Volume 15, Number 5 June, July, August, 2017
THE MESSENGER C HRIST C HURCH C ATHEDRAL M OBILE, A LABAMA
A Me s s a g e f r o m t h e D e a n
Dear Cathedral Family, As you read these words, we will have begun the experience of my sabbatical time away from parish life, which began on May 22 and will end on August 21. Much prayer and planning has gone into this process over the past year, and I believe that this will be a time of renewal and growth not only for my family and me but also for the whole Cathedral Family. Senior Warden Robby McClure and your Vestry will be assuming many of the Sunday “housekeeping” and hospitality responsibilities as you welcome visiting clergy on the Sundays of this summer. The Vestry and finance committee will continue their work of overseeing the physical and fiscal life of the parish. Provost Carolyn Jeffers and our capable cathedral staff will continue to carry out their duties in their usual and extremely efficient manner. Vacation Bible School will proceed as usual under the leadership of the wonderful Alison Mitchell. Also this summer, Ministry Architects will begin their work with our Strategic Planning Steering Committee, looking at our existing programs and rolls and organizing for the upcoming program year. Thank you to Lucy Brady, who has graciously agreed to chair this committee, and also to committee members Carl Cunningham, Jr., Valerie Hines, Alison Mitchell, Stephen McNair, Robby McClure, and Hayley Van Antwerp.
You should by now have received my letter announcing that the Reverend Marshall Craver will be joining the Cathedral Family as priest associate beginning September 1. I know that you join me in welcoming Marshall and his wife Jan and in excitement about the ministry that lies ahead for us all together. There is much information in this Messenger about the summer ahead. I hope that you will “read, mark, and inwardly digest” these details, all of which are aimed at keeping our life together moving along smoothly. As always, if you have questions, please contact the cathedral office and someone will do their best to provide assistance. Please know how deeply grateful I am for this time of renewal. We have been through a time of significant activity and growth over the last few years, and, as our bishop told us we should be, we should be proud of all that has been accomplished, through the grace of God. I hope and pray that this summer season will provide the opportunity for us all to gain strength and perspective to enter into the exciting seasons of growth that lies ahead. I will lift you all in prayer every day, as I hope you will lift me also.
Faithfully, The Very Reverend
Inside: Cathedral Organ Fund Page 3 Ministry Architects Page 8 Vacation Bible School Page 9 Summer Calendar Page 11 Summer Birthdays Page 14
We welcomed new members to the Cathedral Family during the Cathedral Celebration on May 7. They are, from left, front: Elizabeth Elliott, Virginia Ladd, Sadie Leland, Bishop Kendrick, back; John Leach, Susan Leach, Jeff Grill, Linda Grill, Kyle Wall, Walker Messer, Molly Bolt, Jacob Fuller.
THE CATHEDRAL CHAPTER 2017 Robison Clarendon McClure, Jr. Senior Warden
John David Brady, Jr. James Fatherree Watkins Junior Wardens
William Kennon Drew Treasurer
Harwell Ellis Coale, Jr. Chancellor
Ronald Albert Snider Clerk
Class of 2017 V. Lyn Bennett Cartledge W. Blackwell III Steven B. Hall Barbara L. Mitchell Margaret M. Thigpen Thomas B. Van Antwerp
Class of 2018 Jill S. Chow Gretchen V. Cooper B. Herbert (Bert) Eichold II Jennifer S. Grehan W. Christian Hines III Jex R. Luce
Class of 2019 J. David Brady, Jr. Chambliss K. Brister Julianne C. Hoffmeyer Julia M. McClelland Robison C. McClure, Jr. James F. Watkins
Chapter Members Gary Moore, 2017 St. Paul’s, Daphne
Susan Showers, 2018 St. Christopher’s, Magnolia Springs
Magoo Price Hamilton, 2019 St. Thomas, Greenville
The Rev. John Riggin, 2019 St. Paul’s, Mobile
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We l c o m e t o T h e R e ve r e n d M a r s h a l l C r ave r The Reverend Marshall Craver will be joining the Christ Church Cathedral Family as priest associate beginning September 1, 2017. Marshall and his wife Jan have spent many The Reverend years of faithful and Marshall Craver fruitful ministry in this diocese and in the Diocese of Alabama. Marshall began his ordained ministry many years ago as curate here at Christ Church, and so it seems fitting that as he transitions into his retirement ministry, he should return to the “mother church.” Recently retired from his position as Associate Rector at St. Paul’s, Mobile, Marshall has taken on the role of spiritual director to the clergy of our diocese. To that he will now add a one-third-time ministry here at the cathedral. He will be in his office here on Mondays and Wednesdays and
will be on the altar to preach and celebrate one Sunday each month. In addition to sharing in pastoral care with Cathedral Family, Marshall will be facilitating Centering Prayer on Mondays at midday and Living Our Baptismal Covenant on Wednesday evenings. He will also be carrying out his ministry of spiritual direction here on Wednesdays. Jan and Marshall will be in residence in the bishop’s apartment here on Monday and Tuesday evenings, and they will spend the remainder of most weeks at their new home at the beach. Dean Beverly Gibson said of Marshall, “I know that you rejoice with me in Marshall’s willingness to share his many gifts with us here at Christ Church Cathedral. His presence as a colleague in ministry will be a blessing to me, and I believe his ministry among us will provide an opportunity for spiritual growth for our entire congregation.”
Restore, Renew, Reimagine Campaign Moves into the Continuation Phase Total number of Gifts/Pledges received 96 Total Raised in Gifts/Pledges $ 2,275,725 Average Gift/Pledge $ 22,643 Pledges paid to date $ 174,620 Pledges paid in full to date 11
Campaign Leadership moves into Continuation Team The campaign office has closed, Tom Hanrahan of Southeast Advancement Services has moved off-site, and our leadership team has transitioned into their placement as the continuation team. They will continue to solicit pledges, and then continue their job in managing redemption. You will receive a confirmation letter from the team that will review the details of your pledge. Based on that letter you will receive statements. Many thanks to those who have pledged, to our Leadership Team, and to the team from Southeast Advancement Services.
