St. Paul's News - November, 2008

St. Paul's Episcopal Church Lansing Michigan

St. Paul's News The Celebration of Life

November, 2008

By The Very Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

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ll of Christian faith is a celebration of life, but some seasons are more exciting than others. We are about to enter one of those times.

Volume 33, Issue 9

By the time you receive this, it will be the beginning of November. In secular life, the stores will be swinging into full holiday advertising mode, all pointing toward December 25. As exciting as Christmas is, The Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller most of the celebrating has to do with consumer consumption, not the celebration of new life. To protect yourself from the excesses of consumerism, and to become more aware of how Christ and the Church continually speak to us as children of God, consider how the Church views this period of time.

Inside this issue:

It starts with All Saints Day on November 1. One of the Church traditions is the reading of the necrology on All Saints Day and the Sunday following. The Necrology is a list of all members of the Parish Family who have died during the preceding year. At times this is painful because of the reminder that we will never see our loved ones again in this life. And yet, we are reminded of the promise of eternal life as found in Jesus. In addition, on All Saints Sunday, we usually have bap(Continued on page 14)

Episcopal Church Apologizes for Involvement in Slavery By The Rev. Ronald C. Byrd, Sr. istoric was the word often used to describe the events of October 3rd and 4th in Philadelphia. It was during this event that the Most Reverend Katharine Jefferts Schori, expressed regret for the Episcopal Church’s involvement in the institution of transatlantic slavery. In her homily the Presiding Bishop proclaimed, “Human beings have repeatedly forgotten or ignored the image of God borne by their brothers and sisters. We have turned away from loving our neighbor as ourselves. We have degraded those who are like us under the skin, so that we might use them worse than beasts of burden. We have sought to be god, lording it over others. In the process, we have repudiated that divine image in ourselves and discovered that there is little or no health in us.”

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Tears of emotion poured from the eyes of congregants as the Litanist read the Litany of Offense and Apology. More than five hundred gathered at St. Thomas African Episcopal Church in Philadelphia Pennsylvania, responded to the litany in refrain using a musical setting of the Kyrie. As the solemn service of repentance proceeded from the Word of the God to Holy Communion, seventeen bishops joined together with participants in prayers and songs of praise celebrating the reconciling presence and victory of our Lord Jesus Christ during the Eucharist. I thought, “God be praised; we began this morning with tears of sorrow and ended the day with cries of hope and joy; this is a heartfelt and amazing day for our entire household of faith!” Attending this event with me was The Rev. Ellis Clifton, Jr., Rector of St. Clements Church, Inkster (Continued on page 14)

Calendar

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Choir Schedule

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Mission & Outreach

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Prayer List

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St. Paul’s News

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Upcoming Activities

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Youth Group

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St. Paul's News Activities at a Glance

Ongoing Activities • St. Aelred’s Guild, third Wednesday, 4:30 PM • Book Cart, 2nd Sunday after 10 AM service • B&PW, Tuesday, October 10, 6 PM • ECW, 3rd Monday, 7 PM • Family Night Dinner, Wednesdays, 5 PM • 4 Fs, 2nd and 4th Mondays (except as noted) Noon2 PM • St. Paul’s Library, open every Sunday • Prayer Group, 1st Tuesday, 5:30-6:30 PM • Men’s Breakfast, 3rd Thursday, 7 AM • Mid-Week Eucharist, Tuesdays, noon This Month at St. Paul’s and Elsewhere • Quiet Morning November 1, December 6, 9-noon • All Saints Day, Saturday, November 1 • Invitation Sunday, November 2 • The Gathering, “Coffee House,” Merrifield Room, November 7, 7PM • Newcomers’ Dinner at the home of the Guts, No-

• • • • • •

vember 8, 6 PM UTO Collection, November 9, 8 & 10 AM Baptisms, November 9, 8 & 10 AM Silver Bells in the City, Friday, November 21 Feast of Christ the King, Sunday, November 23 Intergenerational Event, Sunday, November 23 Harvest Home Dinner, Wednesday, November 26, 6 PM

Looking Ahead • The Gathering Holiday Party, December 4, at the Gut home, time TBD • Lessons & Carols, Sunday, December 21, 10 AM • Men of Orpheus concert, Friday, December 12, 7 PM • Ministry Retreat, January 8-10, 2009 • Baptisms, January 11, 2009 • ACTION, April 28, May 12, 2009 7 PM • 160th Anniversary Celebration, May, 2009

