St. Paul's News - October, 2007

St. Paul's Episcopal Church Lansing Michigan

St. Paul’s News Octoberber, 2007

The Gift of Generosity By The Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller

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n the opening verses of Genesis, the statement is made that humanity is created in the image of God. Certainly that The Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller does not mean that God looks like we do: black or white, red or yellow, beautiful or handsome. It means that God has given us some of the most cherished attributes of God’s personality or, perhaps more accurately, God’s essence. What we do know about God’s image is that it is given the name of love. Everything God has done—like giving us Jesus—or will do, like providing a place in the kingdom of heaven, is based on that love. But there are some additional qualities that perhaps we don’t identify

Volume 32, Issue 8

often enough. I believe, as does your Stewardship Committee, that one of God’s greatest gifts is that of Generosity. God is generous with us and in turn we are called to be generous with one another. Few would argue the truth of that statement, but one of the things often pondered is why God does what God does. Why for example is God loving and/or generous? Because it is right? Perhaps because it keeps creation in balance? Because God knows nothing else? Without being presumptuous, I believe it is because it makes God happy! As we begin our Every Member Canvass this year, I ask you to consider your level of generosity. The Stewardship Committee has suggested (Continued on page 12)

Vestry 2007: Never Too Busy For Welcoming By Greg Wortley, Senior Warden

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all is certainly the season of “homecoming,” and the busyness of welcoming all “home” to St. Paul’s is definitely all around us. Of the many events of this busy time of homecoming, however, three vestry and committee level happenings warrant special attention in regard to St. Paul’s welcoming efforts. During the summer months, plans continued developing effective ways to communicate our welcoming presence and mission to the greater Lansing area. Building on the recent initiatives of Stephanie Van Koevering’s 2007-08 Public Relations Plan and the ongoing work of the Communications Committee, we are currently conversing with an additional outside resource— Mark Doyle—whose professional specialty is assisting non-profit organizations in “advertising” themselves to the community. The Sundays of September truly welcomed us back to a myriad of opportunities for growth and service at St. Paul’s. Libby Richardson and the Stewardship Committee built upon the “Sampler Sunday” concept of previous years by organizing not just one, but a series of “Sampler Sundays.” Throughout the four Sunday coffee hours in September we were all introduced and re-introduced to the many, many ways in which we can individually and corporately be good stewards of our lives—the many, many ways we can involve ourselves at St. Paul’s so as to grow in faith, understanding and service. (Continued on page 12)

Inside this issue: Calendar

13

Choir Schedule

9

St. Paul’s News

6

Upcoming

2

Vestry News

7

Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities

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St. Paul’s In Action Ongoing Activities • St. Aelred’s Guild, third Wednesday, 5:00 PM • Book Cart, 2nd Sunday after 10 AM • B&PW, Tuesday, October 9, 6 PM • ECW, third Monday, 7 PM • Family Night Dinner, Wednesdays, 5-6 PM • 4 Fs, second and fourth Mondays, noon to 2 PM • Infant/Toddler Group, 3rd Saturday, 10 AM-Noon • St. Paul’s Library, open every Sunday • Prayer Group, first Tuesday, 5:30 PM, Choir Rehearsal Room • Men’s Breakfast, third Thursday, 7-8 AM, Hill Room • Mid-Week Eucharist, Tuesdays, noon This Month at St. Paul’s and Elsewhere • Habitat Orientation, Wednesday, October 3 (or 10) • Newcomer’s Classes, three Saturdays, October 6, 13 and 20, 9:30-11:30 AM

vs. By Millie Ericson, Vestry Member

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• ProActive Parenting, five Wednesdays beginning

October 10, 6:15 - 7:30 PM

• Crop Walk, Sunday, October 14 • The Gathering, Friday, October 19, 6:30-9 PM, at

the home of Julie & Mike Young

• Food Drive, October 19 – November 4 • Blood Drive, Saturday, October 20, 8 AM-2 PM • Diocesan Convention Banquet, The Most Rev.