CATHEDRAL ORGAN FUND
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HISTORY OF THE CATHEDRAL ORGAN
2017-2018 For nearly two centuries, Christ Church has enjoyed beautiful organ music within its walls. Over the years, four different pipe organs have occupied this space. Ours is an organ tradition we can be proud of and must maintain. Our pipe organ has been the “voice of our space,” and with continued maintenance it can play this role for generations to come. Help us support this ministry so that our heirs will share in this glorious heritage.
SUMMER ORGAN RECITALS AT THE CATHEDRAL Christopher W. Powell, organist
Buxtehude and Bach: A Dynamic Duo Sunday, June 25 at 4:00 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon organ recital featuring the music of two masters of the German Baroque period, Buxtehude and Bach. Filled with exciting music, this program will include music both familiar and possibly new to listeners. These two masters influenced everyone who followed them. How will they affect you?
The Incredible 19th Century Sunday, August 20 at 4:00 p.m. A program that features music of the Romantic period in France and Germany, this concert has organ pieces and vocal music sung by members of the Cathedral Choir. Listeners are sure to be delighted by the emotion in this music. The program includes music by familiar composers like Franck and Liszt, but also will introduce some composers not well known in mainstream classical music. All recitals are free and open to the public.
As early as 1841, a pipe organ by renowned New York builder, Henry Erben, was in use at Christ Church, Mobile. In 1857, the famed builder returned to Mobile when a rival company, Jardine and Sons, intended to install a grand instrument in the city’s Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Erben, not wanting to be outdone, offered to buy Christ Church’s existing organ as long as the congregation promised to buy a new one for the cost of $6,000. When building commenced, however, Erben found he had underbid the job but he completed it at cost. Thus Christ Church was furnished with a $10,000 pipe organ, many proclaimed it the finest in the South. This instrument was “made famous” by the playing of Madame Kowalewski, and served as a centerpiece for fine music. Disaster struck in 1906 when a hurricane sent the steeple crashing through the roof. The organ was destroyed, as was much of the church. The ladies of the church raised funds to buy a new organ, and in 1907, a fine instrument was purchased at a cost of $10,500 from the Hook & Hastings Company of Massachusetts. This instrument was altered and damaged in the 1940s, but the organ remained in faithful service for around 80 years. The Deagan Chimes of the organ were given in memory of fallen soldiers of Christ Church during the Second World War. The chimes were dedicated and first used during the midnight service on Christmas Eve of 1946. These chimes are still in use today. As early as the 1970s, is was recommended a restoration be undertaken of the Hook & Hastings organ. As is often the case, it took until 1987 for a new iteration of the organ, built by the Steiner-Reck company of Kentucky, to come (continued on page 5) Page 3
A MESSAGE FROM CHRISTOPHER POWELL Dear Friends in Christ, The summer is here once again, and with it comes our third annual organ recital series. This past year our pipe organ has once again been the central musical instrument in our worship, the voice of our space. From accompanying the hymns and choir pieces to providing music for meditation and jubilation before, during, and after the service, our organ is ever present during our liturgies. It has pipes representing all the families of tone found in organs around the world and even many orchestral tones (even some percussion—our chimes). The sound of the organ can be delicate enough to accompany the singing of a single child and powerful enough to overwhelm listeners with cascades of triumphant tones. Our instrument is versatile enough to accompany spirituals, baroque pieces, and Victorian anthems all in the same service. Of course, this doesn't even mention the diversity encountered in recitals and concerts. It really is the perfect instrument for the broad and varied requirements of the church. Here at Christ Church, we are blessed not only to have a pipe organ (something not to be taken for granted) but to have a significant one both in tone and history. Thanks to those who decided to retain much of the 1907 Hook & Hastings instrument when Steiner-Reck rebuilt and expanded the organ in the 1980s, we hear pipes every Sunday that have been heard in our space for 110 years. What a splendid connection to those who came before us, our spiritual family. However, no matter how significant or historic the instrument, pipe organs all undergo some changes over their sometimes centuries-long lifespans. Some of these changes are made due to fluctuation in taste, and some are caused by the decay of perishable parts. Even the most carefully preserved organs undergo restorations, and sometimes changes need to be made to incorporate new technologies or simply do away with bad designs or ideas from eras past. Pipe organs are, in a sense, alive. Your generous contributions to the organ maintenance fund over the past two years have enabled us to better maintain the instrument, and we are very close to being able to make some improvements that will directly affect its tonal capabilities. Please consider financially supporting our pipe organ. To do so is to invest in worship here at Christ Church Cathedral for generations to come. Our organ is the voice of our space, and every contribution helps improve upon, maintain, and preserve our unique instrument. Peace in Christ,
Christopher W. Powell Organist and Music Director
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CHRIST CHURCH ORGANISTS 1841-2016 F. C. Unger (c. 1841-1846) Former organist of St. Thomas Church, NYC Mariah Kowalewski (1846-1897) Pupil of Frederic Chopin Mrs. Emerson (1898-1900)
Frank Wilbur Chace (1900-1903) Noted concert organist of the early 20th century J. Clarendon McClure (1903-1904) Renowned musical personality, pedagogue, and published composer F. A. Dunster (1904-c. 1915) Published composer, concert organist Rosine Cox (c. 1915 - ?) Music personality in Mobile, early member of the Clara Schumann Club, a musical society of ladies promoting chamber music and works of women composers. McClelland Vaughan (? -1925) J. Clarendon McClure (1925-1938) F. A. Dunster (1938-1939) J. Clarendon McClure (1939-1955) Beverly Hagan (1955-1972) Well known pedagogue and promoter of musical culture in Mobile Carl W. Gettig (1972-1983) Wesley Ellis (1984-1986) Oversaw majority of Steiner-Reck organ rebuild Karen Morgan Kearney (1986-1995)
Peggy Lyden (2001-2014) First organist after the church’s elevation to Cathedral, rebuilt the musical program, and laid a strong foundation for the future. Christopher William Powell (2014-present) The research of our organists is ongoing. We welcome information from anyone able to contribute to this history. This list contains only persons identified in records as “organist” or “Organist/Choirmaster.”
