St. Paul's News - September, 2007

St. Paul's Episcopal Church Lansing Michigan

St. Paul’s News September, 2007

“Stand up, Stand up for Jesus” By The Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller

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arlier in my life and my ministry I was a “night” person. I would stay up every evening at least to see Johnny Carson and The Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller often beyond that. Hence, it was sometimes difficult to get up in the morning and be at my church office by 9 a.m. When I was at St. James in Birmingham, Wednesdays were most difficult. There we had a regular Wednesday morning 7 a.m. Eucharist, Bible study and breakfast. Oftentimes our numbers would be in the teens, so these obviously were “morning” people in this parish. Several years into my tenure, I overslept one Wednesday morning. My house was about three

blocks away from the Church, and our bedroom was on the first floor and in the front. That morning, about 7:15 a.m., there was a rustling on my front porch and 15 lusty voices broke out in a chorus of “Stand up, Stand up for Jesus,” No. 561 in your hymnal. They had modified the words a bit to fit the situation and were having a great time at my expense. I hurried to dress and drove to church for the service. As long as I was at St. James, they never let me forget the occasion. I haven’t forgotten: I always try to be at a service at least an hour beforehand. As that “night” person, I could never see what people found so exhilarating about getting up in the morning. It has taken me years to figure it out. Perhaps I have gotten it a bit, however. Presently, I seldom see the end of Leno, and (Continued on page 13)

September 9 Begins the Fall Season By Elisabeth Richardson, Stewardship Committee

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elcome back! Hope everyone had a wonderful summer. In the past, as a part of the start of the fall season, St. Paul’s has hosted “Sampler Sunday.” Usually it is the first Sunday after Labor Day. This year we are going to change things around a bit. It has been suggested that “Sampler Sunday” is a bit overwhelming. So many organizations, so many people, not enough time to really see all that St. Paul’s has to offer. This year we are going to start “Sampler Sundays,” with a different focus/interest area to be featured every Sunday in September starting after Labor Day. The schedule is as follows: September 9, Youth • Sunday School • Youth Group • Vacation Bible School • Nursery • Family Night • Mission Trip September 16, Music and Worship • Choirs

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Acolytes Altar Guild Ushers Lectors Lay Eucharistic Ministers & Visitors • Greeters • Welcoming Table September 23, Adult Fellowship, Spiritual

Growth & Education Opportunities • 4-F's • Bible Study • Retreats • Wednesday night classes • The Gathering • Men's Golf • Parenting classes (Continued on page 12)

Volume 32, Issue 7 Inside this issue: Calendar

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Choir Schedule

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St. Paul’s News

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Upcoming

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Vestry News

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Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities 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, September 11, 6 PM • St. Elizabeth, September 25, 12:30 PM at the home of Debby Pierce • ECW, third Monday, 7 PM • Family Night Dinner, Wednesdays, 5-6 PM • 4 Fs, second and fourth Monday, 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

• Dedication Sunday, September 9 • Sampler Sundays, beginning September 9 • Lectionary-based Bible Study, Wednesdays begin-

ning September 12, 5:30-6:15 PM • Ordination of the Rev. Ron Byrd, Saturday, Sep-

tember 15 • Alzheimer’s Memory Walk, Sunday, September 16

@ MSU

• Ushers’ Breakfast, Sunday, September 16, 9 AM • Family Pizza Party, Friday, September 21, 5:30-8

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Looking Ahead • ProActive Parenting, five Wednesdays beginning October 10, 6:15 - 7:30 PM • Food Drive, October 19 – November 4 • Blood Drive, Saturday, October 20, 8 AM-2 PM This Month at St. Paul’s and Elsewhere • Sunday School Teachers’ Meeting, Sunday, August • UTO Sunday, November TBD 26

St. Paul’s Prayer Group By Carol Ingells

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he St. Paul’s Prayer Group resumes monthly meetings on September 4. The group gathers on the first Tuesday of the month from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. in the Choir Rehearsal Room during September thru May.

We invite you to come and learn more about prayer and praying. This year’s book is Paths to Prayer: Finding Your Own Way to the Presence of God by Patricia D. Brown. This group offers an opportunity to share your concerns and rejoicings in group prayer and helps develop the skills to commit yourself to pray regularly for the church and the world. Experience silence as comfortable and non-threatening. All participation is voluntary. If you would like to order the book before the first meeting, contact Steve Lange at 482-0369. The group will be co-led by Carol Ingells and Steve Lange (and sometimes others!) Come as you can and feel free to bring a friend. “More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of.”

