November 2016 Bulletin

CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL An Episcopal Community in the Heart of Houston, Texas

NOVEMBER 2016 CHRISTCHURCHCATHEDRAL.ORG

AFTER-HOURS EMERGENCY CARE LINE | 713-826-5332

We are here for you

Hines Center Executive Director Brooke Summers-Perry, head of Healing Circles, and Canon Pastor Glenice Robinson-Como, head of the Shepherds of Christ Church Cathedral.

In difficult times, you are not alone A pair of relationship-building initiatives offers parishioners new avenues for confidential support, personal attention, and nurturing opportunities, as needed. The Shepherds of Christ Church Cathedral program and the Healing Circles at the Hines Center each take a different approach to connecting with parishioners during times of transition.

Individual support with the Cathedral Shepherds Trained as lay leaders within the Pastoral Care Council, the Cathedral’s Shepherds have a compassionate role in tending to the congregation’s needs on an individual level.

Since the program’s start in late 2014, every parishioner has been assigned to a shepherd

SHEPHERDS, page 6

Volunteers needed for Christmas at the Cathedral Christmas at the Cathedral has been a beloved tradition for many years, and its success depends on the nearly 200 volunteers who give their time, talent, and treasure to make it special for the students and their families from the Rusk School.

On Saturday, December VOLUNTEER SIGN UP 11, volunteers can sign up Saturday, for 2-hour slots anytime beDecember 11 tween 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. to help with simple tasks such as checking in volunteers to picking up catering items to running Christmas games and crafts. Volunteers, youth included, can also hand out hot cocoa, decorate Reynolds Hall, supervise the snow, run a photo booth, or be Frosty the Snowman, or even an elf.

VOLUNTEERS, page 2

To will and to work for God’s good pleasure The theme verse for this year’s Every Member Canvass, which culminates on Loyalty Sunday, November 13, is Philippians 2:13, “For it is God who is at work in you, enabling you to will and to work for God’s good pleasure.”

St. Paul’s claim always reminds me of the fantastic 1981 film “Chariots of Fire,” and espeTHE VERY REV. cially about the real-life BARKLEY THOMPSON Olympic runner whose life the movie portrays: Eric Liddell, known in his day as “The Flying Scotsman.” Liddell was the son of Scottish missionaries in the early twentieth century. He was made famous at the 1924 Olympics, when he refused to race in the 100 meter prelims because they were scheduled on Sunday, and he would not break the Sabbath. Liddell’s entire life was formed by his relationship with God. And he experienced a connection between his running and the faith in God in which he had been formed.

At one point in the movie, Eric Liddell’s sister asks him why, after winning so many medals, he still runs. Liddell’s response is an epiphany. He says, “I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run, I feel his pleasure.”

That sentiment sets Eric Liddell apart from all the other runners in “Chariots of Fire.” They run for the medal, for the trophy, for what they get in the end. But for Eric, the purpose, the meaning, the victory is in the running itself. Eric runs not to win; running is winning. In the movie, the difference can be seen in Eric’s final Olympic race by the rapture on his face as he makes the last turn. Others have looks of pained desperation, of darkness across their brows. If they fail

GOD’S GOOD PLEASURE, page 8

Our Cathedral Family We celebrate

EE the birth of Julian Jackson on September 10, 2016 to Beth Wiedower and Adam Jackson.

EE the birth of Elle Ann Bagheri on September 7, 2016 to Laura Carr and Cooper Bagheri.

EE the birth of Samuel Everett Fitzhugh on October 1, 2016, grandson of Tom and Jan Fitzhugh.

We extend heartfelt sympathy to

EE the family of member Lucie Wray Todd, who died October 13 in Houston. She was the mother of member Emily Leland Todd and David Anderson Todd. She was grandmother of Hannah Frances Todd and Margaret Rebecca Todd.

EE the family of Mayme Canada Brown, who died October 16 in Woodville, Texas. She was the mother of member Meredith Canada.

