christian Services will describe their ture. Holy Eucharist will be held at 11:30 a.m., with a work and outline areas where they can use help soup and salad luncheon at 12 noon. Book reviews • March 14: “Sick and You Ministered to Me” - Steve usually begin at 12:30 p.m. and last until 1 p.m. This Esop, on staff with Heartland Hospice, will describe year’s book reviews will be done by Nancy Sheldon, their ministry and give ways in which we can help Gordon Weller, Dorothy Marsh, Caroline Such and them Carol Ingells. • March 21: “In Prison and You Visited Me” - Mary King from the Michigan Prisoner Re-entry Initiative On Wednesday nights, The Adult Christian Education will speak about the needs of prisoners and how and Formation Committee is offering a series based on we can help to minimize recidivism Matthew 25: 35-36 (…For I was hungry and you gave • March 28: “A Stranger and You Welcomed Me” me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to Vince Delgado of Christ Lutheran Church will deal drink …). These programs will focus on ways in which with the concerns and difficulties of immigrants’ bewe can fulfill our baptismal promise to “seek and serve ing assimilated and cared for in our society. Christ in all persons, loving [our] neighbor as [our]self,” and they will last from 6:15 to 7:45 p.m. They will be: • February 28: “Hungry and Thirsty and You Gave

Me Drink and Water” - Chris Bobier of Central

Please feel free to invite friends and neighbors to any of these programs.

Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities

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Safeguarding God’s Children By Pastor Susie Shaefer, Curate

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ach time a child or adult is baptized, the congregation promises to support that person in his or her life in Christ. In recent years, however, newspaper headlines demonstrate that too many children are victims of abuse. On Saturday, January 13, from 10 a.m. -12 noon, please join us for a presentation of “Safeguarding God’s Children for Parents and Congregations,” a curriculum recently produced by the Episcopal Church for the prevention of child sexual abuse. Grounded in theological and practical knowledge, the first part of this curriculum is designed to educate parents and congregations on recognizing problems and acting to keep our children safer and healthier. We will be joined by Kris Forsyth, a trainer for the curriculum, a director of Christian Education in Grand Blanc and a mother of two girls. All parents and Church School teachers are especially encouraged to attend, but this presentation is open to all who are interested. Note: This is not a certification session for those requiring the three-hour training. Questions? Please speak with Pastor Susie.

MLK Day Event

Every Member Canvass Report

By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

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or the last several years, we have tried to use the Sunday closest to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day as an occasion to visit his legacy and the situation of racism in today's world. Last year we had a guest preacher and a program following the 10 a.m. service. Those who were there last year can attest to the power that was in the room as members of our congregation spoke of the hurt that racism causes. This year we will continue the tradition. Our Guest preacher on January 14 will be The Rev. Shannon MacVean-Brown, Rector of St. Matthew/St. Joseph's parish in Detroit. Following the service, we will adjourn to the Merrifield room for light refreshments and a program to discuss the "Sin of Racism.” Please plan to join us that day.

Vestry Nominations By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

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ames of candidates for election to the Vestry are now being received. Qualifications include: • • • • • • •

Baptized At least 16 years of age Regular in attendance A contributing member of the congregation Willingness to attend 10 vestry meetings Willingness to chair a vestry committee Willingness to attend the vestry retreat on Feb. 1-2, 2007

If you are willing to serve or have someone you would like to nominate, please confirm their willingness and submit their name. As always, nominations from the floor are acceptable.

s of December 14, the day this was written, the 2007 Every Member Canvass has mixed information to report. The good news is that with 144 pledge cards turned in, $263,830 has been pledged for 2007. This represents a 19.8% increase for these 144 pledges. Other statistical information can be viewed in different ways. There are 45 families or people who pledged last year, but from whom we have not yet heard. This pledge, if continued at the same level as last year, would mean an additional $32,579 in operating income for 2007. There are also at least 50 families or individuals from whom we have not heard in at least two years. These families attend and contribute on a regular basis, but we have no idea of the level to expect in 2007. If your pledge card has not been turned in yet, please make every effort to get it to us. The Financial Planning Committee and the Stewardship Committee would really appreciate it.