Dedication Sunday By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

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n Sunday, September 9, St. Paul’s will come together once again to dedicate ourselves to service in the name of Jesus. We will celebrate our new fall programs. It will be the beginning of Church School, the welcoming of a new curate and the start of a new season of activities. Various groups will be recognized and blessed for the Sunday morning ministries in which they participate. Please plan on being present.

Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities

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4 F’s 2007-2008 Fall Programs By Nancy Sheldon

“Taking Care of Ourselves & Others”

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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. September 10

November 12

Welcome lunch with an “Introduction to the Psalms” “Spiritual Eldering” with retired director of refugee with Steve Lange. This year, our bi-weekly Bible Study services, Pat Hep. will focus on the Psalms. November 26 September 24 “Spiritual Eldering” continued with Pat Hep. “Bridging the Gap between Willing Hands & People in December 10 Need” with the director of Christian Services, MaryA special Christmas Celebration with the Grand Ledge anne Harkema. Madrigals led by Nancy Lange. October 8 We will continue the 4F’s programs on January 14 and Program to be announced will have program information in the January St. Paul’s News. October 22 “Walking Turkey in Peace” with Carol Ingells. Carol will share her stories from a special trip to Turkey.

vs. Food & Blood Drive By Nancy Sheldon

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hat better way to celebrate the legendary rivalry between MSU and U/M than to encourage participation in the annual Food Drive to benefit the Greater Lansing Food Bank and the October Red Cross blood drive. Points will be awarded to the team you designate for donations of food, blood or money or for volunteering at the blood drive held on Saturday, Oct. 20, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. The food drive runs between Oct. 19 and Nov. 4, which is the day after the MSU/U-M football game. A kick-off for the competition will include funfilled fellowship at our family bonfire on Friday, Oct. 19, at Julie & Mike Young’s (4055 Lehman Rd., DeWitt). More details will follow in the October SPN and the church’s Sunday service bulletins!

Lectionary Based Bible Study By Larry Clark, Vestry Member

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eginning on September 12, St. Paul’s is offering a weekly, lectionary-based Bible study for all adults on Wednesdays from 5:30 – 6:15 p.m. Each week, we will focus on the scripture passages being read in the following Sunday’s services. We will be using the adult version of the “Living the Good News” curriculum that is being used in many of the children’s Sunday school classes. In the beginning weeks, Rick Laub and Larry Clark will alternate serving as teacher/moderator, and anyone interested may take part in the teaching rotation. If you come to the Family Night Dinner, feel free to eat either before or during the sessions. Coincidentally, the class time works perfectly for those who bring children to the church for choir practice, but of course, all adults are encouraged to attend. We will meet in either the Hill or the Van Atta room. Please sign up on the sheet outside the Merrifield room as soon as possible so that we can order enough materials for everyone who plans to attend.

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Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities

Ushers’ Breakfast By John David Hawkins

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nother school year is upon us and the ushering staff will, once again, begin the new season with our Sixth Annual Breakfast Meeting on September 16, 2006 at 9 a.m. Breakfast will be served by A Catered Affaire. This is a great opportunity to invite new members to join our group and to join us for breakfast. It would be great if we could staff eight ushers per crew. Do not forget the 8 a.m. crews; they also need new members. Spouses and children are welcome to join us for breakfast. Head ushers, please contact your members about the meeting and determine how many will be attending. Head ushers can RSVP counts to John David Hawkins at 303-1217 by September 9.

Parish Family Pizza Party and Game Night By Millie Ericson, Vestry Member WHO: All members of the parish (and friends) – all ages, singles, couples, families WHAT: Bingo, Charades, Card Games, Board Games SOMETHING FUN FOR EVERYONE! PRIZES - PRIZES - PRIZES!! WHEN: Friday, September 21 5:30 – 6:00 p.m. Pizza, salad, pop, dessert 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Games WHERE: The Merrifield Room HOSTS: The Parish Life Committee We are suggesting donation of $4 per person or $10 maximum per family for food. Nursery Care will be provided.

We Have Air!

Men’s Breakfast Group

By The Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller

By Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music

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fter several specially called Vestry meetings to approve the project and a generous donation from a member of our parish, the Merrifield Room has now been air conditioned. We are excited about the prospect of cool and comfortable coffee hours, meetings and Parish gatherings.

he first meeting of the Men’s Breakfast Group will be on Thursday, September 20 at 7 a.m. The Breakfast group meets from 7 to 8 a.m. on the third Thursday of the month to share a meal together and then to engage in a half-hour discussion on its members’ faith. This year the discussions will center on the Gospel of Mark. Breakfast is provided by A Catered Affaire for $5.50. Please feel free to join us, as you are able. Reservations are requested (please contact George Gallup or Gordon Weller or sign up by the elevator) so we know how many will be attending. If you are one of the “regulars,” please consider inviting a fellow parishioner to join us.

