Central Florida Episcopalian Newspaper July-August, 2020 by Central Florida Episcopalian

Central Florida

CFE EPISCOPALIAN Volume 123, No. 4 / July - August 2020

DENTRO: ¡El boletín de noticias español está de vuelta! Por favor, consulte las paginas 19-21.

CONTENTS BISHOP BREWER A United Church in a Divided Time................................................................................................... 3

CANON HOLCOMBE God-Incidences................................................................................................................................ 4

MINISTRIES Canterbury Employees Stay Busy Despite Pandemic........................................................................ 4

6 Reopening Brings New

Challenges for Altar Guilds

Enthusiastic Response to Virtual Camp............................................................................................ 5 Cursillo Weekends on Hold Until 2021............................................................................................ 6 Reopening Brings New Challenges for Altar Guilds......................................................................... 6 Institute for Christian Studies – A Great Learning Experience for All ................................................ 8 YMI Offers Community Among Youth Leaders.................................................................................. 9

PEOPLE & EVENTS New Preschool Director Has Firm Foundation of Faith................................................................... 10 All Saints’ New Ministry Expresses God’s Love Through Action...................................................... 11 Rector and Family Give God the Glory for COVID-19 Victory.......................................................... 12 Diocese Receives Grant for Clergy Care......................................................................................... 14 Church of the Incarnation Receives Grant for Young Adult Ministry.............................................. 14

DIOCESAN FAMILY

12 Rector and Family Give God the Glory for COVID-19 Victory

Cathedral’s New Priest, Missioner Takes the Lead in Tech............................................................... 15

MISSION Honduran Diocese in Dire Need..................................................................................................... 16

SPOTLIGHT Hope, Melbourne’s New Rector Comes Home................................................................................ 17 The Rev. Canon Ellis Brust Lives His Childhood Dream................................................................... 18

CFE EN ESPAÑOL Obispo Brewer: Una Iglesia Unida Durante Tiempos de División................................................... 19 Honduras en urgente necesidad.................................................................................................... 20 La mayordomía: Un estilo de vida................................................................................................. 21

16 Honduran Diocese in Dire Need

STEWARDSHIP Stewardship: A Way of Living......................................................................................................... 22

DIOCESAN CALENDAR/BISHOP BREWER’S VISITATIONS ..................... 23

STAY CONNECTED WITH BISHOP BREWER Watch weekly video reflections: www.tinyurl.com/BishopBrewerReflections Read blog posts: www.cfdiocese.org/bishopsblog Follow Bishop Brewer on social media:

The Diocese of Central Florida The Right Reverend Gregory O. Brewer, Bishop Serving 15 counties through 81 churches and 30,000 members The Episcopal Church The Most Reverend Michael B. Curry, Presiding Bishop and Primate An international community of 2.5 million Christians in North and South America, Europe and Taiwan The Anglican Communion The Most Reverend Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury A global community of more than 85 million Christians in more than 165 countries worldwide

Central Florida EPISCOPALIAN The Rt. Rev. Gregory O. Brewer, Bishop The Rt. Rev. John W. Howe Retired The Rt. Rev. William H. Folwell Retired The Rev. Canon Dr. Justin Holcomb Canon for Vocations The Rev. Canon Scott Holcombe Canon to the Ordinary The Ven. Kristi Alday, Archdeacon Mr. Earl Pickett, Diocesan Administrator Mr. Erick Perez, Subscription Manager

Central Florida EPISCOPALIAN is published by the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida. Submissions are welcome, but are subject to editing and use at the discretion of the Central Florida Episcopalian. Please submit event notices three months prior to the event to: Central Florida Episcopalian 1017 E. Robinson St. Orlando, FL 32801-2023 Wendy Leech, Communications Coordinator wleech@cfdiocese.org / 407-925-6008 Erick Perez, Subscription Manager eperez@cfdiocese.org / 407-423-3567 Connect with us on social media

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July / August 2020

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B I S H O P B R E W E R ’ S C O LU M N

A United Church in a Divided Time By Bishop Gregory O. Brewer

Recently I read a quote online that I thought fitting for this time in our history:

“No church gravitates toward unity. We have to contend for unity against the gravitational pull toward selfishness and hypocrisy” (Barnabas Piper). But in our contentious culture, such words can be easily misunderstood. Contending for unity does not mean drawing battle lines to separate ourselves from those who disagree with us. You will not find that course of action supported by the gospel. Instead, and quite remarkably, the gospel calls us not to set up battle lines against anyone. We are called to love even our enemies. The only foes with which we contend are the supernatural forces of darkness – not any of our fellow human beings. We follow Christ, who invites us to come to Him who is “gentle and humble in heart” and gives rest to our souls (Matt. 11:29b). To contend for unity invites us into a posture different from “cancel culture” and “us versus them.” Instead, it calls us to take the posture of a curious listener and a willingness to see the human being behind the opinion we abhor. So instead of disagreeing with someone straightaway, perhaps the better strategy is to ask a question. Learn more about what they mean. Ask what has led them to form this position. Listen to their stories. Pray for them. Learn with them. To take that position is not an abdication of your own; it is a way to build bridges with those with whom you disagree. You won’t find that strategy on television or in much political debate. However, you may meet people who have used their opinions to isolate themselves and are hungry for connections, but the only way they know how to relate is to declare and defend their positions. As I see it, various recent events have caused us to live more in isolation today than I can remember. And it’s not just the coronavirus or even politics. So many circumstances have divided us along lines of race, neighborhood and economics. And institutions such as the civic town hall and even the church have waned in influence, so we are less likely than ever to be friends with people unlike us. We have thus lost the sense of the “common good” and have instead moved to a political party’s vision for the common good (a vast difference). Politics used to be a place where we were willing to work through differences around a democratic process that presumed tolerance,

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the capacity to agree to disagree and political compromise in the service of a greater good: the unity of its citizens. But today “the common good” of society has become individualized to the “preferred good” of some of its citizens at the expense of others. So all of us fight for the triumph of our preferred vision, wanting more than anything for “our side” to win. This preferred way of doing politics and social order has brought us to the Bishop Greg Brewer crisis that exists today. It’s a crisis of isolation, fear, anger at others and a fight to preserve “our way of life.” Jesus gives us a different vision. We are called to receive a unity God is giving us in Jesus Christ and find ways to live out that unity – in the midst of often-significant differences. This vision of unity is based on what we have received in Jesus: his love, his forgiveness and his triumph over sin, disease, poverty and division. One of last year’s most important events for me was attending a screening of the documentary “Emanuel,” produced by Viola Davis and Steph Curry. It tells the story of the horrific tragedy that occurred when Dylann Roof opened fire on a prayer meeting at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, killing nine precious people. But the story of Emanuel church tells about more than a tragedy. It also shares how the congregants made the decision as a church to forgive. In fact, when Dylann Roof met with the relatives of those who had died, their united message was “We forgive you. Repent and believe.” Their grace-filled actions affirmed the truth of their message. The courageous witness of those Christians shocked a nation and caused many nonbelievers to sit up and take notice. This was the unity of the gospel in action. Such a church, united in the gospel, is the only kind of church that can be a true force for good in our society. This is not a self-serving church, but a serving church – a church that has something to offer in the face of the deep divisions all around us. We will not always agree; but God help us to be a people who are committed to the witness of unity in this hostile and divided world. Grace to you,

Bishop Gregory O. Brewer

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M I N I ST R I E S

Canterbury Employees Stay Busy Despite Pandemic

he ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused multiple layoffs and led numerous businesses and organizations to halt productivity nationwide — but not the Canterbury Retreat & Conference Center. A few days into shutdowns mandated by the pandemic, Director Chalmers Morse came up with an idea to keep his employees working: have the staff continue work on the retreat center’s multimillion-dollar renovation. “The staff here is the lifeblood of Canterbury,” said Morse. “They make our guests comfortable and serve them.” During the stoppage of people using the 48-acre facility because of the pandemic, Morse and his staff of 32 have painted both buildings used for guest accommodations inside and outside, changed fixtures, cleaned and accomplished many other needed tasks, including using a cherry picker to replace the façade on the two-story building. “Money that we had set aside for construction and renovations we repurposed to keep our

employees working,” said Morse. Teams worked in groups of 10 to meet Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Chuckling, Morse noted that painting the outside of the buildings looked “splotchy for a while” because staff worked 10 feet apart. During lunch, tables were set up in accordance with CDC guidelines, and each person sat alone at a table. In late June or early July, painting began, soon after window glazing was completed in the main building, which houses the cafeteria, conference rooms and a cafe. “I want to keep the employees working as long as possible,” Chalmers said. “We’re like family here. And we serve the family of God.” Staff also has been busy rebooking events that were postponed during the pandemic earlier this year, some for later this year and others at a new date in 2021. The first event held at Canterbury since the lockdown began was a small wedding on Saturday, June 20. The following weekend, the conference center hosted a small gathering on the patio outside the main building.