The flowers on the Cathedral Altar

EE on Sunday, November 6, are given to the glory of God in loving memory of her brother, Joe Head, and their parents, Jane and Jack Head and Mary Louise and Robert Thurmond, by Julie and Bob Thurmond.

EE on Sunday, November 13, are given to the glory of God in loving memory of Pauline Arnold Schweppe, Laura Randall Schweppe, and Katherine Randall Schweppe by their family.

EE on Sunday, November 20, are given to the glory of God in honor of their grandchildren Grace, Camille, and Lilly Holland, Ann Greathouse, and Barrett Colvin by Antha and Bill Holland.

EE on Wednesday, November 23, are given to the glory of God in loving memory of the departed members of the Altar Guild.

EE on Sunday, November 27, are given to the glory of God in loving memory of Margaret and Jim Elkins, Jr. by their family.

The flowers in the Floor Vases

EE on Sunday, October 16, were given to the Glory of God in honor and thanksgiving for Mike and Gill McCord on their birthdays by their children and grandchildren.

EE on Sunday, November 6, are given to the glory of God in honor of their granddaughters Abigail Nicole deAlba, Olivia Kay Hunt, Ava Mary Hunt, and their grandson Maximus Gabriel Hunt. The flowers are also given in loving memory of their great grandmother, Adeline deAlba and their aunt, Cynthia Gayle deAlba Kimmins, by Kay and Arthur deAlba.

The greens in both Advent Wreaths

EE on Sunday, November 27, are given to the glory of God in thanksgiving for the life and work of Jane Brown, Judy Drury, Mary Clarke Mackenzie, and Cindy Dickson.

The candles in the Advent Wreaths

EE on Sunday, November 27, in the Cathedral are given to the glory of God in thanksgiving for the life and work of Helen Ann Fisher, Norma Jane Hagan, Ella Mae Hayslip, and Norma Jones.

EE on Sunday, November 27, in the Chapel are given to the glory of God in thanksgiving for the life and work of Tom Cobb and Jennifer Cobb.

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VESTRY NOMINATIONS

Accepted now through November 13 Submit to srwarden@christchurchcathedral.org

VOLUNTEERS, from cover

The event itself starts at 3 p.m., with playtime in the snow, games, prizes, and crafts. Guests then are seated for a family-style meal, and at the end of the celebration, each family leaves with a gift.

Your help is needed to share God’s love with our neighbors. Says Robert Flores of the Mission Outreach Council, “In the season that we celebrate Christ’s incarnation, it is a nice reminder to love and serve our neighbors.” Thank you in advance for answering the call to serve. Please sign up at this link or in person in the Cloister

by December 3 to volunteer: http://tinyurl.com/signupcatc. Questions? Come visit us at our table on Sunday mornings or contact Robert Flores.

Give gifts that matter

BY TRACEY CABRAL

Looking for something for that hard to shop for person on your Christmas gift list? Don’t buy another coffee mug or picture frame. Instead, give a gift that will honor the recipient and support a worthy cause.

On Sunday, November 20, 2016, the Mission Outreach Council will transform Reynolds Hall into the Alternative Giving Market, a marketplace where parishioners and their friends will be able to visit with representatives from over 15 nonprofit agencies and buy gifts to directly support the needy. New to this year’s market are Have Shears Will Travel and Living Hope Wheelchair Association.

As in past years, children and youth are encouraged to participate. Back by popular demand are Bradley Bucks and KariAnn Coins. More details about this opportunity to shop for your family and friends will be shared in Sunday school classes.

So, why not give a complete set of school supplies for a child through Kid’s Hope, a month’s worth of meals to a senior at Sheltering Arms, or Metro cards for a client with a new job at Compass? Visit the Alternative Giving Market in Reynolds Hall on November 20 or online at christchurchcathedral.org/ agm beginning November 1. Shop early and show God’s love to those in need.