We give thanks for these generous Friends of the Cathedral Organ, whose giving this year and for the past program year make our musical offerings possible. Please use the enclosed card to become a benefactor.
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THE CATHEDRAL ORGAN BY THE NUMBERS 1841 Henry Erben: $2,600
FRIENDS ✠
of THE CATHEDRAL ORGAN
Mr. and Mrs. Robison C. McClure, Jr. D ONORS Mr. and Mrs. Jean R. Amos Richard Mitchell Sage and Preston Bolt Kathy and Gary Moore Harriet T. Boughton Gene and Donna Moreé Mr. and Mrs. Craig and Janet Rich Alton R. Brown III Pittman Sharon Brown Katie and Christopher Alice Carwie Powell Sally F. Chow Betty Reniewicz The Very Rev. Dr. Lynn Robinson Johnny and Mary Cook Dr. and Mrs. Jerry Cotsonis William Rodgers Robert and Joy Dean Dr. and Mrs. Perrin and Bill Drew Stover Smith Dr. Cleamon R. Downs Mr. and Mrs. The Rt. Rev. Philip and Ronald A. Snider Mrs. Kathlyn Duncan Tiny and John Anne Turner Gaillard Spottswood Tom and Susan Garth Brenda Johnson Stanton The Very Rev. Nance and Ed Stephens Beverly F. and Joan Marie Stewart Mr. James M. Gibson Thomas B. Van Antwerp Mrs. Harold S. Dr. and Mrs. Grehan, Jr. Horace C. Watkins Paul and Sheila Harriman Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Elizabeth B. Harrison White-Spunner, Jr. Lucy R. Harrison Christopher Hoitink, Sr. ✠ Tim and Yvonne Holladay I N H ONOR OF E. W. Hopkins Toni Goubil Brown Chris and Noreen Hume Christ Church Cathedral Mr. and Mrs. Clifton Alan, Jill, Janie, and Inge, Sr. Jordan Chow Cammie and Bob Israel The Very Rev. Douglas Burtu Beverly F. Gibson Kearley, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Harry Marolyn Y. Kruse Drake Henson Leslie and Edward Ladd John Leach John and Susan Leach Susan Leach Mr. and Mrs. John S. Claude Nielsen McClelland, Jr. Pittman and Rich Mrs. Robison C. Families McClure Tiny and John Spottswood
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1857 Henry Erben (50 stops): Paid $6,000 Valued at $10,000 1907 Hook & Hastings (39 stops): Paid $10,500
I N M EMORY
OF 1987 Steiner-Reck rebuild of Owen Blackwell Hook & Hastings with additional pipes Brink Brinkley (57 stops): Paid $228,771 Minnie Brown John J. Cole The 2017 replacement cost of our pipe Van Cotsonis organ is $1,800,000. Hetty Lyon Horst Cunningham (continued from page 3) to fruition. Evelyn Davis While originally, it was Allison Granberry recommended that the organ be Harold S. Grehan, Jr. restored to its original state (preWilliam G. Harrison, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Christopher 1940s), plans grew to make Christ G. Hume, Jr. Church’s organ a premier concert Sally St. John Hume instrument in Mobile. A restoration Sissy Hungerford became a rebuilding, and the Dr. Donald P. Hustard overriding goal was that the organ of Frank, Allen, Christ Church should be able to and Kim Kruse present organ repertoire authentically Rookie Kruse Edward Leatherbury regardless of the historical period or Dorothy Hooks Minshew school of organ building. Hence, the Haerel Decalve Minshew Hook & Hastings pipework of 1907 Thomas Jerome Minshew was married with new pipework of William Alexander the 1980s, French-style reeds were Lewis Mitchell introduced along with German Elmer E. Moreé, Sr. mixtures, and the organ took on new Rebecca Rose Moreé Hetty Cunningham life. Newell In 2009, a Trompette en Chamade Lyon Cunningham (horizontal trumpet) was added to the Newell Dr. Nick C. Nichols organ and seems to usher in our Dottie Gene Radcliff “Cathedral era”. Today, the organ Mr. and Mrs. Alfred stands as one of the largest in the city Ramsey, Jr. of Mobile and at the heart of our Alma Robinson music ministry and outreach. It Sis and Jack Spottswood sounds during weddings, funerals, Victor P. Stanton diocesan events, and regular services. Cornelia M. Turner Past Choir Members Most importantly, it accompanies our Loved Ones songs of praise to our Creator and
gives voice to our prayers. We now turn our eyes to the future of this instrument.