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July / August 2020

God-Incidences

By Canon Scott Holcombe

ormally ordinations are jam-packed events with family, friends, visiting clergy and dignitaries, special music and a solemn liturgy. Following the ordination service there is normally a gala reception with homemade goodies and special beverages. I had the honor of attending The Rev. Peter Wesley Tepper’s ordination to the priesthood at the Cathedral Church of St. Luke on Sunday, June 21, 2020. In this time of COVID-19 precautions, face masks, limited seating and no food or beverage service allowed, I expected a pretty simple service. However, God made this a special event for those who were looking closely. My role was to serve at the table to make sure Peter signed the declaration and to administer Communion. Being up front enables one to see things that others may not see, and this certainly was the case that night. At one point during the ordination service Peter came forward and knelt on a beautiful antique prie-dieu with a needlepoint cushion. The embroidered cushion featured one name: “Peter.” No, the kneeler was not made specifically for this service. It is part of a collection

of a dozen antique kneelers used at special times and for special services at the Cathedral.

Recently I was contacted by Mari Frith, one of the people who was instrumental in the interior redesign of the diocesan office from a doctor’s office after its purchase in 1989. Mari

is also the daughter of Barbara Wood, one of the parishioners at St. David’s by-the-Sea in Holcombe Cocoa Beach, where I used to serve as rector. She gave me some old photos from the redesign, and in one of the photos of the Bishop’s Chapel, I recognized those 12 kneelers! At some time in the past these 12 kneelers were passed on to the Cathedral. But on the Sunday evening of Peter’s socially distanced ordination, someone (perhaps one of the clergy staff, Dean Kidd, one of the altar guild members or maybe even a cathedral sexton) made just a little extra effort to select one special kneeler. It was one of those things that made an awesome service even more special! Such moments of grace, connection and a little extra effort are just the kind of thing God does quite often, perhaps without our recognition. I wonder how often these little God-incidences (not coincidences) happen? As we go about our everyday lives, let’s all keep an eye open for these moments of unearned, unmerited beauty and meaning when in the midst of the ordinary, the Lord blesses us with such a gift. Perhaps the kneeler was made just for this service, just for the newly ordained Peter! What a precious gift!

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M I N I ST R I E S

Wingmann’s Virtual Summer Session Keeps Campers Safe

ue to COVID-19, the 2020 camping season at Camp Wingmann is all virtual. An in-person camp had been planned to begin July 5, but after a resurgence in COVID-19 cases, it was canceled. “It’s unfortunate,” said Joshua Joseph, director of Camp Wingmann, “but we had to keep everyone safe.” Using Google Classroom, 50 campers took part in the three June sessions. Classroom invitations were sent out on Wednesday before each camp. “The response to attend was wonderful,” said Joseph. “The feedback that we’ve received is so positive. The camp was a success!” The staff made every effort to keep the camp’s feel as close to the in-person camps of other years. Each virtual session opened on Sunday night. “Our AD’s (activities directors) started the week with a fun intro into our summer camp theme verse.” The theme verse for this

year’s camps was John 8:31-32. “If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free” (NASB). Camps featured nightly Compline, devotions, game night, a talent show, Super Awesome Fun Time, the Wednesday Line Dance, and the Friday Eucharist and prayer service. “One night each week, devotions broke into cabin groups with the counselors on the Zoom platform,” explained Joseph. “There was a girl’s group and a guy’s group for the interactive session.” Joseph has decided not to have a July virtual camp. “The kids have spent so much time in front of a screen. Even though the first session was a success The traditional Friday afternoon Eucharist and prayer service were modified and so much fun, we need to encourage everyone to go outside and do something. by the priests who had led each week’s Compline. It was uploaded to Zoom so that the campers would be able to experience All Angels Chapel at home. But do it safely.” The director is also planning ahead. “Moving forward, we have scheduled New Beginnings for October,” he said. “That is, of course, contingent on the pandemic. We are watching and reading the information and guidelines from the CDC and the American Camp Association.”

Campers from Camp Trinity that began June 21 follow along in their prayer book at the nightly Compline with Fr. Tim Nunez, who was that camp’s chaplain. Photo courtesy of Katie Barnett.

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Photo courtesy of Camp Wingmann.

If you would like to support Camp Wingmann, please go to www.campwingmann.org for more information. To stay abreast of Camp Wingmann happenings, visit www.campwingmann. org/coronavirusupdate. The staff made every effort to keep the camp’s feel as close to the in-person camps of other years. They continued the tradition of the Wednesday Line Dance. Photo courtesy of Camp Wingmann.

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M I N I ST R I E S

Weekends on Hold Until 2021

By Sue Lapham, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Orlando

fter prayerful consideration, the Cursillo Commission and servant community chairs have determined it best to cancel all scheduled Cursillo activities for the rest of this year due to COVID-19. The commission continues to be in email contact to handle Cursillo business and will meet again as soon as it is safe to do so. Cursillo Weekends, previously postponed from April to September this year, have now been postponed until 2021. Applications now on file will be sent new invitations. There are still openings available, and anyone interested in attending Cursillo is encouraged to contact one of the people listed at the end of this article.

The new Cursillo dates are:

Men’s Weekend April 9-11, 2021 Women’s Weekend April 16-18, 2021 Co-ed Weekend Sept. 24-26, 2021

In the May/June issue of the Central Florida Episcopalian, Commission Chair Chuck Pierce wrote that for him Cursillo was a “new awakening.” Please prayerfully consider attending a Cursillo Weekend. You may experience a new awakening as well.

For more information, contact Phil Phillips, strumminguy55@yahoo.com Karen Stout, 4karenjs@gmail.com Kim McMaster, kmcmaster1@cfl.rr.com or access the diocesan Cursillo website at www.cfepiscopalcursillo.org. Connect to the Central Florida Facebook page @CentralFloridaCursilloGroup. If you are not receiving the Cursillo information emails, please let one of us know.

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Reopening Brings New Challenges for Altar Guilds

By Neva Rae Fox s the COVID-19 crisis shows signs of fading, the world is beginning to reopen. Organizations of all kinds are considering new procedures for security, cleaning and sanitation. Altar guilds are also adjusting across The Episcopal Church, developing new intensive operating procedures to keep people safe and healthy as they return to worshipping together. The National Altar Guild Association, The Episcopal Church’s little-known advisory body for these behind-the-scenes servants, hasn’t yet issued any formal procedures for cleaning vessels or keeping church spaces clean. However, the group’s website does offer guidance on safely preparing wafers for the Eucharist. Churches that have begun to regather are consulting guidelines set forth by diocesan bishops and local health authorities. Preparing preintincted wafers, Eucharistic hosts with a single drop of wine added before consecration, has been a new task for the altar guild at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Melbourne, said Florida leader

Judy Henderson. The wafers are placed in resealable plastic bags for the congregation’s drive-thru Eucharist, which also includes only a single chalice, purificator and lavabo towel. Henderson added, “With less to do, we’ve been dividing our altar guild into smaller groups of two or three members so some can be working on the preintincted wafers and others can be doing altar guild duties in the church, providing plenty of space for working 6 feet apart. All team members wear masks.” The Rt. Rev. Gregory O. Brewer, bishop of Holy Trinity’s Diocese of Central Florida, issued extensive guidelines, titled “Forward in Faith and Not Fear, in Caution and Preparedness” (www.bit. ly/2YEwEwP). The document, which has been widely distributed across The Episcopal Church, offers a myriad of suggestions for returning to church buildings. Brewer explained that the document, developed by Central Florida’s canon to the ordinary, The Rev. Canon Scott Holcombe, was in response to multiple questions diocesan staff

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M I N I ST R I E S

members had been fielding. “Our goal was to provide a comprehensive resource which took some of the fear and trepidation out of the process of reopening,” he said. “Our aim was also to help boil down the multitude of recommendations from medical and legal experts, as well as from municipal leaders, into a practical, easy-to-understand document.”

The rapid spread of worship

broadcasting during the pandemic also brings new considerations, Brewer said. “Many churches have introduced livestreaming of worship services as a result of sheltering at home during COVID-19, and they plan to continue livestreaming services even as in-person worship resumes. The altar guild will now need to consider both the functional and visual aspects of what people will see on livestream.” Brewer offered a few suggestions to help congregations communicate visually about their concern for safety and cleanliness. Among his tips:

Since altar guild members will likely choose the personal protective equipment selections for the clergy, Brewer explained that “clear or flesh-toned gloves make a much better

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Photo: ERICK PEREZ

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impression than ‘Smurf’ blue gloves,” adding, “the altar guild will also need to be sensitive to latex allergies.” Share with the congregation the extra steps that the altar guild implements to ensure sanitation during the pandemic. “Put the lavabo bowl and crystal cruet away. Bring out a large basin with warm water, antibacterial soap, fluffy white towels for each person serving on the altar and administering in any

way, and scrub hands for at least 20 seconds in plain sight of the congregation during the offertory music.” Brewer recommended repeating the procedure following Communion. “Having a bin or basket for towels to be visibly discarded demonstrates that everyone gets a clean hand towel.”

three-plus months. Never in my 45 years of ministry have I had to implement myself, nor have I had to instruct the congregations of my diocese to employ, such stringent measures. The complete cessation of in-person worship was a shock to our collective body in Christ.”