Poinsettia Christmas memorials at the rood screen Memorial poinsettias can be given in memory or honor of someone special this Christmas.

You may order online at our website, or make your check for $10 per plant, payable to the Altar Guild, and mail it to Christ Church Cathedral, 1117 Texas Ave., Houston, TX 77002, Attn.: Altar Guild. Please note the name of those you wish to remember, indicating if it is a memorial. You may also visit with Lisa Viktorin in the Cloister to place an order on November 13, 20, 27, and December 4. Those received on or before December 4 will be listed in the Christmas service leaflet. All others will be noted in January.

Senior Warden’s report The fall season began with an outstand- engaged in a lively Q&A session. I would be ing Rally Day on August 28. Ministry coun- remiss if I didn’t mention that Pittman also cils enthusiastically embraced the theme, conducted a fantastic three-hour program “Around the World,” incorporating the Ei- and discussion at the Hines Center on Satffel Tower, Van Gogh, Harry Potter, urday afternoon to a full house. and hundreds of international sweet The first service for our new Suntreats into the celebration. Thanks day evening service, The Well, also to Minister for Community Life and occurred on September 11, with a Stewardship Karen Kraycirik, and tremendous attendance. The Well is the Mission and Ministry Commita contemplative service with beautee’s Vicki Cawley for their creativtiful music (harp, viola, and flute) ity and hard work in organizing and SENIOR WARDEN and Celtic roots. It is a reflective overseeing this much-anticipated WAYNE CLAWATER service that continues to draw good annual event. numbers in attendance.

The two guest preachers in September The Every Member Canvass, the Cathemade for a very engaging month. On Sep- dral’s annual stewardship campaign, began tember 11, we were treated at the 9 o’clock Sunday September 25 with a celebratory and 11 o’clock services and the Dean’s Hour dinner and show in Reynolds Hall entitled, by the Rev. Dan Matthews, Rector of Trin- “Back 2 Skool: Fun with 4Mation,” featuring ity Church, New York City. His accounts music and skits. This year’s chairs, Rob and of heroism and sacrifice on September 11, Susan Reedy, made cameos with the clergy 2001, were incredibly moving and inspira- and staff in live performance as well as vidtional. We were blessed to hear him discuss eo clips. Kudos (again) to Karen Kraycirik and witness to God’s presence in the midst and David Simpson for organizing and of the overwhelming chaos and tragedy. producing the EMC kickoff dinner.

On Sunday, September 18, former Christ The theme for this year’s EMC is “For it is Church Cathedral Dean Dr. Pittman McGe- God who is at work in you.”— Philippians hee preached at the 9 o’clock and 11 o’clock 2:13. Last year we had 616 pledges for a toservices. It was vintage Pittman, and every- tal of just over $3.1 million. In order to fully one loved it. At the Dean’s Hour between and responsibly fund the 2017 budget, the services Deans Thompson and McGehee WARDEN, page 6

Peace in the Piney Woods The Cathedral Retreat at Camp Allen

Each year, Christ Church Cathedral offers an all-ages weekend retreat at Camp Allen, a camp, conference, and retreat center in the piney woods of Navasota, about an hour and half drive from downtown Houston. This year, we retreat together December 2–4 with Diocese of Texas’ own Canon of the Ordinary Kai Ryan. It is a wonderful way to get to know one another in a relaxed setting, and to reconnect with our spouses, children, friends — and with God. Our retreat schedule gives attendees an opportunity to participate in whatever way is most comfortable for them. At the PARISH RETREAT Friday night Chili Cook-off, parishioners bring crock-pots Saturday, December 2–4 full of their delicious secret recipes with hopes of winning the coveted silver ladle. Saturday morning, adults can engage in an educational conversation with Kai Ryan, while children and youth join Jeremy Bradley and KariAnn Lessner for their own activities. Saturday afternoon is open for horseback riding, canoeing, hiking, reading a book, visiting with others, or taking a nap. After sunset, all gather around the glow of the campfire to roast marshmallows, eat s’mores, and reflect on the day. Sunday morning, we worship amid the striking beauty of the outdoors.