Parish Quiet Morning - November 1 Carol Ingells, Spiritual Director n the midst of the anxiety and confusion of the current world situation, as well as the upcoming election, you are invited to stop--for just a little while. Saturday morning, November 1, from 9 a.m. to noon, the church will be open for a mini Quiet Day. Carol Ingells will give a short focus for the morning, after which everyone will be free to wander the building or settle into a solitary corner, for meditation, reflection, prayer, perhaps journaling. A few minutes before noon, all will gather for a brief time of group reflection and prayer. It will be simple; it will be quiet. No need to sign up ahead or pay anything. Just decide to come. The first Saturday morning in December, Steve Lange will lead a similar Quiet Day. You might find this time both invigorating and comforting to your spirit.

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e sure to set your clock back one hour before you go to bed on Saturday, November 1.

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November 2008

TÄÄ ft|Çàá Wtç Thursday, November 1, 2008 Eucharist, Sermon and Necrology, 7 p.m.

St. Paul's News

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Stewardship Update: You’re Invited to Invitation Sunday! By John Nevin, Vestry Member he St. Paul’s Stewardship Committee is very excited about the changes we have implemented so far this year. First and foremost, you have probably noticed that pledge cards were not included with the Stewardship Guide. That’s because the cards will be handed out on All Saints Sunday, November 2 at both the 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. services. At what we are calling “Invitation Sunday,” we’ll hear a stewardship message from Dr. Steve McSwain, author of The Giving Myths: Giving Then Getting the Life You’ve Always Wanted. Finally, we will return our pledge cards to the altar as an act of worship. Following the 10 a.m. service, the entire congregation is invited to a Unity Brunch in the Merrifield Room at 11:30 a.m. We hope and pray that our entire St. Paul’s family will be able to attend. (NOTE: If you are reading this after November 2 and were unable to attend services on Invitation Sunday, please watch the mail for your pledge card.)

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Children’s Stewardship So that the children of the parish can participate in the stewardship campaign, we are asking them to bring in some of the candy they collected on Halloween. How much is up to them. Parents might also want to contribute the excess candy from home that was not distributed to trick-or-treaters. Then we are planning a reverse trickor-treat, delivering candy to children in need and to senior citizens. The committee welcomes ideas from the congregation to involve our children in sharing God’s blessings.

Business & Professional Women Do you know these people?

The Fall “Gathering” COFFEE HOUSE AT ST. PAUL’S Friday, November 7, 2008 7 – 9 pm Merrifield Room

By Barbara Richardson ome join us November 11th and find out who they are. Dinner will be our Thanksgiving Dinner and will start promptly at 6pm. The cost is $8. For a reservation, please contact Debby Pierce. REMEMBER to bring your pictures for our meeting.

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Younker’s coupons will be on sale at Coffee Hours or from BPW members, until November 11th.

Baptisms and Welcome of New Members By The Very Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller n Sunday, November 9, there will be a service of baptism and the welcome of new members. This is usually held on All Saints Sunday but has been moved this year to accommodate the important occasion of our Stewardship ingathering (found elsewhere in this issue). If you would like to be baptized or welcomed as a newcomer, please contact one of the clergy as soon as possible.

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Live Entertainment by the talented musicians of St. Paul’s performing your favorite folk numbers. Slides from the collection of Norris Ingells will accompany some of the numbers. Karaoke will give you the opportunity to sing along with your favorites from Pete Seeger, Peter, Paul & Mary, etc. Bring:

• Guests • Snacks to share (cookies, chip & dip, etc.) • A coffee mug

Prizes: • The most interesting mugs from a variety of

categories (ugliest, most unusual, , etc.) • The best karaoke performance

Coffee, Tea and Popcorn will be provided Sign up outside the Merrifield Room.

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Thanksgiving Baskets By Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music t. Paul’s will be providing Thanksgiving baskets for needy families in the Lansing area again this year. If you are interested in providing food for a basket, making a monetary contribution or delivering a basket someone else has prepared, please sign up by Sunday, November 2, on the sheet by the elevator or in the Merrifield Room. Informational sheets are available by the sign-up sheets. Help make someone’s holiday celebrations a little brighter!

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A Personal Story of Thanksgiving Baskets By Dorothy Marsh don’t remember how many years my family has been taking Thanksgiving baskets to families in Lansing. I do remember when I first suggested it to my kids they were less than enthusiastic. It’s not that my children don’t support caring about and helping others it was just because they were working 6 days a week and Sunday was catch up time, you know, laundry, grocery shopping and other mundane things.