Invitation to Join Choir By Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music

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f you enjoy singing or ringing handbells (on-the-job-training is gladly provided!), you are warmly invited to join one of St. Paul’s choirs this fall. It’s a great opportunity to share your musical talents in a way that praises God and blesses your fellow parishioners on a regular basis. No experience is required, just a desire to “sing unto the Lord a new song.” For more information, please contact Stephen Lange, Minister of Music, at 482-0369.

Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities

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Communicating With Your Child Or Teen By Martie Repaskey

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he Adult Christian Education Formation committee is sponsoring its second class in the ProActive Parenting series, entitled “Communicating with Your Child or Teen.” Millie Erickson and Martie Repaskey will once again be the facilitators for this interactive study of communication in Christian families. The group will meet on five Wednesday evenings: October 10, 17, 24, and November 7 and 14, from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. Jim Williams, parenting expert and author of this series, will present in a video format, leading to exercises and group discussion about family communication and choosing to live in a family circle of influence—with God in the center! This class is open to parents with children of any age. Since the class will be meeting on Wednesday evenings, all are encouraged to come early to have dinner and enjoy fellowship beforehand. Childcare will be provided. Please look for the sign-up sheet on the table outside the Merrifield Room, or talk to Millie or Martie.

UTO Update

It's the Beginning of a New Year

By Kay Gallup

By Debby Pierce

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he report on the May 13 UTO shows a generous donation of $662.81. My thanks again to those who helped on Mother’s Day, May 13, with the collection of the offerings. As a reminder, the fall Ingathering will be in November. UTO Offering Boxes continue to be near entrances to the church. Envelopes will be in bulletins the week before and the week of the collection. Thanks to all who participate. Your help in the missionary efforts to spread God's material and spiritual goods is vital and appreciated.

he St. Elizabeth Guild will have its first Fall Meeting on Tuesday, September 25 at 12:30 p.m. at the home of Debby Pierce. Please plan to attend as we will be arranging our meetings and celebrations for the coming year. Be sure to come with some ideas. If you are interested in attending a meeting or would like more information about the Guild, please contact me at 394-4800 or 485-5446. We always welcome guests.

Attention All Quilters By Millie Ericson, Vestry Member

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nterest has been expressed about creating a Prayer Quilt Group at St. Paul’s. This is something that is done in several other area churches. Those who are interested please check in at the Parish Life Table on Sampler Sunday #3, September 23. An initial gathering of quilters will be planned in early October to explore this idea further. Watch for more information. In the meantime, direct questions to Millie Ericson (who isn’t a quilter but admires the beautiful work!) who would love to help support, on behalf of the Parish Life Committee, this worthy effort.

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Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities

Opportunities to Experience An Exciting Fall of Outreach Ministry. By William H. Fineout, Diaconal Candidate

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here are two types of ministry under our large and growing “outreach umbrella” of helping others in need. Some activities occur year round while others are events that we participate in once or twice a year. Both types are varied and exciting. As we begin another church program year, we invite you to share your time and gifts where God may be calling you. Some of the short term activities are:

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Back to School Children’s Clothing (Christian Services: Judson’s Love Clothing Center) - In late August and early September we will collect new and like new clothing for children (shirts, blouses, pants, jeans, new socks and & new underwear, and winter coats, sizes 4 toddler through teens). The clothing center serves over 800 children in the Lansing area. Clothing may be left at the Deacon’s office or given to Bill Fineout, but we still need someone to coordinate this effort for us here at St. Paul’s.

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Alzheimer’s Memory Walk, Sunday, September 16, 2007 on the MSU campus - Please join your diaconal candidate, Bill, in walking the 3K/5K walk along the Red Cedar this fall. You may join by becoming a walker yourself, or by supporting Bill or anyone else who walks with a donation. More than five million people are living with Alzheimer’s and 78 million baby boomers are approaching the age of greatest risk. Now is the time to contribute to Alzheimer’s care and research. If you would like to join in a walking team from St. Paul’s, please see the following web site, www.alz.org, www.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp? ievent=229831or get a brochure from Bill Fineout. Look for the Memory Walks section (Great Lakes Chapter; Lansing area walk) and find our team to join or support. More information to follow.

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Food Drive - U/M-MSU competition and collection, October 19 through November 4. See article on page 3; you can’t miss it when it happens. This begins with a PARTY!

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Blood Drive on Saturday, October 20, 2007 - This has become a very valuable and enthusiastically observed twice a year tradition here at St. Paul’s. (We may have a little BLUE/GREEN blood competition here also.)

