St. Paul's News - May, 2006

St. Paul's Episcopal Church Lansing Michigan

St. Paul’s News May, 2006

Easter, Day 14 and Counting By The Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller

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veryone knows that Christmas lasts 12 days; the song reminds us. Everyone knows Lent lasts 40 days; the Church and The Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller the preacher continually remind us (actually there are 46 days between Ash Wednesday and Easter, because Sundays are feast days and don’t count in the Lenten calendar). By the time you read this, Easter will be at least two weeks old with five weeks to go. I wonder how much of the Easter story will still be with you.

vacations. Even yard work draws us away and gives us other thoughts.

Easter is a 50-day season that is the most important of the year. It is also one that fades the fastest. Perhaps it has to do with the series of other holidays that grab our attention: Mother’s Day and Memorial Day, for example. Perhaps it’s the approach of summer and the promise of

Recommit to the meditations or scriptural encounters that were with you in Lent. Consider attending one of the educational opportunities St. Paul’s offers in the spring. Devotions with the

If you find yourself in this position, only two weeks away from Easter and already thinking of other things, take a moment to refocus. We spent three months preparing for the celebration of the resurrection. We gathered on Easter morning and celebrated with wonderful enthusiasm. Don’t lose what you worked so hard to gain. Let this serve as a little reminder that it may take some additional personal commitment to maintain your Christian edge, but the reward is obvious.

(Continued on page 4)

Sabbath Economics The 2006 Becoming the Household of God Conference By Sue & Chuck Millar

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ince we have benefited from every annual Diocese-sponsored “Becoming the Household of God” conference to date, we were prepared again this year for new challenges to our practice as members of the Christian community. We were not disappointed. Ched Meyers, our conference presenter, began by shedding new light on a Scripture passage that has always seemed out of place to us in the Gospels. By placing the parable of the talents and the wealthy landowner (Matthew 25:14-31) in the context of Jesus’ probable audience (landless sharecroppers and hand-to-mouth day laborers), Meyers turned the usual interpretation on its head. The slaves who doubled their master’s money while he was away were, according to the Law of Moses (Deuteronomy 23:19), usurious exploiters successfully doing their master’s highly profitable dirty work in his absence—a practice that many of the poor in Jesus’ audience would have recognized from personal experience. (Continued on page 4)

Volume 31, Issue 4

Inside this issue: Upcoming Activities 2-4 Vestry Highlights

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St. Paul’s News

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Choir Schedule

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Youth Ministry

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Calendar

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

Ongoing Activities

This Month at St. Paul’s and Elsewhere

St. Aelred’s Guild, 3rd Wednesday, 5 PM

Lugnuts game, Monday, May 8, 7 PM

Bible Study, Wednesday, 6:15-7:30 PM B&PW Dinner Meeting, 2nd Tuesday, 6 PM

UTO Ingathering, Sunday, May 14 New Member/Inquirers Class, May 7, May 14, Noon; May 20,

ECW, 1st Tuesday, 7 PM

Cherub, Boys and Grace Picnic, Wednesday, May 17

Family Night Dinner, Wednesday, 5-6 PM 4Fs (Food, Faith, Fun, Fellowship), May 8, Noon, St. Paul’s; May 22, Noon, Nancy Sheldon’s house

Cedar Point Trip, Saturday, May 20, 6:30 AM—10 PM

Book Cart, 2nd Sunday

St. Paul’s Library, open every Sunday St. Elizabeth Guild, Tuesday, May 23, Noon, St. Paul’s Prayer Group, 1st Tuesday, 5:30 PM Men’s Breakfast, 3rd Thursday, 7 AM Mid-week Eucharist, Tuesday, 12 Noon Committee Meetings Design & Preservation, 2nd Tuesday, 5:15 PM Service/Mission/Outreach, 3rd Monday, 6 PM

Choir Banquet, Sunday, May 21, Noon Men’s Golf League, Thursdays, 3:30 PM, Groesbeck Golf Course Women’s Golf League, Tuesdays, 4:30 PM, Chisholm Hills Golf Course Looking Ahead Confirmation, Reception & Reaffirmation, June 3, 10 AM Lucy Finkel Recital, June 3, 7 PM Vacation Bible School, June 2-30 Eagle Ranch Mission Trip, July 15-22

UTO Ingathering Sunday By Kay Gallup

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unday, May 14, 2006, will be the next ingathering for the UTO.

The United Thank Offering is a personal and family devotional program of the Episcopal Church. Its mission is to expand the circle of thankful people. Twice a year you are invited to participate in the UTO Ingathering. Your donations are the sum of your daily thanks for the blessings in each family member’s everyday life. Your prayers and offerings have built churches, schools, made needed repairs, fed the hungry, clothed the poor, provided shelter for the homeless, and have provided care and support for those with physical, mental and emotional challenges, worldwide. Little blue boxes are available for collecting your daily offerings. You will find them at the entrances to the church or in the St . Paul's office. On the Sundays before and of the Ingathering, UTO envelopes will be in the Sunday bulletins for your use. This gives you the opportunity to transfer your daily offerings so you can continue to use your Blue box at home. For the Ingathering, the women of the church will precede the ushers with alms plates to collect the UTO offerings. The second UTO Ingathering will be in the fall.

Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities

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St. Elizabeth Spring Salad Luncheon By Debby Pierce

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he St . Elizabeth Guild Spring Salad Luncheon will be Tuesday, May 23 at 12 noon. We will be at St. Paul's, as our speaker will be Mandy Lawton, and she will take us on a tour of the beautiful needlepoint of St. Paul's. Please share a ride with others as parking is limited. There is some handicapper parking behind the Church and there is some additional parking available on Capital Avenue in the parking lot between Christ Community Church (First Baptist ) and Central Methodist. This is the last meeting of this year, and we would love to see all of our members.

New Members/Inquirers Classes By The Rev. Susie Shaefer

Two More “4Fs” Remaining

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By Nancy Sheldon

re you new to Saint Paul’s in the last year or so? Would you like to learn more about the “hows” and “whys” of what we do here—even if you’ve been here for a long time? Then these sessions are for you! Starting on Sunday, April 30, we will have a foursession series about the Episcopal Church and Saint Paul’s. Even if you miss the first session, we’d love to have you for the others. The April 30, May 7 and May 14 sessions will be held after church, from noon till 1:30 PM. The final session will be a dinner event on Saturday, May 20. On Sunday, May 21, we will recognize new members to St. Paul’s during worship services. A sign-up sheet for the class will be outside the Merrifield Room.

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he 4 Fs will be meeting two last times in May for the following programs:

• May 8 - Cinco de Mayo Celebration with Cu-

rate Susie Shaefer • May 22 - Salad Buffet Picnic at Nancy Shel-

don's For more information, contact Nancy Sheldon at 393-9165.

St. Paul’s Returns to Cedar Point By Chris Nazar, Youth Leader

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t. Paul’s youth, families and friends are invited to go on the annual Cedar Point trip. This year, it will be on Saturday, May 20. Once again we will enjoy a fun day of rides and games on the shores of Lake Erie. The cost is $45 per person to cover park admission and transportation. Tickets for children under four feet tall are $28. Please speak with Chris Nazar or Susie Shaefer if the cost is an issue. We want everyone to be able to go. In order to get the group discount, we need to make our reservation at least one week in advance, so we would like everyone to sign up no later than Wednesday May 10. There will be a sign-up sheet outside the Merrifield Room. Everyone under 18 will also need a permission slip, which will be available on the Youth Bulletin Board or from Chris Nazar. The group will depart at 6:30 AM and return after 10 PM. The drive between St. Paul’s and Cedar Point is approximately 3.5 hours. Food is available in the park, or you can bring your lunch. We will have snacks in the vans while we are traveling. We hope that you will join us for the Cedar Point trip. Friends are always welcome.

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Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities

Women’s Golf League

Men’s Golf League

By the Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller

By the Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller

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everal women of the parish have expressed a desire to form a women’s golf group. Because scheduling ten-plus weeks of golf is difficult during the summer, the thought was to get together to play golf on Wednesday afternoons at 3:30 PM at various courses. It may be every week (if people are interested enough) or every other week. The first one will be May 10 at Lake of the Hills. If interested, please contact Pat Riley (882-1691) or the Church Office.

gain this year, the men’s golf league will be in operation. They will play on Thursday afternoons at 3:30 PM, at Groesbeck golf course in Lansing. There are still a few spaces available. Contact the Church office if interested.

ECW News By Barbara Richardson, President

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s of the registration deadline, 22 participants had signed up for the Women’s Retreat at the Weber Center in Adrian, held April 28-29. The ECW board was so pleased with the response. A full report of our days together will be in the June edition of the St. Paul’s News.

(Continued from, “Easter,” page 1)

family are another possibility. They are just as effective in Easter as they were in Advent. Do whatever it takes. Don’t lose the contact with Jesus that you worked so hard to establish in the months leading up to Easter Day. Finally don’t let the distractions allow you to drift away on Sunday morning. Your Christian family is your best support group. See you in Church! (Continued from, “Sabboth Economics,” page 1)

