Central Florida Episcopalian Newspaper November, 2016

CENTRALFLORIDAEPISCOPALIAN NEWS FROM THE EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA • WWW.CFDIOCESE.ORG • Volume 118, No. 6 • Nov. 2016

Graham Kings is Coming to Town Rev. Susan Worked with Mother Teresa Amazing Things Happen When We Wait on the Lord Vacation Bible School Touches Lives in Belleview First Responders to Critical Incidents Training

Holy Cross, Sanford sent a team to assist flood victims

The Diocese of Central Florida The Right Reverend Gregory O. Brewer, Bishop Serving 15 counties through 86 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 over 85 million Christians in over 165 countries around the world

Central Florida Episcopalian The Rt. Rev. Gregory O. Brewer. Bishop

Contents Bishop Brewer’s Thanksgiving Letter to You ................................................................... Page 3 Dr. Graham Kings Is Coming to Convention ................................................................... Page 4 La Divinia Gracia in Honduras Says Thank You ............................................................... Page 5 Convention Is Coming Soon.......................................................................................... Page 6 Remembering Dorothy Adams ...................................................................................... Page 8 Time With Mother Teresa .............................................................................................. Page 9 Holy Cross Aids Flood Victims in Louisiana .................................................................. Page 10 Amazing Things Happen When We Wait on the Lord...................................................... Page 12 Planting Seeds for the Future...................................................................................... Page 14 St. Mark’s Is Making a Happy Place for Children.......................................................... Page 14 Vacation Bible School Touches Many Lives ................................................................. Page 15 The Diocese Holds Its First Critical Incident Stress Seminar ......................................... Page 16 Father Jason Murbarger Accepts Call to St. Mary’s in Daytona...................................... Page 18 Deacon Richard Gonzalez Now Serving at Messiah in Winter Garden ............................ Page 18 St. Luke’s Bell Tower Is Honored ................................................................................. Page 19 Meet Beverly Jennings From the Diocese Office ........................................................... Page 19

The Rt. Rev. John W. Howe Retired The Rt. Rev. Hugo Pina-Lopez Retired The Rt. Rev. John Said Retired The Rt. Rev. William H. Folwell, Retired

Diocesan Calendar of Events ...................................................................................... Page 20 Bishop Brewer’s Visitation Schedule .......................................................................... Page 20 Canterbury and Camp Wingmann Calendars ............................................................... Page 21 Bruna’s Story–São Paulo ........................................................................................... Page 22

The Rev. Canon Timothy Nunez Canon to the Ordinary The Rev. Canon Dr. Justin Holcomb

Five Newly Ordained Deacons Share Their Experiences ................................................ Page 24 Your Support Counts–A Camp Wingmann Update........................................................ Page 26 Historic Cocoa Tour Makes St. Mark’s a Stop............................................................... Page 27

Canon for Vocations The Ven. Kristi Alday, Archdeacon

The 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 notices two months before event to:

Mr. Earl Pickett, Diocesan Administrator Mr. Erick Perez, Subscription Manager

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CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

The Central Florida Episcopalian 1017 E. Robinson Street • Orlando, FL 32801-2023 Email: eperez@cfdiocese.org • www.cfdiocese.org

Tel.: (407) 423-3567 • Fax: (407) 872-0006

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BISHOP BREWER

A Thanksgiving Letter To You For Our Brothers And Sisters In Christ In Honduras

By Bishop Brewer

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

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or more than four decades, the Diocese of Central Florida’s companion relationship with the Diocese of Honduras has helped Episcopalians in both countries do the work that Jesus summons us to perform. It fills me with great joy to witness how this partnership grows stronger year by year through mission trips, participation in each other’s diocesan conventions, fair trade opportunities, fellowship, and prayer.

Our 2017 Diocesan Convention will focus on the transformative power of international mission with a theme of “Forming Partnerships for the Great Commission” (Matthew 28:1820). Our deep-rooted connection to the Diocese of Honduras serves as a primary example of us heeding God’s call to share the gospel of Jesus and to be an active participant in the wider global communion. There is no doubt that our engagement in Honduras has fostered discipleship, faithfulness, and great strides toward self-sufficiency. Likewise, those from our diocese who have opened their hearts and hands to service in Honduras have experienced their lives and faiths enriched in immeasurable ways.

Historically, the churches in the Diocese of Central Florida

earmark their Thanksgiving offering each year to be used for mission in the Diocese of Honduras. This year, the Honduras Commission has determined that the most pressing need is to alleviate the situation they are currently facing within the diocese, specifically with Migrants and Migrant returnees.

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The goal of the program is to develop a pilot plan where Bishop Greg Brewer migrants returning under the interior repatriation process will be welcomed back home and given a place to stay where he or she may shower and have a meal of some sort. This ensures returning migrants are treated with humane dignity.

In this time of Thanksgiving, we have the opportunity to demonstrate our gratitude to God for all he has provided by offering financial assistance to our dear friends in our companion diocese. Your generosity will be a blessing for generations to come.

Grace to you,

Gregory O. Brewer Bishop

Want to hear more from Bishop Brewer, visit his blog at www.cfdiocese.org/bishopsblog/

CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

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REACHING OUT

2015 HONDURAS Thanksgiving-Offering Recipient Extends Thanks

Your giving made a huge difference for La Divina Gracia church

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ast year, the Honduras Thanksgiving offering was designated to assist a church with some much-needed restorations. La Divina Gracia in San Pedro Sula received the funds and sent a thank-you letter explaining their use.

Brothers and Sisters of Diocese of Central Florida, In the name of La Divina Gracia congregation, we truly thank you for your prayers and economic support that helped embellish our church. The funds were used to buy 10 pews and restore the entire roof and ceiling of our church.

We really appreciate your cooperation with our church, and you are always welcome at La Divina Gracia. We also send our best regards to the group that visited us during the restoration.