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Thanksgiving Baskets - This very wonderful operation will continue as we share our abundance with needy families to allow them a successful “breaking bread’ gathering for Thanksgiving.

By Tom Shawver, Staff Writer

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he following are new members of our parish fam- polis and they have a grown son, Don, in Las Vegas, ily. We welcome them to St. Paul's and are Nevada. pleased to see them already active. Also, the Milnes are back! John and Lisa Craig of 1625 Clifton in Lansing. He heads an enforcement section in the state Department Back from Grand Rapids area after seven years are of Environmental Quality and she helps to run her fam- Jim and Teresa Milne. They are living at 2767 Still ily-owned business, Keystone Printing, in Lansing. BeValley Dr. in East Lansing with their two children Ian, 7, and Hope, 5. Jim is still with the state Department of tween them they are parents of five grown children. Environmental Quality, serving as an environmental Fred and Terry Junger of 7196 White Pine Dr. in manager. Teresa ended seven years of employment Shaftsburg. He is retired from teaching elementary with the Grandville School System near Grand Rapids school in Durand. The couple formerly lived in Minnea- and is settling the family into their new home.

News from the Vestry

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Financial Information as of June 30, 2007 By Jeff Irwin The total pledge and non-pledge revenue received through June 30 was $148,026, which is 52.3% of the total 2007 budget. June is the midway point of 2007, so we are ahead of the budget. In June, we booked a net loss from operations of $2,331 which brings the year-to-date total loss from operations to $38,264. The main reason that we had a relatively low June operating loss is that we received a $12,000 gift, restricted to the installation of a new air conditioning unit for the Merrifield room. No expenses were incurred as of June 30 related to the air conditioning unit so it looks better than it would have otherwise. The restricted and designated funds have recorded $19,019 in investment gain through June 30. Combined with $69,649 of restricted contributions (including the $59,194 from the Penniman Trust), we have recorded a total of $88,668 in restricted income through June 30, 2007. As of that date, this brings the combined net income of the church to $50,404. Also, in June, $20,000 was withdrawn from the Perpetual Fund and an additional $10,000 was withdrawn in July. As of July 31, a total of $80,000 has been withdrawn from the Perpetual Fund in 2007.

Highlights from the Vestry Meeting: At the June 19th Vestry meeting your Vestry:

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• Approved a payment for "vacation time" for

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Susie Shaefer. This is for vacation time earned but not taken because of the change in her employment status. Received a presentation from Stamp Rite about placing plaques in the Memorial Garden to memorialize those interred there. Authorized a cast bronze set of plaques with 160 spaces. Money will be borrowed from the Memorial Fund and Bancroft Fund until it is recouped from those who will be interred in the future. Received a report on GLADE (now called ACTION) about the justice ministry process in the Lansing area and our involvement. Received a report on the Oliver Towers project. No movement since the last Vestry meeting. Received a report on the Sewer separation project. It will be starting soon. The Roosevelt Parking structure will remain available throughout the construction project. This is good news for our evening and weekend programs. Received a report about the Public Relations Plan being developed by Mark Doyal and Stephanie VanKoevering. Meetings with groups of parishioners for gathering information will be set up. Received a report concerning the Diocesan Con-

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vention which will be held in Lansing October 26th and 27th. Visioning Committee and Welcoming Church Committee assignments were made: Visioning - Clark, Gut, Henderson, Krupka, Ericson, GmazelSanchez, and Clarke. Welcoming - Wortley, Richardson, Repaskey, Lindquist, Tisdale and Sanchez. Approved the assignment of a new Curate to St. Paul's. His name is The Rev. Ronald Byrd and he will begin on August 15th. Received the treasurer's report. We are within the expectations of the budget approved at the Annual Meeting in January. An additional $30,000 was approved to be transferred from the Perpetual Fund to the Operating Fund, as needed. Heard a report of a new outreach program called CarsInc (Cars in the name of Christ) begun by members of St. Paul's. This program continues, in a more intentional and organized way, the procurement of cars for those in need. Received a report about building security concerns. We have had several incidences during the last several weeks. Everyone involved will be informed and asked for more diligence. Were thanked by Mr. William Fineout for the warm welcome he has received since arriving as our "Deacon to be" (God willing).

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St. Paul’s News

Business and Professional Women’s Guild By Barbara Richardson

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o you know how old the BPW Guild is? Take a guess! You are not even close!!! Our guild is 65 years old. WOW, we’ve been around a long time and have quite a history.

bers have included doctors, nurses, lawyers, accountants, secretaries, clerks, teachers, principals, state workers, librarians, music teachers, people in business, salespersons and a deacon.