Perhaps the parable is not as we have understood it: an exhortation to venturesome resource investment and diligent labor. The slave who buried his talent in the ground refused to engage in his master’s unscrupulous business dealings. Instead, he returned what was not his, rather than engage in usury and exploitation of the poor. And, though afraid, he accepted the anticipated consequences. Perhaps this was the point Jesus had in mind. Perhaps this is not a parable about the use of talents, but rather a parable about a “whistle blower” who balked at participating in power and privilege at the expense of the poor. Context is everything when reading the Bible. The focus of the rest of the conference was nicely summarized in the first paragraph of the small booklet written by Meyers that was included in our conference packet. “We read the Gospel as if we had no money,” laments Jesuit theologian John Haughey, “and we spend our money as if we know nothing of the Gospel.” Indeed, the topic of economics is exceedingly difficult to talk about in most First World churches, more taboo than politics or even sex. Yet no aspect of our individual and corporate lives is more determinative of our welfare. And few subjects are more frequently addressed in our scriptures.” Once again, our lives will change as a result of attending this annual Diocesan-sponsored conference. If you would like to think through the personal implications of Sabbath Economics with us, let us know. We are looking for company.

News from the Vestry

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Financial Information As of March 31, 2006 By Jeff Irwin

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he total pledge and non-pledge revenue received through March 31 is $70,068, which is 25.3% of the total 2006 budget. March is 25% of the year.

In the month of March, we booked a loss from operations of $12,843, which brings the year-to-date total loss from operations to $14,032. The restricted and designated funds have recorded $14,454 in investment gain for the first quarter. Additionally there has been $8,971 of restricted contributions, which includes $2,850 that has been received as designated for the Organ Restoration project as of March 31, 2006. In total we have recorded $23,425 in restricted income. Through March 31 the Sudanese activity has resulted in a net loss of $3,964. This combined with operations net loss and the restricted net income brings the total church to $5,429 in net income through March 31, 2006. In March it was necessary to withdraw $10,000 from the Perpetual fund to cover operating expenses. This leaves $50,000 still available per the Vestry’s approval at the March meeting. As of April 13, 2006, no additional funds have been withdrawn from the Perpetual fund, but it will probably be necessary to withdraw an additional $10,000 before the end of April. In early April, we received $56,337 from the Lucille Penniman Trust. Per Vestry policy, $50,703 (90%) has been transferred to the Perpetual fund and $5,634 (10%) to the Mission and Outreach fund. It is anticipated that we will receive approximately the same amount from the Trust each year through 2008.

Highlights from the Vestry Meeting At the April 18th Vestry meeting, your Vestry: • Shared devotions with a goal of "reaffirming • • • • •

their Baptismal vows with the Bishop" on June 3rd. Reviewed the current action on the Vision Statement and the Welcoming Church Document. Heard of progress on the Organ Refurbishment. Received the end of March, quarter-year financial statement. We are on budget. Received Committee Reports. Learned from the Building and Grounds reports

• • • •

that the Seymour Street Sewer Separation will begin in the spring of 2007. We must reroute our downspouts out of the sanitary sewer by its completion. Learned the defibrillator is scheduled to arrive April 19 and classes for ushers and other interested parties will be scheduled. Learned we are signing on for another "Habitat" build. Construction starts June 2. Was reminded the spring round of personnel reviews is approaching. Received clergy reports.

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St. Paul’s News St. Paul’s April Prayer List

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e pray for those who are sick and in need: Cindy Robinson, Beverly McEachern, James Lantz Family, Dixie Durr, Audrey, Richard & Aaron Hegmon, Shelley Robinson, Donna & Grady Letner, Clara Voges, Mason Hill, Mary Olds, Lois Caswell, Pam Cathey, Ruthann Perry, Dorothy Lawrence, Brian Schray, June Wyatt, Janet Siebert, Barbara Millar, Avel Neito, John Kim, Rich Davis, Erik Lindquist , Bernie Lynch, Bobby, Mary Ann Kelley, Carol, Melinda Gordon, Judith Jones, Bill Hooks, baby Benjamin, John White, Gloria Anderson, Julia Kelleher, Andrew Astley, Bill Kundrat, Lynne Tripp and Barbara Schroeder.

Prayer List

We pray for and remember those in the military, serving in dangerous areas: Carlos Sims, Stacey Speck and Paul Jorae. We pray for those expecting: Michael & Lois Aguilera, Justin & Julia Heany, Justin & Jessica Leonard, Jeff & Mary Kate Powers, and Michael & Cassie Such We celebrate the birth of Abigail Elizabeth, daughter of Mike & Julie Young, born April 12, 2006 We pray for those who have died: Sidney H. McLain and Alice L. Hand We celebrate the baptism of: Mark August Diedrich, son of Mark & Janell Diedrich; John Henry Edward Bellon, son of Richard & Victoria Bellon; and Matthew Leighton Ferguson

Habitat for Humanity By Debby Pierce

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t . Paul's will be working on a new Habitat build beginning June 2. This is a new format: the build time is much shorter, less than three weeks. The new location is on Mary Avenue just west of MLK Blvd. on the south side of the street. There will be two homes built beside each other. A group of Lutheran churches is building one of the homes. The one we will be involved in will be with St. Thomas Aquinas and possibly Haslett Community Church. We will begin to sign up volunteers soon. We are looking primarily for prayer, time, and talent. Of course monetary donations will be accepted at any time. If you have any ideas, comments or questions, please contact Susie Shaefer, Debby Pierce or Susan Bonfiglio. Thank you.