Katharine Jefferts Schori to speak, Friday, October 26 • Fruit & Greens Sale Looking Ahead • All Saints Day services, November 1, 7 PM • Baptism, Sunday, November 4 • UTO Sunday, November 4 • SILS (former foster child) Young Person Collection, November 11-25

Fall “The Gathering: Team Spirit Bonfire And Hot Dog Roast

riday, October 19, 6:30 – 9 p.m. at the home of Julie & Mike Young, 6713 Chadwick Rd., DeWitt (Map on table outside the Merrifield Room)

Wear your team colors (MSU, U-M, other universities or high schools), bring your yearbooks, and be prepared to recall the days of pep rallies, marching bands and torn down goal posts! (This party will kick off the annual Food and Blood Drives with the traditional competition generated by the MSU/U-M football game). Get in the Team Spirit and sign up on the sheet outside the Merrifield Room. Watch for additional details in upcoming Sunday Bulletins.

B&PW By Barbara Richardson

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he B&PW Guild will meet on October 9 at 6 p.m. in the Hill Room. Ann Blair, Lansing School District retiree and community activist, will be our speaker.

The guild will once again be selling Younker’s Community Day coupon books for the Nov. 10 Community Day sale. The books may be purchased from guild members or at the coffee hours on any Sunday in October. The cost is $5 with the proceeds going to B&PW, not Younker’s. All women of the church are invited to our meetings. Reservations are required. Please contact Nancy Milne (882-0573) by Oct. 7 for a reservation.

Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities

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4 F’s 2007-08 Programs, “Taking Care of Ourselves & Others” By Nancy Sheldon

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he 4 F’s meetings are held the second and fourth Mondays of each month, with communion at 12 noon, lunch at 12:30, Bible study at 1 p.m. and the program from 1:15 to 2 p.m. We provide faith, fellowship, food and fun for anyone who has time in the middle of the day! Sign up for each session on the table outside the Merrifield Room. November 26 October 8 Joe Houston, minister of Central United Methodist “Spiritual Eldering” continued with Pat Hep. Church, will discuss Methodism, their ministries and their December 10 unique facility A special Christmas Celebration with the Grand Ledge October 22 Madrigals led by Nancy Lange. “Walking Turkey in Peace” with Carol Ingells. Carol We will continue the 4F’s programs on January 14 and will share her stories from a special trip to Turkey. will have program information in the January St. Paul’s News.

November 12 “Spiritual Eldering” with retired director of refugee services, Pat Hep.

Baptismal Covenant Classes

Newcomer’s Classes

By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

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ne of our yearly educational offerings is a series of classes where we review and explain the Baptismal Covenant, which is the Prayer Book’s doctrinal statement of what we believe and how we are to respond to that belief. These classes are always interesting because of the questions, discussion and opinions shared by the participants. These classes, which are combined with the Newcomer’s Classes (see related article, right), are appropriate for those seeking Baptism, those wishing to affiliate with St. Paul’s and current members wishing to explore their own faith in a bit more depth. If interested, please contact the parish office or one of the clergy.

ach fall and spring, we hold newcomer classes for those who would like to know more about St. Paul’s and/or may be considering joining the parish. These classes coincide with our Baptismal Covenant classes which are held from 9:30-11:30 a.m. on four Saturdays in October and November (Oct. 6, 13, and 20). In addition, a newcomers’ dinner will be held Saturday evening, November 3, at 6 p.m., in the home of Tom and Martie Repaskey. Those seeking to affiliate with St. Paul’s will be officially welcomed at services on Sunday, November 4. Should any of this interest you, please contact the church office or one of the clergy.

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nce again we are planning for Baptisms on the first Sunday of November. November 4, All Saints Sunday, has become a traditional time for baptisms because of its theological association with All Saints Day, which is always November 1. Should your or someone in you family desire to be baptized, please contact the church office or one of the clergy. We will make arrangements with you. Please know that one of the requirements is to attend the Baptismal Covenant classes mentioned in another place in this issue of the St. Paul’s News.

TÄÄ ft|Çàá Wtç Thursday, November 1, 2007 Eucharist, Sermon and Necrology 7 p.m.