We’ve had many service projects: rummage sales, lavish card parties with style shows (the first party held in the new Parish House had 400 attendees), trips to Detroit, Grand Rapids, Meadowbrook Hall and the Lowell Showboat to see Pearl Bailey. Other projects included popcorn and nut sales, tote bags, jewelry, During 1943, we served 14 dinners to soldiers and jams and candles, blood drives and coupons to Younassisted in looking after the War Shrine. Service hours ker’s fall sales. were recorded and tabulated. We began with fewer than 20 members and 12 resigned during the first two During the past 65 years, we have contributed over $20,000 for in-reach/out-reach projects and, in addiyears—not a very inspiring beginning. The stringent, tion, much of our more than $6,000 collected in dues enforced rule of 30 hours of service to the church by each member was soon eliminated from the Constitu- has benefited others. You can see from our history why tion and Bylaws. The name was changed to the St. the beehive is our symbol. Paul’s Guild of Business and Professional Women and the growing process began. Thirty-six women joined in Presently we have 20 members who meet monthly from September to June. Our September meeting is a the 1940s, 46 in the 1950s and 21 in the 1960s. Recipe Dinner on Tuesday, September 11 at 6 p.m. in The group met weekly for lunch on Wednesdays with the Hill Room. Each member brings her favorite dish a speaker. After many years, a dinner meeting (with and copies one of her recipes. It’s a great kick-off to speaker) was added on the third Tuesday of the an active year. month. Luncheons were discontinued in the fall of ALL women in the parish are invited to come be a part 1958, and our meeting date changed to the second of this active and committed group of women. Please Tuesday of the month in 1978. call Barbara Richardson (372-1369) for questions or Our guild has built a reputation through the years as a information. very active group. Often you hear someone saying, Note: Historical information for this article came from a “The BPW will help with that project,” or “You girls have always answered yes!” It is our commitment that play written by Doris Bailey, a former historian for the has held the group together over the years. Our mem- guild.

The guild was organized in January 1942 as the League of Business and Professional Women. Back then, people’s lives revolved mainly around church and school activities, with emphasis on patriotism, prayer and the war effort.

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inda and I want to thank you for all your prayers and support the last few weeks of July. As many of you know, our daughter was married on July 28 and we became “in-laws.” As any who have gone through a wedding know, it can be a difficult time, bringing everything together at the right moment. You were supportive spiritually and emotionally to Linda and me as well as to Sarah and her new husband Joe. We want to express our gratitude. Thank you!

Gordon & Linda Weller

St. Paul’s Choirs

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Calling All Choristers! By Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music

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ur first rehearsals of the year will be: High-School Choir (Grades (6) 7-12) Wednesday, August 29, 6 p.m. Pizza Supper and rehearsal from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. (This will give us a chance to catch up on each other’s summer activities and get an early start on learning new music.)

The normal Family Night Schedule begins on Wednesday, September 5: • Cherub Choir (Boys and Girls in grades K-2, Mrs. Maureen Nauss, Director) - 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. • Boys’ and Grace Choirs (Boys and Girls in grades 3-6) - 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. • High-School Choir (Grades 6 or 7 to 12) - 6:30 to 7:45 p.m.

Chancel Choir Potluck Dinner and Rehearsal - Thursday, September 6 Potluck dinner at 6:30 p.m. (We’ll provide plates, cups, napkins, and plastic ware.) Rehearsal will begin at 7:30 and last until 9 p.m. Handbell Choir will begin on Thursday, September 13, at 6:30 p.m.

Choir News and Dates to Remember September 9 - (First Sunday back and Commissioning of Choristers during church) September 15 - Ordination of St. Paul’s new Curate (High School Choir and Chancel Choir) September 23 - Choir Parents’ Meeting at 11:30 a.m. in the Choir Rehearsal Room (All choir parents are invited to attend this orientation meeting, at which we will share our hopes and expectations for this upcoming year. We will also hand out a calendar of the year’s activities and enlist your help throughout the year for vesting, being greeters and serving at the coffee hour. Please plan to attend.) October 7 - England Chorister Parents’ Meeting at 11:30 a.m.

Singing Schedule Date

Choirs

September 9 September 16 September 23 September 30

Cherubs, Boys’ and Grace, High School, Chancel

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

High School; Chancel High School; Chancel High School; Chancel

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St. Paul’s News

Eucharistic Ministers: Time to Be Re-licensed By William H. Fineout, Diaconal Candidate

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ll Eucharistic ministers and visitors in the Diocese of Michigan are to be licensed by the diocese every three years. It is our time at St. Paul’s!

licensing in late September/October, possibly a Wednesday evening or Saturday morning, depending upon the group.