Blessings,

Rev. Jackie de Ruiz

Assistant Deacon

Nelly Rubi de Urbina Senior Warden

Dr. Graham Kings to Be Our Guest Speaker at Convention in January

The Rt. Rev. Kings is the first-ever mission theologian in the Anglican Communion

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raham Kings is an evangelical An-

glican of the centrist variety— in favor of women in ministry, against blessing same-sex relationships, but unwilling to let a split in the church be forced upon him over that point. And above all, Kings is passionate for a mission-driven church.

Kings grew up in a family that only nominally belonged to the church. From ages 7 to 12, he sang in the church choir. “I knew God existed, but I had no idea you could have a personal relationship with him,” he says. After high school, he went into the army for one year, during which he felt miles away from God. Oxford was his next stop, to study law. There he got to know some committed Christians. “I started reading the Gospels again, and the Jesus I met in the Gospels matched the Jesus I saw in the lives of those Christians.”

Someone asked Kings to come to an outreach service and there, on Sunday evening, January 20, 1974, he committed his life to the Lord. The next Wednesday, he met his future wife, and

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CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

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DIOCESAN FAMILY that Friday, he attended a missionary prayer group of Operation Mobilization. It was not just your average week!

In 1980, Kings heard on the radio the story of Jean Waddell, a British missionary who had been held hostage in Iran for several months after the revolution of the ayatollahs. Inspired by her courage, but even more by her will to forgive, Kings volunteered for her sending organization, the Church Mission Society. After his curacy in London, he and his wife felt called to work overseas in mission.

“The center of gravity of world Christianity has shifted toward the south. We need to hear those voices in the church,” says Kings, 61. “I hope that we can bring the vitality of theology from Africa, Asia, and Latin America into the Western church.”

What is “new” about theology from Africa, Asia, and Latin America is that it often arises from a

“Those years in Kenya changed me completely,” Kings says. “I was a Barthian in theology.

‘Religion’ was a dirty word. God’s revelation came from an entirely different world, from above, and would turn all things upside down.

In Africa, I encountered theologians who would build upon what was already there. When the gospel enters a certain culture, it confirms some aspects of that culture, transforms some, and challenges others.”

In July 2015, Kings gave up his bishopric, of Sherborne in Dorset, and was appointed the first-ever Mission Theologian of the Anglican Communion. This research post is a partnership between the Archbishop of Canterbury, Durham University, and the Church Mission Society. “It’s a partnership to find and publish new voices,” Kings adds.

He has set up theology seminars in Bangalore, Nairobi, and Buenos Aires. The idea is to offer developing world theologians three-month sabbaticals to develop research theses into chapters of books. They will work, expense-free, at colleges in Oxbridge, Durham, or Virginia. “It’s to give them the space to write,” Kings explains.

A series of books will be published over seven years on various aspects of theology such as the church, Christ, and atonement.

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controversy, renewing theology, and changing the shape of the church,” Kings says.

He predicts that the Anglican Church will be reshaped by the life of poverty experienced by those in the developing world, now the heart (in terms of growth) of world Christianity. “The center of Christianity has shifted from the north to the south of the world,” he said. “That echoes the shift of early Christianity from a Jewish to a Hellenistic culture. The church in the north can learn from the church in the south about the spiritual depths involved in surviving persecution.”

With all the controversy in the Anglican Communion family over the last years, Kings is in a “realistically hopeful” mood. He expects a lot from Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury, who took over from Rowan Williams in 2013.

“Most of the leadership of the English church now consists of people who are theologically orthodox and mission-driven,” Kings says.

“I am not optimistic. That is a human trait. Hope is from God, rooted in suffering and in scripture.

Romans 15, verse 13, has become a key text for me: ‘May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing.’”

context of poverty and persecution. Because of that different context, theologians from those areas read the Bible in a different light and find things that had previously been overlooked.

This is reminiscent of Paul, who describes to the Galatians how the church was flooded with Christians from among the Gentiles. They were full of the Spirit, but they were not circumcised.

That caused Paul to revisit the Old Testament, where he discovered that Abraham had already been justified before he was circumcised. We are accepted by God through faith, not through works of the law. “Those new voices from Africa, Asia, and Latin America are doing the same as the early Gentile Christians: causing

If you would like to learn more about Graham Kings and his missions work, please visit http:// www.missiontheologyanglican.org/index.php.

On the site you can explore pictures, artwork, articles, and poetry.

Sources: www.fulcrum-anglican.org.uk/ articles/interview-with-graham-kingsdutch-perspectives/, 2015; www.missiontheologyanglican.org/, 2015; and www.dur.ac.uk/theology.

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DIOCESAN FAMILY

48th Annual Convention Is Coming Soon

Pre-Convention Deanery Meeting Schedule – January, 2017

Information for Attendees

The 2017 Convention will meet Friday, January 27, and Saturday, January 28, at Trinity Episcopal Preparatory School, 5700 Trinity Prep Lane, Winter Park, Florida 32792.

Here are some highlights of the proposed agenda: • Registration of delegates and non-voting attendees Friday afternoon & Saturday morning

• Convention Eucharist: Friday, January 27, at 5 p.m.

The Rt. Rev. Gregory O. Brewer is the celebrant. The Rt. Rev. Graham Kings, Mission Theologian of the Anglican Communion, is the preacher.

• First plenary session Friday, immediately following Eucharist.

Delegates will cast first ballot for elected offices • Fellowship dinner Friday evening in Dickinson Athletic Center at Trinity Prep • Saturday - Displays from our diocesan organizations, ministries and missions, international mission agencies, schools, and seminaries • Second plenary session opens with Worship and Welcome to the Convention • Bishop Brewer’s Convention Address • Testimonials from missionaries and people involved in international mission endeavors • Presentation and adoption of 2017 diocesan budget

• Clergy spouse luncheon hosted by Mrs. Laura Lee Brewer • Noon Day Worship followed by Convention box lunch • Bishop’s appointments to Commission on Ministry, Disciplinary Board,

Committee on Constitution and Canons; recognition of those whose terms of office are completed; commissioning of those elected to office

• Invitation to 49th Annual Diocesan Convention • Closing Worship

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Sunday, January 8 at 4 p.m.