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Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities

From the Parish Life Committee By Millie Ericson, Vestry Member

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he Gathering” is an opportunity for adults of the parish and guests—singles and couples—to enjoy a good time and get to know one another better in informal fellowship settings three or four times a year. It began a number of years ago by the Evangelism Committee as a way for both longer-term members and newcomers to meet and feel connected to one another and the parish. Usually the group has gathered in the home of parish members, sometimes for meals, hors d’oeuvres or dessert. The evenings have included theater outings, barbeques, jazz nights and other musical entertainment both planned and spontaneous. Whatever the “theme,” fun and fellowship has been enjoyed by all. The vision of “The Gathering” is now being carried forward by the Parish Life Committee and exciting plans are in the works for a Fall “Team Spirit” Bonfire and Hot Dog Roast (see below); a Christmas party; a Valentine’s celebration and a spring theater outing. Watch for the announcements, plan to come and bring your friends.

Sunday School Update By Judi Clarke, Vestry Member

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s of Sunday, September 9, youth Sunday School was back in session. Classes serve students in grades pre-kindergarten through high school and begin at 9:45 a.m., giving parents adequate time to get in and settled in the sanctuary. Sunday School ends at approximately 10:45 a.m., when students march into the sanctuary to be reunited with parents/caretakers. The curriculum, Living The Good News, provides a lectionary-based curriculum that shapes and transforms lives. Each lesson includes an overview on how the scripture readings fit together with everyday life. Providing a warm and loving environment is a primary goal of our program. We aim to teach the powerful role that prayer and the sacraments can

play in helping students cope with everyday concerns. The classes are broken down by the following grades and teachers: • Pre-K. – Kindergarten – Carol Laub and Julie • • • •

Fletcher 1st-3rd Grade – Judi Clarke 4th-5th Grade – Matt and Kym Hall 6th-8th Grade – Barb Heany and Tom Foltz 9th-12th Grade – Lyn Kressler

We look forward to assisting your child in the walk with God.

Presiding Bishop to Speak in Lansing By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

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any know that St. Paul’s invited The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presiding Bishop of the United States, to speak at St. Paul’s in October. While our dates of invitation did not fit with her schedule, she will be in Lansing the last weekend of October and will be the keynote speaker at the Diocesan Convention banquet Friday evening, October 26. The convention and banquet will be held at the Holiday Inn South. Because of the expressed interest in what she has to say, and the response of the worldwide Anglican Communion to of the House of Bishops’ request, this will be a well attended banquet. We have reserved 56 tickets (5 tables of eight) as a starting point. Tickets for the banquet may cost as much as $35 per person (the price has not yet been determined). We do not want anyone to miss this because of the cost of the tickets so anonymous assistance will be provided for those who need it. Please contact Fr. Weller. Should we have more than 56 people who would like to attend, we will try to make additional reservations. Please sign up early by calling the parish office or by signing the reservation list on the table outside the Merrifield Room on Sunday morning.

Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities

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Parenting Class Begins October 10 By Martie Repaskey, Vestry Member

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he second class in the ProActive Parenting series, entitled “Communicating with Your Child or Teen,” will begin on October 10. The class will run for five sessions: October 10, 17, 24 and November 7 and 14, from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. Millie Ericson and Martie Repaskey will be the facilitators for this study of communication skills in Christian families. Parents of children of any age are encouraged to join this interactive class which utilizes a combination of video presentations, Bible study and conversation. All participants are encouraged to join the family night crowd for dinner and fellowship before the class meeting. Childcare will be provided. The sign-up sheet is on the table outside the Merrifield Room. For further information, please call or talk to Millie or Martie.

Needlepoint News

Habitat Volunteer Alert!

By Mandy Lawton

By Bill Fineout, Diaconal Candidate

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ccording to the September 2007 issue of Episcopal Life, the Washington National Cathedral has 1,500 separate pieces of needlepoint. Did you know that St. Paul’s has 175 pieces of needlepoint in the church itself? It has 64 telling the story of the Old and New Testaments and 111 are memorial kneelers. Additional needlepoint is in the hushers, the alms basins and on occasional chairs throughout the church. Did you know there are six needlepoint cushions in the Van Atta room? Have you looked at the cushions on the bench in the hallway going into the church? They show the successive historical churches of St. Paul’s. Did you know that over 40 different individuals have stitched the various needlepoint kneelers? The last memorial kneeler, placed last summer, is in memory of Nancy Herbert. It is seven rows from the back of the church on the right side. Do take a look. The memorial kneelers make a nice gift for a loved one or as a memorial for a deceased member. Please contact me if you are interested in adding to the “silent beauties” of St. Paul’s.