This is also a time for NEW chalice bearers to be licensed for the first time. If you feel the call to explore being a chalice bearer, or you feel the call to take Communion to our homebound parishioners, this fall is the time to be trained. A Eucharistic minister serves a special ministry during the Sunday service. A Eucharistic visitor takes Communion and our St. Paul’s presence to those who cannot be in attendance.

A note about LEMs

Talk to Father Weller, me or one of our chalice bearers if you think you might be interested in becoming a “LEM.” This is truly one of those wonderful ways to serve Christ and each other. I will be scheduling training for re-licensing and new

The Episcopal Church used to call chalice bearers “lay Eucharistic ministers” or LEMs for short. Our ministers taking Communion to the homebound were known as “lay Eucharistic visitors.” But that changed in the last national church canons; the term “lay” was dropped from the titles. So now we have EMs and EVs, although many in the church, including myself, still use the old language, possibly because it seems to roll off the tongue more easily. If you presently are a Eucharistic minister and if you haven’t received a call or e-mail from me as to a retraining date, please contact me immediately.

About the Parish Life Committee By Millie Ericson, Vestry Member

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he PLC was organized last January, a new committee of the Vestry, tasked with supporting and expanding the activities of the parish that help us fulfill the fellowship aspect of our baptismal covenant (to continue in the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread and prayers). Fellowship opportunities being planned by the committee include activities for the whole parish family (see article about the Parish Family Game Night), “The Gathering” (fellowship evenings for adults), a quilting group, and a community book read (more to come later on this). Other ideas to enhance our life at St. Paul’s are always welcome. Membership on the committee is open to all. New members are always welcome! Meetings are on the 4th Tuesday of the month beginning at 5:30 p.m. for a light supper followed by the meeting from 6-7 p.m. Please speak to Fr. Weller, Millie Ericson or any of the current committee members if you are interested, or see us at our table on Sampler Sunday #3, September 23. Current committee members are: Mindy & Matt Pauley, Julie Young, John and Lisa Craig, Sally and Don Lawrence, Barbara Lindquist, Max and Debby Pierce, Steve Swihart, Carol and Charlie Rose, Millie Ericson (Chair) and Gordon Weller.

Church School Starts September 9 By Judi Brown Clarke

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teachers’ meeting has been scheduled for August 26th; and the first day of class will begin September 9th.

We will stay with last year's curriculum. I am currently ordering the 2007-08 books/materials, which will be distributed at the August 26 meeting.

St. Paul’s News New Curate for St Paul’s

Stewardship Lives at St. Paul’s

By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

By Karen and Bob Tarrant, Stewardship Committee

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s was reported in a July mailing, St. Paul’s now has a new curate on staff. He is the Rev. Ronald Byrd. He started August 15 and was first presented at services on August 19. Ron and his wife Jennifer, and two children Kayla (5) and Ramon (3), moved into their East Lansing residence on August 1. Ron, currently a transitional deacon, is a graduate of the Virginia Theological Seminary and he and the Bishop have set September 15 as his ordination date to the priesthood. It will be here at St. Paul’s. Please plan on being present to celebrate this wonderful occasion. We will officially welcome Ron and his family at the coffee hour on September 9.

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mbracing the expanding role of supporting St. Paul’s journey of stewardship, the Stewardship Committee has met monthly throughout 2007 and weekly during June and July. The Every Member Canvass will begin with opening presentations to the congregation on Sunday, September 9 and conclude on November 4. The canvass is being held earlier this year to provide the Vestry with pledge amounts prior to development of next year’s budget. As one of the Canvass activities this year, we will hear from parishioners of various age groups regarding the value of St. Paul’s programs and ministries. Another activity will be short informal discussions, to be held in conjunction with Wednesday family night dinners, seeking input regarding future stewardship opportunities at St. Paul’s.

St. Paul’s September 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, Virginia Jessop, Sally Engle, Ed Jones, and Alice Jessop Lamb.