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I finally managed to convince my oldest son to go with me and it was then I learned that he was concerned about how we would be received. “After all”, he said, “How would we feel about being the object of charity?” It’s one thing to bring food to the church where it is taken to an anonymous food bank and quite another being invited into some strangers home. I will share that over the years we have been received with many hugs and multiple thanks. But I would be less than honest if I didn’t share that a few accepted the food less graciously than the others. It has been a humbling lesson for each of us to recognize that sharing our bounty was more important than how we were received. There is nothing more basic than a gift of food and there is great joy in knowing that another family is celebrating just as we are.

Harvest Home Dinner and Service By Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music t. Paul’s traditional Harvest Home dinner and service will be held on Wednesday, November 26, beginning at 6 p.m. in the Merrifield Room. England choristers (and their parents) will cook and serve the dinner as a big “Thank You!” for all the support given them by the parish. Choristers will display scrapbooks and a video of their trip, along with some of their souvenirs! Following the dinner, at approximately 7 p.m., the service of Holy Eucharist will be held in the church. Members of the Cherub Choir will sing an anthem for this service. There is a sign-up sheet on the table by the elevator. Please feel free to invite friends or relatives to join us for this celebration of God’s bounty.

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From the Parish Life Committee By Millie Ericson, Chair he 2nd Annual Pizza Party and Game Night was a great success. About 50 people, from one of our youngest (Hannah Hall) to the older among us (we who will remain nameless) enjoyed food, fellowship and fun on October 3. We have some very lucky bingo players among our young people, and there are some extraordinary Euchre, Jingo, and Skip-Bo players in the parish. Thanks to all the Parish Life Committee mem- Fun and games at St. Paul’s Second Annual Pizza Party and Game Night bers and those who attended to make this a wonderful evening. Pictures can be seen at the St. Paul’s Group Site on Facebook, http:// www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=35068488648.

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Upcoming Fellowship opportunity: • Friday, November 7, 7-9 p.m., Merrifield Room, Fall “The Gathering” Coffee House at St. Paul’s. Live

Entertainment by a variety of acts from among the talented musicians of the church performing your favorite folk numbers (could they be “The New St. Paul’s Minstrels”?). • Slides from the collection of Norris Ingells will accompany some of the numbers. Karaoke will give you the opportunity to sing along with your favorites from Pete Seeger, Peter, Paul & Mary, etc. Bring: • Guests (this is a great way to introduce St. Paul’s to friends and neighbors) • Snacks to share (i.e., brownies, cookies, Chex mix, cheese & crackers, chips & dip, etc.) • A coffee mug

Prizes: • The most interesting mugs from a variety of categories (ugliest, most unusual, traveled the farthest, etc.) • The best karaoke performance

Coffee, tea and popcorn will be provided. Sign up outside the Merrifield Room. • Friday, December 4 - Holiday “The Gathering,” hors d’oeuvres, dessert, music, conversation and an op-

portunity to make a gift to Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD), at the home of Larry and Kathy Gut with more details to follow

The Holiday Seasons Are Approaching! By Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music ovember means that preparation for the Thanksgiving and Christmas Seasons will get into full swing as St. Paul’s Handbell Choir joins with the Handbell Choir of Pilgrim Congregational Church, with John Broughton, director, to usher in “Silver Bells in the City.” An annual event in Lansing, Silver Bells includes a festive parade, singing groups, instrumental ensembles, fireworks and a concert of Handbell music put on at St. Paul’s immediately following the fireworks. This celebration will be held on Friday, November 21. After the concert, there will be free hot chocolate and cookies in the Merrifield Room for anyone who would like to stop by. Please come down and enjoy the festivities!

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and brass. The program will include works by Gabrieli, Vittoria, Philips, Susa, Pinkham and excerpts from Magnificat by John Rutter. In addition, the By Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music second half of the program will include works on traditional Christmas songs, including “I Saw Three • Friday, December 12, at 7 p.m., the Men of OrShips,” “Silent Night,” and “Go Tell It on the Mounpheus, an all-male singing group of Lansing, will tain.” Tickets will be $8 for adults and $6 for senpresent its annual Christmas Concert. Directed by iors and children. former parishioner Gayle Pohl, the Men of Orpheus • The service of Advent Lessons and Carols will be will present a concert of lighter Christmas music. held on Sunday, December 21, during the 10 a.m. • Sunday, December 14, at 7 p.m., the Lange Choral service. All of St. Paul’s choirs, including the HandEnsemble will present its annual Christmas concert. bell Choir, will join in this annual musical celebration This year the concert will feature music for chorus of Jesus’ birth.