abitat for Humanity starts a Lansing house this October. This is a wonderful opportunity to help a family and the Lansing area with a crucial life component, housing. If St. Paul’s has enough volunteers (UNSKILLED as well as skilled), we can schedule our own orientation session with Habitat to be held here at St. Paul’s. There will be weekend builds this fall from October 12 until Thanksgiving, and the house will then be finished in February. St. Paul’s has two veteran volunteers, MaryLea Benson and Matt Mann, who could answer your questions. We have not participated in a build in two years and this just might be your “thing.” You can commit to just the hours or days you have to donate. The builds will occur on Fridays and Saturdays with some Thursdays. Habitat asks a commitment in three areas: prayer, volunteers and financing. While all three are extremely important, we need to know if you are willing to volunteer so we can schedule the orientation meeting, probably Wednesday, October 3 or 10. Volunteers can be of any skill level. Someone to provide lunches for builders is also needed. If you are interested, please let Bill Fineout know so we can schedule orientation. Habitat is requiring all volunteers attend their orientation sessions.

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St. Paul’s News

Announcing A Parish Wide Book Read By Millie Ericson, Vestry Member

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ollowing the example of East Lansing’s “One Community, One Book,” St. Paul’s will launch an opportunity for all members of the parish to join in reading the same book, gather in small discussion groups and come together for a guest lecturer who will further enlighten us on the book’s topic and implications. The goal of this endeavor is to increase our sense of fellowship and common connections as the Body of Christ at St. Paul’s. The book chosen is The Worst Hard Times, the Untold Story of Those Who Survived the Great American Dust Bowl, by Timothy Eden (New York: Houghton Mifflin, 2006). With section headings like “Promise,” “Betrayal” and “Blowup,” and a conclusion that suggests rebirth, the book offers implications for our Biblical and spiritual journey as Christians, as well as connections to the Millennium Development Goals. It is highly readable, written by a Pulitzer Prize winning author, focusing on the personal stories of those who remained in the Dust Bowl during the “worst hard times” and endured. Discussion Groups will convene in January. These will be held at various times and locations to best facilitate the needs of everyone. A Guest Lecture will also be in January (guest lecturer to be announced later). Please sign up on the table outside the Merrifield Room to participate, including your preferred time and location for joining a discussion group. Also indicate on the sheet if you would be willing to host a discussion group in your home and/or facilitate a group. (Group facilitators will meet in the late fall to prepare.) Books for purchase will be made available at the church, so signing up is important to know how many books we need. Think up a creative name for our book read and, if yours is chosen, win a free copy of the book. Submit suggestions to Millie Ericson or Gordon Weller. For further information, contact Millie, Gordon or any member of the Parish Life Committee.

Highlights from the September Vestry Meeting: At the September 18 Vestry meeting, your Vestry:

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• Had a discussion (review) of The Rev. Ronald • • • • •

• • • •

Byrd's ordination Noted that the brass plaques for the Memorial Garden have been ordered Committed to attending Action's Nehemiah Action Assembly on September 24 Discussed the progress of the city's sewer separation (perhaps three more weeks) Reviewed the Public Relations Plan progress Heard a report from LAEP (Lansing Area Episcopal Projects) - there is a caucus of all Diocesan Convention Representatives on October 8 here at St. Paul's, 7 p.m. Discussed the need for the completion of the 2006 audit Received various committee reports. The fall season is here and we are in full operation. It looks like a good year ahead. Heard that the Personnel Committee is in the process of doing fall reviews Noted that Steve and the choir will be performing