Brewer reflected, “I know the term ‘unprecedented’ has been overused during the COVID-19 pandemic, but I really am not sure how else to describe the past

Adapted from an online article originally published at www.livingchurch.org, June 9, 2020. Reprinted with permission.

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M I N I ST R I E S

Institute for Christian Studies – A Great Learning Experience for All By Linda Gilden

he Institute for Christian Studies (ICS) was formed in the late 1970s as a response to the thousands of adults hungry to grow in their faith and deepen their relationship with Christ. ICS became a resource for busy adults to receive more Bible training. By the late 1980s, the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida asked ICS to incorporate coursework that would help train its deacons and prepare them for the ordination process. ICS continues to offer adult Christian formation and education for clergy and laity who want to grow in their faith. There is also a special, required two-year track for those preparing for ordination as a deacon in the Anglican Episcopal Church. CFE asked several current and former students to share some of their ICS experiences.

Susan Jo Moorhead

Candidate for ordination to the diaconate, Grace Episcopal Church, Ocala While in a small group of women, the Holy Spirit prompted me to share what I learned from Canon Justin Holcomb’s ICS class on sexual abuse and domestic violence. I was more prepared because of the class and had some knowledge as to where to turn for resources and guidance. I recommend continued learning to all, especially laity, because ICS provides a wide range of course interests. It is a wonderful way to unite groups from parishes, instruct them in a deeper study of certain subjects and send the information back to the congregation to encourage them from firsthand

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experiences. I was always envious of those who studied theology and attended seminary, but not jealous enough to dedicate time, energy and resources in that direction. ICS coursework has satisfied some of these desires without the huge investment. It is very affordable and well worth it. ICS was an unexpected avenue God used to grow, stretch and expand my spiritual depth. I loathe writing, but I admit, it helped me to dig deeper in the discovery of my passions and helped me articulate the calling God placed in my heart. The entire experience has enlightened and revealed passions and gifts I might not have discerned otherwise. Some of those passions and gifts are why I must become a deacon. No matter the path you and God travel, you owe it to yourself and to those you share life with to dig into a deeper walk with Jesus. ICS can help you discover and uncover the person God has designed you to be. I have shared a few of my papers with my family, and now they are more able to see the “why” I have decided to follow Jesus into this journey.

The Rev. Maurice McGee Deacon, St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Episcopal Church, Lake Placid

My first day at ICS confirmed my call to the diaconate. Walking into a room of people I did not know, but immediately being greeted and welcomed, began lifelong relationships that are just as strong today as they were on day one. Our first class on the sacraments, taught by Fr. Chris Braithwaite, was one of my favorites. His tone, presence and

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overall compassion for all of us was clearly shown. It made us eager to return and learn more. It also drew us closer together and settled us into a normal routine of sharing and relying on each other for support. The courses at ICS still remain relevant to the job we are called to do. I constantly find myself going back to my notes or textbooks, looking for a piece of information I know we covered. This applies in my Bible study teaching and when I am fortunate enough to preach. Old Testament, New Testament and Gospel classes have helped me in forming and promoting a Fresh Expression–style Bible study focusing on those who have become disgruntled with the normal church, those looking for a new style of worship and those who are new believers and followers looking for answers. The studies at ICS provide all this and more. Whether students enroll for credit, continuing education or a search for knowledge, ICS has something to offer everyone. Both the diversity of classes and the regular addition of new ones keep ICS current. Online classes allow for easy access and provide an avenue for those who cannot attend in person. When I share my experience at ICS with friends, they are amazed at the time and commitment put into this program. I highly recommend that you look into the possibly of attending ICS. You will not regret it.

The Rev. Dorothy Hunter-Spencer

Deacon, St. Luke and St. Peter Episcopal Church, St. Cloud Before I attended ICS, I knew I must love God and my neighbor as myself; however, there were certain gifts within me that I was fearful to reveal and reluctant to use publicly. After ICS, I can confidently use these gifts to demonstrate my love for God and help enrich others’ lives as well as my own. The courses at ICS were not as challenging as I expected, but my course of study certainly enriched my spiritual and personal life. My www.cfdiocese.org

M I N I ST R I E S instructors were very experienced, and their style of delivery in all my face-to-face classes made me feel comfortable. My favorite course was New Testament Flyover. It not only covered the New Testament but encompassed the entire Bible, showing the correlation between the Old and New Testaments. This caused me to clearly see the fulfillment of the Old Testament in the New. One Sunday, I had the opportunity to pray for a member of our parish whose healing after surgery did not seem to be progressing as well as he and his wife expected. The following Wednesday, this man’s wife reported marked improvement such as they had not seen since his surgery and medical treatments. I recommend lay church members take any ICS courses they can. They may not be seeking ordination, but they will obtain substantial information to improve or lead them to ministries that will not only benefit their Christian walk but their lives overall. And when opportunities to minister to church members arise, such as the one above, they will be prepared and confident.

The Rev. Michael Switzer

Deacon, Hope Episcopal Church, Melbourne I loved the entire ICS experience! I was not brought up in the Episcopal Church and have only been in the diocese since 2003, so the courses were invaluable. The history and traditions put such a valuable perspective into all that we do within the Episcopal Church. The instructors were knowledgeable and professional, and the ICS and diocesan staff were goal oriented and always willing to help. I felt they appreciated the students’ desire to serve and educate themselves within the church. I wholeheartedly recommend taking classes from ICS! With a few requirement exceptions, the

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YMI Offers Community Among Youth Leaders

Kirsten Knox

By Kirsten Knox

ince the beginning of the coronavirus crisis, Youth Ministry Institute (YMI) has noticed several common factors. The need for community among ministry leaders is real. We are experiencing a collective traumatic event. Personal growth and development have never been more critical. Finally, we all have many questions about our most basic ministry programs. As the diocesan youth ministry consultants, YMI is here to offer you some FREE resources:

Virtual Customized Coaching Session: This

is a challenging time in ministry. You can easily feel exhausted, confused and overwhelmed. A coaching session will provide you with the guidance, support and strategies you need to develop a healthy youth ministry. Whether you work full time, part time or volunteer as a youth ministry leader, this is a great opportunity for you to move the ministry forward.

Digital Next Step Consulting Session: We are

called to disciple young people and pass our faith down to the next generation. And God has given your church what you need to do just that! At YMI, we believe your church has strengths and assets that can be leveraged to build a healthy youth ministry. You have what it takes! What often limits us are our own ideas of what a youth ministry is supposed to look like. Take a deep breath; there are many ways to disciple young people. YMI uses assessment tools to help you evaluate your strengths and develop a strength-based strategy to move forward. Gather your vestry or youth volunteers and together we will develop your next steps.

Understanding This Generation (Gen Z) Podcast, www.tinyurl.com/YMIonGenZ. In this

episode, Kirsten Knox discusses the traits of Gen Z and their greatest challenges. Knox shares why empathy may just be the key for Gen Z and why she believes small to medium-sized churches may have an advantage in reaching students today.

Youth Ministry Liaison to the Diocese of Central Florida Senior Director of Ministry Partnerships, Youth Ministry Institute

YMI also offers the following fee-based resources:

Mission Projects While Social Distancing: Since Soul in the City was canceled

this year, YMI wants to make sure you have resources for continuing to cultivate a heart of service within your students, even in this season. Check out 20 ideas here: www.yminstitute.com/social-distancemission-project-ideas/.

YMI Online: Since 2005, YMI has led the

way in providing training for youth, children and family ministers with challenging, practical and affordable courses. YMI Online, www.online.yminstitute.com, uses a time-tested and proven curriculum through an interactive online learning platform. YMI has released four courses so far: The Five Elements of Youth Ministry, Program Design 101, Leadership 101 and Theology 101. To take a course, all you need is a computer and the internet.

Theology 101: Have you ever had a student ask you a tough question? One like: Can God make a rock so heavy that God cannot lift it? Or more seriously: Where was God when my parents were sick? Complicated and often-paradoxical questions can leave you feeling as though you have no idea what you’re doing. But you don’t have to stay there. These questions and situations reveal the need for good, thoughtful theology, even in youth ministry. Increase your confidence level by taking YMI’s Theology 101 course at: www.ow.ly/Hf1Q50zYKyQ

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PEOPLE & EVENTS

New Preschool Director Has Firm Foundation of Faith By Nina Keck Robyn Brant is the new preschool director at St.

Mary of the Angels in Orlando, replacing Brandi Crawford-Lavoie. “I am most looking forward to working in a community that embraces Christian values. I hope to enhance the lives of the children and teachers of St. Mary’s Preschool with learning, laughter and spirituality,” Brant said. The Massachusetts native and her husband, Robin, live in Orlando’s Rose Bay community. “I married my Prince Charming, Robin Brant, in 2013. The magical proposal and wedding both took place at our favorite place, Walt Disney World.”

Brant and her husband, Robin, married in 2013.