There are a variety of accommodations that can fit singles, couples, and families in campsites, cabins, and the hotel. The fee for the retreat includes room, meals, and activities, and begins at $135 for the weekend. Speak with Karen Kraycirik about financial assistance. Can’t make it for the whole weekend? There is a day trip option available. Rooms fill up fast and some quantities are limited, so sign up early. Register online or sign up on Sundays in the Cloister through November 13th.

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Faith and Reason, Blessing of the Animals, and more

IN PICTURES

Right: Cathedral Youth giving their time in Richmond, Texas with Attack Poverty to help flood victims on September 24.

Below right: Bob Richter and Maria Teresa Avalos cutting the rug at Fiestas Patrias October 9.

Above: Sister Joan Chittister, OSB, speaking at the Faith and Reason Seminar.

Below: Panelists the Rev. Carissa Baldwin-McGinnis, Dr. Melissa Weininger, Dr. Claire Villarreal, and Ms. Heba Khan at the Faith and Reason Seminar.

Right: The Blessing of the Animasl’ first goose: Lizzie Hargrove’s goose getting blessed by the Rev. Barkley Thompson, with Carol Ann Erickson looking on.

Below: The young dancers of Fiestas Patrias on October 2.

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Above: While the dogs were unfazed, everyone else had quite a reaction to the snake at Blessing of the Animals.

Below: Jeremy Bradley, speaker Danielle Tumminio, Christy Orman, Alex Orman, and Aaron Kaplan at Tumminio’s talk on God and Harry Potter and Yale.

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SHEPHERDS, from cover

team that offers friendship as well as referrals to clergy for pastoral care. Shepherds serve as an extension of the clergy, who are always available to help but not always apprised of a parishioner’s situation, explains the Rev. Glenice Robinson-Como.

“The clergy are typically invited into the hardest and happiest times of a parishioner’s life,” the canon pastor says, but there are still many situations for clergy to connect and aid that might fall between those points. “We have a large congregation that spreads throughout the city. Shepherds assist the clergy by reaching deeper into our community and advising us of a need,” she says.

Loved ones or families involved in a health crisis, for example, often don’t know whom to call — or even perhaps whether to call — she says. The shepherds provide an extra set of eyes and ears for the clergy and share pastoral insights concerning celebrations or crises.

The intent of the Shepherds program is to provide a pastoral presence as needed or asked. “It’s more about building a relationship.” Shepherds reinforce the program’s message: “No one walks alone.”

A series of meet-and-greets earlier this year introduced parishioners to their Shepherds, and another such opportunity is planned for early 2017.

Shepherds train under the Community of Hope International program. In addition to their ability to listen with care and compassion, Shepherds can also suggest other pastoral ministries that might assist an individual’s need, such as the Mourner’s Path Workshop

Last chance to order wreaths and garlands The sale, which continues through November 6, offers Cathedral members an opportunity to support the choir while bringing holiday cheer to friends, family, and business associates. Download the order form from our website, or stop by the cloister on Sunday, November 6.

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or a Lay Eucharistic visit.

For more information about the Shepherds program, to find out who your Shepherd team is, or to learn more about the upcoming Shepherd training in February, contact Canon Pastor Glenice Robinson-Como at 713-590-3319 or Pastoral Care Coordinator Kimberly Williams at 713-590-3334.

Sharing common struggles in Healing Circles Connecting with others who share a challenging circumstance can be a powerful experience, says Hines Center Executive Director Brooke Summers-Perry. Although our friends might wish to be supportive during such struggles, they’re not always equipped or effective since they’ve not been through it themselves, she says.

Healing Circles, launching at the Hines Center later this month, will offer a safe, nurturing environment for individuals to express themselves, collect wisdom, and process their path through a common condition.

