Saint Monica's Episcopal Church
Messenger
May 2015
The trouble with the Church: Or the simple way to grow by The Rev. Anthony MacWhinnie, II Christianity, in the US, it seems, is in decline. When you look at the numbers, and by that I mean church attendance numbers and membership numbers in specific denominations, they’re mostly all down. And, they’ve been going down for decades. The Roman Catholics and the mainline Protestant denominations are all in decline. The Mormons, the Assemblies and Pentecostals are slightly up, but it’s not enough to offset the lower numbers recorded by the big denominations. (Interestingly, of the churches that are growing, the larger churches are growing faster than the smaller churches, percentage-wise. So, it would seem that larger churches are doing something better or “righter” than smaller churches.) The question on everyone’s mind is “Why?” Why would American Christianity be in decline? Are we in a post-Christian world? Is post-modernity equivalent to post-religiosity? Is the new norm of “spiritual but not religious” a sea-change or is it a course that is reversible? Is our culture just done with church? Is this evolutionary or reactionary? Well, of course, I don’t have all the answers, but I have noticed something about our churches and about the parachurch world that is so inextricably intertwined in my view, as to offer at least one simple explanation. We have forgotten how to be church. And THEY have picked up that slack and are growing as a result. Let me explain… In the most reductive of senses, (which is how I operate best, honestly), Jesus gave us two great commandments and five missions. “Love God and your neighbor. And, do these things: feed the hungry, house the homeless, heal the sick, clothe the naked, and tend to the broken-hearted.” (He also said “make disciples of all nations” but, honestly, I think that’s the same thing as those first two things. We can argue that another time.) So, “Love God and your neighbor and do these five things.” That’s it. That’s what Christianity is. That’s what Church is.
Our Staff & Vestry The Rev, Anthony MacWhinnie, II, Priest in Charge Vestry: Chuck Barnett - Senior Warden Dan Ferguson- Junior Warden/Co-Treasurer Linda Aligood —Treasurer Susan Early, Frank Murphy, Ann Philen & John Velaski Viv Welch—Clerk of the Vestry Brenda Ferguson—Church Secretary Twinette McDonald - Music Director Sally Putters - Parish Nurse
But what we heard was “Go to church on Sunday and high holy days and sit next to people that are like you. Wear appropriate clothes. Hear lessons you agree with. Make sure the politics of your church agree with your politics. Make sure your church looks and acts, on Sundays, like you remember church looked and acted when you were a child.” Isn’t that how we operate? Isn’t that what you’ve seen time and time again, especially in small, declining churches? Sure, they have hobby ministries. They get together quarterly and do something for the less fortunate, and it’s a great first step into the world that Jesus has called us. It really is. But they never take the second step, or the third, or the fourth. It’s a hobby. It’s a toe-dip into the dirty world that Jesus loved so much. It’s a social club with other likeminded, good natured, well-intentioned people, who, if they are being honest with themselves, don’t really want to do the things that Jesus has called us to do. They want to know about those things and support those things in principle and be associated with people that actually do them, but not change their lives and especially not their Church in the way that Jesus calls us to do. And so, because we don’t do those things, we are in decline. But, do you know who is NOT in decline? The parachurch, and by that I mean church-like organizations that aren’t actually churches (or that are part of actual churches). Those would be thrift stores and soup kitchens and food pantries and free clinics and homeless shelters and free counseling services. These places are EVERYWHERE now. And most times they are loosely associated with churches, but not actually affiliated. They are booming and going wild and helping countless people all over the place. And you know why? Because they DO those five things… feed the hungry, clothe the naked, house the homeless, heal the sick, and tend to the broken-hearted… And that sure does look a lot like loving God and neighbor… And you know what else? That statistic that larger churches grow faster than smaller churches? It’s not about (Continued on page 2)
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the worship style or the preaching or size of the church or any of the myriad trivial things that people try to make church growth about. It’s about the fact that larger churches tend to have some aspect of the ministries I’ve ascribed to the para-churches going on in their church, and THAT IS ATTRACTIVE TO PEOPLE WHO ARE SEEKING JESUS. Doing the five things is attractive to people. It’s that simple. It means you’re doing what Jesus said to do. It means you are being Jesus for the world. I’ve come to realize that the way that we save our churches is do those things that Jesus told us to do. It’s so simple, I know, but somehow the greater church has gotten away from this simple concept. I am in a place now, St. Monica’s Episcopal Church, that has come to this realization as well. It’s not just theory here. It’s quite evident that the growth of this small church, that it’s very survival, is inextricably tied to us doing what Jesus told us to do. It’s not an academic theory. It’s real life. It’s here and now and right in front of our faces. So, my advice to you is this. Pick one. Pick one, any one of the five things and do that. And don’t just do it as a hobby. Do it all the time. Make it part of your identity as a church. Tie your church and that thing together so tight that you can’t tear them apart. And then, you know what? Jesus will be there and He will bless that church and that church will grow. Take the radical step of being the church that Jesus has called us to be. Associate yourself with the least of these. It’s who you are. It’s who you were meant to be. In Matthew 26:11 Jesus said, “For you always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me.” And now I know why… Peace, Anthony+
Sunday, May 3 Celebrating our patron saint & our founding!