Brant majored in early childhood education at Becker College in Massachusetts. “Telling stories, acting out nursery rhymes, imagining sailing away on a pirate ship – all these came easily to me,” she said. “But I have always had difficulty learning, eventually realizing I struggled with dyslexia, so it became my calling to help children learn through imaginative play and having fun.” But the greatest impact on Brant’s life was being raised in a loving Christian family. “The experience taught me the meaning of integrity, honesty and compassion,” she said. Brant enjoys spending time with her family and enjoying one of Orlando’s favorite attractions. “I love all things Disney! Going to the parks or on a Disney cruise or trip with my husband, family and friends is my favorite way to relax.” And the preschool director likes to start her day on a positive note. “Every morning, I take a moment to read The American Patriot’s Almanac: Daily Readings on America,” Brant said. “It is a collection of short readings that symbolizes the essence of America and its people. You can also find me reading Today in History: Disney. Both books show me the goodness and greatness in every individual.” Photo courtesy of Robyn Brant.

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material and instruction are the same for clerical and nonclerical students. Knowing and understanding the many facets of our faith can only be beneficial in order to better contribute to not just our local church and communities but also the national church. During my field work, I attended the parish men’s group that met for dinner once a month. We would discuss and review one of the Thirty-Nine Articles using the Book of Common Prayer. The information and knowledge I gained from my ICS studies allowed me to be comfortable, confident and able to contribute to the discussion.

Raised Catholic, Brant has long embraced all forms of Christian belief. “It has been a joy to learn about The Episcopal Church through Fr. Kevin’s teachings. Due to COVID-19, I have experienced St. Mary’s through its online services.”

Brant loves “all things Disney”.

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My favorite and most interesting class was Spiritual Warfare, a topic not often discussed and at times avoided! The instructor, Rev. Canon Scott Holcomb, was knowledgeable and shared experiences directly related to the topics. ICS curriculum has enriched both my personal and spiritual growth by providing a better understanding of practical truths found in our faith.

ICS offers classes for church leaders and laity, all online until further notice. A few are listed below, with complete listing and more information at:

www.icscourses.org

Raising Up Leaders A Paradigm Shift Instructor: The Rev. Jonathan French

This course will consider why leadership matters in the church, biblical models of leadership, whether you are a leader and how to attract more leaders. This course offers an entirely new and fresh perspective on leading.

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PEOPLE & EVENTS

MASH — Moving Ahead in Spiritual Health Instructor:

The Rev. Dr. Jim Sorvillo As Christ’s body, the church exists by virtue of its participation in God’s mission. When dysfunction in the church distracts the body of Christ from this participation, the church is inhibited in its mission. This class offers practical tools for proactively identifying possible areas of congregational dysfunction and a responsive process for healing and reconciliation if and when they occur.

Prayerbook Spirituality Instructor: The Rev. Dr. Rob Strenth, Deacon

The Book of Common Prayer is not only a resource we use on Sunday mornings, but a rule of life that governs the spiritual disciplines of all the faithful. This course is designed to help the student understand prayer book spirituality, which forms disciples of Christ the way God desires.

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All Saints’ New Ministry Expresses God’s Love Through Action By Nina Keck

All Saints, Winter Park, has chosen to show God’s love by supporting Family Promise of Greater Orlando. “This is a new expression of All Saints’ response to the gospel,” The Rev. Stuart Shelby, rector, said. “It is to prove our Lord’s affections for homeless families.” The parish is partnering with churches in Winter Park and across greater Orlando to help the nonprofit, which serves homeless families. The new ministry began June 14. “We’ve got more love in action at All Saints!” says Pat Robertson, the church’s Family Promise coordinator. “We are so excited to join other Winter Park congregations in this ministry. Family Promise is a national, well-oiled ministry with a fabulous track record and reputation for helping families between being homeless and housed.” The All Saints Family Promise team is excited about this project and hopes to recruit other parishioners to help as the ministry goes forward. While COVID-19 prevents All Saints from having Family Promise families on the church campus during this first residency, it will provide them with delicious dinners. “The meals are being delivered to the hotel where they are being

Because of COVID-19, All Saints cannot host Family Promise families on its campus, but the church delivers dinners to their temporary hotel home.

housed temporarily,” Robertson said. Family Promise of Greater Orlando opened its doors in 2000 to provide emergency shelter, meals and support services to Central Florida families experiencing homelessness. Its work gives parents the hope and encouragement they need to create a better future for their children and end the cycle of homelessness. Its mission is to help homeless families achieve sustainable housing and self-sufficiency as quickly as possible. The organization guides, motivates and inspires families to life beyond the crisis of homeless-

ness. Family Promise embraces a “housing first” approach, where families are housed as quickly as possible with no readiness conditions. Through intensive case management services, homeless families reach their housing and economic stability goals. For more information about Family Promise, volunteering for them or information about having your parish help, please email Pat Robertson at pshrob@hotmail. com or Family Promise at: info@familypromiseorlando.org.

Photo courtesy of Family Promise of Greater Orlando.

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PEOPLE & EVENTS

Rector and Family Give God the Glory for COVID-19 Victory

By Marti Pieper

alk with The Very Rev. John Kelly, rector of St. George, The Villages, and his wife, Tish, and you hear the echoes of war. As Fr. John speaks, his voice breaks with emotion.

But through their words, the sounds of victory swell: praise and glory to God.

Tish sounds more confident. Yet her body bears multiple scars, including invisible ones. “Every time we tell the story, it’s just too emotionally gut-wrenching,” she said.

The Battle Begins

The Kellys and their daughter, Colleen, are grateful survivors of their battle with COVID-19.

Tish entered her fight with multiple strikes against her. Not only does

Fr. John and Tish Kelly on vacation in Nantucket, 2019

she have lymphoma, but she also has primary immune deficiency (PID), for which she receives an infusion of immunoglobins every two weeks. On March 17, four days after a family trip to Disney World, she had an infusion. The next day, she ran a low-grade fever. When the fever spiked, she visited the county health department for testing. Five days later, she got the call: positive.

Fr. John and Colleen selfquarantined and went for testing. Five more days, and the family had two more positive test results. Fr. John’s and Colleen’s symptoms remained mild to moderate. But Tish felt worse and worse. “I valiantly tried to slug it out at home,” she said. “She was stubborn,” her husband added.

“I had to call my husband immediately; he was at church doing a streaming service,” Tish said.

(L) Fr. John and Tish Kelly, (R) Tish Kelly on a mission trip in Port-auPrince, Haiti.

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PEOPLE & EVENTS By April 2, a Summerfield emergency room agreed to see Tish. He couldn’t go in with her, so “all I could do was say goodbye,” Fr. John said. A chest X-ray revealed pneumonia, and she was transferred to Ocala’s West Marion Community Hospital.

This Is War The news grew worse. The next day, her ICU nurse asked, “How do you feel about intubation?” “You do what you’ve got to do,” Tish answered. She told God, “I just surrender this to you.” Her husband was also praying – and preaching. Halfway through a remote recording, he received her text: “They’re putting me on a ventilator right now.” Known for his transparency, Fr. John wept his way through his sermon, sharing his wife’s situation as he closed. But he didn’t reveal what she had said days earlier: “If they put me on a ventilator, I don’t think I’ll survive.” Placed in a coma, Tish remembers nothing of this period. But the Kellys did not fight alone. “I sent it out on social media,” Fr. John said. The family heard from praying friends around the globe. And their congregation responded with cards, gift cards, meals and more prayers.

Victory and Beyond Three times hospital staff told Fr. John, “We don’t know if she’s going to make it tonight.” After 17 days, Tish had to come off the ventilator. The medical team advised a move to hospice. Fr. John’s Bible reading plan had him in the book of Job. “Job says, ‘My Redeemer lives.’ That’s just what happened to Tish,” he said. “She just miraculously turned around. … It was just the grace of God.” But the war hadn’t ended. Because they still tested positive for COVID-19, the couple could only visit via FaceTime. And a weakened Tish couldn’t receive rehabilitation until after two negative tests. On May 16, the hospital finally released her with a huge sendoff. “And when she left Encompass rehab, there was another long line down the hall: administrators, nurses, the mayor of Ocala,” said Fr. John. Tish, still on a walker, gave a brief testimony at St. George’s on June 8 (view it here: https://tinyurl.com/ y8f7tp57). “The church has been so excited,” Fr. John said. But the impact has stretched much further. “I’ve heard so many testimonies from friends and loved ones, and how it’s helped heal their families because they rallied together to pray for me,” said Tish. “But what really touched me was when the doctors I knew weren’t believers said to me, ‘Well, you’re a miracle.’”