St. Jude’s Episcopal Church, Orange City Dean, three-year term President, one-year term (to fill unexpired term of Dorothy Adams)

Central Deanery: Thursday, January 12 at 7 p.m.

Location: Church of the Good Shepherd, Maitland Northwest Deanery: Saturday, January 14 at 10 a.m.

Location: Shepherd of the Hills Church, Lecanto Deanery Election: President, three-year term

Materials for discussion at the pre-Convention deanery meeting, including a proposed 2018 diocesan budget, will be distributed to delegates electronically and posted on the Convention website. No printed materials will be provided for the meeting.

Offices to be elected at the meetings are:

• Introduction of Visitors, Seminarians and New Clergy

• Memorial resolution and observance for clergy who have died since the 47th Annual Convention

Northeast Deanery:

Location: Deanery Elections:

Southwest Deanery: Sunday, January 15 at 4 p.m.

Location: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Winter Haven Deanery Election: Dean, three-year term

• Reports on elections to office and continued balloting

• Presentation and possible adoption of Resolutions and/or Changes in Diocesan Canons

Southeast Deanery: Saturday, January 7 at 10 a.m.

Location: Holy Faith Episcopal Church, Port St. Lucie Deanery Election: President, three-year term

President, Northeast Deanery President, Southeast Deanery President, Northwest Deanery Dean, Northeast Deanery Dean, Southwest Deanery 2 Lay members at large Clergy member at large

Any delegate who is unable to attend the meeting in his/her deanery is welcome to attend another deanery meeting.

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DIOCESAN FAMILY

48th Annual Diocesan Convention Committee on Nominations and Elections Offices to be elected at this year’s convention are Standing Committee; Diocesan Board; General Convention Deputy; and Trustee, University of the South.

STANDING COMMITTEE

The Standing Committee is a council of advice to the bishop. When there is no bishop, the Standing Committee is the ecclesiastical authority for all proper purposes. The Standing Committee generally meets monthly or at the special call of the president of either the Standing Committee or the bishop. The Standing Committee serves as the Resolutions Committee for all regular and special meetings of the Convention.

To Be Elected: One clergyperson to a four-year term One layperson to a three-year term DIOCESAN BOARD

The Diocesan Board is the Board of Directors of the corporation known as the Diocese of Central Florida Inc. The affairs of the diocese not falling within the exclusive province of the bishop shall be managed by the Diocesan Board. The Diocesan Board generally meets monthly or at the call of the ecclesiastical authority. Board members are expected to serve on a commission or committee of the diocese, which meets at the call of the chair.

To Be Elected: One clergyperson to a three-year term Two laypersons to a three-year term TRUSTEE, UNIVERSITY OF THE SOUTH

Trustees of the University of the South elect and appoint the Board of Regents, a Chancellor, the Vice Chancellor, and a Chaplain. Trustees hold the land in trust for the university, promote church support and student enrollment, and approve or reject

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plans for growth and development. They meet annually and ratify the work of the Board of Regents.

To Be Elected: One clergyperson to a three-year term DEPUTIES TO GENERAL CONVENTION 2018

The Diocese of Central Florida shall be entitled to representation in the House of Deputies at the General Convention of The Episcopal Church which is to convene in Austin, Texas, July 5-13, 2018, by not more than four ordained persons, presbyters, or deacons canonically resident in the diocese; and not more than four laypersons, confirmed adult communicants of this church, in good standing in the diocese but not necessarily domiciled in the diocese.

To Be Elected: Four clergypersons as deputies Four laypersons as deputies Four clergypersons as alternates Four laypersons as alternates Names may be submitted for nomination with the understanding that the nominee has consented to serve in the office if elected. Clergy and laity may submit their own names for nomination. Nominations should include a short résumé (250 words or less) including the nominee’s qualifications and any other pertinent information, along with a photograph of the nominee to be published on the diocesan website and in print media.

The committee reserves the right to edit any résumé of undue length. Nominees will be listed on the diocesan convention website and in print media in the order in which the committee receives them. Nominees will be placed on the ballot in alphabetical order.

Nominations must be received no later than December 2, 2016. in order to receive consideration for publication prior to convention and to have the nominee’s name printed on the ballot. Copies of nomination forms are available on the diocesan website, www.cfdiocese.org.

Send nominations to the diocesan office to the attention of Sarah Caprani, 1017 E. Robinson St., Orlando, Florida 32801 or via email, scaprani@cfdiocese.org.

CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

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DIOCESAN FAMILY

This Holiday, Give Your Team a Night to Remember

Remembering DOROTHY ADAMS

Fourth Annual

Holiday Wild Game Dinner at Canterbury How about treating your church leadership to something different for your end-of-the year holiday gathering—something a bit out of the norm, but fun, memorable, and classy?

Her sudden death saddens us all

Come and experience a night to remember at Canterbury Retreat and Conference Center’s Fourth Annual Holiday Wild Game Dinner.

orothy Adams was born August 8, 1947, to Bill and Louise Adams at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa. She completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Rollins College and began her teaching career at Howard Junior High School in Orlando. For a time, she lived in Charlotte and then Fayetteville, North Carolina, where she continued to teach.

The event will be held Saturday, December 17 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

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After returning to Florida, Dorothy became the guidance counselor and English teacher at Deland High School, working there for 28 years. Her other interests included reading and traveling, but most of all, spending time with family and friends.

Dorothy contributed her time and talents selflessly in her roles as diocesan board member and president of the Northeast Deanery. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, daughter, and sister, and a dedicated leader at the Church of the Holy Presence in DeLand. Dorothy served the Lord with all her heart in many different capacities.

David Teems. David has a knack for story-telling, and his incredible guitar virtuosity makes him a highly sought-after entertainer who plays a range of styles, from classic folk-rock to traditional holiday music.