We will be serving fried chicken for lunch, so bring an appropriate side dish and celebrate with us!
ECW visits Nativity, Dothan By Viv Welch
Women who attended the Diocesan ECW Spring Day Away listened to and meditated on the Magnificat as they walked the labyrinth at Church of the Nativity, Dothan.
On Saturday, April 18 five women from St. Monica’s gathered before dawn and travelled to Dothan, Alabama to attend the Episcopal Church Women’s Diocesan Spring Day Away at Church of the Nativity. The featured presenter was The Reverend Lauren Farrington Flowers. Lauren was ordained to the priesthood in June 2013, in the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast and served as the rector of St. John’s-Monroeville before moving to Savannah, Georgia, a year ago. Currently she is the associate rector of St. Peter's Episcopal Church on Skidaway Island. Though now canonically resident in the Diocese of Georgia, her calling was nurtured by the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast and the people of The Church of the Nativity in Dothan, Alabama. During the one-day retreat Rev. Lauren introduced us to the metaphor of “Singing in the Dark” as a spiritual practice and recognizing the dark times in our lives as opportunities to grow. When looked at in this context, these times can become empowering. Mary suffered greatly as her son died on the cross, but there was light which came from the empty tomb. We all suffer darkness in our lives, but when we focus on the unconditional love of Christ we know there is light amid the darkness. Rev. Lauren also introduced us to the meditative use of Nativity’s Labyrinth as a four-fold path. At the entrance to the Labyrinth we pondered the gift of the holy child, Jesus, son of Mary. As we walked along the path toward the center we listened to Mary's Song (The Magnificat) and presented our lives to Christ just as she present the holy child to God. On the path out we thought about that gift of life, and at the end we went out in peace while listening to Simeon's Song (The Nunc Dimittis). Special thanks go to the Fr. Peter Wong and the Episcopal Church Women of the Church of the Nativity for sharing their generous hospitality.
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Thank you!
Kathryn Chaapel earns solo!
Dear Ones, In a word, thank you! The spring pledge drive here at St. Monica’s was a success thanks to you! It’s unusual that we would have a pledge drive in the spring, but your vestry prayerfully considered the idea and found it was the right thing to do. We’re at a crucial juncture in the life of St. Monica’s. The budget is very tight and something needed to give. Thankfully, YOU did! St. Monica’s is growing! We’re seeing visitors attending and new members joining all the time now. Something is happening here and it’s a good thing! The Holy Spirit is at work in our lives and in our church. The renewal of St. Monica’s is an ongoing process that still has a long way to go, but thank the Good Lord it has begun. We’re on our way, but we can’t afford to rest yet. Thanks to your generous giving we’re able to continue the mission of St. Monica’s. But, our job isn’t done. Tell your friends about your church. Invite them. Let folks know that there is a place for them here. As we live and grow into the new life into which the Holy Spirit is leading us, shout it out to the world, “The Lord is in this place!” We’ve got a long way to go financially, but your vestry is confident we’re going to make it. You’ve made it possible to continue the mission of St. Monica’s through your generous pledges. So, thank you, from the bottom of our hearts. Thank you! God bless you all! Your 2015 Vestry
Kathryn Chaapel can’t remember a time she didn’t love to sing! She says, “I have always wanted to project my voice in front of a crowd. I always love singing in front of people.” A few months ago, Kathryn tried out for the Escambia Chorus. She was sad when she did not make the cut. “I nearly gave up on performing.” But soon she was told that her school, McArthur Elementary, was going to do a musical featuring some soloists singing songs in different languages She auditioned for a solo of a Spanish song called “De Colores.” Kathryn says, “I gave the audition my best. Not only did I get the part, but I was also chosen for a trio!” So Kathryn’s advice is “If you have a dream, follow it to make it reality. All you have to do is believe!” Congratulations, Kathryn!