C a t he d r a l M u s i c Dear Friends in Christ, The 2016-2017 Music Season draws to a close this month with our final choir rehearsal on June 7. It is amazing what has been accomplished this year not only by our musicians but in the life of our parish! The main purpose of this article is to express my thanks to all who have supported and participated in our music ministry this season. Starting with Rally Day, in September, the Cathedral Choir was hard at work preparing music for our fall events, including All Saints’ Sunday, Lessons and Carols, a Diaconate Ordination, and Christmas Eve and Day. Moving through the new year, we had a great Epiphany Concert Series beginning with Choral Evensong according to the 1662 Book of Common Prayer and ending with our annual Cathedral Pops concert featuring sacred favorites. From there, our choir sang beautifully through Lent and added greatly to our Holy Week services as well. Easter was as joyful as one would expect, but it was nearly outdone by the 12th Annual Cathedral Celebration this year with to the dedication of our restored steeple—an event for which the choir prepared some really great music. They did a tremendous job with very little lead time! I wish to thank our basses, Gary Kohler, Skip Archer, Josh Hopper, our tenors, Cleamon Downs, Leroy Roberson, Douglas Abbruzzese, our altos, Ann Moody, Linda Grill, Brenda Stanton, Stephanie Hopper, and our sopranos, Doris Kohler, Katie Powell, Emily Stubblefield, Amy Butler, Emma Roser. For a space of our size, 15 members is a great number, and I am blessed to work with each of them to create powerful music for worship and concert. The choir is really the heart and soul of our music ministry— without them, we simply would not be a functioning ministry in our church, diocese, and community. My wife, Katie Powell, works tirelessly as our choir director to conduct, lead, and train our ensemble to
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attain new heights. Her skill, knowledge, and kind leadership inspire all of us to do our best work for God’s glory. Stephanie Hopper also helps our ensemble a great deal by keeping us organized. Without Stephanie coming in to tidy up the music before rehearsals, we would be making an awfully big mess! Our Cathedral Handbell Choir is another musical ensemble that deserves our gratitude for their hard work preparing bell music at least once per liturgical season. These dedicated people meet nearly every Wednesday during the music season to work on music and hone their skills for worship. Our ringers include Katie Powell, Emma Roser, Doris Kohler, Emily Stubblefield, Skip Archer, Stephanie Hopper, and Gary Kohler. All of us especially wish to thank all of you who have contributed to our music fund, Friends of Cathedral Music, and the Cathedral Organ Fund. Your donations make our concerts and special music for services a reality. It takes quite a bit of money to keep things running smoothly and to guarantee the qualitative offerings that have become a part of our regular worship at Christ Church. Thank you for your support! Also, many thanks to our clergy and staff who offer their support, time, talents, and wisdom on a daily basis to aid our music ministry. It has been a fabulous season. I am looking forward to 2017-2018! Have a great summer. Peace in Christ,
Christopher W. Powell Organist and Music Director
1 2 t h A n nu a l C at h e d r a l C e l e b r at i o n a n d S t e e p l e D e d i c a t i o n , S u n d ay, M ay 7 , 2 0 1 7 The 12th Annual Cathedral Celebration had all of the wonderful parts of every other Cathedral Celebration, but this year we dedicated our steeple. The day began with the vestry meeting with Bishop Kendrick. He then met with the eleven confirmands and their families in the chapel (left). During the service the leadership and our children joined the bishop and dean on the front porch where they blessed the steeple (left). We were this year again joined by the gentlemen of the Kappa League, and their sponsors (below). After the service our vestry passed Sean Thomas’ delicious fried oysters. Bert Eichold was a hit to bring the first tray to the porch for the bishop and the dean (below left). While everyone enjoyed lunch in the garden the Excelsior Band played. Many thanks to everyone who helped plan, and who served during the day.
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2017 Confirmands Elizabeth Diana Elliott Virginia Carol Ladd Mary Stadther Leland Margaret Engelmeier Bolt Jacob Alexander Fuller James Jeffrey Grill Linda Winn Grill John Nall Leach, Jr. Susan Stivers Leach Walker Lee Messer Kyle Lawrence Wall All of the pictures from the Cathedral Celebration may be seen on our website. Photos by Blue Photography, Cindy McCrory.
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PRAYERS FOR OUR DEAN AND HER FAMILY Gracious Lord, we give thanks for the Gibson family as they come to this time of sabbatical renewal. We celebrate with them. Their church family prays for them as they travel. May your Holy Spirit guide, inspire, encourage and bring them safely home to us. All this we ask through Jesus Christ who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. The Lord Jesus be near to defend thee, within thee to refresh thee, around thee to preserve thee, before thee to guide thee, behind thee to justify thee, above thee to bless thee; who liveth and reigneth with the Father and the Holy Spirit, God for evermore. 10th Century Blessing May Almighty God, who has redeemed us and made us his children through the resurrection of his Son our Lord, bestow upon you the riches of his blessing. Amen.
Ministry Architects Greetings from the Renovation Team Thank you again for your participation and candid commentary in meetings with Ministry Architects. In response to your valuable feedback, Ministry Architects developed a thorough assessment report (http:// www.christchurchcathedralmobile.org/ministry-architects-report.html) and are moving forward to implement the recommendations as prescribed over the next 36 months. To aid in the execution of these recommendations, Ministry Architects have engaged a team of members from our congregation as referenced in the message from Dean Gibson.
In keeping with the theme of architectural terminology, this Strategic Planning Steering Committee has been dubbed the “renovation team.” While renovation naturally inclines one to think of physical structures, in this case we apply renovation to all aspects of our church, including administration, physical structures, programs, worship, outreach and even social media. You might not immediately see the renovation team in action, but please know that we are working hard behind the scenes to create sustainable processes which will highlight what you love most about our Cathedral and provide opportunities to improve the overall experience for our members, visitors and community. The renovation team kicked-off our efforts with a three-day training and working session in May. Fueled by a considerable amount of coffee, our kick-off was characterized by early mornings, late nights and a palpable sensation of enthusiasm in tackling this 36-month roadmap. The renovation team is honored to represent our congregation in helping Christ Church Cathedral to reach her full potential, however, our success in doing so will require your support. We invite you to join us on this exciting journey, whether it be through prayer, service or both.