• • • • • •

•

Gian Carlo Menotti's "Amahl and the Night Visitors" in December and that we should get extra publicity so that attendance is good Noted that the air conditioning installation was about $4,400.00 over budget, primarily due to a $4,800.00 electrician's bill. Electrician had been paid out of general maintenance. Approved the expenditure of $3,800.00 to fix the leak in the Parish Hall entryway roof Approved $389.00 for a new, larger gas meter in case we would like to hook the gas up to the new AC/heater Approved moving an additional $20,000 from the Perpetual Fund (if needed) to the operating account Noted that budget requests for the 2008 budget are now due. The budgeting process is now underway, including Every Member Canvass Received the resignation of Dan Kallish as Sexton effective immediately. A search for a replacement is underway. Discussed the Diocesan Convention (Oct. 26 & 27) and the fact that the Presiding Bishop will be present. Vestry and Delegates plan on attending the Banquet. Received Clergy reports

News from the Vestry Financial Information as of

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August 31, 2007

By Jeff Irwin The August accounting was not complete as of the writing of this article. The following is based on preliminary data. The total pledge and non-pledge revenue received through August 31 was $181,117, which is 64% of the total 2007 budget. August is 67% of the year, so we are a little behind. It is hoped that autumn will bring additional pledge payments and we will meet our 2007 budget for pledge revenue. Through August 31, we have incurred a net operating loss of nearly $100,000. Although this is a very large amount, it is not unexpected based on our 2007 operating budget. The restricted and designated funds have recorded close to $80,000 in revenue. This includes both investment gains and restricted contributions. As of September 12, 2007, it has been necessary to withdraw $120,000 from the Perpetual Fund to provide cash to keep the church operating.

Highlights from the August Vestry Meeting:

• Learned the Public Relations plan is still being •

At the August 21 Vestry meeting your Vestry: • Welcomed Ronald Byrd to the parish and vestry. •

• •

• •

Approved June and July minutes (posted on the Bulletin Board outside the rector's office). Discussed the cost overrun on the Merrifield Room air conditioning (about $2,500.00 due to electrician's bill) which will be paid out of the Building Fund when the final overrun amount is known. Discussed garden plaque status - need to be ordered. Heard ACTION report. Justice issue selected but not approved by the ACTION Board. It probably will be a Jail Ministry item. More by September. ACTION Board meets next Monday evening. Heard Oliver Tower report. No city response. Only recourse is a ballot initiative. Probably will not happen. Heard report on sewer separation. Seymour Street still is torn up. The Roosevelt Parking ramp will always be open evenings and weekends. Our parking will not be interrupted.

• • • • • • • •

developed. Heard reports from LAEP (Lansing Area Episcopal Projects) that St. Paul's will have SILS responsibility in November (SILS is the program that provides start-up living materials for those teens aging out of the foster care program). Discussed the Visioning and Welcoming Church documents. Approved $4,800.00 to repair the cloister and office steps. Heard various committee reports; we are ready for the fall season to begin. Were notified that we will have to replace the sexton. The current sexton is to be out by September 20. Received a treasurer's report (highlights of which are elsewhere in this issue). Approved our full diocesan pledge for 2008 ($43,618.00). Elected new Diocesan Delegates (Greg Wortley, Charlie Krupka, Libby Richardson, alternates Kathy Gut, Larry Clark). Received Clergy reports.

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St. Paul’s News

Upcoming Mission & Outreach Activities Where is Christ calling you to help others? October 10 October 12-13 October 14 October 19 October 20 October November 4 November 4 November 11–18 December November 19 December 2 or 9 December December 24

Habitat for Humanity Orientation (at St. Paul’s) for volunteers, if we have a crew Habitat for Humanity house build starts Crop Walk (Youth activity in the past) Food Drive starts – “The Gathering” Blood Drive Housing Assistance Fund – Fruit & Greens Sale Begins UTO Ingathering Food Drive Final Day Thanksgiving Baskets SILS (Supervised Independent Living Services) Apartment Starter Collection for Child & Family Services young adults who have aged out of foster care. See the December newsletter LAEP quarterly meeting (Lansing Area Episcopal Projects) Fruit & Greens pickup at All Saints (date TBA) Mitten Tree Gifts for the Christ Child – Eve’s House