Donations needed in order of priority Good Beach Towels (running very low) Bathing Suits: Girls -5t to 7/8 (completely out) Sunscreen SPF 50 only (no sports spray please) (very low) Gas Cards (Wal-Mart/Sam's) Lowes gift cards (for replacing boards on the board walk) Magic Pony Beads (uv beads that change color in the sun) Bag Stuffers– prizes (goggles, small stuffed animals, small craft kits from dollar store) Children’s nature or animal books (for the kids to read in the vans) Foam Crafting Sheets Foam sea life stickers CD’s (used or new) for crafting Medium boogie boards Medium storage totes
Keeping you healthy in May By Nurse Sally There is a lot to tell you about this month. First, there is a new, freshly stocked First Aid Kit atop the refrigerator in the Parish Hall. So should you get a little scratch or something while doing your various ministries around the church, we’ve got you covered. We would like to plan another CPR Class soon. There is a sign up sheet in the narthex. Please add your name if you are interested and we will set a date real soon. The portable AED machine in the narthex has been moved to the wall next to the men’s room. Believe it or not, Emergency Medical Technicians report that a large number of heart attacks in males occur in the men’s room! The most precious event in May to me is Mother’s Day It’s a time when we remember our mothers, living or deceased. It is a very special time to recall the good times we had with them. Of course those of us who are mothers really get special consideration and joy and that is a treat. I share the following with you again: “I know how special mothers can be. But you know what I have discovered? I see my mother every day when I look in the mirror, and it is up to me to make her smile. I like that, so I always try to make her smile by doing the best I can each day. I hope she is proud. I know she must be, she always smiles back.” Author unknown Until next month, stay healthy and get out and enjoy the spring weather. Nurse Sally
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Saint Monica’s Messenger
May 7, National Day of Prayer The National Day of Prayer invites people of all faiths to pray for the United States. Held on the first Thursday in May, the annual observance was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of Congress. The Episcopal Church joins our National Day of Prayer to pray for the leaders of our communities and nation, for the decisions they make daily on our behalf, and for each of us to work together in a civil manner to accomplish the hard task of creating a better world for ourselves and for future generations. The 64th annual National Day of Prayer, May 7, 2015, will have profound significance for our country. It is an unprecedented opportunity to see the Lord’s healing and renewing power made manifest as we call on citizens to humbly come before His throne. Our theme for 2015 is Lord, Hear Our Cry, emphasizing the need for individuals, corporately and individually, to place their faith in the unfailing character of their Creator, who is sovereign over all governments, authorities, and men. To further highlight our theme, we’ve chosen I Kings 8:28 as our Scripture for this year: “Hear the cry and the prayer that your servant is praying in your presence this day.” For the May 7th observances, Dr. Jack Graham, the 2015 Honorary Chairman, wrote a special prayer to be simultaneously read throughout the nation at noon (EDT). This recitation will create a huge wave of prayer, flowing from one coast to the other, illustrating the unity of God’s people and acknowledging His dominion over the circumstances facing us. Heavenly Father, We come to You in the Name that is above every name— Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Our hearts cry out to You. Knowing that You are a prayer-answering, faithful God—the One we trust in times like these—we ask that You renew our spirits, revive our churches, and heal our land. We repent of our sins and ask for Your grace and power to save us. Hear our cry, oh God, and pour out Your Spirit upon us that we may walk in obedience to Your Word. We are desperate for Your tender mercies. We are broken and humbled before You. Forgive us, and in the power of Your great love, lift us up to live in Your righteousness. We pray for our beloved nation. May we repent and return to You and be a light to the nations. And we pray for our leaders and ask that You give them wisdom and faith to follow You. Preserve and protect us, for You are our refuge and only hope. Deliver us from all fears except to fear You, and may we courageously stand in the Truth that sets us free. We pray with expectant faith and grateful hearts. In Jesus’ name, our Savior. Amen. – 2015 National Prayer by Dr. Jack Graham
May 14, Ascension Day
Ascension, the occasion on which the risen Christ is taken into heaven after appearing to his followers for 40 days (Acts 1:1-11, Mk 16:19). The Ascension marks the conclusion of Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances. It is the final elevation of his human nature to divine glory and the near presence of God. The Ascension is affirmed by the Nicene and Apostles’ Creeds. The Ascension is celebrated on Ascension Day, the Thursday that is the 40th day of the Easter season. It is a principal feast of the church year in the Episcopal Church.