Past Sr. Wardens By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

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ll past Sr. Wardens should be on the alert because we are planning a dinner, early in February, to acknowledge your past service and reintroduce you to one another. As the years drift by, it is easy to forget you and your time of service. The date and the time have not been selected, but please speak to Fr. Weller if you have pictures from your time of service.

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St. Paul’s News

Sweet Caroline By Carol Ingells

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WEET CAROLINE….dah, dah, dah, dah, dah, dah,dah.” Remember that old song from Neil Diamond? I often sing it to myself when I think of my God-daughter, Caroline Thomas. That’s “Carol-ine,” as in standing in line. She is sweet, but she is tough. A real survivor! You may have seen reference to her in recent bulletins or caught her story in the LSJ—front page, no less. Caroline is fighting to live, to survive an aggressive form of brain cancer. But behind that story is a life which has never been easy. Caroline was born in 2001 to a woman who chose not to mother her This, dear friends, is where many children. At four months, Caroline became Christian love begins and part of the Thomas family, ends: In the examples of courage and caring shown joining her two brothers, by Caroline, by Mabel and almost three-years-old. Carol, by the boys, and by Carol and Mabel Thomas this community. already had their hands full, as Jake and Josh, lovable and cute, had problems of their own. But how could they say no to having the boys’ own sister; to having a little girl? They never looked back. Caroline proved to be a bright light in the family. She particularly influenced Jacob, who had difficulty relating to others and using imagination. Caroline drew him out in ways no one thought possible. The boys always defer to “baby sister,” in spite of their typical boyish tumblings. And so, Caroline quickly took on the “princess” role in her close-knit family and plays it to the hilt. Things were starting to look good for all of them this fall, as

Caroline started kindergarten and the boys did well at school. Mabel could settle into her job teaching massage and administrating the Body Work program at LCC. Carol could spend more time in online teaching and transcription work. But Caroline was not feeling well. Who could have imagined the awful news we heard from the surgeon in late October! An aggressive malignancy, a tumor the size of a golf ball at the base of her brain! Then, spinal fluid leaking, CT scans, MRIs, drainage tubes, a second surgery, spinal taps, radiation, chemotherapy and countless days and nights in the hospital. One of her parents was with her 24 hours a day. As of this writing, though depleted by treatment, she’s doing pretty well. How do the moms care for Caroline and not neglect the needs of Jake and Josh? How do two women in their 50s keep the energy necessary, not to mention dealing with their worries and breaking hearts? Well, the answer is: they do, with God’s help. And that help is being given through countless people’s generosity—family, friends, colleagues, church associates, complete strangers. Caroline has been inundated with mail and gifts. Food comes non-stop. Necessary changes have been made in their house; Christmas shopping done; bank accounts started. The list never ends. This, dear friends, is where Christian love begins and ends: In the examples of courage and caring shown by Caroline, by Mabel and Carol, by the boys, and by this community. As one of her devoted God-mothers, I thank you on their behalf. We covet your continuing prayers for Caroline’s healing and her family’s endurance. As we pray in Psalm 51, “sustain [them] with your bountiful Spirit.”

Needed: LEMs (Lay Eucharistic Ministers) & LEVs (Lay Eucharistic Visitors) By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

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here is an ongoing need for people to administer the Chalice on Sunday mornings. This ministry falls into two categories. Lay Eucharistic Ministers serve at all services where communion is offered and administer the chalice. There is training needed to be licensed and licensing is needed to serve. The training is not difficult or long. Even greater need is for LEVs (lay Eucharistic Visitors). These individuals are the ones who take communion kits and communion to those who are shut in and unable to get to Church. Again, training and licensing are needed. This need is urgent. Please see one of the clergy or Dorothy Marsh (LEM, LEV coordinator) if you can help.

News from the Vestry

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Financial Information As of November 30, 2006 By Jeff Irwin

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s we near the end of 2006 the financial picture is becoming clearer.