CarsINC Cars In the Name of Christ By Tom Repaskey

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arsINC was founded in July 2007 as a non-profit We are in the process of applying for 501(c)(3) status, which will enable any contribution made to ministry to assist families in acquiring a car. CarsINC to qualify as a charitable (tax-deductible) The idea for this ministry was borne out of Chuck Mil- contribution. Until we are notified that it is complete, it lar’s efforts over the past several years to assist some is necessary and appropriate for interested persons to of the Sudanese members of the parish. A number of make their checks payable to St. Paul’s. parishioners contributed their cars and made a real We placed our first car last week with a single mom difference in the lives of the Sudanese. with three children and employed as a phlebotomist. We are now organized as a non-profit corporation, Christian Services is thrilled to know that we may be and, while seeking cars to be donated by parishioners able to assist more families like this one which have and others, we are also looking to raise money to as- completed their Quality Living course, are employed sist in their purchase. In this way we believe we can and are responsible and eligible to qualify for our help many more families achieve financial independ- help. ence. There is a huge need and we hope you will consider If any members would like to contribute, please make contributing to this cause. your check payable to St. Paul’s and note that it be used for CarsINC. Whoever contributes $1,000 during If you have any questions about this ministry, please the first year of operation will be a Founding Memcontact me at 517-230-0082. ber.

St. Paul’s Choirs

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Choir Newsletter By Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music

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t was absolutely wonderful to have all of you back and singing on September 9. After going without your presence as a choir during the summer, it was extremely uplifting to have your leadership of the hymns, to hear the descants and to witness the ministry of so many people. You certainly helped to create an environment in which inspiring worship could take place. Thank you!

Choir News and Dates to Remember England Choristers and Parents: There will be a meeting on Sunday, October 7, at 11:30 a.m. in the choir rehearsal room. We will have many important issues to discuss: school, dates, chaperones, opening the trip to non-chorister families, money-raising activities, including the auction. Please save this date. Thank you. Because Halloween comes on a Wednesday this year, we will not have family night/rehearsals on that night (October 31). Normal scheduling will resume the next week.

Singing Schedule Date

Choirs

October 7 October 14 October 21 October 28

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

November 4 November 11 November 18 November 25

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

2007 Men’s Golf League Champions

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fter 16 weeks of hard fought golf matches, Jim Huber and Mark Johnson surfaced as the 2007 Men's Golf League Champions. Together we all had a good year: good friendship, good golf, a good meal at the end and good thoughts for 2008. If you are a golfer, consider joining us next year. We're all much less than professionals and we simply enjoy a weekly stroll together on THURSDAY afternoons.

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St. Paul’s News

Good News I’d Like You to Know by Sue Millar, ERD Diocesan Coordinator

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s awareness of the work of Episcopal Relief and Development has grown, so has our support. Read this and rejoice with me:

In 2006 St. Paul’s contributed a total of $1,904.06 In 2007 St. Paul’s contributed a total of $2,523.33 Additionally, individuals have contributed an unknown amount directly to ERD, sometimes using a monthly EFT to facilitate pledge payment. The fund raisers you supported to make these gifts possible were the Gathering social events (featuring Jeff Kressler’s jazz group), the Sunday morning brunches, the used book sales and your Hope Chest donations. In addition to repeating these fund raising activities, we continue to sell Bishops Blend Coffee and send the profits to ERD. And as the Christmas season approaches, we will again encourage gift giving using ERD’s Gifts of Life Catalog. Our gifts to ERD contribute to the Millennium Development goals that make a great difference in the lives of the many innocents who suffer around the globe. As our Presiding Bishop has pointed out, “This church has said that our larger vision will be framed and shaped in the coming years by the vision of the Millennium Development Goals – a world where the hungry are fed, the ill are healed, the young educated, women and men treated equally, and where all have access to clean water and adequate sanitation, basic health care, and the promise of development that does not endanger the rest of creation.” Thanks for participating. Keep up the good work!