May 24, Pentecost The term “Pentecost” means “the 50th day.” It is used in both the Old Testament and the New Testament. The term is used in the New Testament to refer to the coming of the Spirit on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1), shortly after Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension. Christians came to understand the meaning of Pentecost in terms of the gift of the Spirit. In the Christian tradition, Pentecost is now the seventh Sunday after Easter. It emphasizes that the church is understood as the body of Christ, which is drawn together and given life by the Holy Spirit. The Day of Pentecost is one of the seven principal feasts of the church year in the Episcopal Church (BCP, p. 15). The Day of Pentecost is identified by the Book of Common Prayer (BCP) as one of the feasts that is “especially appropriate” for baptism (p. 312).
Summer Camp Registration Underway Summer Camp May 31—August 2 New this year! Family Camp! Summer camp weeks are age group specific. To register for your age group, visit www.beckwithal.com
Tom Chaapel & Dave Somerville Viv Welch Ushers Ray Farrel & Jeff Woods
Chuck Barnett & Connie Chamberlin
Beth Woods
Ushers
Bill Ramsey & Jim Morningstar
Altar
Greeters
Oblation Bearers
Ushers
* If you are unable to meet your obligation, please call a replacement, or swap with someone.
Carol
Carol Farrel
Eucharistic Visitor
John Velaski
Pauline Somerville
Jeanine Black Valerie Smith
Jackie Wright
Arrangers
Ray Farrel
Open
Open
Open
Open
Flowers
Connie Chamberlin & Rusty Sellers
St. Monica’s Day
Dodie Matlock, Dora Giles Brenda Ferguson
TBA
Ray Farrel & Bill Ramsey
Jim Morningstar & Frank Murphy Need volunteers
Ushers
Ron & Ann Philen
Bill & Sally Putters Ushers
Valerie Smith & Dave Somerville
Dave Somerville
John Velaski & Dave Somerville
Trey Machinie & Katherine Chappel
Coffee Hour
Linda Aligood & Darby O’brien
Need volunteers
Connie Chamberlin
Trey Machinie & Katherine Chappel
Acolytes
Need volunteers
Ron Philen
Beth Woods
Lector Epistle reading
Nursery
John Velaski
Connie Chamberlin
Texan Stephens
Carol Farrel
Psalm Ray Farrel
Chuck Barnett
Pauline Somerville
Mike Scordato
Fred Woods
Chuck Barnett
Connie Chamberlin
May 24
Dave Somerville
May 17
Frank Murphy
May 10
John Velaski
Eucharistic Minister Lector 1st Lesson
May 3
Service Schedule for May 2015
Ray Farrel
Beth Woods
Open
POTLUCK
Need volunteers
Jeff Woods & Jim Morningstar
Ushers
Beth Woods
Dave Somerville
Trey MacWhinnie & Katherine Chappel
Beth Woods
Carol Farrel
Ron Philen
John Velaski
May 31
May Prayer Requests
Military and First Responders Prayer List
John Aligood Don Blankenship Sarah Chestnut Gabriel Ferguson Mike Godwin Connie Goodwin Felisa Hinz Nancy Holland Sherry Johnston Michael LaCosta
Connor Aligood Adam Blankenship Brian Condon Daryl Coy Mark Feely Patrick Ferguson Aaron Gaff Benjamin Gaff
Promise Lonsford Joseph Maggori Scordato Bob Matlock Paul Palmer Maggie Rose Rodak Bob Tebbs Bill Welch Frank & Polly Welch Brennis Whaley
Birthdays in May…
7, Bernice Warner; 14, Dave Somerville
Anniversaries in May… 22, Ray & Carol Farrel
If your birthday or anniversary is not listed or it is not correct, please let Viv Welch know.
Saint Monica’s Episcopal Church 699 South Highway 95-A Cantonment, Florida 32533
Phone: 850-937-0001 E-mail: Office@st-monicas.org We’re on the web at Www.st-monicas.org The peace of the Lord be always with you.
Tim Hartford Johnny Hurd James Klinginsmith William Knapp Andrew Kuntz Nicholas Matroni Chase Scott Jeremy Wright