The total revenue received from amounts that were actually pledged was $227,918 as of November 30, 2006, which is 94.1% of the budget. November is 91.7% of the year. However, non-pledge revenue is below budget at 35.4% of the expected amount. The operating loss for November was $13,200, which puts the year to date operating loss at $127,450. However, as of November 30, 2006, this loss includes $22,283 in expenses that were reimbursed from restricted funds. Under the restricted activities, we have net income of $84,827, which includes a $32,086 deficit from the organ restoration project. In summary, the combined operating and restricted revenue, less expense of the church, totals a $42,622 deficit as of November 30, 2006. In November, $3,750 was received from the estate of Janet Hendy. The amount of $375 was transferred to the Mission and Outreach fund and $3,375 to St. Paul's Perpetual fund. Also, $20,000 was withdrawn from the St. Paul’s Perpetual Fund and transferred to the operating account to provide cash to pay the bills on a current basis.

Highlights from the Vestry Meetings At the October 17 Vestry meeting, your Vestry:

• Approved a motion to replace borrowed money

from Perpetual Fund used to facilitate the organ refurbishment. Any monies collected in excess of the final bill for the organ will reimburse the Organ Repair fund, then the Memorial Fund.

• Approved September minutes • Received and approved Financial reports • Received an update on the Organ Restoration

Fund Drive • Appointed a Nominating Committee consisting of • • • • • • •

Ellie Doersam, Nancy Sheldon, Graham Crabtree, and Jim Bolton Received new By-Laws language for final approval at November meeting Looked for additional Church School teachers Approved motion by the Vestry to set aside time to meet with the Tarrants to work on secular stewardship Planned pen meeting October 22 to discuss Convention business Approved snowplowing contract for upcoming Winter Discussed 2007 Budget, budget requests due to Jeff Irwin by November 15 Authorized repairs to bench on the corner of Seymour

At the November 21, Vestry meeting, your Vestry: • Approved October minutes • Received and approved Financial reports • Accepted the resignation of Chris Nazar, who is

• • • • •

moving to Kansas City in March 2007; the remaining one year of his term will be filled at the Annual Meeting Approved motion to send 1% of Operating Budget to CESA Approved a motion to authorize use of Perpetual Funds for meeting Operating Budget as needed Approved a motion to accept changes to the ByLaws for presentation at the Annual Meeting Was informed that Hymnals were replaced in the pews by the Worship and Music Committee Reminded that reports for Annual Report due January 2

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St. Paul’s News

Church School By Pastor Susie Shaefer, Curate

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he second semester of Church School will begin on Sunday, January 14. There will be a few new faces teaching this spring, and some returning from the fall as well. First, a big thank you to our fall teachers! Those include Julie Fletcher, Carol Laub, Judi Clarke, Charlie Krupka, Chris Krupka, Chriz Nazar, Sue LeDuc, and Lyn Kressler. We have a new face in the nursery as well! Kelsey Booth is our new nursery attendant, who started in December. She is a junior at MSU, majoring in education and child development. We are so happy to have her. Stop by the nursery on Sunday morning sometime to welcome her.

Advent Pageant a Huge Success By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller On Sunday, December 3, St. Paul's had its first Pageant in several years. It was not a Christmas Pageant; it was an Advent Pageant. Twenty-four of our children learned for themselves and instructed the congregation about some of the names used to herald the coming of Jesus.

St. Aelred’s

The full cast performs at the St. Paul’s Christmas pageant on Dec. 3.

By Nancy Sheldon

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t. Aelred’s Guild offers spiritual friendship to members of our congregation in time of need through notes, visitation, prayer list management, Eucharistic visits, celebration of births and marriages, as well as phone calls to shut-ins. You are welcome to join us in this ministry on the third Wednesday of each month from 5-6 p.m. Also, St. Paul’s would like to know when one of our parishioners is in the hospital, unable to come to church, has been moved to a special care facility or just might appreciate a card or visit to let them know we are thinking about and praying for them. Please pick up a form for this special ministry at the Welcome Table after church, or call Kathleen in the office at 482-9454.

Christmas Blessings By Pastor Susie Shaefer, Curate

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ounting our blessings is part of the Christmas season, and I am pleased to count the St. Paul’s family among my blessings. I continue to be awed by the “gift of generosity” in our midst: the collecting of mittens and baby items, ERD through December gatherings, and to me personally. Thank for you for all your support and kindness, especially in the holiday season.