Christmas Music at St. Paul’s

“Who is our brother and God's fellow worker in spreading the gospel of Christ?” (I Thessalonians 3:2) By the Rev. Ronald C. Byrd, Sr., Curate ince the beginning of the program year you may have noticed that the Rev. Bill Fineout has been processing down into the congregation for the reading and hearing of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Gospel procession originally began as a symbol of Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem, on what we now call Palm Sunday. The procession and reading of the Gospel among the people has gained greater liturgical emphasis in recent years primarily for two reasons.

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First, and perhaps most important, is that the Gospel is of the people and for the people. As Christians, we stand as witnesses to the living word of God in our lives and in the world around us. It is our place to stand with Christ, spreading the good news, and our spreading of the good news comes in our reading and hearing. Second, it is easier to hear, listen and see the reader when all other distractions are removed. The Apostle John writes, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14) At the time the Gospel is read all attention should be focused on the Gospel and it alone. The appropriate stance is for listeners to turn and face the reader of the gospel. It is at this time that Jesus is often speaking directly to us, therefore with our eyes let us see and with our ears let us hear. “Praise to you Lord Christ, for the reading and hearing of your word.”

Intergenerational Event By The Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller n Sunday, November 23, St. Paul’s will have an Intergenerational Educational Event following the 10 a.m. service. This might leave you asking, “What is an Intergenerational Educational Event?” Simply put, our education that day will not be age-graded; kindergarten in one room and senior high in another. Instead of Sunday morning education being only for the children, we will offer classes after the service with different events dispersed throughout the building so that everyone may take part.

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Our belief is that when the people of God discuss the presence of the Lord among them, we can learn from one another regardless of age. This year’s Intergenerational Educational Event will include activities and discussions on the church seasons of Pentecost/Christ the King, Advent and Christmas. Our service on this particular Sunday will be shorter and the interactive sessions will be about 25 minutes long. We ask that everyone be present at the service and make an effort to attend a session of interest after the mass. Light refreshments and fellowship will follow the sessions

November 2008

Choirs News St. Paul'

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Choir Newsletter and Dates to Remember By Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music England parents and choristers (for the next trip!) will meet on Sunday, November 9, after church for  a preliminary discussion of options for the next trip to England.  Wednesday, November 26 (Harvest Home Festival) ‐ Cherubs and Boys’ and Grace will rehearse  from 5:30 to 6 p.m. Cherubs (only) will sing an anthem for the Harvest Home service, which be‐ gins at 7 p.m. (Dinner will begin at 6 p.m.) High School choristers will serve the meal and help  clean up as needed.  Thursday, November 27 (Thanksgiving Day) ‐ There will be no Chancel Choir rehearsal.  Sunday, December 21 ‐ (Lessons and Carols) All choirs will sing for the 10 a.m. service. 

Singing Schedule Date

Choirs

November 2 November 9 November 16 November 23 November 30

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

December 7 December 14 December 21 Lessons & Carols December 24 4:00 pm Family Eucharist 11:00 pm Choral Eucharist December 31

Boys’ and Grace; High School High School; Chancel All Choirs: Cherubs, Boys’ and Grace, High School, Chancel Cherubs; Boys’ and Grace High School; Chancel Choirs will not be vesting

Chancel Choir to present “Missa Sancti Nicolai” By Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music n Sunday, November 23, as part of the 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist service, the Chancel Choir will sing Joseph Haydn’s “Missa Sancti Nicolai,” originally composed in 1772 to celebrate his patron’s name day (Prince Nikolaus Esterhazy). The choir will be accompanied by a string quartet for this presentation.