You and your team will feast on succulent entrées such as venison, wild boar, elk, and game hens as well as a variety of tasty side dishes. And you won’t want to miss out on our to-die-for homemade desserts!

You can sponsor a table of eight for just $200, and a table for 10 is $250. Where else can you offer your church staff, vestry, and key volunteers such a classy, unique event with great ambiance, homemade food, and live entertainment, all for just $25 a person? Individual tickets are $30 each.

This will be an ideal event for churchteam celebrations from just a few to up to 30 people.

Most churches have small staffs, so on holiday occasions they wind up meeting in restaurants (too noisy, impersonal, and crowded) or in homes (too much work to clean up and not particularly fancy or special).

In addition to great food, you will be blessed by live musical entertainment provided by Nashville recording artist

Reserve your team tables now! Send us your church logo, and we will make custom table headers for each table you reserve.

To make your reservation, contact Sue Grosso, Director of Guest Services, at sue@canterburyretreat.org; or call the office at (407) 365-5571. You can also reserve online at www.canterburyretreat.org/events.

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CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

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The members of the diocesan board of the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida express their deep sadness at the death of fellow board member and friend, Dorothy Adams, on July 23, 2016. She was only 68. May light perpetual shine upon her.

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he dinner will be an elegant catered event with live-music entertainment and great food that is slightly different from the typical turkey and ham you’ve come to expect at holiday functions.

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DIOCESAN FAMILY

My Time With Mother Teresa of Calcutta The Rev. Susan McCaffrey of Grace Episcopal in Port Orange Shares Her Special Story

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n Sunday, Sept. 11, 2016, the Rev. Susan McCaffrey made a presentation about her call to serve alongside Mother Teresa of Calcutta. A deacon at Grace Episcopal Church in Port Orange, Rev. Susan spoke before a full house that day. Some of her experiences are highlighted in this article.

MY EXPERIENCE WITH MOTHER TERESA One Sunday afternoon after coming home from church, I watched a televised story about Mother Teresa and her order. It was then I felt the Holy Spirit calling me to travel to India to work with her and her order, the Missionaries of Charity. Although I had only $5.27 in my savings account, the Holy Spirit, through the love and support

of my church, family, and friends, was able to fulfill my dream of working in Calcutta, India.

I first met Mother Teresa on January 6, 1988, at Mother’s House in Calcutta. I stood next to her, and she said, “My tall American volunteer, give me your hand.” I held out my open hand to her, and she took my fingers and closed them, one at a time, to make a fist. As she closed each one, she said, “We – do – it – for – Jesus.” Then she held my fist up high and said, “My daughter, you have the whole answer right here in the palm of your hand.”

While in India I worked in four of Mother Teresa’s homes: Kaligot, her home for the destitute and dying; Prem Daan, her house for tuberculosis patients and those who were dying; Shishu Bhavan, the house for orphans, where Mother said to me, “My daughter, we fight abortion with adoption”; and Telegar, her house for lepers, where the most untouchable people make the habits and saris for the most touchable people of the world: Mother’s order.

I told her I did, she asked me what Jesus said. Just then, I looked into her chapel where hanging on the wall was a large crucifix with the words, “I Thirst, I quench.”

One day while I was working at Kaligot, a woman was brought to us who had been living on the streets. Near death, she was full of worms.

After cleaning her and trying to give her some food, I knew there was nothing else I could do.

As I cradled the dying woman in my arms, she looked up at me and said, “Boni [water], Auntie, Boni.” As I reached down to give her a cup of water, the woman looked into my eyes, released a sigh, and died.

Before I left India, Mother said to me: “My daughter, your America is rich materialistically, but poor spiritually. I want you to promise me that when you go back to your America, you will tell anyone who will listen what you have heard, what you have seen, and what you have done in India. I will pray for you, and you will pray for me.”

That night I went to Mother Teresa’s house to pray. She greeted me and asked if I had worked that day, and if I had seen Jesus at Kaligot. When

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I looked at Mother and said, “Jesus said, ‘I thirst,’ Mother.” She took me by the hand, and we went into the chapel where we knelt and prayed. Mother reached into her sari and gave me a set of rosary beads, and said, “Now you can pray like us.”

Per Mother Teresa’s request, Rev. Susan is available to visit your parish or group to share her story. You can contact her by calling (386) 9560346.

CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

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REACHING OUT

One Small Church Helps Another In August, parishes in Sanford and Louisiana united to aid victims of a catastrophic flood

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ain began falling in southeast Louisiana on August 11 and continued throughout the weekend and into the next week. At times, more than three inches fell within an hour.

East Baton Rouge and nearby parishes experienced more than 20 inches of rain, and in some places 30 inches of rain fell in just 42 hours.

Livingston Parish, southeast of Baton Rouge, is home to 130,000 people. Denham Springs, a city of about 10,000 residents, is the biggest city in fast-growing Livingston Parish. It is a convenient commuting distance to nearby Baton Rouge.

Because 1983 was the last time that the nearby Amite River flooded, very few families and businesses carried flood insurance. However, in mid-August this year, the tranquil Amite River, normally 50 yards across at its widest point, rapidly rose to a rampaging river, five feet past

the flood stage and 10 miles across. Its branches, once small creeks, became destructive rivers.

Of the 130,000 Livingston Parish residents, 117,000 were directly affected by flooding, and 70 percent of homes and businesses were destroyed.

In Denham Springs, 90 percent of the homes and businesses were destroyed or significantly damaged. More than 40,000 homes were destroyed.

The flood affected homes new and old, elegant and modest. Few were spared.

Rescue operations saved 20,000 people from the flood. Water rose nearly a foot an hour in most areas. Remarkably, only 11 deaths were attributed to flooding. If this had been a hurricane, it would have been the eighth worst in history. The storm, except for the loss of life, was worse than Katrina.

The Red Cross estimates that it is likely the worst natural disaster since Superstorm Sandy, which resulted in costs of at least $30 billion, with some estimates as high as $65 billion. The recovery of the area is just beginning and will go on for years.

