The Keys
December 2013
of St. Peter
No matter who you are or where you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome here!
“Life is a constant Advent season: we are continually waiting to become, to discover, to complete, to fulfill… May this Advent season be a time for bringing hope, transformation and fulfillment into the Advent of our lives.” — Connections, 11-28-93
From the Parson Musings by Mother Susan One of the best things about being out and about in a city in the dark of winter is seeing the lights in the windows of houses. If there are lovely soft lights on the outside, that can be alluring too, but it’s the light shining through windows of homes that feeds my soul. The light that shines in the dark, I think, it tells of fullness of life, warmth and comfort. Darkness is not something people are usually drawn to; we are drawn to the light. Light, like fire, is warmth, sustenance, safety, comfort, beauty, and home. Yet the Christian church – along with a few other religions – has always acknowledged the blessings of the dark, especially during Advent. In Advent, which begins this Sunday, the church starts its counter-cultural march through the year. Advent is a season of contemplation and quiet, when we are waiting and watching, in the dark, for our Savior, our light, to come. Even if the whole world it seems, is out there purchasing, partying, thinking about Santa and fussing about travel. This juxtaposition of the Nativity of Jesus, Santa Claus and the overindulgence in the senses, however, offers us a particularly excellent opportunity for spiritual work. To grow in spirit is one of our most important calls as Christians, and Advent, is ripe with possibilities. Just take a moment to notice what made your soul feel fed at the end of day and what drained you. At their best, the holidays can take on an ethereal quality that reaches into our very depths and speaks to us of what it means to wait in hope, to allow God to be born again, in us. At their worst, we are simply in the dark, with nothing to hope for or to believe in. This is the soul work of Advent; to acknowledge that the world is a fearful and treacherous place, that the dark is in and all around us. That the darkness can be seductive and we can lose our hope. And yet. There is Christmas. God chose to come live among us; the light came into the dark. Even the Christmas stories of the Gospels reflect this truth. We tend to think there is one story, but if you read each Gospel story separately you will see that the Christmas story, as we know it, is a mix of Matthew and Luke. Matthew’s story is ominous and difficult: there is a jealous, vengeful king who wants to kill the baby, and though he is only outfoxed by the three wise men, he still goes on a bloody rampage. There is trouble with finding a room, and no happy scene with Mary and angels, just a scene of Joseph having to be stopped from ‘setting Mary aside’ when Joseph hears she’s pregnant. 2
The Keys, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
But Luke, Luke writes an opera. Everyone sings in his tale, they sing canticles of praise and there are angels and joy, and Mary and her cousin, who is pregnant too, visit one another, and all is light and loveliness. What the two evangelists are saying to me is, Oh yes, this is a dark and dangerous world where even innocent children suffer. And yes, there are some really ugly people out there, and if we can, we need to warn the others about them and “go home by another way.” But even darkness can be deep and dazzling. The heavens are still alive with stars, there is singing, there are angels, there is goodness and God’s purpose is being fulfilled. There is light in this dark and it is not a small, flickering light. We are the light. And the goodness in this world continues to overcome the dark, just as it did from the moment of creation. So, go on out there at fling yourself into the fray if you wish. Just remember, you are the light in the dark…and snarkiness does not overcome the dark! I wish for you the peace of Christ and send blessings upon you and your loved ones through all this holiday season. Susan+
Light Thoughts on the Dark Fiat Lux Several weeks ago an enthusiastic parishioner caught the editor by the lapel. “I have a theme for the December Keys!” she said. “Darkness!” Congratulations—you’re reading what may be the only church newsletter courageous enough to tackle a topic with such unrelentingly negative associations. Ponder the subject of darkness and not many happy images spring to mind. In the dictionary the synonyms of dark include atrocious, bleak, blind, cheerless, depressing, dim, dismal, evil, foul, gloomy, ignorant, iniquitous, murky, mysterious, obscure, sad, secret, shadowy, shady, sinister, sullen, threatening, and wicked. In fact, you could say that darkness is satanic, since Satan himself is the Prince of Darkness. As a metaphor, darkness can work in lots of different directions. On one hand, someone “in the dark” isn’t clued in; a “shot in the dark” is a wild guess. On the other hand, secret plots and conspiracies often go hand in hand with darkness. “Dark days for dark deeds!” the scheming dwarves say in The Hobbit. December 2013