St. Paul’s October Prayer List

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e pray for those who are sick and in need: Cindy Robinson, Richard, Audrie & Aaron Hegmon, Shelley Robinson, Donna, Grady, & Dennis Letner, Clara Voges, Mason Hill, Lois Caswell, Brian Schray, June Wyatt, Dick Siebert, Carol, Bernie Lynch, Judith Jones, baby Benjamin, Becky Chamberlain, Nancy Hiscoe Clark, Elizabeth Marsden, Dezi & Penny Horvat, Charles Weaver, Kristin Kelley, Rich Davis, Cris Plyler, Ben Herbert, Tim Ross, Chance Collins, Caroline Thomas and her parents, brothers & godparents, Betty Jensen, Marjorie Belles, Dan, Marsha & Skip Macholz, Gloria Harvat, Jack Siebold, Joe Manson, DakBai DakBai, Jessica Ryan, Irene Jones, Roger Ophaug, Fredrick Engle, Kelsey Bauman, Mary Ann Kelley, Mark Surprenant, Ed Farmer, Elizabeth, Virginia Jessop, Sally Engle, Ed Jones, Alice Jessop Lamb, Justin, Susan Sedja and Barb Hacker

Prayer List

We pray for and remember those in the Military, serving in dangerous areas: Carlos Sims, Daniel Reno and Daniel Laurion

We pray for those expecting: Brian & Amy (Fowler) Ashcraft, Daniel & Gretchen Barnas, Opuene & Karen Amachree, Stuart & Rochelle Cullum, Cory & Stacy Nelson, Christopher & Kristan Chase, and Justin & Jessica Leonard We celebrate the birth of: Hannah Marie Henrys to Leigh (Zynda) & Ryan Henrys We pray for those who have died: Dixie Durr We celebrate the baptism of: Harry E. Mika III We celebrate the weddings of: Sarah Forrester & Daniel Brown, Elizabeth Moore & Matthew Everett We pray for our newly ordained priest, The Rev. Ronald C. Byrd, Sr., and his ministry.

St. Paul’s News

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The Road to Ordination By The Rev. Ronald Charles Byrd, Sr.

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e certify that he has satisfied the requirements of the canons, and we believe him to be qualified for this order.” Since becoming a Postulant for Holy Orders nearly five years ago, I waited for this moment, and the day had finally arrived, when Christ’s One Holy Catholic Church would answer in an affirmative to the Bishop’s question: “Is it your will that Ronald be ordained priest?” On September 15, here at St. Paul’s, God smiled on me, displaying yet again God’s majesty and glory, as the Rt. Rev. Wendell N. Gibbs, Jr. asked the Father to give his Holy Spirit to me, through Jesus Christ his son and to make me a priest in Christ’s Church. A lifetime of yearning and hunger for the Spirit of truth to comfort my soul with new revelations of God’s favor and grace had now been satisfied. To know one’s own destiny is to receive God’s favor. To live into one’s destiny is through the guidance of God’s unmerited grace, given in the power and working of the Holy Spirit. I am blessed, being entrusted by our Creator, Christ, and the Church, with this great gift of priestly ministry. To this I say, “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty!” My many thanks to all of you, here at St. Paul’s, who worked so hard towards making the day of my ordination a memorable occasion. While it is impossible to name everyone individually, I would like to give a special thank you to the St. Paul’s acolytes, Altar Guild, ushers, Episcopal Church Women, and most especially, to Dr. Lange, Ms. Victoria Walker, and our magnificent choir for making Saturday, September 15, 2007 truly, truly special and glorious. What a surprise! What a wonderful gift! To Fr. Gordon and every parishioner at St. Paul’s, thank you for generous and gracious gift of liturgical stoles. Each of the four colorful stoles will forever serve as a reminder to me of all of you and my ministry here at St. Paul’s. Again, thank you for your prayers, and your wonderful gift.

Episcopal Church Women (ECW) Steering Committee By Annette Irwin, President

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f you are a woman and at least 18 years old, you are a part of ECW! Isn't that just the easiest group to join? Now what is the ECW Steering Committee? This is a group of 12-15 women who assist in organizing many of the functions you have attended at St. Paul’s. A few examples of the Steering Committee’s work follows: we keep the coffee pouring during coffee hours, organize special coffee hours for Christmas and Easter, send treats to our college freshman right before those ever stressful exams, assist with greeting at Sunday services, organize funeral receptions and host a women's retreat in the spring. Now these 12-15 women certainly do not do this all alone; you all help us. However, we do try to keep it all going and call upon many others so that work does not become overwhelming for the steering committee members. We meet the third Monday of every month at 7 p.m. in the Hill Room. Our membership is down a bit and we really would like to extend an invitation to anyone who is interested to come and join us. In fact, you don't have to wait until the meeting to join in the fun! Call Annette Irwin at 332-4439 after 5 p.m., 319-6801 during the day or e-mail [email protected]. I will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