Fr. John and Tish Kelly in front of their home on May 24, the day she was released from rehab after being away since April 2

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PEOPLE & EVENTS

Diocese Receives Grant for Clergy Care Earlier this year, the Diocese of Central Florida received a $50,000 grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. with an invitation to submit a proposal later this year for a $1 million grant to support a diocesan program that assists clergy in fruitful and sustainable ministry. In 2018, the diocese applied for a $1 million grant as part of Lilly Endowment’s nationally competitive Thriving in Ministry initiative. Though the diocese did not receive a grant at that time, Lilly Endowment earlier this year invited the diocese, along with other organizations, to submit a proposal for a $50,000 planning grant as part of a new round of Thriving in Ministry grants. The diocese was awarded the Sustainable and Effective Ministry Initiative planning grant in May, and the goal of that grant is to, in Lilly Endowment’s words, “listen carefully to the personal and professional concerns and struggles of clergy.” The Rev. Canon Dr. Justin Holcomb, canon for vocations for the diocese, has been appointed by The Rt. Rev. Greg Brewer to lead the program for preparing the proposal, due Aug. 11. Holcomb, with the help

Church of the Incarnation Receives Grant for Young Adult Ministry By DeWayne Hamby

of input from members of the diocesan staff, implemented a five-point program that included four Listening Days: June 23, June 25, July 8 and July 10, all at the Canterbury Retreat & Conference Center. Each event focused on a specific group—female clergy, clergy of color, mission-aided parishes and growing parishes, regardless of size, with sustainable growth for the past couple of years. Other points of the program include a report summarizing the research already done on the personal and professional challenges for clergy, a survey for all active diocesan clergy and a oneday meeting to finalize the proposal that will include Holcomb and various clergy from the diocese. The Lilly Endowment, based in Indianapolis, Indiana, was founded in 1937 and focuses on community development, education and youth, and religion, according to the organization’s website.

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Oviedo’s Church of the Incarnation’s ministry to young adults is receiving a big boost thanks to a grant from the United Thanks Offering of The Episcopal Church. The church received the $5,000 grant after submitting an application for assistance. “To be able to share the gospel and have financial backing is an honor,” said Seth Stradling, student ministries director. “Especially in Stradling these times, we need to look to God even more because God’s the hero of the Bible and full of all wisdom.”

Phillips

The Rev. Tom Phillips, priestin-charge, pointed out the church’s proximity to the University of Central Florida, home to nearly 60,000 students.

“We know God wants to reach young adults during this critical time in their lives, and we want to be a part of that,” he said.

The church has been in a rebuilding pattern for a couple of years, working on student ministries specifically. The leaders are training young adult leaders who in turn will assist with ministry to younger generations. “Currently, we have a cohort of young adults and college students who help facilitate our student ministry to our middle and high schoolers,” Phillips added. “Our hope is to grow that cohort, get better at discipling college students and guide them toward investing in mentoring relationships with our middle and high schoolers.” In its application, the church listed some of the goals, which included weekly meals for students, weekly Bible study and worship, and team-building opportunities with a ropes course. Some of these goals will present a challenge in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Stradling noted. The church plans on “figuring out how to change the way we do ministry” with “even more of a prayerful, creative way of reaching people,” he said. Whatever shape the ministry may take, Phillips stresses that young adult ministry is crucial to the life of the church and its evangelism efforts. “Statistics show that the majority of Christians make a commitment to follow Christ before the age of 18,” he said. “College is a critical time to capture hearts for Jesus.”

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D I O C E S A N FA M I LY

Cathedral’s New Priest, Missioner Takes the Lead in Tech

Photos courtesy of the Cathedral Church of St. Luke, Orlando.

By Nina Keck

espite only being ordained to the priesthood since June 21, The Rev. Peter Tepper has worked at the Cathedral Church of St. Luke, Orlando, since December 2019. Hired to serve as missioner, he has taken on additional responsibilities that have served the church well through the period of lockdown. In December, when the Cathedral began livestreaming its worship, Tepper took the lead. He had no idea how large the audience would grow or how soon. “We knew it would be helpful for our shut-ins and those who could not physically attend our services. Little did we know that this would be our whole congregation,” he said. “I thought we would have a few parishioners within less than four months. We have grown to a significant audience with people as far and wide as past parishioners in Yorkshire, England; Southern France; and even St. Petersburg, Russia!” Although Tepper majored in history at West Point, he also has a background in technology. “It comes back to God’s wisdom and sovereignty,” he said. “I remember being at West Point and studying history. The Military Academy required all cadets to have a minor in some engineering. I randomly chose computer science for no apparent reason. Of course, God knew. Twenty-three years later, my minor in computer science has helped me to do problem-solving and has at least given me a working knowledge

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up on faith. “Having lived in Europe for nearly three decades, engaging a post-Christian society missionally and reminding them that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life is one of the most thrilling aspects of doing mission,” Tepper said. “I get to cheer on fellow members of our parish while we break the sound barrier as we proclaim the gospel not only in deeds but also in words and power.” Tepper first felt called to the priesthood while in the military. “I remember being in the U.S. Army in my mid-20s, sensing a call to the chaplaincy,” he said.

Tepper, his wife, Michelle, and daughters Sophia and Zipporah celebrate his ordination.

Bishop Gregory Brewer ordains Tepper as a priest on June 21, Cathedral Church of St. Luke, Orlando.

Tepper attended seminary at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford University, England, where he met his wife, Michelle. After seminary, the two found a ministry home in Oxford. “God orchestrated it so that I remained in England after I finished my time as an ordinand at Wycliffe Hall. I served on staff at St Aldates Church, a vibrant church in Oxford’s heart,” Tepper said. “We both worked at St Aldates for seven years, and she then went on to work for Ravi Zacharias.” The couple has two daughters, Sophia, 10, and Zipporah, 7 months.

Tech team members at the Cathedral Church of St. Luke, Orlando

for whom to call and what level of expertise is needed.” Tepper said the Cathedral’s goal for its online congregation is to create a space where people can easily connect with each other and most importantly, with God. “An easy way to grow the online experience is to approach it as someone who stumbled into your church. Can they

find your service’s accessibility and user-friendliness? Our tech team does not just see itself as an add-on; team members are an integral part of leading the congregation in the liturgy,” Tepper said. As missioner, his job is to connect the Cathedral’s life with those outside its four walls who do not know Jesus or have perhaps given

In his ordination sermon, The Rev. Gregory Brewer, diocesan bishop, urged Tepper never to forget that he is a priest in the church of God. “I was overwhelmed by the weight of it,” said Tepper, “and at the same time, I was amazed that God is so kind that he will not call anyone to something he will not already provide for. I was reminded of the imagery of our great high priest Jesus Christ, ‘who has ransomed a people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and has made them a kingdom and priests to our God.’ It was such an amazing picture of the grace of God.”

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MISSION

Honduran Diocese in Dire Need By Larry J. Leech II

The Diocese of Honduras, sister diocese of the Diocese of Central Florida, needs immediate financial help. The Honduran diocese relies primarily on money from seven schools, which have been closed since mid-March when the government shuttered schools across the country. It also restricted movement of the population to allowing only two persons per vehicle, according to the U.S. Embassy in Honduras. These restrictions have not been lifted, and without financial help from the government, its sister diocese or donations from private citizens, the Diocese of Honduras cannot meet its monthly budget of $34,000. As of June 1, the diocese has depleted all its reserves. Now more than ever, Honduras needs outside help. The Diocese of Central Florida has wired more than $45,000 in aid, some from its disaster relief reserves and some from donations from 81 Florida churches.

Heads of families receiving food packages in Santa Rita at Church of the Holy Spirit (Iglesia Espiritu Santo)

Anyone wishing to help the Diocese of Honduras navigate this difficult time can donate in one of three ways:

1. Text: “DCF Honduras” (leave

a space between “DCF” and “Honduras”) to “73256” to donate via credit/debit card or bank account.

2. Online: Give via credit/debit

card or bank account at this link: www.tinyurl.com/HondurasRelief. Choose “Honduras Relief” from drop-down menu.

3. Check: Make payable to

“Diocese of Central Florida,” memo line: “Honduras Relief.” Mail to: Diocese of Central Florida, 1017 E. Robinson Street, Orlando, FL 32801.

COVID-19 has collapsed a Honduran health system that was already in a precarious condition before the pandemic. The situation has worsened as the number of cases of COVID-19 increase.

Central Florida EPISCOPALIAN

The Diocese of Central Florida first became connected to the Diocese of Honduras in 1974. Bishops Gregory O. Brewer (Central Florida) and Lloyd Allen (Honduras) have continued the relationship during their respective tenures, working

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together to help meet Allen’s goal of developing a self-supporting diocese, without the need for help from a larger diocese. However, the COVID-19 pandemic not only halted that goal but threatened the diocese’s ability to allocate money from clergy to parishioners in need. Since the start of the pandemic through the beginning of July, COVID-19 totals in Honduras have reached nearly 24,000 cases with 639 deaths. Those raw numbers may not seem high in comparison to other countries, but according to Worldometer, Honduras has a population of 9.9 million, with U.S. population listed at more than 331 million. More than 66% of Hondurans live below the poverty line, up from 50% in 2010. While most of the country remains locked down, the Honduran clergy, most of whom rely on dual employment, have been unable to work their second jobs. In late June, The Episcopal Church Finance Committee approved money to cover the Diocese of Honduras’ payroll for two months, but this fell short of covering all its monthly expenses. As of early July, Allen expected five of the seven schools to open in September, although they may only open online. He hoped for a decision soon despite the mayor of San Pedro Sula, Armando Calidonio Alvarado, extending the state of emergency there. The city is in the northwest area of the country, with a population of just under 1.5 million. In the meantime, the Episcopal Diocese of Honduras relies on God, working through the support of brothers and sisters in Christ.