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Poets turn to dark imagery when they think of somber subjects. Matthew Arnold wrote that life had become… …a darkling plain Swept with confused alarms of struggle and flight, Where ignorant armies clash by night. And whom do you suppose Margaret Widdemer meant to describe when she wrote..? I am the Dark Cavalier; I am the Last Lover: My arms shall welcome you when other arms are tired; I stand to wait for you, patient in the darkness, Offering forgetfulness of all that you desired. Set in Russia, Arthur Koestler’s novel Darkness at Noon is a chilling account of political oppression. Its theme and title were echoed by Bob Dylan in a song with a little existential frost of its own: Darkness at the break of noon Shadows even the silver spoon, The handmade blade, the child’s balloon, Eclipses both the sun and moon. To understand you know too soon There is no sense in trying. To a scientist, darkness is simply the absence of light. But in Genesis darkness is the absence of everything: the universe before creation, formless, with “darkness on the face of the deep.” There are good reasons why darkness is such a strong negative metaphor: the dark can be a dangerous and frightening place. Imagine December before the age of electricity—cold, gloomy nights stretching 14 or 15 hours. Even today in bright, wired, modern America, full of noisy distraction, about one out of eight of us has seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, with symptoms including moodiness, depression, lethargy, and weight gain—symptoms that intensify as the days shorten. But as hard as it is to find something good to say about darkness, our reader’s surprising request got us wondering whether the subject might have one or two positive qualities worthy of consideration—a lighter side of darkness, so to speak. We can start by mentioning that many people think darker is better when it comes to chocolate, coffee, beer, turkey meat, or maple syrup. And darkness has a sort of useful tangibility. There are times when being wrapped in darkness can be welcome and comforting. Darkness can provide an opportunity to look within, to contemplate without distraction… or simply to rest. As Jesse Colin Young wrote: 4
The Keys, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
Darkness, darkness, be my pillow, Take my head and let me sleep. Well, if we’re going to put darkness to good use, now’s the time to do it, as the nights grow longer and longer and the season of Advent arrives. Advent is a good time to reflect. Purple, denoting solemnity and somberness, is Advent’s liturgical color, just like Lent. Both are seasons of penitence. For centuries Advent was a time of Lenten-like fasting throughout Christendom— in fact, Orthodox churches still have a tradition of fasting for 40 days before Christmas. In the same way that Lent begins with Mardi Gras, some cultures open Advent with a celebration before the weeks of fasting begin. These days it’s practically un-American to think of the holiday season as anything other than a time of delight, of parties and presents. But although the media’s incessant harping on exuberant consumption suggests that the winter solstice should lighten every heart, nature reminds us that the weeks leading to Christmas can be spent in more meaningful contemplation. The last few autumn leaves blow from the trees, the long-awaited rains arrive, deep red December sunsets light the short afternoons… all reminders that if we wait quietly something very special will come. Many other cultures around the world celebrate the return of sun and light at the winter solstice. Christians may be unique in seeing the light embodied in a helpless newborn. And yet it was a baby’s cries that signaled the end of the old world and the promise of a new life. This is the way the world ends Not with a bang but a whimper. So let’s mention what’s best about the darkness: we pass through it to return to the light. Not every poet sees darkness as thoroughly negative. Oliver Herford, for one, recognized that darkness can be a passageway leading somewhere glorious. We can all benefit from ignoring the holiday lights and noise for a minute or two, pausing in the dark, and listening patiently and carefully for the faint but sure note of hope, as he did. I heard a bird sing In the dark of December. A magical thing And sweet to remember. “We are nearer to Spring Than we were in September,” I heard a bird sing In the dark of December. 5