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St. Paul’s News

Ronald Byrd Ordained to the PriestBy The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

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n Saturday, September 15, Ronald Byrd was ordained to the priesthood. In a wonderful service, members of four congregations gathered to celebrate the occasion. People from St. Clements, Inkster, his home parish, St John’s Royal Oak, his sponsoring parish, his field education parish in Washington D.C., and many members of St. Paul’s proclaimed Ron worthy and called to the ministry of a priest. From left: The Rev. Canon John T. Harmon, The Rt. Rev. Wendell N. Gibbs, Jr., Mrs. Jennifer Byrd, The Rev. Ronald Charles Byrd, Our bishop, the Rt. Rev. Wendell Gibbs, fresh from his sabRev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller, Front, from left: Ramon Charles batical, continued the tradition of apostolic succession by lay- The Byrd, and Kayla Marie Byrd ing hands upon Ron and invoking the power of the Holy Spirit. The preacher was the Rev. Canon John Harmon from Washington D.C., and the Litinist was the Rev. Ellis Clifton. Please congratulate Ron if you have not had the opportunity.

(Continued from, “Vestry 2007”, page 1)

Millie Ericson and the newly formed Parish Life Committee welcomed us back with two special opportunities for connecting with fellow parishioners this fall. On Friday, September 21, members of all ages gathered for a pizza party and game night. And on Friday, October 19, adults will be gathering for an autumn bonfire and hot dog roast. And the committee reports that future plans include a parish-wide book read, a Prayer Quilt group and parish picnic, all opportunities for talking, laughing, playing and interacting with each other. Of course the possible irony of these highlighted events for enhancing our culture of warmth and welcome, as well as of the many other happenings and developments of this busy homecoming season, is that we get so tied up with activities that we lose sight of that most important aspect of welcoming, namely, that simple one-to -one greeting or gesture that communicates warmth and caring to someone new to St. Paul‘s. As important as the more formal mechanisms of welcoming are—and I can’t emphasize their importance enough—it’s my hope that we not overlook the seemingly obvious, but easily forgotten, fundamentals of hospitality: personally greeting, welcoming, introducing, orienting and integrating newcomers one by one to St. Paul’s. To that end, I would like to add a postscript to the Evangelism Committee’s “Suggestions for Welcoming Newcomers” published by Martie Repaskey in last month’s News with a quote from the late Susy Miller, former national church consultant for congregational development and reform. Susy wrote, “I do love movies. They give us such glimpses of our own behaviors, often with enough humor so we can take it all in. The opening scene of “Home Alone” is one of those moments. Remember the scene? The entire family is quite busy getting ready for their activities and journey. A couple of strangers appear at the door. They look harmless. Actually, they look safe—and they look as though they might know why they are there. The family is really, really busy and everyone assumes that everyone else is taking care of the stranger . . . Well, you know the rest of the story. I think that Sunday mornings just might be a bit like that for many of our ‘strangers.’ We’re really busy, you know, rushing here and there, tossing information to one another, catching a running child, making sure everyone is ready. We often assume someone else is paying real attention to the visitor....” All the latest developments at St. Paul’s keep us hopping, but it’s my hope that we will not let our activities get in the way of simple hospitality practiced weekly. As Susy continues, “People become members of a church for a variety of reasons. But one big reason that they stay [members] is how well they feel welcomed and included in the life of the congregation.” (Continued from, “The Gift of Generosity,” page 1)

that generosity on your part will make you happy in the same way God's generosity makes him happy. The problem is that most humans are afraid to take the chance. We tend to hoard and look out for number one. Consider taking a bit of a risk this year. Be generous and perhaps you will be able to find the happiness you seek.

St. Paul’s News

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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. Ronald Byrd, Curate Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music Mr. William H. Fineout, Acting Deacon Ms. Mary Rodeck, Assistant Minister of Music Ms. Kathleen Johnson, Office Manager

St. Paul’s News Editorial Staff Christine Caswell, Editor Tom Shawver, Staff Writer Helen Hiscoe, Proofreader Lyn Zynda, Layout Editor

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