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This is a compelling approach for many different reasons, both practical and theological. The public relations/marketing professional in me views this as an By Stephanie Van Koevering, Vestry Member obvious strategy for attracting new interest in not just oday, a Web site captured my attention with the our small parish, but in Christianity as a whole. What better model for a community of believers than small phrase, “Small things done with great love will change the world.” The site is dedicated to the topic of gestures writ large by the grace with which they are “servant evangelism,” which is an approach that I hope offered? In blunt marketing terms, it’s a great identity builder. And hey, freebies are always great for atwe can adopt more intentionally here at St. Paul’s. tracting new interest! At its heart, the concept of servant evangelism invites But the amateur theologian in me sees many more reafollowers of Christ to offer small gestures of kindness sons to adopt the servant evangelism approach. I see it that will capture the attention and goodwill of those who receive them. “Servant evangelism wins the heart as an emulation of Christ Himself, who came in humility before it confronts the mind,” the site says. “A small act and grace to offer the ultimate kindness to the whole of kindness nudges a person closer to God, often in a world. I think of the many Bible lessons that exhort us profound way as it bypasses one’s mental defenses.” to give of ourselves and our possessions to support the work of the Father. I can think of no better way of carrying out the work we are called upon to do as evanOnce the spirit is engaged, it is then easier to approach the mind and the will with ideas about what St. gelists than by showing ourselves through our actions and deeds, rather than merely through our words. Paul’s has to offer. “Kindness builds the bridge,” according to the site, “for the person to receive the touch So let us carry forward as servant evangelists, humbly of love from God.” giving of ourselves and bringing joy—and hopefully much more—to the lives of those around us.

Servant Evangelism

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It’s Time! It’s Mitten Tree Time! By The Rev. Ronald C. Byrd, Sr., Curate

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eginning Sunday November 30 and for the following four weeks of Advent please bring new mittens, scarves, hats, and gloves and help decorate the Christmas tree in the cloister.

It is again my honor to be this year’s mitten tree program coordinator. Last year I had the privilege of delivering nearly 100 pairs of mittens and a number of gloves, hats and scarves to Cristo Rey. Your generous donations were met with excitement and appreciation, and I can only say… another job well done St. Paul’s! We all know mittens, gloves, hats and scarves are a gift that many of our brothers and sisters need, but can’t afford during the harsh Michigan winters. So let us do it again, because we know it’s that time. It’s mitten time! Over the last two years we have given our mitten tree harvest to Cristo Rey, however, this year it is my hope that we give our mitten tree bounty to a different organization that might have similar needs and a distribution capability similar to that of Cristo Rey. Please submit to me your suggestions for whom our mitten tree efforts might be directed by December 21.

November 2008

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Financial Information as of September 30, 2008 By Jeff Irwin As of September 30, 2008, pledge revenue collected was $217,349, which is 72.9 percent of the annual budget. We are 75 percent of the way through the year. In September, $29,150 of pledge revenue was collected, which is approximately 10 percent of the overall budgeted amount. The operating loss to date was $108,173, which is 79.5 percent of the 2008 budget. During September, our annual parking lot lease payment was made in the amount of $4,222. The designated and restricted funds have recorded a loss in market value in September of $35,438, bringing the nine-month loss to $64,844. Along with contributions to the funds, their net income was $19,158. As we are all aware, in September and October the stock market experienced unprecedented declines in value. The Finance Committee has been monitoring the situation and taken steps determined to be appropriate. Although the losses in value are very large, it is important to keep in mind that most of the funds have been invested for many years and often recorded increases. The combined net income of the operations and the funds is an $89,015 loss as of September 30, 2008. To date, it was necessary to withdraw a total of $90,000 from the Perpetual Fund to make payroll and pay outstanding bills. An additional $3,200 has been withdrawn from the Perpetual Fund for special purposes authorized by the vestry.

Vestry Highlights At the October 21Vestry meeting, your Vestry: • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • •

Shared a lovely meal provided by A Catered Affaire. Responded to devotions on "James the Just" provided by Deacon Bill Fineout. Approved amended minutes of September 16, 2008 (on bulletin board). Received the treasurer's Report - summery elsewhere in the issue. Began the preparation of the 2009 budget. Received an audit report of the 2007 year. The finalized version to be presented in November. Received a Finance Committee Report. ° Heard that investment loss was about $43,000 in the recent financial crisis. ° Passed a motion to spread recent investment loses over all funds, not just the few affected. ° Passed a motion to give the Finance Committee authority to select a new investment advisor. Discussed where we are in the Action Plan process. Received a Web Site progress report. Discussed the upcoming Diocesan Convention and the issues that will be presented. Received a report on the progress of the 160th celebration planed for 2009. Received other committee reports. Reviewed the "Healthy Congregations Seminar" with an eye on how we can implement some of its suggestions. Discussed recent sermons on the political campaigns. Distributed Vestry calling lists for the Unity Celebration and Brunch on November 2nd. Received Clergy Reports.