Dean Beverly Gibson’s sabbatical began on Monday, May 22. She will return on Monday, August 21. While 4 t h o f Ju ly H o l i d ay she is gone the vestry, under the leadership of Senior Warden Robby The Cathedral office will be closed Monday, July 3 through Friday, July 7. McClure, is canonically responsible for We will be checking messages and emails during that time. For pastoral the ongoing life of the parish. For day emergencies, please contact Robby McClure, Senior Warden at 251-680to day operations the staff is well 1694. The Cathedral office will reopen on Monday, July 10. prepared to insure that everything is “business as usual.” The members of the Cathedral family are asked this While you are ✠ summer to attend church, support one traveling, please Travelers Prayer another, and prayerfully consider how to continue your personal ministry for I know, O God, that wherever I travel, You will be with me. gather the hotel Christ Church Cathedral this fall. There is nowhere I can go, no situation I can face, toiletries and In the spirit of sabbatical, this will be which is outside Your love and strength; so I commit myself bring them to the the only issue of The Messenger this into Your care keeping on this journey, knowing that at all Cathedral to give summer. Look for a newsletter upon times I am in Your hands. Amen. Dean Gibson’s return in August. to those in need.
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Vacation Bible School MMXVII
Save the Date Sunday, June 18 Monday, June 19 Tuesday, June 20 through Thursday, June 22
Set-Up in the Chapter House Decorating and Training VBS from 9:00 a.m. until Noon
All Roads Lead to Rome! When you travel back in time you will explore the caves of the Underground Church, meet the Apostle Paul, and create cool Bible-time crafts.
Registration now open! Go to our website: www.christchurchcathedralmobile.org for a link to Registration, plus Celebration Music. Check out our crafts on our Pinterest page at https://www.pinterest.com/christchurc0170/vbs-rome-2017/ Our VBS team requests your prayers. Page 9
Episcopal Youth Community
A N o t e f r o m C a n o n D a n Wa g ne r
EYC to Bay Bears—June 4
Dear Cathedral Family,
EYC will be going to see the Bay Bears take on the Pensacola Wahoos at 5:05 p.m. The group will gather at Hank Aaron Stadium at 4:30 p.m. We will join friends from St Paul’s, Mobile and St. Paul’s, Daphne. Everyone is asked to bring money for food.
3rd Annual EYC Blow-Out—June 11 EYC will leave after church and head to the McElhaney’s Dog River House (2007 Riverview Avenue). There is no cost, just bring a great attitude and a big smile—it should be a great time! For more information or to assist, please contact Sarah Bolt.
Raise the Roof—June 25-June 30 This is our second year to serve at this multi-day event, with Dauphin Way United Methodist Church and St. Paul’s, Mobile, to help residents of the South Broad Street area of Mobile with roof repairs. Groups from out of town participate in this program, but our week is called “Local Love” because this is the week that local youth serve. The cost is $150 (includes materials, breakfast and lunch, and a t-shirt). Our youth will get the hands on experience of doing mission work, without leaving our community.
Operation Back-Pack—deadline July 30 After VBS in over look for the Backpack Tree the Chapter House as we again gather school supplies, and donations for uniforms, for students in the Mobile Police Department’s Family Intervention Team (FIT) program.
Jonathan Myrick Daniels Pilgrimage Saturday, August 12 The Dioceses of Alabama, and the Central Gulf Coast join together each year to honor the life of Jonathan Daniels, an Episcopal Seminarian who was killed as he worked for civil rights in Hayneville, Alabama Look for more information as plans unfold.
Acolyte Training Plans are underway for Acolyte Training on Sunday, August 20 following the service.
In the blink of an eye, I have gone from the Cathedral in Mobile to a mission church in Aiken, South Carolina. Overall, the transition has gone well. The folks here are very loving and enjoy having fun. Much like the Cathedral, this place loves hospitality! I wanted to take a moment to say hello and thank you.
Canon Dan with our youth on his last Sunday.
Hard to believe it is already May and Pentecost is nearly upon us. It really feels as though I just finished off the youth Mardi Gras parade party and turned in my keys. Much has happened since I left. Thanks be to God I navigated Holy Week as a solo priest. I have been working to integrate myself back into the Diocese of Upper South Carolina, into the Aiken community, and into St. Augustine’s There have been many joyful homecomings, reconnections with friends in the Palmetto state. I was able to sell my home in Greenville, South Carolina and now I am beginning the process of finding a home here. My current address is 400 Greengate Circle, Apartment O, Aiken, South Carolina 29803. My home phone number is (803) 845-5270 and my cell number is still (864) 4302221. The best e-mail address for me is wagneda0@sewanee.edu. If you do find yourself traveling in this direction, please feel free to look me up. I give thanks for all that I have learned from you—from Dean Gibson, the whole office team, and the Cathedral family. Thank you for helping to form me as a priest. I do miss Mobile and the Cathedral, but I am excited to be here in Aiken at St. Augustine’s. Recently, I saw the many pictures of the new steeple. Day or night, it is gorgeous. I hope it will help the Cathedral become more visible and help people find their way to Christ, much as a lighthouse leads a ship to safety. God’s peace to you all and I pray that the capital campaign and improvements will be a success. Faithfully,
The Reverend Canon Daniel A. Wagner
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June Calendar Thursday, June 1 6:00 p.m.
Sharing Faith Dinners
Sunday, June 4 The Rev. Ede Plovanich 10:00 a.m. HE, Rite II 5:00 p.m. EYC to Bay Bears Game
Wednesday, June 7 6:30 p.m.
Final Choir Rehearsal
Sunday, June 11 —The Rev. Cn. David Johnson 10:00 a.m. Noon
HE, Rite II EYC Blow-Out/McElhaney’s
Sunday, June 18 — Father’s Day The Rev. Ede Plovanich 10:00 a.m. HE, Rite II 11:15 a.m. VBS Set-up
Monday, June 19 4:30 p.m.
Renovation Team Meeting
Tuesday—Thursday, June 20, 21, 22 9:00 a.m.—noon Vacation Bible School
Wednesday, June 21 5:15 p.m.