The Keys, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
A Rainbow of Service to the Community Giving Doesn’t End on Sunday
We asked our investigative unit to learn more about the community services that congregants are involved in outside the church. What we discovered turns out to make an impressively long list. We spoke with eight parishioners and found both a high level of involvement and a surprisingly broad range of activities. Here are just a few of the groups your neighbors in the pews support with their work, time, and money. • InnVision Shelter Network (Menlo Park). This group’s mission is to move people out of homelessness and into permanent housing quickly and efficiently. Their success rate is 90 percent. • Music for Minors (San Carlos)… an in-school music education program, taught in 600 kindergarten through fifth-grade classrooms, engaging kids with singing, dance, musical games, and rhythm instruments. • Stop Hunger Now (Raleigh, NC). This national organization recruits volunteers from around the country to end world hunger. • The St. Francis Center (Redwood City)… a nonprofit organization helping families in need to live in dignity and become self-supporting members of the community. Several adult members of St. Peter’s volunteer at the St. Francis Center, and all of the St. Peter’s children are collecting donations this month—see the article elsewhere in this issue. • Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition (Mountain View). This group helps people by repairing and donating used bicycles (and new helmets). • Children’s Health Council Auxiliary (Palo Alto)… a 60 year-old volunteer organization that helps children with ADHD, learning disabilities, anxiety and depression, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. • Project Read (Redwood City). This free, volunteer-based literacy program serves local adults, children and families by helping people of all ages learn the joy of reading. December 2013
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This short sample is very incomplete. It doesn’t list all the organizations supported by the parishioners we contacted… for example, it doesn’t include the many book clubs, fraternal societies, and alumni groups that the families belong to, or the worthy causes (like public broadcasting or the United Way) they write checks to. It’s gratifying to see how many parishioners contribute to good works outside the church. It’s also gratifying to see the variety of good works that our parishioners support. Different people have different interests, and the long list of charitable organizations that families choose to work with reflects the diversity of our congregation. What groups doing good works do you support? Let us know—we’ll continue our little poll in future issues, and we look forward to extending our list of worthy causes.
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The Keys, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
Latest Visit to Maple Street a Big Success A Sweet Story, but not Syrupy
A large crew of parishioners, including a flock of young people, made our latest visit to the Maple Street Homeless Shelter a rousing success. Led by Pat McCarty, the crew from St. Peter’s cooked and served a delicious ham dinner with all the fixin’s on Sunday, November 17. It was one of the largest groups in recent history, which made the evening all the more rewarding to parishioners and residents alike. About 15 adults contributed by cooking, donating food and funds, and serving. The grown-ups were assisted by about nine Godly Play kids who made pies (8) and biscuits (142!)… and then pitched in as waiters, cleaners, and entertainers. The residents were delighted with their dinner. Pat says, “One man told Nancy Oliver he’d had many meals at the shelter and this was the best one he had ever had. We received two rounds of applause and many thank-yous while serving or just in passing.” The Keys has learned that the hands-down favorite was the corn pudding, which has proved to be a crowd-pleaser at past visits. But the corn pudding was only one item on a large menu that included real ham, sweet potatoes, spinach salad, home made desserts, and much more. Pat tells us that many parishioners sit and eat with the residents. “It’s wonderful to mingle and feel like a community… and hear their stories or just chat.” Although our next visit to Maple Street will be in the spring, the young people are collecting holiday donations for the residents now. As Pat says, “This is a truly worthwhile mission, as evidenced by the enthusiasm shown by the residents.” It sounds like the residents’ enthusiasm is matched by our parishioners. Thanks to everyone involved!