Prayer List

We pray for and remember those in the Military, serving in dangerous areas: Carlos Sims and Daniel Reno We pray for those expecting: Amy (Fowler) & Brian Ashcraft, Gretchen & Daniel Barnas, Leigh (Zynda) & Ryan Henrys, Karen & Opuene Amachree, Rochelle & Stuart Cullum, Stacy & Cory Nelson, and Kristen & Chris Chase We celebrate the birth of: Alexander Robert McConnell to Ellen & Daren McConnell, Charles Leighton Ferguson and Rachel Elizabeth Ferguson to Joan & Matt Ferguson We pray for those who have died: Carter Leslie We celebrate the baptism of: Tamara Lynn Sleight, daughter of Deborah Stoner & Jeffrey M. Sleight, Lauren Elizabeth Johnson, daughter of Kate & Mark Johnson, Jennifer Shea Lawrence, daughter of Rhonda & Patrick Lawrence, and Blake Patrick Judge, son of Katharine & Bryan Judge We celebrate the weddings of: Leigh Zynda & Ryan Henrys, Sarah Weller & Joe Evenden, Heather Petchell & Eric Grant, and Lyndsy Carr & Andrew Gamet

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St. Paul’s News

CarsINC By Tom Repaskey

C

ars IN the NAME of CHRIST (CarsINC) is a nonprofit corporation created to assist families in the purchase, operation, maintenance, titling and insurance of a car.

CarsINC was incorporated as a not-for-profit corporation on July 26, 2007, after a dozen meetings and numerous emails. It has evolved into an organization with specific goals:

Rationale

• • • • • •

During the past six years, St. Paul’s has been blessed with the arrival of immigrants from the Sudan and Kenya. These are bright, hard working people who became Christians in Africa, were compelled to escape and now want to learn to become Americans. Chuck Millar has been significantly involved in this ministry to help them become assimilated into our society, which includes getting a job and getting a car to get to the job. Others from St. Paul’s have been involved in a variety of ways, not the least of which is in gifting a car to these immigrants. These people are poor, but they do not want to remain poor. They strive for education, want their children to have opportunities and are willing to work hard to achieve their dreams. Christian Services is a local not-for-profit organization and is a part of Love INC, or Love IN the NAME of CHRIST. They assist churches in the Greater Lansing area to provide programs to assist the poor. One important area hitherto lacking is an organization which assists qualified families to obtain an automobile. CarsINC hopes to be able to serve this need.

(Continued from, Fall Season, page 1)

September 30 - Guilds & Committees/Outreach • • • •

ECW Business & Professional Women St. Elizabeth’s St. Dunstan’s

Assist families in the purchase of an automobile Provide access to information regarding: Operation Maintenance Titling Insurance

Christian Services If any family petitions CarsINC, we will first refer them to Christian Services for their review and to be sure they have learned how to handle their financial affairs so they can afford a car. We want to follow a structure to assure ourselves that each family will be successful. Raising Funds We intend to raise funds by asking interested people to contribute $1,000 during the next 12 months. They will be named Founders and will be known as Founders of Cars IN the NAME of CHRIST. Until such time that we achieve 501(c)(3) status, we will ask donors to make their checks payable to St. Paul’s, with credit toward CarsINC. • • • • • • •

St. Aelred’s Needlepointers/Quilters Parish Life Committee Mission/Outreach Habitat for Humanity Design & Preservation Blood Drive

On each Sunday there will be tables set in the Merrifield Room for display purposes. Please bring whatever information, displays, decorations, props you need to illustrate and illuminate your organization, group, project or program. Everyone has creative license as to how they represent themselves. The more creative the better. Extra tables can be set up for any last minute participation. Please note that if you need electricity for your display, you must notify Kathleen. Letters have been sent to committee chairs, organizers, staff, vestry and anyone else we can think of, inviting their participation in “Sampler Sundays.” If we have missed anyone or if there is a new endeavor wishing to start, please call Kathleen in the office (482-9454) to request a table or just come on the designated Sunday. If you have any questions, please contact me at 372-1369. Thank you for your participation. See you at Sampler Sundays!

St. Paul’s News

Page 13

Young Adult Foster Care Apartment Startup By William H. Fineout, Diaconal Candidate

U

nder current Michigan law, when foster children turn 18, their foster families no longer receive aid. Some of these young adults, for many reasons, are cut off or removed from their foster homes. Locally some are placed in their own apartments under the auspices of Child and Family Services. However state funding has been cut, and there are no longer are any funds for start-up household goods. These young adults need our help with basic items to begin living in their own apartments. The Lansing Area Episcopal Projects group has taken on the responsibility of helping some of these young men and women begin their adult life on their own. St. Paul’s has already helped one with start-up apartment goods. St. Paul’s vestry members completed the whole project before it came to the parishioners. This November we will be asking parishioners to help us with a collection for another young adult. There will be more information to follow.

More Service Opportunities By William H. Fineout, Diaconal Candidate

Y • • • • • • • • • • • •

ou may be called by God and friends to join some of the ongoing projects in which members from St. Paul's have participated in the past.