Healing Circles are now forming to explore a variety of issues that people might have in common but not normally share, such as chronic illness, corporate burnout, caregiving, male spirituality, infertility, and so forth.

Each topic-based Healing Circle connects participants to each other while also empowering them to connect within themselves among a group doing the same thing, she says.

Like the Shepherd program, Healing Circles conveys a similar sentiment: “You are not alone. There is another way. And there are people who truly understand,” she says. The

approach of Healing Circles is less “been there, done that” and more “am there, doing that.”

Grief is one example. “Our culture isolates us by discouraging our ability to grieve — and grow from that process,” says Summers-Perry.

“We are under pressure to stay in the game no matter what we’re feeling.”

However, says Summers-Perry, “We are each given inner wisdom. Healing Circles allows us to connect with the ‘leader in every chair,’” meaning each participant can lend perspective to others in the circle.

The program offered at the Hines Center is based on the “connection-restores-wholeness” practices of Healing Circles Houston.

Trained co-facilitators will bring structure to Healing Circle meetings, held once or twice a month at the Hines Center. These leaders also have experienced what the group is exploring.

Healing Circles are about individuals connecting their minds and hearts in the context of the group’s topic, Summers-Perry says. “We want them to find their inner strength and to learn what they need in order to heal themselves as part of a journey with God in their lives.”

To find, to join, or to suggest a Healing Circle, visit hinescenter.org.

WARDEN from page 3 Vestry anticipates that we need $3.25 million in pledges, a 5% increase over last year and a very reachable goal. Everyone, please prayerfully consider an increase this year over your pledge from last year, and please return your completed pledge cards as soon as possible.

The annual “Come to the Table” dinner and fundraiser for The Beacon was held on September 22. Parishioners Judy and Charles Tate were the chairs, and it was a great financial success. We were treated to a warm and inspiring speech by Mayor Turner and a hilarious auction from the Rev. Patrick Miller, rector of St. Mark’s Houston. The meal, catered by the finest chefs in Houston, was served in the very same room where Houston’s homeless have lunch at The Beacon.

The Dean’s Hour is also back in full swing.

Dean Thompson’s first series looked deeply into how the faith of four U.S. Presidents — Washington, Lincoln, Roosevelt, and Eisenhower — guided their presidency. It was a fabulous lead in to our November elections.

Our Fall Gatherings started in October, and coming in November are Popcorn Theology on November 5 and Chill & Grill on November 11. Of course, you won’t want to miss Loyalty Sunday on November 13, where your pledge will be blessed during the worship service as an offering to God.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Visit www.christchurchcathedral.org or call 713-222-2593 to learn more about these and other events at the Cathedral.

Registration recommended NOVEMBER 1

Registration required

Registration closed

TUE

WEEKLY

All Saints’ Day Special Worship 12:05–12:45 p.m., Cathedral. Celebrating the saints and remembering the departed.This will take the place of regular Tuesday mid-day worship.

NOV 2

WEDS

Dean’s Book Club 6:30-8 p.m., McGehee Conference Room. Discussing Immortal Diamond by Richard Rohr.

NOVEMBER 4

FRI

20s & 30s Downtown Lunch 12–1 p.m. Join members for a monthly lunch, this time at Russo’s New York Pizzeria, 306 Gray at Bagby.

Bridge Night 6–9 p.m., McGehee Conference Room.

Play contract bridge and enjoy a potluck.

(Meets the first Friday of the month) NOVEMBER 5

SUNDAYS

NOVEMBER 11 FRI Chill & Grill

6–8:30 p.m., Bishop’s Courtyard.

Enjoy a “backyard style” barbeque.

NOVEMBER 13

SUN

Loyalty Sunday Turn in your pledge cards for 2017!

NOVEMBER 18–20

FRI–SUN

NOVEMBER 15 TUE Poet Sharon Olds 7:30 p.m., Cathedral. Renowned poet to read and talk about her work. ($) NOVEMBER 20

NOVEMBER 6

SUN

Youth Service Day 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Cathedral.