December 2013
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THE DEACON’S BEACON By Dn. Skip Bushee When we landed at SFO at about 5 p.m. on our return from Panama and Colombia a week ago, I was surprised at how dark it was already. For two weeks we had been close to the equator where the days do not get longer or shorter as the year progresses. Although I was glad to be home, the darkness was a bit depressing. And so it is each year as we approach the winter solstice. We can’t help but feel a bit down as the days grow shorter. I can’t imagine how it must be in Northern Europe or Alaska where there is almost no daylight or the sun disappears completely for days or weeks. So it is with our lives when we go through the dark times; times when we face personal loss or illness. I think that there are two things we must learn from the dark times. The first is that if we maintain our faith and trust in God, no matter what, we can rest assured that the light will come again, perhaps brighter than ever. Advent is a time of quiet reflection and patient waiting for an end to the dark times. If we cheat a bit and look ahead, we know that it ends with the greatest gift of all: God’s gift of His only begotten son as the light of the world. Wow! The second lesson is that we need the dark times to help us appreciate the good times. If we were all still in the Garden of Eden, we would simply take it for granted and not appreciate or truly enjoy what we have. It is in the dark times when we realize how much we need God’s presence that God comes to us and the blessing of grace and consolation are present. When I worked in Silicon Valley among people who had their health, their youth, and sufficient financial means, I seldom felt the presence of God because people felt that they did not need God. Conversely, when I served as a hospital chaplain, where people were in crisis, their futures very much in doubt, God’s presence was always in abundance. I have been blessed by many of you to share in your dark times and to pray with you and I have seldom felt God’s presence so much as when we have prayed together. In Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians, he says, “…give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” We are called to thank God in all circumstances, not just when times are good or when we feel especially blessed. We are to thank God for the bad times, the dark times, as well. This is because the dark times are also a gift, a gift that helps us grow in our faith and appreciate the times of light all the more. So I pray that you have a blessed Advent, giving thanks for the times of darkness as well as the times of light, knowing that God’s grace and love are with us always.
Dn. Skip 9
The Keys, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
December
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ECW Mini-Bazaar after 10:30 service SPY: St. Peter’s Youth 6:00-7:30 p.m.
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Staff Meeting 1-2 p.m. FULL
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Vestry Meeting 7:00 p.m.
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Choir Rehearsal 9:00 a.m.
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Christmas Eve Cookie Party, 5:00 p.m.
3S² Singers & Youth Rehearsal 9:30 a.m. Christmas Pageant 10:30 service
Staff Meeting 1-2 p.m.
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Christmas Eve Service 6:00 p.m.
Christmas Day
Feast of St. Step
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Choir Rehearsal 9:00 a.m. New Year’s Eve
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The Keys, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
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14 Christmas Pageant Dress Rehearsal 10 a.m.
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December 2013
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News from the Second Floor
They sing… they act… and they can cook, too. Pop quiz! If you combine a dozen kids, several busy parents, 20 pounds of apples, and several hours of work, what do you get? Answer: Eight apple pies and 142 biscuits, served fresh to residents of the Maple Street Homeless Shelter on November 17th. Not only did the kids help with the baking—they helped the adult volunteers serve dinner at the shelter and helped clean up, too. Think you can keep up with the kids at St. Peter’s? We hope you’re in good shape! Our children and young people are taking on a ton of different activities during Advent. One project is working with the St. Francis Center, which helps needy Redwood City families. This Christmas season our St. Peter’s young people, led by Kathy Kostas, are spearheading a toy collection for kids in the families served by the Center. Donations of toys or money are welcome. To learn more about the St. Francis Center, see their Web site at: www.stfrancisrwc.org. The younger Godly Play contingent is hard at work on a drive of their own, collecting donations for two worthy causes: Second Harvest Food Bank and the Maple Street Homeless Shelter. Second Harvest needs canned goods and non-perishables; Maple Street needs toiletries such as shampoo, toothpaste, razors, and shaving cream. Bring your contributions to the Vestry room, where you’ll find boxes for each. November 24 was In-Gathering Sunday and a celebration of thanksgiving, and the young people joined the adult choir in singing “I Will Serve You.” Joyful and tuneful! In December the kids will be working on two stories in Godly Play: “The Holy Family,” and “Mary, the Mother of Jesus,” both appropriate to the season. Volunteer story-tellers and assistants are always welcome. The entertainment highlight of the season is our Christmas Pageant, scheduled for December 22. All children are invited to participate. Costume-fitting and other preliminaries will get underway on Sunday, December 15. This year’s pageant is directed by Morganne Ardwan. Speaking of involved parents, the Keys tips its hat to Cari Pang Chen, who is coordinating Godly Play and related activities. We don’t know how she manages to keep track of all the different projects and plans, but we’re awful glad she does!