“Keep the Music Alive! Be An Organ Donor!” By Nancy Milne and Jeff Kressler

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s many of you have heard, St. Paul’s is hoping that your love of and support for our music program will result in a contribution to the organ restoration fund. The work will be done by the Austin Organ Company, the original builder of the instrument. The people of the parish have certainly enjoyed this organ for over five decades. We have already received several pledges (totaling over $3000, Thank You!) and would like to remind you that any donation can be spread over two years for tax advantages. In the near future, there will be a number of activities to highlight the excellence of the music program at our church. We hope you are able to share these with us, and recognize the inestimable value of music in our worship services.

By Tom Shawver, Staff Writer

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lease welcome to the congregation Ed and Pat Meier of 6811 Heron Valley Court in Delta Township. They moved to Michigan from Santa Ana, CA and formerly attended St. David's Church. He is a retired supervising engineer for Westinghouse Electric and she is a retired middle school mathematics teacher. They are parents of three adult children.

St. Paul’s Choirs

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Choir News and Dates to Remember By Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music

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hanks so much for your dedicated work for the Easter services. Your singing added so much to the joy and celebration of the two services. Alleluia!

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he annual Choir Banquet (a potluck dinner) will be held on Sunday, May 21 at noon in the Merrifield Room. There will be a sign-up sheet for the banquet on the choir bulletin board, as well. We will be honoring the choristers for their service this year. Please save this date.

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he final rehearsal for the Youth Choirs (Cherubs, Boys’ and Grace, and High School) will be Wednesday, May 10. We will have our annual Cherub and Boys’ and Grace Choir picnic at Patriarche Park in East Lansing on Wednesday, May 17. There will a sign-up sheet on the Choir bulletin board to let us know what dish you’d like to bring. I’ll provide the hot dogs and buns.

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oin us Saturday, June 3 at 7 PM at the church for a recital presented by soprano Lucy Finkel.

Singing Schedule

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Date May 7 May 14 May 21 May 28

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

June 4

High School and Chancel

t’s hard to believe that we’ve come to the end of another singing season. Your commitment of time and talent has done so much to enrich our worship at St. Paul’s this past year. Thank you for helping to bless the lives of our worshipers each week!

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St. Paul’s Youth Ministry

Eagle Ranch Mission Trip By The Rev. Susie Shaefer, Curate

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he mission trip countdown continues! On July 15, four adults and seven youth will be heading to Tennessee for a week-long trip of mission work, spiritual growth, teambuilding and fun! Thank you to the parish for your support, it means a great deal to the group. We would also like to thank the Episcopal Church Women and the Service and Outreach committee for their support. It is such a blessing to prepare for this trip knowing we are upheld by your support and prayers.

Aslan Is on the Move: Narnia VBS By The Rev. Susie Shaefer, Curate

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ave the dates of June 26-30 for a fabulous Narnia-themed Vacation Bible School at St. Paul’s! The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe is a great children’s story, but it is also a Christian allegory written by one of the best-known theologians of the 20th century. Our VBS program will use this story to explore spiritual gifts, values and forgiveness. Of course, there will also be games, crafts, music, snacks and fun! Registration cards were mailed out in late April, or you can speak to Sally Boron or Rev. Susie Shaefer if you need registration materials.

Church School News By The Rev. Susie Shaefer, Curate

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unday, May 21 is the last day of regular church school classes before summertime arrives at St. Paul’s. On that day, we will have a special time during the service to recognize all the dedicated teachers who have worked with our children this school year. If you have ever taught church school, or have a child in the program, you know that this ministry is hard work and a gift to all of us. Of course, the opportunities for spiritual growth don’t end in May! Be sure to participate in our Vacation Bible School in June. Teenagers are welcome to be a part of this program as well. If you are interested in helping out, please talk to Ms. Val Boman or Rev. Susie Shaefer.

Young Adults Go to Lugnuts By The Rev. Susie Shaefer

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e are planning another young adult outing, this time to a Lansing Lugnuts game, on Monday, May 8 at 7 PM. Lugnuts games are a great family event, so young adults with kids are welcome to bring their families. Tickets cost $8. Please contact Rev. Susie Shaefer if you would like to attend so that tickets can be bought together. “Young Adults” generally means people in their 20s or 30s, single or not, with or without kids.

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St. Paul's Episcopal Church Lansing Michigan 218 W. Ottawa Lansing, MI 48933 Phone: 517-482-9454 Fax: 517-485-8261 Choir Room: 517-482-0369 Website: 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. Patrick Brander, 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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