Recently, a team from Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Sanford, led by the Rev. Dan Smith, traveled to Denham Springs from August 23 to August 26 to provide assistance to the victims of recent floods and help with recovery operations. Members of the Rotary Club of Lake Mary were also part of the parish team.

Fr. Mitch Smith of Trinity, New Orleans, with Chris Ward, Fr. Dan Smith, and Ginger Leslie from Holy Cross, Sanford

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CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

Fr. Dan Smith with Holy Cross, Sanford, Fla., Volunteers Ginger Leslie and Bettie Sonnenberg at St. Francis Episcopal Church, Denham Springs, La.

The local Florida Publix and Home Depot were generous partners, providing water, bug spray, sun screen, gloves, masks, safety goggles, rolls of duct tape, first aid kits, and other materials needed for recovery operations.

Arriving in New Orleans on Tuesday, August 23, the team linked up with Father Dan’s son, the Rev. Mitchell Smith of Trinity Episcopal Church, New Orleans. They immediately began defrosting 450 pounds of frozen chicken. Father Mitch is a member of the Swine Crew, a local BBQ club in New Orleans. The previous week, the Swine Crew had been in Livingston Parish and prepared more than 500 meals for the first responders, which included the helicopter regiment of the Wisconsin National Guard, who were involved in the rescue operation.

On Wednesday, the team departed New Orleans early and traveled the one-and-a-half hours from New Orleans to Denham Springs, where members joined up with the Swine Crew to begin cooking chicken for the residents digging out from the flood aftermath. Since it was

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REACHING OUT mid-August in southeast Louisiana, it was hot, humid, and very muggy. As the chicken cooked on three large grills, preparations were made to serve jambalaya, coleslaw, bread, and bottled water. The team expected to serve 500 people as it had the previous week. However, by the end of the day, they had served more than 1,000 people.

The Holy Cross team was able to meet with the Rev. Mark Holland, who just that day had been appointed as priest-in-charge of St. Francis Episcopal Church, Denham Springs. The team made plans to return on Thursday to help Father Mark and the people of St. Francis in their recovery operations.

Thursday morning, the team met Father Mark at St. Francis and helped put up a meeting tent and assist in cleanup operations. The picture below shows the devastation of the facilities at St. Francis. All the buildings had significant water damage. Residents had brought their cars and trucks to park at St. Francis because it had never flooded. All of those vehicles were total losses.

Father Mark identified a nearby resident in need, so on Thursday afternoon, the team was able to assist a small business owner, Joann Shaw, in cleaning out her shop. Joann had lost both her home and her business in the flood.

The shop had to be gutted up to the water line, which in this case was eight feet high. This in-

Fr. Mark Holland, St. Francis and Fr. Dan Smith, Holy Cross

cluded removing drywall, insulation, fixtures, cabinets, and anything else in which black mold could grow.

The team members worked to help clean out Shaw’s business so she could begin to recover as soon as possible.

Often, small churches do not think they can do much to help. However, as Father Dan pointed out, we were six people, but we touched the lives of more than 1,500. As we think about where we are and where we want to be, we all need to keep in mind that doing something is much more effective than just thinking about doing something and ending up doing nothing. We need to always remember that through Christ all things are possible.

For the team, the trip to Louisiana was an eye-opening and at times emotional experience. Seeing houses and businesses that appeared livable and undamaged on the outside and then seeing mounds of peoples’ belongings on the street ready to be carted away for trash was unsettling. The people of Livingston Parish have a long way to go to recover from the devastation of the flood. However, their spirit and

Team Members Mike Vernon and Brian Bacon

willingness to work together and stand firm is inspirational.

For more on this story, follow any of these video links: Interview with Father Dan Smith and Father Mark Holland: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZDTXkvTYlqg&list=PLvYBtXXwLeN_Fi7ZchdwBZPF7FcNklk1W Overview of the devastation in one neighborhood: www.youtube.com/vEFciamkBKQ Facebook posts showing the downtown area of Denham Springs where most of the Rotarians had businesses: www.facebook.com/kelley.williamson.12/ videos/1214792898541295/ www.facebook.com/saunderskevin/ posts/10208292328958908

Fr. Dan Smith and Ms. Joann Shaw

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CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

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YOUTH: 2016 GRANT WINNER

Amazing Things Happen When We Wait on the Lord Good Shepherd in Maitland Now Houses Celandine Life Preparatory Academy

By The Very Rev. Sarah Bronos

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he Episcopal Church of the Good

Shepherd in Maitland sits on a beautiful piece of property with

green space, shade trees, a chapel (built in 1883), church, parish hall, and a campus with four other buildings.

Nearly seven years ago, during my interview with the vestry before I was called as rector, I commented that I believed that even if the church quadrupled in size, the Lord purposed something for the property that would benefit those outside the

church community. I also said that the theme of education kept coming to the fore in my prayer time.

A couple of years later, I met Gale, who had flown in for her mother’s funeral. The day after the service, she came to find me and handed me a book written by her daughter and granddaughter. She said, “I just had to come and give you this.” The title of the book is I Am in Here: The Journey of a

Child with Autism Who Cannot Speak but Finds Her Voice. It changed the focus of my prayers from education in general to Christian education for special-needs children. It is a powerful book that contains wonderful poetry written by a nonverbal autistic child. Here is one poem:

Me I sometimes fear That people cannot understand That I hear And I know That they don’t believe I go To every extreme To try to express My need to talk.

If only they could walk In my shoes They would share my news:

I am in here

And trying to speak every day In some kind of way.

(Elizabeth Bonker, age 9)

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CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

When I spoke about the possibilities of a Christian school for special-needs children on our campus, many parishioners were supportive, but there was not enough interest to start a feasibility study on whether to open one ourselves. But I kept it in prayer. About a year later, someone visited the campus and asked about renting space for a special-needs school. We had a brief conversation, but she was not at all interested in a relationship between the church and the school nor in having a chapel service for the children, something for which I had been praying.