Finance Committee
Sunday, June 25 —The Very Rev. Johnny Cook 10:00 a.m. 11:15 a.m. 4:00 p.m.
HE, Rite II Vestry Organ Recital
Monday, June 26 through Friday, June 30 Raise the Roof
O ur C o l l e g e G r a d u at e s We are pleased to announce three spring 2017 college graduates in the Cathedral Family: Marlin Slater Brutkiewicz was graduated from the U. S. Naval Academy, with a Navy Seal designation. Marlin is the grandson of Don Brutkiewicz. Alexander (Alex) Chapin Hoffmeyer, son of Julie and Fred Hoffmeyer, was graduated from Auburn University in Supply Chain Management Geoffrey Morton McGovern, Jr., was graduated from Auburn University with a degree in Forestry. Mac is the son of Meg and Geoff McGovern.
July Calendar Sunday, July 2 —The Very Rev. Johnny Cook 10:00 a.m.
HE, Rite II
Monday, July 3—Friday, July 7 Cathedral Office will be closed
Sunday, July 9 —The Very Rev. Johnny Cook 10:00 a.m. HE, Rite II FIT Operation Backpack begins
Sunday, July 16 —The Rev. Ede Plovanich 10:00 a.m.
HE, Rite II
Sunday, July 23 —The Rev. Marshall Craver 10:00 a.m.
HE, Rite II
Sunday, July 30 —The Rev. Ede Plovanich 10:00 a.m. HE, Rite II FIT Operation Backpack Deadline
August Calendar Sunday, August 6 —The Rev. Marshall Craver 10:00 a.m.
HE, Rite II
Sunday, August 13 —The Rev. Ede Plovanich 10:00 a.m.
HE, Rite II
Sunday, August 20 —The Rev. Marshall Craver 10:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m.
HE, Rite II Organ Recital
Monday, August 21 Dean Gibson returns from sabbatical
Wednesday, August 23 Ministry Architects Leadership Launch
Sunday, August 27 10:00 a.m.
HE, Rite II
E Y C T h a n k Yo u Dear Miss Bolt, We cannot thank you enough for the plentiful food drive for our Trinity Food Pantry. We were stunned by the generosity of the families in the Ashland Place neighborhood. We serve over 150 people a month with a third of them being children and seniors. Please express our deepest gratitude to your contributors! Trinity Food Pantry
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Adopt a Murray House Chair
Hur ricane Preparedness
A comfortable chair is a symbol of the many intangible benefits of living in The Murray House community. Sixty dining room chairs are awaiting adoption. The price per chair is $350. If you would like to help purchase a chair, please send your contribution to the Cathedral office, with the memo, Murray House chair.
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St. Matthew’s, Mobile St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Mobile was deconsecrated on November 16, 2016. Several members have made their home at Christ Church Cathedral, and we are pleased to have them. The records of the parish and their chalice and paten are now stored at Christ Church Cathedral. They are engraved St. Matthew’s, Mobile, 1961-2016. We will use the chalice and paten during a special service each year to commemorate St. Matthew’s Day. Former St. Matthew’s parishioners enjoyed the Cathedral Celebration.
Hurricane Season begins June 2
With hurricane season upon us, please designate a week to prepare your home. Ready.gov's Hurricane Preparedness Week toolkit at www.ready.gov/hurricane-toolkit and the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov/wrn/hurricane-preparedness both have shareable social media badges outlining key preparedness steps:
Sunday: Deter mine your r isk Monday: Develop an evacuation plan Tuesday: Assemble disaster supplies Wednesday: Check your insur ance cover ages Thursday: Str engthen your home Friday: Check on your neighbor Saturday: Complete your wr itten hur r icane plan For more disaster preparedness ideas for individuals, families and churches, check out episcopalrelief.org/preparedness. Thank you to David Brady, Diocesan ERD Coordinator, for sharing this article.
Operation Backpack This is our seventh year to support the Mobile Police Department’s Family Intervention Team (FIT) efforts to help children return to school prepared. Our goal is to have 100% of our cards taken and filled. Items include backpacks, supplies, calculators, and requests for cash donations. This project means that 15 children will receive a new backpack, school supplies. To reach our goal we need everyone’s help. Above: Seated: Nancy Bryan. Left to right: Mary Rodning, Charlotte Taylor, Mary Pettit, Leigh Taylor, Linda Ross, Jack Ross, Jessie Koger, Mel Koger, Madeline Gaines, Alvin King Left: The St. Matthew’s chalice and Paten
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The project will run from Sunday, June 25 through Sunday, July 30. The deadline for all collections is Monday, July 31. Help us keep track of each child by writing your name and telephone number on the signup sheet. When returning items, please include the child’s name and Operation Backpack item number. Donated items may be dropped off on the piano in the Chapter House. Please place your item in a bag and attach a copy of the child’s card to the bag. If you are making a monetary contribution, please make your check payable to Christ Church Cathedral with FIT Operation Backpack on the memo line. For questions, please contact Marla at the Cathedral office 438-1822.
F ro m t h e C a t h e d r a l A r c h ive s
Correspondence
Alva Erskine Smith (Vanderbilt) Belmont
Dear Dean Beverly,
(January 17, 1853–January 26, 1933)
Wanted to let you and the people of the Cathedral know how wonderful and appropriate the new Steeple is for our Cathedral building. Please tell all involved how perfect it all looks; a beautiful and fitting work of art. I also want to thank you for your continued leadership at the Cathedral; please know that Kathy and I will have you and the Cathedral members in our prayers during the service of dedication. We also wish you a good and productive sabbatical time away and hope that it is also one of refreshment.