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The Keys, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
From the Vestry The November Vestry meeting was held on Wednesday the 13th, and here are a few of the items on the agenda. Finances. Cumulatively through October 31, 2013 the church is close to budget in income and over budget by roughly five percent in expense. Actual
Budget
Income
$ 216,704
$ 218,027
$ -1,324
Expense
222,342
222,342
-10,094
-4,314
$ -11,418
Net
$
-15,732
$
Variance
The Vestry agreed to ask Deacon Skip Bushee’s advice in revising balance sheet allocations effective with the next monthly report. Holiday Outreach. During Advent the parish will have several outreach projects involving both kids and grown-ups: -A toy collection for the St. Francis Center -Canned goods drive for Second Harvest Food Bank -Toiletries etc. collected for the Maple Street Homeless Shelter We’ll also have a Sock Tree in the back of the sanctuary for the Maple Street Homeless Shelter. Godly Play. The Vestry received a status report on Godly Play activities. (See article elsewhere in this issue) Web site. The parish Web site will be updated using a new WordPress template. Trish Taylor and Dave Goulden are spearheading this project. Sanctuary. With gratitude the Vestry acknowledged a generous bequest from the estate of former parishioner Alma Robinson. The Vestry approved a motion to dedicate funds from this bequest to repairing and refurbishing the sanctuary in two phases, the first phase to include: -Repair of flooring and replacement of carpet in the front of the sanctuary. -Removal of the altar rail to allow repairs to floor. -Upgrades to the sound system. -Adding baseboards to cover heating pipes. -Carpet cleaning throughout the sanctuary. -New lighting fixtures. Work in the first phase is expected to be completed by Christmas and will use about half of the bequest. The balance of the bequest will be held until plans for the second phase are in place. Vestry elections. Three Vestry terms are expiring at the end of this year, and several parishioners have expressed interest in joining. Additional candidates are welcome. Next meeting. The Vestry will meet over supper in December on a date yet to be decided. December 2013
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Baton Notes –James Sharpe
And the darkness has not overcome it … In a time of increasing darkness, moving towards the shortest day of the year, Advent tells us of the increasing frustration, anger and confusion over the conditions of not just Biblical people but of all people. There is a hymn text, “Lost in the Night,” which poignantly describes this for our world, and for ages: Lost in the night do the people yet languish. Long for morning the darkness to vanquish. Plaintively heaving a sigh full of anguish. Will not day come soon? Will not day come soon? Must we be vainly waiting the morrow? Shall those who have light no light let us borrow? Giving no heed to our burden of sorrow? Will you help us soon? Will you help us soon? The darkness just described has been covered over since mid-October with the commercialism of the holiday season. Hidden behind the gaiety, under the bright wrappings of gifts, and the planning for holiday meals, is the deep longing for an experience that confirms that the darkness has not overcome the light. So important is this concept, that often Maundy Thursday services conclude with this verse from John 1:5, to remind us, before the utter despair of Good Friday, that nothing will prevent the Light from prevailing. How does this hymn text end? With the simple words, “Christ is coming soon.” We will sing this anthem, Lost in the Night, by Kyle Haugen, on December 8th. Please join us at 9:00 am that morning. In the meantime, reflect on the entire passage of John 1:5 – The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. All are welcome! 14
The Keys, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
Fun, Fellowship, and Dreaming Thinking About the Year Ahead In November three generous families hosted three delightful gatherings— opportunities for parishioners to chat, mingle, and share their vision for St. Peter’s. The hosts were Megan and Dave Goulden, Sue Mitchell, and Jean and Skip Bushee. Benefitting from their hospitality were several dozen congregants, who spent a pleasant and productive time thinking about the church’s direction in the coming year. Given delightful surroundings and good company, it’s not surprising that the conversations were lively and far-ranging. Many different ideas and views were discussed, but the common thread was how much St. Peter’s means in each parishioner’s life. What should the church focus on in 2014? Several themes came up repeatedly… Godly Play and the Youth Group—it’s great to have strong programs that can draw new families. Outreach—it’s imperative to expand our involvement in our community. Buildings and Grounds—it’s important to maintain our physical plant. The role of the church in Silicon Valley today—there’s more need than ever for a welcoming spiritual home. Mother Susan, who attended each of the gatherings, told us that the discussions provided lots of insight and were extremely helpful as we begin to plan for 2014. “Everyone has such great enthusiasm,” she said. “And it’s great to hear so many good ideas from so many people.” Thanks to all of the hosts… and to everyone who participated.