A few more years went by, and in March of this year, a woman drove onto the campus asking if we had space to rent to a Christian not-for-profit school for special-needs children. She was the mother of one of the students. When I asked why she had come to Good Shepherd, she replied, “I had been looking at a building that was not right for our needs, and I drove by on the way home and just felt compelled to come in and ask.” We set up a meeting for the following week, but then I received a call that the school wasn’t interested after all. Since this had seemed so right, that evening, I prayed, “Lord, if this is of you, then close every other door that they try and walk through and bring them here.”

A month later, I received another call asking if I would still be willing to meet. It seemed that nothing they had looked at seemed right. Meanwhile,

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YOUTH: 2016 GRANT WINNER a few months earlier, just before Christmas, since we were short-staffed, I asked if anyone in the congregation might be able to help out in the office.

One of my parishioners volunteered her husband, Mark, who had taken early retirement as a school superintendent from New York state and had been pretty much sidelined because of knee surgery. He was working on some projects for us when Kristen and Margarita (the owner and administrator) arrived for the meeting. I asked if Mark would sit in on our time together.

I said up front: “Let me just say this—I am not interested in a straight rental situation. What I would love is a relationship between the school and the parish family.” It was a Holy-Spirit filled moment; we all felt this relationship was of the Lord. It also became very clear during the conversation that I didn’t speak “school,” especially not special-needs school. But Mark did, and I asked him to take the lead on the discussions as we moved forward.

I shared our conversation with the vestry, and they were 100 percent in agreement to move ahead. A memorandum of understanding was developed that provided the basis of the lease agreement. The vestry approved both, and then Kristen stepped out in faith. In order to lease the buildings, the school would need to request permission from the City of Maitland for a zoning change.

The date set for final approval was the first day of school. There were, of course, a huge number of hurdles ahead: an updated property boundary survey along with ADA compliance issues including a concrete walkway, a railing, and the installation of a fire alarm system.

This was an expensive project, and we again stepped out in faith. The congregation was extraordinarily generous, but we still needed a lot more money to cover everything required for zoning approval. One of our parishioners, Scott, asked how he could help. I asked if he knew how to write a grant application, and he said, “No, but I’ll give it a try.”

The deadline for the Congregation Development Commission Grant applications was close, but Scott made it. We were able to make the down payment for the fire alarm installation, and work began, but we needed money to pay the balance when the work was finished. And God provided through the Congregation Development Commission Grant award of $25,000!

Meanwhile, we had to clear out the two buildings to be leased, which included moving our children’s nursery and Godly Play room into smaller rooms in a different building. So many faithful parishioners helped make these moves possible. Sacrifices were made all around, not the least of which was letting go of cherished spaces; but by and large, people were willing to make those sacrifices in order to give these children the opportunity to thrive on our beautiful campus. Kristen also needed to remodel the two buildings. It was a very busy summer for many people. We prayed through each review portion of the zoning process, and even though one zoning board member was quite vocally against the change of use, on August 8 the city council voted unanimously to grant it. Celandine Life Preparatory Academy opened its doors on our campus with 38 beautiful children, ages 7-21.

Because part of the program for the older children includes life-preparation skills, they are taught how to clean by cleaning rooms on the campus. They set the tables on Fridays for our Sunday-morning breakfast, and they have also cleared out and replanted our two community garden planters and have planted another two.

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During our earlier conversations, the school representatives asked if I would be willing to have a weekly children’s chapel—another answer to prayer! It is such a blessing to see children moving from one building to another during the day, to train them up as acolytes and ushers (especially when their parents never thought this was a possibility), to share the love of Christ with them, and to have parents say to us about the chapel service: “This is so wonderful for the kids—the presence of it. I don’t even have words to describe how good it is for them.”

Another parent wrote to thank us: “I have been meaning to send this to all of you and your staff. My husband and I would like to thank you for giving Celandine Life Prep Academy the opportunity to have the school at your location. It is a wonderful school with wonderful people. My son, Ryan, loves this school and all the staff. This is the first time he has ever said that he wants to go back to school.

He misses his friends and the teachers. This is a big deal. Ryan feels so safe and welcomed with the staff at Celandine. They truly understand him and his needs. Before Celandine, it was very stressful, heartbreaking to see no clear path for our son, but at Celandine, I see great things and I am very happy and proud to be a part of this community. And thank you from the bottom of our hearts for having us be part of your community. I see wonderful changes now and for the future for these children and their families. Thank you so much.”

When God purposes and we wait on him in prayer and step out in faith, a two-way blessing always unfolds.

The Very Rev. Sarah Bronos is the rector of Church of the Good Shepherd in Maitland, dean of the Central Deanery and a member of the Diocesan Board. She was lay Director of Christian Formation at All Saints’ under the rectorate of Father Dave Wilson for eight years. In 2007 she received her Master of Divinity from Nashotah House Seminary and after ordination became the curate at Incarnation, the new mission plant in Oviedo. In 2009 she was called to be rector of Church of the Good Shepherd.

She is former chair and present member of the Clergy Events Committee.

CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

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YOUTH

Planting Seeds for the Future A New Grant Is Helping St. John the Baptist Grow Youth Ministry

By Karen Adderly Clark, Ed.D.

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he Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist, Orlando, has been in existence for 120 years. In this celebratory year, our theme has been “Honoring Our Foundation: Planting Seeds for the Future.”

Our youth and the children of the surrounding communities are our future, and we are reaping the fruit of our labor.

Recently, the youth ministry received an Impact Grant in the amount of $1,500 from Jubilee Ministries. “Since the program’s inception in 1982, Jubilee Ministries has served as a cornerstone of The Episcopal Church’s work among the economically impoverished,” said Christopher Sikkema, mission associate, Justice and Advocacy Ministries of The Episcopal Church.