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“One Church, Many Journeys” Parish-Wide Book Read By Millie Ericson oth Book Read titles, (Contempt of Court, the turn-of-the-century lynching that launched 100 years of Federalism, by Mark Curriden and Leroy Phillips, Jr. for adults; and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, by C.S. Lewis, 3rd book in the Chronicles of Narnia, continuing the story of Prince Caspian, for families) are now available from the St. Paul’s book cart at a discounted price.

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Book groups will be formed to meet in January to discuss Contempt of Court. If you would like to host a discussion group in your home or facilitate the group, please sign up on the sheet outside the Merrifield Room. Each group will meet for one afternoon or evening a week for three consecutive weeks beginning the week of January 11. An exciting family event, “Voyaging on the Dawn Treader,” will be held on Friday, January 30. Calling all creative “St. Paulites.” If you have skills or interest in carpentry, set design, art/drawing, creating game ideas, drama, costuming, school carnival development, Bible school/Sunday school planning (or just like to have fun), your skills are needed on an Event Design Team for this family fun night. Contact Millie Ericson to become part of this exciting team.

We pray for those expecting: Deb & Jeff Sleight, Sarah (Weller) & Joe Evenden, Linda & Don Junger, Amanda & Darrick Alvarez, and Vicky & Rich Bellon. We pray and remember those in the Military, serving in dangerous areas: Daniel Reno, David Granger, and Bill Sheldon. We pray for comfort for the family and friends of Philip Telleen, Mary Olds and Richard Tyler, who recently passed away. We pray for those who are sick and in need: Cindy Robinson, Richard, Audrie & Aaron Hegmon, Shelley Robinson, Mason Hill, Erik Lindquist, Charles Weaver, Chance Collins, Mary Ann Kelley, Barb Hacker, Darrick, Marjorie Belles, Aleda, Dave, Kathryn Senko, Barb Powers, Patricia Reno, Skip & Marsha Macholz, Rick Edwards, Carrie, Michael Skinner, Bea Richards, Edward Such, Virginia Jessop, Mason Beasley, Judy Jones, Mary McClelland, June Wyatt, Ken Vogel, Berthella Hockert, Scott McLain, and Linda McDonald. We pray for those who hate, that your presence may calm or remove their anger and replace it with understanding, compassion and acceptance.

Matthew Shepard Memorial Service By The Very Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller n October 8, St. Paul’s opened its doors to the local community with the celebration of a Eucharist to mark the 10-year anniversary of the death of Matthew Shepard. Matthew was a young man of 21 who was slain as a result of hate directed toward him because he was gay. Attendees allowed their presence to indicate their opposition to hate crimes in general and to Matthew Shepard’s specifically. Our hope is to make this a yearly celebration.

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Water for Life By Lyn Zynda, Mission and Outreach he water-filled bottles are leaving with parishioners, and some are even returning to St. Paul’s filled with change and grateful prayers. Look for the basket near the stairs leading to the altar. Before the service or when you come up for communion, place your filled bottles in the basket. You can also drop the change-filled bottles at the office.

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At the final ingathering on Sunday, December 14, we will offer up the donations collected for a blessing and to demonstrate our commitment to help fulfill the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). As soon as we have sorted, counted and wrapped the change, the committee with report our progress back to the congregation. Remember: St. Paul’s voted as a community to raise the $7,500 necessary to build a well as our 2008 project. This is an ambitious undertaking made all the more difficult considering current economic conditions. I do believe, however, that St. Paul’s can rise to the occasion and help God’s children who are infinitely more challenged than any of us. If you haven’t already done so, pick up a water bottle or replace your changed-filled water bottle. Water bottles are available at the back of the church. Look for goal updates in future issues of the Newsletter and Sunday bulletins.

Mission & Outreach Activities: Where is Christ calling you to help others? •

November •

UTO Ingathering – Episcopal Church Women (ECW) Ongoing:

November 9-23 •

Thanksgiving Baskets

December 6 (13) •

Housing Assistance Fund – Fruit & Greens Sale

December •

Youth - Mitten Tree

December 14 •

Gifts for the Christ Child

MDG – Water for Life Ingathering/Wrap up

December 24

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Manna Sundays for street ministry (busing/work boots)

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Water for Life

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Heifer International

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Prayer quilts

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Cars INC

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Sudanese Education

Check the Newsletter articles and the Sunday Bulletin Announcements for additional details and information.