Entry in the Baptism Registry for April 12, 1854: Baptism Alva Smith, infant daughter of Murray F. & Phoebe Smith, Born January 17th, 1853. Sponsors: Parents & Mrs. John D. Walker. In 1859, Smith, who was a cotton factor, would move from their house near Christ Church on Government and S. Conception Streets to New York. Later, Alva would marry William Kissam Vanderbilt I, grandson of Cornelius Vanderbilt, and help catapult her family into New York society, build a number of now famous houses including Marble House in Newport, R.I, remarry Oliver Hazard Perry Belmont, and become a major figure in the women’s suffrage movement, purchasing the headquarters for the National Women’s Party in Washington, D.C.
Kathy and I are doing well and I am working most weekends covering in the Diocese of Texas. Time passes and we are learning our way about Austin and retirement. Again, blessing and prayers for this wonderful occasion. Pax, Bishop Duncan Dear Beverly,
Thank you so much for your generous gift of $500 to Wilmer Hall in support of our pancake breakfast, which we received in April 2017. Your support is a tremendous help to us as we strive to care for our children and young adults who are in need due to poverty, abuse, neglect, and homelessness. Above: Murray Forbes Smith House 201 Government Street; left: Alva Smith Vanderbilt at her 1883 Costume Ball in New York.
D i o c e s a n New s Sally Greene has announced her retirement as Executive Director of Wilmer Hall after 10 years in that role. Prior to that, Greene served Wilmer Hall as Director of Development. Pratt Paterson, Above: Sally Greene and Pratt Wilmer Hall’s Director of Development and Community Paterson. Relations, has been named Executive Director. Paterson served as Director of Advancement at St. Mary’s Sewanee before coming to Wilmer Hall. He will assume his new role on June 1 and Sally Greene will remain on staff as a development consultant until early 2018. Plans for a celebration of her ministry will be announced at a later date.
At Wilmer Hall we believe in each young person that comes through our doors. Your generosity shows that you, too, believe in them. We strive to help our young people live up to their fullest potential and become successful, independent members of our communities. Wilmer Hall extends to each child or young adult a warm and nurturing home where they are surrounded by people who love and support them. We serve children and young adults through four on-campus programs: the Residential Living Program, the Transitional Living Program, the Transitional Family Program and the Education Program. In August 2017, we are launching a fifth program, the CommunityBased Education Program. These programs are all complementary and support the young people entrusted to our care in a way that supports, educates, and empowers those that might not otherwise have a chance to succeed. Thank you again for believing in our young people. With all best wishes, D. Pratt Person, Director of Development and Community Relations
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June Birthdays June 1 June 3 June 5
June 6 June 7 June 8 June 9
June 10 June 11 June 12
June 16 June 16 June 17
June 19 June 20
June 21 June 23 June 24 June 26 June 27 June 28 June 29 June 30
Champ White John Ruzic Kennon Drew Elizabeth Elliott Perri McKay Alex Nicolson Yates Grehan Katie Powell Katherine Deaton Carson Russell Will Drew Sonny Irvine Mary Hunter Fuller True Nicholson John White Mike Gibson George Seymour Claire Speegle Shannon Harris Kristyn Seawell Smitty Vanek John Ross Alex Mitchell Betsy Brown Skip Brutkiewicz Sonny Kearley Marolyn Kruse Tim Holladay Cooper Leland Larry Floyd Talmadge Hines Jay Watkins Kathy Thurber Natalie Coale Sophie Ferguson Patti Biel Wayne Butler Jacque Hawkins Merle Findley Lisa Portacci Marissa Patrick Emily Stubblefield Fred Hoffmeyer
Ju ly B i r t h d ay s July 3 July 4
July 6 July 7 July 8 July 9 July 10 July 12 July 13 July 14
July 15 July 16 July 17 July 18 July 19 July 21 July 22 July 23 July 24
July 25 July 27 July 28
July 29
Matt Zarzour Ann Luce Mary Burton Merchant Virginia Merchant Bailey Sanders Henry Ross Alec Harris Prissy Hawkins Hank Cobb Thomas Van Antwerp Valerie Hines Len Ramo Willa Bolt Walt Hamil Jackson Israel Rick Mitchell Jack Lyden Leland Moore III Norman Nicholson Adair Messer Liz Ridgedell Janie Chow Rosemarie McClure Barbara Mitchell Marissa Stubblefield Kit Sledge Bill Christian Hamilton Behlen Pat Burchfield Schley Rutherford Mary Mac Watkins Jaime Betbeze Katie Carwie John Peebles Edward Bolt David Carwie Will Gamble Caitlin Stubblefield
August Birthdays August 1 August 2 August 3 August 4 August 5 August 7 August 8 August 9 August 11 August 12 August 13 August 14 August 15
August 16
August 18 August 19
August 20 August 21 August 24 August 25 August 27 August 28 August 29 August 30
Jimmy White Jacob Fuller Rebecca Butler Missy Patrick Leigh Rendfrey David Cooper, Jr. Archie Reeves Katie Garth May Gamble Barry Weeks Suzanne White Allison Gamble Ron Snider Sandra Kendall Win Thurber Hallie Inge Baker Lucy Brady Ellie Grehan Megan McCall Carol Rodgers Harriet Jean Boughton Mary Patterson Broome Dan Wagner Ben Coale Robin Delaney Dan Drew Alex Gamble Marston Raue David Cooper, Sr. Louise McClure Elizabeth Stevens Martha Middleton Evelyn McCafferty Mimi Hudson Spencer Portacci Lawson Hamil