Located in the Washington Shores community, St. John the Baptist remains committed to our faith and the Great Commission. The Impact Grant will be used to enhance the youth ministry through outreach to children and teens in Murchison Terrace, Lake Mann, and surrounding neighborhoods. In addition, The Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist has applied for a youth intern through the Emmaus Youth Ministry Institute. It is our hope that with the assistance of an intern, the youth outreach ministry will expand and provide more experiences to spread the good news of Jesus Christ.

Karen Adderly Clark, Ed.D. is the Jubilee Program Director at the Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist in Orlando, Florida. She also serves as the Central Florida ECW Deanery Director.

St. Mark’s in Haines City Expands Youth and Children’s Facilities

The 2016 grant winner is making a variety of improvements

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t. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Haines City was blessed to receive a grant to make a happy place for the children at church and in Haines City.

Our first use of the funds was to expand our Vacation Bible School with unique art supplies. What a fun time all the students and teachers had, one we look forward to continuing next summer.

The education/children/youth committee also knew we needed some activities to keep the young and older kids excited about St Mark’s. For indoor activities, we have ordered a new ping-pong table and air hockey game to replace our well-loved but damaged equipment.

The church’s Wii game, accidentally sold during an open Thrift Shop Sale, will not be replaced. Instead, we have ordered new outdoor items, including a backyard playset for the 4-to-10-year-old children along with an extra toddler’s swing. For the younger children, we have ordered a Step 2 playset that can be moved indoors or outdoors depending on the weather and heat.

Upgrades soon to come include installing a Go Go Gon playfield along with a fence for the children’s protection (we are near some busy roads).

Please visit our website for pictures as these exciting changes occur:

www.StMarksHC.com.

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CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

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YOUTH

Vacation Bible School Touches Lives in Belleview St. Mary’s first VBS produces great results

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n Sunday, September 11, 2016, 12 children were baptized at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Belleview, Florida. “This large number of baptisms presented some logistical problems,” said the Rev. Lisa Hinkle, rector of St. Mary’s, “but with the help of our three deacons [the Revs. Bob and Carolyn Quinnell and the Rev. Laurie Kellington] and Father Brian Kellington, retired priest from the Diocese of Albany, we were able to baptize and anoint all the children without going overtime in the service.”

The sermon was a little shorter than usual, but the children presented the real message that day. During the normal time for the children’s sermon, they sang a song they learned in their baptism classes, complete with hand motions. Since many of the children were old enough to understand the concept of baptism, separate classes in the weeks leading up to that day were held for the children and their adult sponsors. This was a suggestion made by a non-Episcopalian, who felt it important for the children to understand why we do what we do.

The 12 children baptized represent five families, four of which are among those who joined St. Mary’s as a result of the Vacation Bible School (VBS) held in June.

Rev. Lisa was a youth minister and teacher for many years before her calling to the priesthood. In her former parish (St. Andrew’s, Fort Pierce), she served in some capacity at VBS for about 20 years. “I saw a need to reach out to the children in our neighborhood, and I immediately realized that Vacation Bible School would really be a good way to reach out to our community.” Since this idea was new at St. Mary’s, VBS was a difficult undertaking at first.

Each night, the children gathered for singing and an introduction of the evening’s theme. Next, they were served dinner by the ministry groups of the church. They traveled and rotated to different stations where they enjoyed playing games, learning about science, and receiving a Bible lesson. At the end of the evening, the children came together again for singing. Fifty-four children were served, and about the same number of volunteers helped make VBS a success.

VBS outdoor and indoor fun

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Kids that were baptised

The Sunday after VBS, the children and their families were invited to church to present some of the VBS songs during the service. After that, 18 children expressed an interest in being baptized. “There are a few more to be baptized still, but we were able to baptize most of them right away,” says Rev. Lisa. “I think we will make this an annual event, right after VBS, in the coming years.”

St. Mary’s also planned their VBS so it did not interfere with the weeks that Camp Wingmann would host middle or elementary school students. St. Mary’s sends all eligible young people to Camp Wingmann, free of charge, every summer. St. Mary’s Brotherhood of St. Andrew’s Chapter raises all funds for this project.

St. Mary’s also helped with a second VBS, hosted by the Good News Club in July. The church is fully involved in the Good News Club. Club workers go once a week into two middle schools and two elementary schools to share the good news of the gospel with children after school.

Here is an excerpt from Rev. Lisa’s newsletter article: “Let the little children come to me…” These are the words of Jesus. He continues saying: “…and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.” Having children as a part of the congregation is really an important thing. In the Beatitudes (Matt. 5:3) Jesus says that the poor in spirit (those who are humble and seem to be insignificant) will inherit the kingdom of heaven. We think that we can teach them a lot—and we can, but we must realize that there are things that we can learn from them. They teach us how to be big in little shoes.”

Praise God for all he is doing at St. Mary’s Belleview. And please do not hesitate to contact Rev. Lisa via email at revlisa@stmarysbelleview.org if you would like more information about how VBS, Camp Wingmann, or the Good News Club is blessing the congregation there.

Rev. Lisa was a youth minister and teacher for many years before her calling to the priesthood. In her former parish, St. Andrew’s, Fort Pierce, she served in some capacity at VBS for about 20 years. She is currently the rector for St. Mary’s.

CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

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DIOCESAN FAMILY

Diocese of Central Florida Holds Its First Critical-Incident Stress-Training Seminar The Rev. Paul J. Schweinler shares his expertise

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n Friday, October 21, and Saturday, October 22, 38 people gathered in Winter Park for the first critical-incident stress-training seminar to be held in our diocese. The group comprised 20 clergy and 18 lay people from the Episcopal, Lutheran, Pentecostal, and nondenominational faiths.

Among the attendees were those who spoke Creole, English, French, Haitian, and Spanish and represented a wide diversity in ages, skills, and professions. Geographically, the entire diocese was represented. There was even one representative from the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast, who attended to observe the model and evaluate the potential for establishing a similar team in that diocese.