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And the Winner IS! By The Rev. Ronald C. Byrd, Sr., Curate first want to thank all of the individuals and organizations that participated in our Stewardship Sampler Sunday. Although I was away preaching and celebrating the Eucharist at St. John’s in Charlotte, Michigan, I heard great things concerning the effort and sincerity towards our “Show Jesus” contest challenge. Our ministry together and individually is centered on the good news of Jesus Christ. I believe it should be our hope that in our ministry others may see the bright shinning face of Christ. Mandy Lawton representing the “Busy Bees” of Now after more than 8,760 hours of careful, thoughtful consideration the Business and Professional Women’s Guild and yet even more evaluation of the all of the wonderful displays, without any further ado, I am proud to announce that the winner of the 2008-2009 St. Paul’s Stewardship Sampler Sunday “Show Jesus” Contest Challenge is…

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Oops…I have one final detail to check, so I will announce the winner of the 2008-2009 St. Paul’s Stewardship Sampler Sunday “Show Jesus” Contest Challenge on Invitation Sunday, November 2 at the 10 am St. Aelred’s Guild provides visits, service. Award recipients must be present cards, prayers and support to the comto accept awards. Family members, close munity of St. Paul’s friends or pets are not eligible for prizes. Information contained in this article is for the expressed purpose of encouraging Eleanor Doersam seeks volunteers for the Blood Drive you to attend Invitation Sunday at St. Paul’s.

2008-2009 Youth Group Programming & Events

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hen planning events for this calendar year, the Youth Group decided to alternate outreach and fun activities each month. Here is the tentative schedule: • • • • • • • •

October – CROP Walk November – Clean house of sick/shut-in church member(s) December – Caroling & play BINGO with residents of TenderCare West January – Sledding/ice skating or Laser Tag February – Red Cross training & Valentines Day babysitting for families March – Lock-in, bowling, and feed homeless April – Host Easter Egg hunt for young children May – Overnight mission trip (within Michigan)

The youth group targets young people grades 6th through 12th, and meets on the first Sunday of each month for a council meeting. Our next meeting is scheduled for Sunday, November 2.

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Youth Ministry Articles Provided By: Youth Group Council President, Ms. Emily Laub Youth Christian Education Ministry Chairperson, Dr. Judith Brown-Clarke The Rev. Ronald C. Byrd, Sr., Curate

Youth Group Elects New Officers & Committee Chairs he 2008-09 programming year has begun and the Youth Group is in full swing and we are expecting to have another exciting year. On Sunday, September 21st, their peers voted the following individuals into executive office:

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Co-Presidents: Emily Laub & Daniel Fletcher Co-Vice Presidents: Thomas Laub & Antonio Clarke Secretary: Margaret Kariuki Treasurer: Maggie McDaniels In an effort to ensure that all youth are in leadership roles, the follow sub-committees were formed: Communications Committee: Responsible for advertising, marketing, logo development, and signage: Erikah Alvarez, Courtney Irwin, Zoe Beckett, Claire Beckett Finance Committee: Responsible for collecting money and keeping stock inventory of the vending machines: Parker Van Voorhees, Daniel Crabtree, Steven Walker

and most certainly…“the “Epiphany of our Lord Jesus Christ!” These services encompass a variety of liturgical themes, and to ensure proper preparation and assignments, members are asked to attend monthly meetings. he St. Paul’s Acolyte Guild would like you to join Moms and Dads, we can use your help here! The Acothem in welcoming its newest members: Erikah Al- lyte Guild meets on the second Sunday of every month, varez, Zoe Beckett, Claire Beckett, Kaitlyn Narezo, except in December when the guild will meet on the and Parker Van Voorhees. The guild now has some 22 first and third Sunday. active members. Happy are they who serve the Lord! We are planning a field trip on November 22 to St. As many of you know we will soon be coming into one Gregory Abbey Monastery, a community of men living of our busiest and most rewarding times of year for under the Rule of Saint Benedict within the Episcopal the Acolyte Guild. The upcoming schedule includes Church near Three Rivers, Michigan. Important details many significant services including “Christ the King,” about this field trip will be communicated to acolytes “Lessons & Carols,” “Christmas Eve,” Christmas Day, and parents via surface mail soon.