By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller Linda and I would like to thank you for all your kindness and support during the year 2006, and for the gifts given in the Christmas season. You are a wonderfully loving congregation and we count our blessings for being able to be among you.

St. Paul’s Choirs

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Choir News and Dates to Remember By Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music Thank you for your wonderful work during the Christmas Season! Your willingness to share of your time and talent helped to bless the life of many parishioners. Have a blessed New Year season! There will be no rehearsals the week of January 1-6. All choirs will vest for the January 7 service as usual. Normal rehearsal schedule will resume on January 10 and 11. Please save: Cabaret-Saturday, March 3 (Cherubs, Boys’ and Grace, High School—and Chancel Choir members who are willing to do a solo!! Thanks!)

Singing Schedule Date

Choirs

January 7 January 14 January 21 January 28

Chancel; High School (even though it’s a first Sunday!) Chancel; High School Chancel; High School Chancel; High School

February 4 February 11 February 18 February 25

Boys’ and Grace; High School High School and Chancel High School and Chancel High School and Chancel

There are Lots of Ways to Share Love By Dorothy Marsh

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he Old Testament is full of the stories of the Israelite’s stormy relationship with God. One of my favorites is the story of God freeing them from slavery only to have them complain, “We wish that the Lord had killed us in Egypt. At least there we could sit down and eat meat and as much other food as we wanted. But you have brought us into this desert to starve us all to death.”

I suspect if it had been said to me I would probably have thrown my hands up in the air and said, “enough already, you’re on your own now.” Fortunately for the followers of Moses, God was more gracious and instead provided them with more bounty than they had a right to expect. Yahweh obliged them with a miraculous rain of bread (manna) from the sky. (Exodus 16) Manna Sunday is the first Sunday of the month at St. Paul’s. We bring the gift of food to be taken to the food bank and shared with those who are the hungry amongst us. Canned fruits and vegetables, powdered milk, etc. are our gifts of manna and it’s our way of recognizing how God has saved us and cared for us. And now for the rest of the story. We remember about manna but God went one better, for when the people complained about a steady diet of manna God sent the additional gift of hundreds of small bird...Quail. Oh yes, one more thing. The loose change carefully placed in the offering plate goes to the discretionary fund to be used for those who come to our church seeking assistance. Gordon and Susie use it wisely on our behalf. “May we all get more than we deserve” is a favorite saying of a friend of mine and I share it with you.

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St. Paul’s News

The 4F's Group Visited A Mosque in November By Nancy Sheldon

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his year, the 4F's group, which meets the second and fourth Mondays of each month, is studying The Children of Abraham: a look at Judaism, Orthodox Christianity and Islam. After spending some time learning about Islam from Father Weller, almost 40 of us traveled to East Lansing to tour a Mosque and enjoy learning more about Islam from their Imam, Omar Soubani. He was born in Palestine before coming to the U.S. in 1972. We were curious about the way one becomes an Imam. They are not "ordained" as priests and ministers must be in the Christian church. What they do need to do is study the Qur'an and become so knowledgeable that they are looked up to and respected for their knowledge. They lead the prayers in Arabic and interpret the Koran for members of the congregation. Before answering our many questions, he gave us a basic overview of Islam. "Islam, as a faith, means total and sincere surrender to God so that one can live in peace and tranquility,” he explained. “Peace is achieved through active obedience to the revealed commandments of God or Allah. Allah is an Arabic word meaning the One and Only True God...who created all that exists.” Muslims recognize and believe in the messages of many prophets, including Jesus, but consider that the Prophet Mohammed was the last prophet. Therefore, the laws which govern their lives, as stated in the Qur'an, are the teachings of Mohammed that were written down after his death. The Imam had several handouts for us and served refreshments. He allowed that we could stay as long as we liked and he would be happy to answer any questions we might have. As would be expected, there were several questions, especially some dealing with terrorism, the wars in the Middle East and the concept of jihad. We were able to witness a Call to Prayer which takes place five times a day. The children in the school attached to the Mosque, as well as many adults, filed in to kneel down and face the East for prayer. Later, after our conversation with the Imam, he took us into the room where they pray and explained why the women worship behind the men, why they take their shoes off inside the Mosque (as we did), and the meaning of the different positions of prayer. It was an extremely interesting and informative afternoon for all of us. In January, Steve Lange will teach us about the Orthodox religion and we will visit a Greek Orthodox Church (see his article in this edition). To round out the series, Nancy Sheldon will talk about Judaism and we'll visit the Shaarey Zedek synagogue in April. Anyone who is able to join us for some or all of our programs is invited. The group is growing, both in size and in knowledge, and we're having a wonderful time together getting to know one another better. Please join us whenever you can by signing up on the table outside of the Merrifield Room!