Honduras has surpassed 10,000 cases of citizens infected with COVID-19. The disease is advancing in inhabitants already living in poverty. Photo: Vatican News

4 Rivers, Daughters Donate to Honduras Internationally known Daughters of the King (DOK) and Orlando-based 4 Rivers Smokehouse have contributed generously during the past two months to the multiple needs in Honduras.

Soon after hearing in an organizationwide video conference call in May about the need for face masks, DOK sent 475 masks to the impoverished country. During the conversation, The Rev. Canon Connie Sanchez, national chaplain of Honduras, stressed the urgent need for masks. Within days, Teresa Staal-Cowley, a Daughter from Washington, donated fabric and elastic to The Rev. Maria Elena Cristerna Daniel, national chaplain of Mexico, who had mentioned that country’s sewing ministry. In late May, Daniel mailed the masks to Honduras made by DOK from five chapters in Mexico. Locally, 4 Rivers has partnered with the Diocese of Central Florida to help feed the needy in Honduras. Each time any of the 81 churches in the diocese works with the restaurant firm to purchase meals on a predetermined date, 4 Rivers will donate a portion of the revenue to the Diocese of Honduras. For more information about picking a date or partnering with 4 Rivers, contact Wes Dubic, chairman of the Diocese’s Honduras Commission, at 321-279-0090 or wdubic20@hotmail.com.

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SPOTLIGHT

Hope, Melbourne’s New Rector Comes Home By Ellen Ceely “I am incredibly thankful and joyful to be back in The Episcopal Church,” The Rev. Cynthia Brust wrote as she traveled to Orlando to be received as a priest in the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida. “I’ve come home.” A native of Winnsboro, South Carolina, Rev. Cynthia is no stranger to The Episcopal Church, having grown up attending a local Episcopal church with her maternal grandmother. Although her grandfather was a Presbyterian and Brust was involved in both churches, the liturgy of The Episcopal Church captured her heart. When she was 16 years old, she announced her plan to be confirmed, and her family followed her example. “Church and ministry were central in my life,” Rev. Cynthia said. A pull toward ordination developed during her freshman year of college; she felt a strong tug toward the priesthood but did not pursue it then. After graduating from the University of South Carolina, she worked in Washington, D.C., where she served as a

consultant. As a lay leader, she served as the director of adult discipleship and a delegate to a diocesan convention. She developed several Bible study series and curricula and served as a team member for a diocesan magazine editorial board.

congressional press secretary. Here, she attended a party at Virginia Theological Seminary and met her future husband, The Rev. Canon Ellis Brust, Brust a student there (see “The Rev. Canon Ellis Brust Lives His Childhood Dream” p. 18). Within two months of meeting, they were engaged. Seven months later, they were married. The Brusts began their married life in Midland, Texas, where Rev. Cynthia served as the director of public relations at Midland Memorial Hospital until Ellis was called to the Diocese of Florida. She has held several positions both professionally and in lay ministry. After staying home while their two children were young, she jumped back into her communications profession as the manager of two political campaigns, later moving on to strategic communications for parachurch organizations and as a freelance congregational

(L): Rev. Cynthia with the Brusts’ three grandsons, Jet, Case, and Ellis, on her birthday -- an annual pictorial tradition. (Top R): Rev. Cynthia and husband Ellis taking a break during preparations for Thanksgiving dinner 2019. (Bottom R): Rev. Cynthia’s eyes smile during her Celebration of New Ministry Service on July 12, 2020 at Hope Episcopal Church in Melbourne.

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Throughout the years, Rev. Cynthia’s call toward ordination to the priesthood grew stronger and was confirmed by others, including her husband. Though she explored residential seminary options, the timing never worked out. Finally, while living in Mission Viejo, California, the opportunity to attend Fuller Theological Seminary arose, and everything came together, leading to her ordination through the Anglican Church in North America. Her time as a priest includes two separate church plants, participating as a Commission on Ministry member and serving as an ordination exam reader. In her spare time, Rev. Cynthia loves to read both fiction and nonfiction. From Ann Patchett’s Dutch House to a good English novel to anything written by Bishop N.T. Wright, she savors sinking into a good book and is currently enjoying a memoir by Ruth Reichl. She loves the arts, especially the theater, and was convinced as a teenager that she was meant for the stage. “I practiced my Academy Awards speech for years,” she said. “But the Lord had different plans!” She also enjoys gardening and traveling, but time with her family brings her the greatest joy and peace. “My passion in ministry is calling, equipping and sending out disciples who make disciples,” Rev. Cynthia said. “I believe and teach that every member is a minister called to fulfill the Great Commission using their unique experiences, abilities and spiritual gifts for the Kingdom. It is also essential to build bridges between the local church and the community. Now that I’m settling in as Rector of Hope Episcopal Church, I have great anticipation about seeking and casting God’s vision for this new season of mission and ministry in the life of this congregation. Hope is in the middle of Viera-Suntree, an area of Melbourne that is experiencing rapid growth and expansion. I see endless opportunities in this exciting mission field and tremendous potential for reaching the people of this area with the gospel.

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SPOTLIGHT

The Rev. Canon Ellis Brust Lives His Childhood Dream By Wendy Leech The Rev. Canon Ellis Brust, new Brust has experienced numerous rector of St. Andrew’s Episcopal ministries since he has spent his Church in Fort Pierce, is carrying entire professional life in the out a call birthed in him at age 11. He church. Beginning as a curate in spent that Christmas in the hospital, Midland, Texas, in 1984, Brust recovering from orthopedic surgery, “served in congregations or but an unexpected visit planted a parachurch organizations with desire in his heart. “When one of my one stint on a diocesan staff in priests walked into my room about 7 Brust Jacksonville. One of the joys of a.m. on Christmas Day, I was amazed. having served in a wide variety of I recall thinking, ‘I’d like to be that kind of person church settings is that I’ve come to appreciate someday.’” and celebrate the ways all levels of the church can Today, more than 40 years later, Brust is that support others.”

kind of person.

He believes his primary purpose as a priest

is “to equip others in the work of ministry. My particular passion is helping the local congregation to know and live out its unique calling as part of the broader church. I believe that every member has a ministry to discover, grow into, live out and eventually multiply; all are called to serve.”

Brust was raised in a Christian family, enjoying regular involvement in church ministry including the Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral Boys’ Choir in Kansas City, Missouri. His years at Virginia Theological Seminary peaked when he met his wife, Cynthia, in his senior year. “I flirted shamelessly, and it must have worked because we were engaged in two months and will celebrate “Easter 2020 during COVID lockdown … if you look between Cynthia and me, you’ll see our furry child, Gatsby!”

36 years of marriage this year,” Brust said. The couple has two grown children, a son-in-law who is also a priest and “the three most wonderful grandsons on the face of the earth,” he said. Brust is now excited to live near the “surf, sand and sun” of Florida’s Indialantic coast not far from St. Andrew’s in Fort Pierce and Hope Episcopal Church in Melbourne, where his wife now serves (see “Hope, Melbourne’s New Rector Comes Home,” p. 17). Brust is enthusiastic about his move to the Diocese of Central Florida and hopes to resume his former love of golf. “Just to be clear,” he said, “I really ‘play at’ golf. For the 27-plus handicappers out there, give me a call!” As much as he looks forward to golfing again, photography is his go-to for relaxation. “Landscapes, beaches and water are my favorite subjects. My dear family recently helped me to rediscover this art. I find it a source of joy and creativity,” he said. “Cynthia celebrates and encourages the time away to take pictures, as she knows it renews me.” Before beginning his official position at St. Andrew’s on July 1, Brust fondly recalled “taking a call from Senior Warden Andrew Hemmer, asking me to accept the vestry’s invitation to serve as rector. I led us singing the doxology—my family in Kansas City, and the vestry in Fort Pierce. From the moment Canon Holcombe mentioned St. Andrew’s to me, I have felt a connection through the Holy Spirit to the people and mission of this congregation. I’m humbled and honored to have been called by God and invited by the congregation to be rector, and I can’t wait to get to work with them.” As he lives out his childhood dream, Brust’s hope for St. Andrews is “to radiate the love of Jesus in all we do.” “Our oldest grandson, Jet (age 8), took this shot of me when I was giving him a photography lesson.” Photo: Jet Taylor

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CFE EPISCOPALIAN Central Florida