Stewardship for 2014 Hearty Thanks for Many Blessings If your pledge card was among the pledges blessed on In-Gathering Sunday, November 24—many thanks. The church’s ministries depend on the generosity of our parishioners, and your pledge helps make those ministries possible. If it happens that somehow your pledge card hasn’t been sent in yet, don’t worry… we’ll still accept it. Come home… all is forgiven! 15
The Keys, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
Noted in Brief Mini-Bazaar Promises Delights for All
Mark your calendar for Sunday, December 8—that’s the day of the ECW’s Christmas Bake Sale and Mini-Bazaar. Featuring homemade cookies and other treats, and a rummage sale of pre-owned treasures, the Mini-Bazaar will open its doors for business directly following the 10:30 service. We’re told that proceeds from the Mini-Bazaar will benefit a Nepalese orphanage… yet another entry on the long list of worthy causes supported by St. Peter’s ECW. If you’d like to contribute to the inventory—either baked goods or secondhand items—bring them to the church by December 1, or give Su Boocock a call at 650 591-9395.
How to Lose a Bunch of Communicants
St. Peter’s was well represented at Grace Cathedral on November 2, when 11 parishioners were confirmed or received. It was our largest contingent in recent years… and a very handsome crew, too.
“Well, If I Was in Charge…”
If you’d like to have a hands-on role in guiding St. Peter’s into the future, why not think about joining the Vestry? The yoke is easy and the burden is light—one meeting per month. It’s a gratifying way to serve your parish, and a great way to catch up on all the gossip. Have we piqued your interest? See Mother Susan.
Peet’s for St. Pete’s
Our monthly coffee sponsorship program is running full steam ahead! Many thanks to Maggie Wright for her sponsorship of Peet’s Coffee for November; lift your cup to Maggie at coffee hour! If you would like to sponsor a month, please write denise@stpetersrwc.org
Counting the Days
Don’t throw away your unwanted Christmas calendars and cards … bring them to the church office! Former rector Vern Jones is spearheading a collection for the Cordilleras Mental Health Care Center, where he works as chaplain.
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The Keys, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
Finding Your Way Are you looking for a new way to get connected or help out at St. Peter’s? Wondering what your ministry might be within our community? There may be more going on than you realize and more chances to get involved that you know. Think about one of these ministries and if something interests you, get in touch with the contact person listed below. • Choir—contact James Sharpe at JSharpe@stpetersrwc.org • Parish Governance (Vestry, Deanery, Finance or Buildings & Grounds)— Sr. Warden Mary Esther Schnaubelt at meschnaubelt@gmail.com • Lay Eucharistic Ministers, Acolytes and Lay Readers—contact Sue Walker at davtronr@aol.com • Godly Play (Sunday School)—contact Cari Chen at caripangchen@gmail.com • Altar Guild—contact Barbara Naas at gladbarb@comcast.net • S.P.Y. (Youth Group)—contact Susan at susandparsons@aol.com • Hopkins Manor Nursing Home Ministry—contact Deacon Skip Bushee at gsbushee@gmail.com • Maple Street Shelter Ministry—contact Pat McCarty at pat_mccarty@sbcglobal.net • ECW (Episcopal Church Women)—Su Boocock (650) 591-9395 or Kathryn Marconi (650) 365-8861 • W.O.W. (Women of Wisdom)—Lori Castellucci at loriange1551@sbcglobal.net • Crafty Ladies (ECW)—contact Midge Bobel at (650) 364-0195 • Brotherhood (Men’s Group)—contact JD Davidson at jdconstruction_2000@yahoo.com Of course, if you have an interest in starting a fellowship group or ministry at St. Peter’s, don’t hesitate to contact a member of the Vestry so we can assist and support you in that effort. December 2013
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Rites of Passage December Birthdays
December Anniversaries