Silver Bells Brings People into St. Paul’s By Christine Caswell, Editor

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lthough the holidays are over, this is the first opportunity I’ve had to comment on what a great turnout we’ve had at the church this past couple years for Silver Bells in the City. Not only was the church packed this year, as both the St. Paul’s and Pilgrim Congregational bell choirs performed for the audience, but most of the people stayed for the entire concert and even came over to the parish house for refreshments afterward. Rick Laub served as “the welcoming church,” talking with many of the visitors. My mother and I chatted with a family who asked questions about the church and the Merrifield Room banners. Thanks to Dr. Lange, Mary Rodecker, John Broughton (who directs the bell choir for Pilgrim Congregational) and the bell choir members for not only putting together this wonderful holiday program but for also offering an opportunity to showcase St. Paul’s to an entirely new audience.

St. Paul’s News

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St. Paul’s November Prayer List We pray for those who are sick and in need: Beverly McEachern, Cindy Robinson, Richard, Audrey & Aaron Hegmon, Shelley Robinson, Donna, Grady & Dennis Letner, Clara Voges, Mason Hill, Lois Caswell, Brian Schray, June Wyatt, Dick Siebert, Erik Lindquist, Carol, Bernie Lynch, Judith Jones, baby Benjamin, Becky Chamberlain, Kim Cross, Nancy Hiscoe Clark, Elizabeth Marsden, Dezi & Penny Horvat, Charles Weaver, Kristin Kelley, Rich Davis, Cris Plyler, Ben Herbert, Tim Ross, Chance Collins, Ron Hannenberg, Marlene Dombroske, Caroline Thomas and her parents, brothers & godparents, Chris Laurion, Steve, Carolyn Such, Betty Jensen, Aaron Robinson, Linda, Marjorie Belles, Dan, Stephne Staples, and MaryLea Benson.

Prayer List

We pray and remember those in the Military, serving in dangerous areas: Carlos Sims and DakBai DakBai We pray for those expecting: Norm & Tara Farhat, Tad & Leigh Miller, Mark & Kate Johnson, and Ian & Brooke Broughton (Continued from, “The Year in Review,” page 1) • Youth mission trip • Super Bowl party • Family Sunday • Kids’ communion instruction • VBS (Aslan on the Move –

• • • • • • • • • • •

Narnia) Youth Cedar Point trip Young Adult Potluck Dinner Parent Playgroup Mens’/Womens’ golf leagues Lugnuts’ games Advent Pageant Newcomers’ Dinners Miter Meeting Blessing of the Beasts Safeguarding God’s Children Parenting God’s Children

In the Music Program we had: • • • • •

“Cabaret” Lange Ensemble Lucy Finkel Recital Choir Banquets Jr./Sr. High Vocal Clinic

In Christian Education there was: • • • •

Bible Literacy Prayer for Advent Collection Women’s Retreat (St. Paul’s) Capitol Deanery Women’s Retreat • Lenten Luncheon • 4F’s (Faith, Fellowship, Fun & Food)

• New Members/Inquirers Classes • Maundy Thursday Agape Meal • Confirmation/Reception/

Reaffirmation

this monthly project: Christine Caswell, Tom Shawver, Helen Hiscoe and Lyn Zynda. You all do a great job! THANK YOU!