Acolyte Guild Welcomes New Members

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Youth Group Walks for Hunger ur St. Paul’s Youth Group raised over $1,100.00 in donations in this year’s CROP WALK. That’s $100.00 more than last year! Congratulations Erikah, Antonio, Margaret, Emily, Thomas, Maggie, Zoe, Claire and Kaitlyn for a job well done! Many will benefit from your efforts. The youth group would like to give a special THANK YOU to St. Paul’s parishioners for your generous contributions.

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The group of 12 walked a little short of 10K (Fr. Ron got little tired…) on Sunday October 12th. Our donation of $1,100 is enough to provide clean water for drinking and domestic use, as well as education and training for improved community health, hygiene, and sanitation. This service project is the first of several other upcoming outreach and service projects the group has planned for the coming year.

November 2008

Members of the St. Paul’s Crop Walk Team

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St. Paul's News

(Continued from, “Celebration of Life,” page 1)

tisms and in the coos, cries and smiles, we are reminded that life itself is eternal and renewing and of our obligation and pleasure to pass our faith from generation to generation. Sometime toward the end of November, we always celebrate “The Feast of Christ the King.” It marks the end of the season of Pentecost and will be celebrated this year on November 23. This is a special day because it calls us to reflect on the season past and all the evidences of God’s presence in our lives. In the image of a king, we are reminded of the kind of ruler our God is— loving, caring, merciful—a King given to sustaining and enhancing the joys of life. Another holiday in November is Thanksgiving. Its roots are found in the quest for religious freedom and in thankfulness for God’s blessing of survival and life itself. For most of us, the day will be about family and

coming together. Let us be sure we acknowledge all these blessings by keeping the remembrance of God in the celebration. On November 30, we will begin the Season of Advent. Our thoughts will turn to the preparations that the season requires as Christmas approaches. The thoughts of Christmas will come easily enough. They will, at times, be overwhelming. The difficulty will be keeping the focus on the life that God provides rather than the acquisition of things that secular society advocates. As we approach this wonderful set of holidays, I ask you to remember Moses’ words to his people as they were about to enter into the grand adventure of the Promised Land. He knew that they would have choices to make every day. His admonition was, “Choose life!” (Deut. 30:19) My hope and prayer is that we may do the same.

(Continued from, “Episcopal Church Apologizes,” page 1)

and vice-president of the Bishop H. Irving Mayson Chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians. The two-day solemn observance began on Friday with opening reflections by Dr. Bonnie Anderson, President of the House of Deputies. Looking to the continuation of the reconciliatory mood of this event Anderson proclaimed, "This is a great start to a new beginning," and "no one should view it as being over". She also acknowledged that the "work is hard" but she stressed that "it must continue" for the betterment of the Episcopal Church. In partial fulfillment of an attempt to "make a full, faithful, and informed accounting of our history" those attending on Friday witnessed powerful and oft times surprising presentations from distinguished members of our communion. These workshop provided documentation of the complicity of the Episcopal Church in the institution of slavery and the economic benefits some aspects of the church derived from that sinful practice. Friday participants also viewed displays from the Episcopal Archives and the African American Episcopal Historical Collection at Virginia Seminary. Father Clifton remarked, “We are grateful to Bishop Gibbs for providing Fr. Ron and me with this opportunity. Reconciliation is an important aspect of the bishop's ministry and without his support and commitment to racial reconciliation we would not be here today,” The service of repentance on Saturday marked the commencement of several actions passed by resolution at the 75th General Convention of the Episcopal Church. Resolution 123A, titled Slavery and Racial Reconciliation, called for the Episcopal Church to unequivocally declare slavery a sin and a fundamental betrayal of humanity. It also required the Church to publicly acknowledge and apologize for the Church’s complicity in the institution and aftermath of slavery, segregation and discrimination. In addition, the resolution requires the Executive Council to initiate a comprehensive program, urging every Diocese to have a similar service of repentance, and for each diocese to collect and document by the next triennium detailed information in its own community on the Episcopal Church’s involvement in slavery, segregation and discrimination. The Executive Council, assisted by the Committee on Anti-Racism is expected to issue a report at the 76th General Convention “on how the Church can be a repairer of the breach.” (Isaiah 58:12)

November 2008

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The St. Paul’s News is a publication of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Lansing Michigan. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Staff The Very Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller, Rector The Rev. Ronald C. Byrd, Sr., Curate Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music The Rev. Deacon William H. Fineout Ms. Mary Rodeck, Assistant Minister of Music Ms. Kathleen Johnson, Office Manager

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