Joshue Griffith ���������������������������������������12/4 Tom Schnaubelt ������������������������������������12/4 Kathy Outman ��������������������������������������12/6 Doug Higgins �����������������������������������������12/6 Alden McNabb ��������������������������������������12/7 Sophia Rivera �������������������������������������� 12/12 Angelo Castellucci ���������������������������� 12/13 Holly Bendz ���������������������������������������� 12/14 Daniel Redman ���������������������������������� 12/14 Colin Scioscia ������������������������������������� 12/20 Joseph Rivera �������������������������������������� 12/20 Mary Esther Schnaubelt ������������������� 12/21 CJ Redman ������������������������������������������ 12/28 Sonia Rose Shapiro ��������������������������� 12/30
Joan Brumleve & Greg Duke �������������12/17 Sandy Buck & Gloria Colon ���������������12/28
“We are not the same persons this year as last; nor are those we love. It is a happy chance if we, changing, continue to love a changed person.” — W. Somerset Maugham
“Little children learn that today is Jesus’ birthday. But these pieces of the story only touch the edge of the mysterious event which brings us together.”
Please contact the church office to make sure we have YOUR birthday or anniversary date to celebrate. 18
The Keys, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
The Next Page A cheerful reminder to every member of the St. Peter’s family—this is your newsletter. Do with it as you will! We welcome your thoughts, your gripes, your prayers, and your dreams… whatever crosses your mind. We’re always looking for contributions in any form or flavor. We accept controversy and convention. Go nuts or stay sane—but let us hear from you, whichever you choose. Please note that any member of the parish family can be Celebrity Guest Editor for one issue of the Keys. Imagine…such privilege, such power! If there’s something happening that you think the parish should know about, you’ve got a theme you’d like to visit, or a vision you’d like to share, drop us a note (hutchinp@comcast.net) or give Denise a call at (650) 367-0777.
December 2013
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St. Peter’s Episcopal Church St. Peter’s Episcopal Church 178 Clinton Street 178 Clinton Street Redwood City, 94062 Redwood City, CACA 94062 www.stpetersrwc.org www.stpetersrwc.org
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St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church Worship Schedule:
Holy Eucharist: Sundays 8:00 & 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays 12 Noon in the Chapel
t
Worship Schedule: Holy Eucharist: Sundays 8:00 & 10:30 a.m.
The Rev. Marc Andrus Bishop of the Diocese of California The Rt. Rev. Marc Andrus Bishop of the Diocese of California The Vestry: Mr. Steven Azar Clergy & Lay Staff: The Rev. Susan D. Parsons, Priest in ChargeMs. Adina Badia
The Vestry:
Ms. Adina Badia The Rev. Skip Bushee, Deacon Mr. Ted Hardie Ms. Lori Castellucci Mr. James A. Sharpe, Music Director and Organist Mr. Dave Householder Mr. Peter Hutchinson Ms. Denise Delaney, Parish Administrator Ms. Susan Mitchell Mr. Peter Hutchinson Mr. Marco Picon, Sexton & Facilities Manager Ms. Nancy Oliver Mr. Arthur Lloyd Mr. Darryl Race Ms. Nancy Oliver Officers of St. Peter’s: Ms. Mary Esther Schnaubelt Ms. Mary Esther Schnaubelt, Senior Warden Ms. Mary Esther Schnaubelt Mr. Darryl Race, Junior Warden Mr. Scott Turner Mr. John Lessar, Treasurer Mr. Peter Hutchinson, Clerk of the Vestry
The Keys is published monthly for members and friends of St. Peter’s Episcopal The Keys is published monthly members and be friends of St. Episcopal Church. News items Church.for News items may emailed toPeter’s denise@stpetersrwc.org. Next deadline: th December 27; pictures welcome! You can find The Keys online at may be emailed to office@stpetersrwc.org. Next deadline: November 5 – pictures welcome! www.stpetersrwc.org and www.issuu.com/st_peters_episcopal_church