Habitat for Humanity UTO – United Thank Offering through ECW – Episcopal Church Women ACTION – local community problems & issues needing change Episcopal Relief and Development Ronald McDonald House meals First Sunday loose offerings to the Office Discretionary fund St. Paul’s “Busing” Ministry through Christian Services St. Paul’s “Work Boots” ministry through Christian Services St. Paul’s “Street” Ministry, helping the lost and needy who come through our front door needing help Furniture collection for needy Lansing families and individuals Other projects of Lansing Area Episcopal Churches CarsINC – Cars in the Name of Christ, a brand new ministry through Christian Services started by a group of men from St. Paul’s. When all the lug nuts and bolts of this ministry have been worked out, you will hear more!

…and it’s only August.

(Continued from, “Stand Up, Stand Up,” page 1)

never anything past that time slot. I have grown to appreciate the morning. Most mornings my mental clock goes off at 6 a.m., and I have to get up because I can’t sleep any more. What I’ve discovered is that the morning is most beautiful because as the sun rises, it has the promise that each new day brings. Just as on the day of resurrection, the night has passed and God has restructured things. When you get to the morning, all seems different. It may look the same, but it/we is/are different and it feels good and hopeful. As we enter the fall season on September 9, I hope you have had a wonderful summer. I also hope you are ready for a new day in Jesus. The morning of another season is upon us. There are exciting things happening at St. Paul’s, and your involvement can put you in a new and hopeful place.

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St. Paul’s News

Making Coffee Hour An Extension of St. Paul's Ministry By Sue Millar

B

eginning this fall, St. Paul's will serve Bishops Blend coffee at Sunday morning coffee hours.

In our local marketplaces, overflowing with choices and products from all over the world, part of our responsibility as Christian consumers is to be aware of the ripple effect our purchases may have.

harm the environment or the coffee pickers); growing coffee in shade, (which preserves and protects habitat for birds, animals and helpful pollinating insects) and non-profit enterprises such as ERD.

The cost of Bishops Blend coffee may be higher, but This means that searching for the least expensive qual- surely we can share the abundance with which we ity coffee may not be the best way to shop. have been blessed. Prophetic voices remind us that For example, when we purchase fair exchange coffee, God's abundance provides enough for all to earn a either as individuals or as a church family, we are sup- sustainable living if only we share generously. The coffee we purchase and enjoy can affirm our belief that porting a living wage for coffee farmers, promoting this is so. organic farming (which avoids chemicals that may

Welcoming Newcomers to St. Paul’s By Martie Repaskey

“M

ake new friends, but keep the old—one is silver, the other, gold.” Many of us grew up singing that simple song, and we continue to embrace its wisdom. The Vestry supports the Welcoming Church initiative, and this congregation has become known as a very friendly church family. Your Evangelism Committee has crafted a list of suggestions for your interest which are guaranteed to embrace visitors and new members as they seek to learn more about St. Paul’s.

• Say “hello” and introduce yourself to a new per-

son. To assuage the anxiety that the other person might tell you they have been attending St. Paul’s “for years,” simply say, “I don’t believe we have met!” • Be sure to pass the Peace during the worship service to unfamiliar individuals near you. Invite those same individuals or families to come to the coffee hour following the service. Rehearse and remember their names, and call them by name. Engage visitors and new members in conversation during cof-

fee hour or other social events.

• Volunteer to be a greeter or a contact person at

the Information Table in the Cloister.

• Join a growing number of St. Paul’s families who

consider themselves to be “shepherds” of new members. When a new individual or family (who resides in your quadrant of the metropolitan area) visits or joins St. Paul’s, consider inviting them to a small gathering of members to get better acquainted. This can be accomplished in any number of ways: dinner in your home, a coffee and dessert event, meeting them for coffee or having brunch together after worship on Sundays. Research on life in churches supports the notion that people become bonded in friendship through small group experiences. For more information about serving as a shepherd, please talk to Martie Repaskey, Jan Bigham, Sue LeDuc, Debby Pierce or Chuck Millar. Let us share our faith and excitement about St. Paul’s with visitors and new members!

No Item Left Behind By Max Pierce

T

he Design & Preservation Committee invites you to look about St Paul's; it is a place of beauty. While you're looking, if you see items belonging to you and left behind from Vacation Bible School or other past activities, we would appreciate your claiming them. This is especially true of the north entrance closet and Merrifield Room closet. Removal of clutter now will let the beauty shine for the start of the Fall season.

St. Paul’s News

Page 15

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Non Profit Org. US POSTAGE PAID LANSING, MI Permit 1621

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

If you no longer wish to receive these mailings, please call the church office (517) 482-9454, any time of the day or night and leave a message to be taken off our mailing list.