C a t he d r a l P r aye r L i s t O God, the strength of the weak and the comfort of sufferers: Mercifully accept our prayers, and grant to your servants the help of your power, that their sickness may be turned into health, and our sorrow into joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
We Pray for: Members: Sonny Burchfield, Alice Carwie, Katherine Deaton, Jordan Moore, Patti Biel, Mike Gibson, Bill Hall, Happy Henson, Ellis Wilkins, Amy Butler
Friends & Family: Peggy Naughton, Gary Davis, Harrison Leff, Michael Cameron, Nancy & Don Cameron, Rob & Amy Archer Ellis, Davis Nelson, Michael Sumrall, Gwen Cook, Alfred Showers, Jim Elia, Anne Brown, Mark Brown, Dave Carlyn Block, Rachel McClanahan, Curtis Bullock, Ann Jones, Hank Wozniek, Lisa Thompson, Stella Phillips, James Thomas, Mark Miles, Hayden Jenkins, Maggie Jenkins, Carolyn Pryor, Merle Findley, Louise Douglas, Dunlap Peeples, Steve Harris, Angel and Larry Torres, Bill Stevens, Ginger Simpson, Joe Lowrey, Karen Sentilles, Betty Browder, Glenn Hill, Marian Hall, Homer Kemp, Ralph Neal, Mark Mason, Tim Fulton, Gladys Crowson, Billy Yost, Paul Vickers, Sr., George Robison, Georgia Dominick, Robin Wade, Randy Moore, Rick Nichols, Kate Heddrich, Ceaser Bryant, Moana Karstater, Frances Robison, Emily Hubbard, Mike Dowers, Jason Lockwood, Pat Fisher, Bubba Murray, Bernice Vickers, Jerry Collins, Grady McMillan, Kerry Goode, Chris Schnieder, A. J. Villars, Kaye Koffler, Robert L. Hatcher, Mary Katzman, David Keniston, Zaidee Galloney, Adele Stuardi Gwatkin, Lydia Moore, Bill Betbeze, Ralph Boudreaux, Billy Bailey, The Rev. John Rees, Charlie Mae MoreĂŠ, John Houston Tatum, Jr., Mary Christine Wilson, Allison Robinson, Susan Farr, Christina Stanley, Katherine Carver, Pier Louise Hardin, Jason Greene, Ileana Molina, Don McWilliams, Scott Kelly, Austin Brown, Mary Searle, Jean-Claude Martin, Bob McMillan, Roberta Abrams, Rene Thompson, The Rev. Maurice Branscomb,
Cartledge Weeden Blackwell II, Wayne Bailey, The Painter Family, Nonie Reed, Beth Schramm, Jill Phillips, Brian McArdle and family, Phinee Vanek, Bryce Saucer, Susan Guilian, Bill Hibbert, Robert Berry, Ella Forkum, Shannon Cook, Tom Hudson, Tay Morrissette, Jim Johnston, Ed Shelton, John Witherington, Jerry and Gayle Bulter, Mitch and Polly Johnson, Nathan Bishop, Maura Rego, Marbury Buckhaults, Brett Tomlinson, Eric Laborde, Lexi Naughton, Star Edmonds, Liam Thistlewaite, Pat Hughes, Dawn Waller, Franklin King, Betty Bolt, Tiffany Bollis, Sharon Poggi, Maurie Graves Shaw, Father Dennis Brown, Judson Burford, Jr., Wanda Peeples, Marian Macpherson Currie, Elizabeth Shearer, John Morrissette, Jimmy Hasser, Carolyn Levensailor, Evie Langhans, Jaimee Brown, Keith Burbank, Jean Helms, Ryan Williams, Doug Jackson, Rita Curtis, Mike Curtis, Ray H. Miller, III, Nancy Harris, Stova McFadden, Linda Schwander
Those Serving in the Military: Dan Drew, Jimmy Wayne Butler, Louis Coggin, Jonathan Duralde, Tyler Gamble, Sam Garcia, Darrien Gibson, Parker Hollinghead, Kelley Hood, Brian Hudson, Abby Hutchins, Randy Johnson, Ron Lansong, Jean-Michael Lemieux, Chris Marslender, Zack Miller, Keith Moss, Michael Nassar, Jerry Olin, Brian Pennell, Josh Power, Daniel White-Spunner Reed, Susan Reniewicz, Evan Sizemore, John Snyder, Conner Thigpen, Ryan Anthony Thomas, Ryan Walker, The Rev. Bowen Woodruff, Colton Ulmer, Margie Hall Malloy, Charlie Thigpen, Sam Freder
Repose of the Soul: Julie Irvine Brinson; Dorothy Eugenia Greer Radcliff, mother of Lucy Harrison; Sybil Willis Rodgers, mother of Bill Rodgers; Clifford Mixon, son-in-law of Judy Jones.
Please contact the Cathedral Office (office@christchurchcathedralmobile.org or 438-1822) to let us know if you would like to remove or keep the names of Friends and Family you have submitted on the prayer list. We will update this list regularly.
CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL
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115 South Conception Street Mobile, Alabama 36602
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CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL Corner of St. Emanuel and Church Streets 115 South Conception Street, Mobile, Alabama 36602
Established 1822 The Right Reverend Russell J. Kendrick, Bishop The Very Reverend Beverly F. Gibson, Ph.D., Dean Carolyn S. Jeffers, Provost Christopher W. Powell, Music Director and Organist Katherine E. Powell, Choir Director Brenda J. Stanton, Financial Secretary Marla J. Reis, Cathedral Secretary Michelle C. Wilson, Assistant to the Provost Sarah Bolt, Youth Activities Coordinator Corinne Betbeze, Children’s Program Coordinator Judy J. Jones, Housekeeping
✠ Office Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday Phone 251.438.1822 Fax: 251.433.3403
Website: www.christchurchcathedralmobile.org E-mail: office@christchurchcathedralmobile.org
T HE C ATHEDRAL M ISSION S TATEMENT The Cathedral is the spiritual center of the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast. The Cathedral is a dynamic and evolving church that serves as a liturgical, educational, and pastoral center for Diocesan life. It serves as a visible symbol of unity and promotes growth, hope, and a deepening trust in the Lord. The Cathedral is a place where the Gospel of Jesus Christ will be faithfully preached and responded to, and it will model new concepts and ideas for education, evangelism, and outreach to which the Gospel calls us.