EN ESPAÑOL

Una Iglesia Unida Durante Tiempos de División Obispo Gregory O. Brewer

Recientemente leí una cita en línea que me pareció adecuada para este tiempo en la historia: “Ninguna iglesia gravita hacia la unidad. Tenemos que luchar por la unidad contra la atracción gravitacional hacia el egoísmo y la hipocresía” (Barnabas Piper). No obstante, en nuestra cultura contenciosa, tales palabras pueden ser fácilmente malinterpretadas. Luchar por la unidad no significa preparar el terreno para la batalla y separarnos de aquellos que no están de acuerdo con nosotros. No encontrará que esa manera de proceder sea respaldada por el evangelio. En cambio, y notablemente, el evangelio nos llama a no trazar frentes de batalla contra nadie. Somos llamados a amar incluso a nuestros enemigos. Los únicos enemigos con los que contendemos son contra las fuerzas sobrenaturales de la oscuridad, no contra ninguno de nuestros semejantes. Seguimos a Cristo, quien nos invita a buscarlo a Él que es “apacible y humilde de corazón, y encontrarán descanso para su alma” (Mt 11:29b). Luchar por la unidad invita a una postura diferente a la de la “cultura de cancelación” y el “nosotros contra ellos”. Nos llama a tomar una postura de un oyente curioso y dispuesto a ver al ser humano detrás de la opinión que detestamos. Así es que en vez de estar en desacuerdo con alguien inmediatamente, quizás la mejor estrategia es hacer preguntas. Aprenda y descubra lo que quieren decir. Pregunte qué los llevó a forjar esa postura. Escuche sus historias. Ore por ellos. Aprenda con ellos. Tomar esa posición no significa renunciar a la suya, es una manera de construir puentes con aquellos con los que no está de acuerdo. No encontrará esa estrategia en la televisión o en muchos de los debates políticos. No obstante, quizás haya conocido personas que han usado sus opiniones para aislarse y están hambrientos por crear conexiones, pero de la única manera que saben relacionarse es declarando y defendiendo su postura. Lo que noto es que varios sucesos recientes han causado que vivamos más aislados hoy en día de lo que recuerdo. Y no es solo el coronavirus o la política. Muchas circunstancias nos han dividido por razones de raza, vecindad y economía. Y las instituciones como el ayuntamiento cívico y la iglesia han declinado en influencia, así es que somos menos propensos que nunca a hacer amistad con personas diferentes a nosotros. Hemos perdido el sentido de “bien común” y en vez nos hemos movido a la visión de los partidos políticos

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por el bien común (hay una vasta diferencia). La política solía ser el lugar donde estábamos dispuestos a trabajar nuestras diferencias alrededor de un sistema democrático que presumía tolerancia, la capacidad de aceptar estar en desacuerdo y llegar a un acuerdo político por el servicio del bien de todos: la unidad de sus ciudadanos.

Bishop Greg Brewer

Pero hoy día “el bien común” de la sociedad se ha individualizado al “bien preferido” de algunos de sus ciudadanos a expensas de otros. Así es que todos luchamos por triunfar por nuestro punto de vista preferido, queremos más que nada que gane “nuestro lado”. Esta manera de llevar a cabo la política y orden social nos ha llevado a la crisis que existe hoy en día. Es la crisis del aislamiento, el temor, el coraje hacia otros y una lucha para preservar “nuestro modo de vida”. Jesús nos da una visión diferente. Somos llamados a recibir la unidad que Dios nos da en Jesucristo y a encontrar maneras de vivir esa unidad, en medio de las diferencias que a menudo pueden ser significativas. La visión de unidad se basa en lo que hemos recibido en Jesús: su amor, perdón y triunfo sobre el pecado, la enfermedad, la pobreza y la división. Uno de los eventos más significativos para mí el año pasado fue asistir a la puesta en pantalla del documental “Emanuel” producido por Viola Davis y Steph Curry. Este cuenta la historia de cuando Dylann Roof abrió fuego durante un círculo de oración en la iglesia Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church en Charleston, Carolina del Sur, matando a nueve hermosas personas. Pero la historia de la iglesia Emanuel nos cuenta más que la tragedia. También comparte sobre cómo la congregación tomó la decisión como iglesia de perdonar. De hecho, cuando Dylann Roof se reunió con los familiares de las víctimas, el mensaje de todos fue “Te perdonamos. Arrepiéntete y cree”. Su forma de actuar llena de gracia afirmó la verdad de su mensaje. El valiente ejemplo de esos cristianos conmocionó una nación y causó que muchos no creyentes tomaran nota. Esta era la unidad del evangelio en acción. Tal iglesia unida en el evangelio es la única forma de iglesia que puede ser la verdadera fuerza para el bien de nuestra sociedad. Esta no es una iglesia egoísta, pero una iglesia que sirve, una que tiene algo que ofrecer ante las profundas divisiones a nuestro alrededor. No siempre estaremos de acuerdo, pero Dios nos ayudará a ser personas comprometidas con ser un ejemplo de unidad en este mundo hostil y dividido. Gracia para usted,

Obispo Gregory O. Brewer

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MISSION

Honduras en urgente necesidad Por Larry J. Leech II

La Diócesis de Honduras, compañera de la Diócesis de la Florida Central, necesita ayuda financiera inmediata. La diócesis hondureña depende primordialmente del ingreso de siete escuelas, las cuales fueron clausuradas desde mediados de marzo cuando el gobierno cerró las escuelas alrededor del país. También restringió la movilización de la población permitiendo solo dos personas por vehículo, según la Embajada de EE. UU. en Honduras. Estas restricciones no han sido eliminadas y sin ayuda financiera del gobierno, de su compañera diócesis ni de donaciones de los ciudadanos privados, la Diócesis de Honduras no puede satisfacer su presupuesto mensual de $34,000. Para el 1 de junio la diócesis había usado todas sus reservas. Ahora más que nunca Honduras necesita ayuda del exterior. La Diócesis de la Florida Central le ha transferido más de $45,000 en ayuda de su reserva para desastres y de donaciones de 81 iglesias de Florida.

Cualquier que desee ayudar a la Diócesis de Honduras a navegar este momento difícil puede hacerlo en una de tres maneras:

1. Texto: “DCF Honduras” (deje

espacio entre “DCF” y “Honduras”) al “73256” para donar con tarjeta de débito o crédito o una cuenta bancaria.

2. En línea: Puede dar con

tarjeta de débito/crédito o una cuenta bancaria, al enlace: www. tinyurl.com/HondurasRelief. Escoja “Honduras Relief” entre las opciones del menú.

3. Cheque: Haga cheque

pagadero a “Diócesis de la Florida Central”, en la línea de memo debe escribir: “Honduras Relief”. Envíelo por correo a: Diócesis de la Florida Central, 1017 E. Robinson Street, Orlando, FL 32801 La Diócesis de la Florida Central se conectó inicialmente con la Diócesis de Honduras en 1974. Los obispos Gregory O. Brewer (de la Florida Central) y Lloyd Allen (Honduras) han continuado la relación durante

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sus respectivos cargos, han trabajado juntos para mantener la meta de Allen de desarrollar una diócesis autosuficiente sin la necesidad de ayuda de una diócesis mayor. Sin embargo, la pandemia del covid-19 no solo detuvo esa meta sino que amenazó la habilidad de la diócesis de hacer pasar dinero del clero a los feligreses en necesidad. Desde el comienzo de la pandemia hasta principios de julio, los casos de covid-19 en Honduras alcanzan cerca de 24,000 con 639 muertes. Esas cifras quizás no lucen altas en comparación con otros países, pero de acuerdo con el Worldometer, Honduras tiene una población de 9.9 millones; EE. UU. cuenta con 331 millones. Más del 66% de Honduras vive bajo el nivel de pobreza, lo cual es un aumento ya que era 50% en el 2010. Mientras gran parte del país permanece en cuarentena, el clero hondureño--el cual gran parte cuenta con segundos empleos--no ha podido ejercer en sus trabajos secundarios. A finales de junio, el Comité de Finanzas de la Iglesia Episcopal aprobó fondos para cubrir el pago a los empleados de la Diócesis de Honduras por dos meses, mas se quedó sin recursos para cubrir los gastos mensuales. Para principios de julio Allen esperaba que cinco de las siete escuelas abran en septiembre, aunque solo sea en línea. Él espera que el alcalde de San Pedro Sula, Armando Calidonio Alvarado, tome una decisión pronto extendiendo el estado de emergencia en el lugar. La ciudad está en el área noroeste del país y cuenta con una población de alrededor de 1.5 millones. In the meantime, the Episcopal Diocese of Honduras relies on God, working through the support of brothers and sisters in Christ.

4 Rivers, Daughters donan a Honduras

La internacionalmente conocida organización Daughters of the King (DOK) y el restaurante con base en Orlando, 4 Rivers Smokehouse han contribuido generosamente durante los pasados dos meses a las múltiples necesidades en Honduras.