Youth work with Avenue CDC to clean up Herrera Elementary’s playground.

Organ Recital and Evensong 4:15 and 5 p.m., Cathedral. Choral Evensong with the Cathedral Choir.

NOVEMBER 12

SAT

20s & 30s Service Day 8:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., Attack Poverty.

The group will assist with flood relief and have a group optional lunch afterward.

Christian Meditation 10–11 a.m., Bride’s Room. Learn and practice a form of prayer taught by Jesus.

This class, open to all, includes teaching, meditation, scripture, and prayer.

SUN

Alternative Giving Market 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Reynolds Hall. Donate in the name of loved ones to various charities and outreach programs.

NOVEMBER 23

WED

Thanksgiving Eve Service 6:30 p.m., Cathedral.

NOVEMBER 24–25

THU–FRI

Thanksgiving Holidays Cathedral and offices are closed.

NOVEMBER 27 Advent Wreath-Making 10 a.m., Reynolds Hall.

SUN

Advent Retreat 3 p.m., Reynolds Hall. First session of weekly introduction to Advent, in Spanish.

NOVEMBER 30

WEDS

J.Bradford Hipps 6:30–8 p.m., McGehee Conference Room.

Local bestselling author will speak on his first novel, The Adventurist.

Bring a friend!

WEDNESDAYS Women’s Morning Bible Study 9:30–11 a.m., Jeffers Conference Room.

Moving into Prayer 11:30 a.m., Hines Center. Yoga and scripture. ($) or free with membership.

Bilingual Eucharist 6–6:30 p.m., Golding Chapel.

Buscando la Luz (Last 3 Wednesdays) 6:45–8 p.m., Bride’s Room. Spanish-language discussion group.

Cathedral 20s & 30s 6:30–8 p.m., BYC. (Treehouse) Weekly discussion group and social gathering of young adults.

The Vicar’s Road Show: Bible Translations 6:30–8 p.m., Meets once monthly at a choice of 3 locations. A brief history of the process of bible translation.

SUNDAYS Celtic Eucharist, “The Well” 5 p.m., Cathedral. Drawing inspiration and music from the Celtic tradition, this new worship service focuses on prayer, silence, meditation, and grace.

La Conferencia 8:30 a.m., Reynolds Hall. Conference in Spanish for the Latino/Hispanic Ministry.

NOVEMBER 5 SAT Popcorn Theology 6–9 p.m., Reynolds Hall. Pizza and 3 superhero movies for 3 age groups.

Split for age-appropriate films and theological discussion.

Adult Sunday Education 10–11 a.m., various locations.

Sunday School for Children and Youth 10–11 a.m., various locations. Spanishlanguage classes offered at 1 p.m. for children and youth.

Happening Camp Allen. Diocesan spiritual retreats for 9–12th graders. ($)

SAT

Walk to End Alzheimer’s 9 a.m., University of Houston. Register at act.alz.org/Houston with the Zingers team.

Childcare available (3 mo. to 12 yrs.)

Episcopal Youth Community (EYC) 3–4:45 p.m., BYC. (Treehouse) Gathering of youth for dinner, games, teaching, movies, and worship.

Nonviolent Communication (NVC) Practice Group 6–8 p.m., Hines Center. Strategies to improve relationships, happiness, and well-being. ($) or free with membership.

MONDAYS Centering Prayer 11:15–11:45 a.m., Hines Center.

Healing Service 12:05 p.m., Golding Chapel.

THURSDAYS Men’s Lunch Study Group (Biweekly) 12:15–1:15 p.m., Mellinger Room. Will study G.K. Chesterton.

Branch Out Jeremy Bradley and Christy Orman visit Houston area schools to say hello to our youth members. Contact them to schedule a visit.