• Walk for Justice (Matt Fergu-

This review process was a really good exercise for me. I didn’t reWe also participated in the follow- member some of the events/ activities we’d had, and it was ing events: really interesting to catalog all the • Habitat for Humanity options this parish offers, not only to • ERD used book sale this congregation, but also to the community as a whole. In keeping • A seminar on the Sin of Racism • Lenten Series: Christianity in the with the Welcoming Church Mission, I encourage every member of the Marketplace Congregation to review the news of • Banner Dedication the parish for the past year, to • Organ Refurbishment • Becoming the Household of God strive to participate in a new or different activity at the church in • CPR training/defibrillator 2007, and to inform people outside • ERD of our parish of events happening • UTO at St. Paul’s, to encourage more • Crop Walk diverse participation and interac• Blood Drives tion. Additionally, we have monthly As Senior Warden, I have enjoyed meetings and activities with the this past year. I appreciate all the ECW, Men’s Breakfast, BPW, St. support and encouragement I reElizabeth’s Guild, Mission & Outceived while learning this role. I esreach, Stewardship/EMC, Design & pecially wish to thank the entire Preservation and St. Aelred’s. We parish for their support and prayers are a busy church! There seems to during my mother’s illness. We are be something for everyone and, if truly blessed to have such a strong you can’t find something to get innetwork of caring and supportive volved in, call me and I will get you people in our parish family. You hooked up in no time!!! really find out just how strong that son)

I would also like to take this oppor- bond is when you have a medical tunity to thank the SPN staff for all crisis. Thank you all so much! their hard work and dedication to

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St. Paul’s News

(Continued from, “Church and State,” page 1)

not at all. It is also easy to sit back and criticize their decisions when we do not have to bear any responsibility, and our total focus is having good in our own back yard. Religion can and should play a part in the governance of this country, but it needs to be a personal and lived-out faith. On that the framers of the Constitution did agree. We, however, have dragged faith and belief to lower lows, rather than higher highs. Just what the framers tried to guard against, many now use their perception of "right" as a battering ram to get what they want. Many times it has little to do with what God wants and everything to do with what they want. Case in point: Almost all politician close their public appearances with "God bless America" or some derivative. The purpose is usually not to ask God for a blessing on the candidate or the nation; rather, it is to give evidence that the candidate/official (most elected officials run for the next election the day after they are elected the first time) is faithful and religious. That garners votes. The theological fact is that America has been, and continues to be, blessed by God. We are the richest and most powerful nation there has ever been. For that blessing, God asks for (demands?) an appropriate response. The response by America should not be to strive for more power and wealth, not necessarily to protect what we have. It should be to share the blessings we have, even to the point of having less ourselves, so that God's justice and mercy become the fruit of our gifts. That is a theology that demands sacrifice and risk. Our forefathers and mothers were willing to take that risk and make that sacrifice. The warriors of the Revolutionary War were the aristocracy of the time; those with huge holdings that might be lost through defeat (George Washington, for example). They could have ridden out the storm of taxation and still lived in prominence and wealth, but by many accounts, their faith in God, and love of mercy and justice, wouldn't let them. More than ever before, and increasingly, people in public office listen to the polls. They listen to us! Therefore, it becomes more incumbent on us to use our faith to give us voice. We need to use these voices to stand up for the weak, the poor, the oppressed, those whom Jesus calls us to tend. It becomes more necessary that we be willing to risk and sacrifice some of our blessings for the sake of the Gospel. Because elected officials listen so closely, convey these thoughts to those in positions of authority, but let these actions be more than word or prayer. Back them with your actions.

The St. Paul’s Youth skated at the Capitol Centre during the "Lord of the Dance" lock-in in November overnight. Sixteen youth attended.

Vestry work takes its toll (on opposite sides) on Bobbie Tisdale (left) and Nancy Sheldon.

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St. Paul's Episcopal Church Lansing Michigan 218 W. Ottawa Lansing, MI 48933 Phone: 517-482-9454 Fax: 517-485-8621 Choir Room: 517-482-0369 Website: www.Stpaulslansing.org

The St. Paul’s News is a publication of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Lansing Michigan. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Staff The Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller, Rector The Rev. Susie Shaefer, Curate Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music Ms. Mary Rodeck, Assistant Minister of Music Ms. Kathleen Johnson, Office Manager Mr. Daniel Kallish, Sexton St. Paul’s News Editorial Staff Christine Caswell, Editor Tom Shawver, Staff Writer Helen Hiscoe, Proofreader Lyn Zynda, Layout Editor

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