Luego de escuchar el pasado mayo una llamada de conferencia de la organización, sobre la necesidad de mascarillas, la DOK envió 475 mascarillas al empobrecido país. Durante la conversación, el Rev. Canon Connie Sánchez, capellán nacional de Honduras, enfatizó sobre la urgente necesidad de mascarillas. En pocos días Teresa Staal-Cowley, una miembro de las Daughter de Washington, donó tela y elástico a la Rev. María Elena Cristerna Daniel, la capellana nacional de México que había mencionado sobre el ministerio de costura en su país. A finales de mayo, Cristerna Daniel envió a Honduras las mascarillas hechas por cinco capítulos de la DOK en México. Localmente, 4 Rivers se asoció con la Diócesis de la Florida Central para ayudar a los necesitados en Honduras. Cada vez que alguna de las 81 iglesias de la diócesis colabora con la firma de restaurantes para comprar alimentos en predeterminada fecha, 4 Rivers donará una porción de las ganancias a la Diócesis de Honduras. Para más información sobre las fechas o para posibles eventos en conjunto con 4 Rivers, contacte a Wes Dubic, director de la Comisión Honduras de la Diócesis, en el teléfono 321-279-0090 o wdubic20@ hotmail.com. www.cfdiocese.org

M AYO R D O M Í A

La mayordomía: Un estilo de vida Por Ellen Ceely

a mayordomía quizás sea una de las ideas más malinterpretadas en la iglesia. Las iglesias no la discuten mucho y muchos probablemente piensan que se trata de una manera de dar dinero adicional para ayudar a alguna necesidad específica. Sin embargo, La Nora Holcombe cree que la mayordomía (o administración) es una manera de vivir. “La mayordomía significa alegres acciones de agradecimiento como respuesta a todo lo que Dios nos ha dado”, manifestó ella. “No podemos separar la mayordomía de otros componentes de nuestra vida”. El Episcopal Network for Stewardship (TENS, por sus siglas en inglés) define la mayordomía como “la práctica de la gratitud y la generosidad” en respuesta a nuestro amoroso y generoso Dios. Utilizando a TENS como recurso, Holcombe y el comité de mayordomía compartieron presentaron y aclararon el tema de la mayordomía en la St. David’s by-the-Sea en Cocoa Beach en el 2017. El concepto se convirtió en un conjunto de acciones durante todo el año. Los estudios bíblicos cambiaron la perspectiva de la congregación e impactaron sus vidas. “La educación sobre la mayordomía se enfoca en la necesidad de dar del dador, no en la necesidad de la iglesia de

www.cfdiocese.org

recibir”, dijo Holcombe. Ella también señaló: “Los programas de mayordomía son guiados por la gracia, no por el remordimiento. Remueva la obligación de su lenguaje de dar. No se trata de dar al presupuesto de una iglesia”. Para transformar lo que podría ser un concepto de generaciones, Holcombe cree que la educación es la clave. “No hay mucha educación en la iglesia [sobre la mayordomía], así es que mucha gente piensa que solo se trata de dinero”, dijo ella. “No minimizamos los componentes importantes de la mayordomía— tiempo, talento y tesoro—pero continuamente le recordamos a los feligreses que la mayordomía es un estilo de vida”. Hacer que las personas laicas se envuelvan en el comité de mayordomía ayuda a los feligreses a entender y aceptar esta nueva manera de pensar. Los feligreses comparten sus historias lo cual a su vez ayuda a otros en su congregación a adoptar estos principios bíblicos como un estilo de vida.

La St. David’s tuvo en su atrio un tablero de 24” x 24” con un logo de mayordomía y con el tema “la mayordomía un estilo de vida”. El enfoque cambió anualmente para mantener el mensaje fresco. Un artículo sobre administración o mayordomía aparecía mensualmente en el boletín de la iglesia. Durante los anuncios los miembros del comité de mayordomía daban anuncios de dos o tres minutos informando a la congregación sobre el progreso de la iglesia. Un fuerte enfoque en los alcances motivó a los miembros en una de las facetas de la mayordomía. Luego de aprender sobre el impacto positivo del adiestramiento en la

mayordomía en la St. David’s, el Rev. Tom Trees, rector de la St. James en Leesburg le pidió a Holcombe que presentara un mensaje sobre la mayordomía a su congregación. El 2 de julio ella compartió con los miembros de la St. James: La mayordomía: Principios de un estilo de vida.

Si le interesa invitar a Holcombe para hablar sobre la mayordomía en su iglesia, por favor contáctela a: lhhmom@gmail.com.

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ST E WA R D S H I P

Stewardship: A Way of Living

tewardship might be one of the most misunderstood ideas in the church. Churches don’t discuss it much, and most people probably think it’s only about giving a little extra money to help with a specific need. But La Nora Holcombe, longtime member of St. David’s by-theSea, Cocoa Beach and married for more than 46 years to The Rev. Canon Scott Holcombe, canon to the ordinary, believes stewardship is a way of living. She helped the church initiate year-round stewardship, actively participating in the Stewardship Committee. “Stewardship involves joyous acts of thanksgiving in response to all that God has given us,” she said. “We can’t separate stewardship from the other components of our life.” The Episcopal Network for Stewardship (TENS) defines stewardship as “a practice of gratitude and generosity” in response to our loving and generous God. Utilizing TENS as a resource, Holcombe and the stewardship committee shared stewardship enlightenment at St. David’s by-the-Sea in Cocoa Beach in 2017. The concepts turned into year-round actions.

impacted their lives. “Stewardship education focuses on the need of the giver to give, not the need of the church to receive,” Holcombe said. But she also stressed, “Stewardship programs are guided by grace, not guilt. Remove obligation from your giving language. It is not about giving to a church budget.” To change what could be a generations-old concept, Holcombe believes education is the key. “There is not a lot of education at church [about stewardship], so most people think it is only about money,” she said. “We don’t minimize the important components of stewardship – time, talent and treasure – but continually remind parishioners that stewardship is a way of living.”

Biblical studies changed the congregation’s perspective and

Getting laypeople involved to lead the stewardship committee helps parishioners understand and accept this new way of thinking. Parishioners share their stories, which in turn helps others in the congregation catch the rhythm of

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these biblical principles as a way of life. St. David’s kept a 24-by-24inch foam board in the narthex, sporting a stewardship logo and the “Stewardship is a way of life” theme. The focus changed annually to keep the message fresh. An article about stewardship appeared monthly in the church newsletter. During service announcements, stewardship committee members gave two- to three-minute announcements informing the congregation of the church’s progress. A strong focus on outreach motivated members on one of the facets of stewardship.

After learning of the positive impact of stewardship training at St. David’s, The Rev. Tom Trees, rector of St. James in Leesburg, asked Holcombe to present her stewardship message to his congregation. On July 2, she shared the Stewardship: A Way of Living principles with the St. James members.

If you are interested in inviting La Nora Holcombe to present on stewardship at your church, please contact her at lhhmom@gmail.com.

www.cfdiocese.org

D I O C E S A N CA L E N D A R

BISHOP BREWER VISITATION SCHEDULE

SATURDAY, AUG. 22, 2020 Conference on Ministry

Episcopal visitations will provisionally resume in the fall of 2020 subject to COVID-19.

Church of the Messiah, Winter Garden

Be on the lookout for a visitation listing in the next issue of the Central Florida Episcopalian.

10 A.M. - 3 P.M. REGISTER: $10 registration fee includes the cost of lunch.

Weekly video reflections by Bishop Brewer are available to view at www.tinyurl.com/BishopBrewerReflections.

To register, please email at eceely@cfdiocese.org or call Ellen at (407) 423-3567 ext. 317 This conference is required for all who seek ordination.

ORDINATIONS

Thurs., Aug. 6 Orlando, Bishop's Oratory, Diocesan Office 10 a.m. The Rev. Porter Case Taylor Reception to the Priesthood www.facebook.com/CFDiocese* Sat., Aug. 22 Ocala, Grace Episcopal Church 5 p.m. The Rev. Jose Daniel Pinell Mendieta Ordination to the Priesthood www.facebook.com/GraceEpiscopalChurchOcala*

MONDAY, OCT. 19 WEDNESDAY, OCT. 21, 2020 Annual Clergy Conference* Canterbury Retreat & Conference Center, Oviedo

FRIDAY, FEB. 5 - SATURDAY, FEB. 6, 2021 52nd Annual Diocesan Convention*

DEACON ORDINATIONS

Sat., Sept. 12 Orlando, Cathedral Church of St. Luke 11 a.m. www.facebook.com/CCSLOrlando* * Due to COVID-19 safety measures, seating is limited at these ordination services but your prayers and participation via live stream video are encouraged.

CELEBRATION OF NEW MINISTRY Sun., Aug. 30 a.m.

Cocoa Beach, St. David's by-the-Sea Episcopal Church The Rev. Porter Case Taylor Installation as Rector

Bishop Brewer’s visitation dates are subject to change. Please refer to www.cfdiocese.org for the most current visitation listing.

www.cfdiocese.org

Ocean Center, Daytona Beach

*Details for in person and/or virtual attendance at these events will be forthcoming.

RADVO CONFERENCE 2020 RESCHEDULED Ancient Order. Radical Vocation. Priests for a new century

NEW DATE: SEPT. 23-25, 2021 Dallas, TX

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July / August 2020

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EPISCOPALIAN Volume 123, No.4 / July / August 2020

Una Iglesia Unida Durante Tiempos de División

Honduran Diocese in Dire Need

All Saints’ New Ministry Expresses God’s Love Through Action

YMI Offers Community Among Youth Leaders

A United Church in a Divided Time

— M AT T H EW 2 5 : 3 5 —

“for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me”

3 9 11 16 19