Mourner’s Path 6–8 p.m., Dean’s Conference Room. Grief support program led by trained faciliators and clergy. Ends Nov. 17.

FRIDAYS Men’s Early Morning Study Group 7–8 a.m., Jeffers Conference Room.

UPCOMING DECEMBER 2–4

FRI–SUN

Bible “By the Glass” 6:30–8 p.m., OKRA, 924 Congress. Fellowship and Bible study.

Annual Parish Retreat Camp Allen. Fun and relaxing weekend for all ages. ($)

TUESDAYS

DEC 4

Discerning the Spirits 7–8:15 a.m., Mellinger Room. Co-ed Bible study with Canon Art Callaham.

Lessons and Carols 5 p.m., Cathedral. Nine lessons and carols, an Episcopal tradition since 1880.

Education for Ministry (EFM) 6:30–9 p.m., Mellinger Room. Comprehensive adult theology program. ($)

DECEMBER 10

Craft and Prompt Writing Sessions 7–8:30 p.m., Hines Center. ($) or free with membership.

SUN

SAT

Christmas at the Cathedral 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Reynolds Hall. The Cathedral family opens its doors to those in need, serving 700+ hot meals. Volunteers needed.

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THE BULLETIN

Non-Profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID

1117 Texas Avenue Houston, Texas 77002-3183

Houston, Texas PERMIT No. 6404

Did you know you can read The Bulletin on our website? If you’d like to go “online-only,” contact Anne Shepard at ashepard@christchurchcathedral.org or call her at 713-590-3301.

In the Cloister Gallery: Feather

October 28–November 30 In this two-person show, Christie Coker, who paints in acrylic on textured surfaces, and Karen Keith, who prints her photographs using traditional wet darkroom or the photogravure method, share their visual explorations of the wonder of birds.

GOD’S GOOD PLEASURE, from cover to finish—or if they come in second—they’ll feel lost. But in the home stretch, Eric has already won. The prize is his as surely as he lives and breathes. Because he runs for God’s pleasure, Eric experiences victory in his races and in his life.

That’s what St. Paul means! “For it is God who is at work in you, enabling you to will and to work for God’s good pleasure.” And, in all my experience of churches, across states and across denominations, that’s what sets Christ Church Cathedral apart.

I don’t believe that we worship, or serve those on the margins, or fight for God’s justice in the world, or study, or engage in fellowship with darkness across our brows. I don’t believe we do these things because of grim duty or obligation that feels like drudgery. I believe we do this work, and I believe that we financially support this work generously and, in many cases, sacrificially, because we feel God working through us, and we feel God’s pleasure. What deeper joy could there be? None of it happens—not the worship, not the service, not the justice, not the pastoral care, not the fellowship—without our financial support. I have made my pledge, and I pray you will too, as we continue to will and to work for God’s good pleasure in downtown Houston.

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Dean’s Book Club selections The Dean’s Book Club discusses a different book at each meeting, including novels, nonfiction, and books on spirituality and faith. Books are selected by the group and are available for purchase from the Cathedral Bookstore. All are welcome.

The club meets in the McGehee Conference Room from 6:30– 8 p.m. on the following dates:

Wednesday, November 2 Immortal Diamond by Richard Rohr In his earlier works, Rohr talked about how the ego (or the False Self) gets in the way of spiritual maturity. But what is a True Self?

How is it found, and how does it relate to the spiritual journey?

Wednesday, December 7 The Adventurist by J. Bradford Hipps Henry Hurt let the drama of work stand in for the drama of existence, until his mother’s death stirs his mid-life discontent.

Hipps will give a reading at the Cathedral on Wednesday, November 30, at 6:30 p.m.

Both areBookstore 6:30-8 p.m. in McGehee Themeetings Cathedral is open weekdaysConference from Room, and both books are available for sale at to the12:30 Cathedral 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays from 8:45 a.m. p.m.

Bookstore.

Call 713-222-0286 for information and special orders.