The Rev. Paul J. Schweinler, LMHC, NCC, FAPA, BCETS, conducted the training. Rev. Paul has a lifetime of achievement and training and was the 2014 Ralph Morrinson Lifetime Achievement Recipient–Broward County EMS. He is an approved instructor for the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF) and Florida Crisis Consortium board member, trainer, regional consultant, team leader Region 7, and assistant clinical director. He is also a member of the State of Florida Emergency Response Team (SERT-

What a powerful experience! This two-day interactive training showed me how to serve those who have experienced unimaginable loss and pain with Christ’s humility, love, and empathy.

This was a brutally honest training that prepared me from being someone who wished they could help to someone who could help victims and responders without impeding the rescue/recovery efforts.

—ROBERT STRENTH, Ed.D., Principal, Prairie Lake Elementary School

RDBHAT). Rev. Paul received his Master of Divinity in 1979 and Master of Arts in professional counseling from Liberty University in 1998.

Rev. Paul is currently the rector of The Church of the Holy Cross in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a Lutheran ecclesia in the Roman Catholic tradition. He is a mental health counselor for the Charis Center and specializes in crisis management; crisis counseling; individual, marriage, and family systems; as well as child and adolescent counseling. He is also an approved instructor for the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation with a specialty in working with law enforcement, fire-rescue, security, high-profile individuals, corporations, and groups.

The mission of the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation Inc. is to provide leadership, education, training, consultation, and support services in comprehensive crisis intervention and disaster behavioral-health services to emergency response professions, organizations, and communities worldwide. And that is exactly the kind of teaching he offered at our local event.

Many of those who attended wanted to share about their experience at the seminar:

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TESTIMONIALS

CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

We never know when crisis could strike, so being an educated, prepared, and organized group allows us to more effectively meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of those in crisis.

This training not only provided the information needed but allowed participants to get to know one another in ways that will strengthen us as a team as we minister to others. The diverse skills and backgrounds represented within this group demonstrate the care and thought in the organization of the program. The instructors and materials are outstanding.

—THE REV. ROSE SAPP, Deacon; Director, Healing Ministry of All Saints–Glennon House As a counselor, I have long felt the need to be properly trained in crisis intervention, so I jumped at the chance to join others in the diocese and learn under one of the best. I’m so glad I did! Paul Schweinler is wonderfully gifted and knowledgeable. He made two days of information understandable and accessible and equipped us with the knowledge and nuances that will enable us to be helpful responders to traumatic events. I walked away from this weekend confident that I can step into a critical incident and effectively help people through the initial crisis. Thank you, Diocese of Central Florida, for such a tremendous opportunity!

—MONICA TAFFINDER

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DIOCESAN FAMILY

I thoroughly enjoyed the CISM seminar this past weekend. The lectures were very educational and informative. Critical Incident Stress Management covers a wide scope of instruction and training that aims to reach each individual who has suffered a loss as a result of a tragedy or catastrophic event directly or indirectly related to him/her. Everyone who is able should set aside some time to attend one of these seminars. It will change your life!

FRENCH TRANSLATION: J’ai vraiment apprécié le séminaire de CISM ce weekend passé. Les confrénces étaient tres éducatif et informatif. Gestion du stress incident couvre un large champ d’application de l’instruction et de la formation qui vise a atteindre chaque individu qui a subi une perte a la suite d’une tragédie ou d’un événement catastrophique directement ou indirectement lié a lui/elle. Tous ceux qui sont en mesure devrait mettre de coté un certain temps pour assister a l’un de ces séminaires. Cela changera votre vie!

—SYBIL WILLIAMS Crisis Training has been an amazing experience to be prepared on the other side of my training as a mental health counselor to develop my abil-

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ities to protect the needs of the most vulnerable in time of terrible tragedy.

las, escuchas, sanas. El simplemente es asi. Tambien nosotros tenemos que seguir su ejemplo.

MALAYAN TRANSLATION: പ്രതിസന്ധി പരിശീലനം എന്റെ കഴിവുകൾ വികസിപ്പിക്കാൻ ഭയങ്കരവുമായ ദുരന്തത്തിന് കാലത്ത് ഏറ്റവും ദുർബലരായ ആവശ്യങ്ങൾ സംരക്ഷിക്കാൻ ഒരു മാനസിക ആരോഗ്യ മന്ത്രിയായി എന്റെ പരിശീലനം അപ്പുറം തയ്യാറാക്കണം ലേക്ക് വിസ്മയിപ്പിക്കുന്ന ഒരു അനുഭവം ഉണ്ടായിട്ടുണ്ട്.

Dos dias de aprendizaje con cleros como responder a personas en crisis me has enriquecido.

Espero que nunca semos llamados. Pero, si es asi, nos sentimos mejor preparados. La tragedia de “Pulse” nos desperto. Gracias a Archdiacona Krist Alday y el Obispo Brewer en forgar un camino para que este ministerio suceda.

~ CJ VARGHESE, M.A., M.S., Licensed

—THE REV. DR. JERRY DEJESUS Esta clase fue una experiencia maravillosa. Me dio las herramientas para ayudar a las personas en un mundo roto. Me siento preparado para ser una agente para el bien y para Dios con mis hermanas y hermanos en el equipo.

Marriage and Family Counselors

Jesus was often alerted to face issues of crisis. He healed the Roman centurion servant when Jesus was desperately sought, was present at the tomb of Lazarus when the sisters of the deceased sought him out, or he simply filled the stomachs of those who were hungry. Jesus consoled, listened, healed. We too must follow his example.

Two days with other clergy learning how to respond to persons in crisis has enriched me. I pray we’re never called. But if so, we’re prepared to assist. The Pulse tragedy awakened us. Many thanks to Archdeacon Kristi Alday and Bishop Brewer in forging a path to make this happen.

SPANISH TRANSLATION: Jesus fue alertado a menudo para enfrentar personas en situaciones de crisis. Sano el siervo del centurian Romano quien lo suplico desesperado, fue a la tumba de Lazaro cuando lo suplicaron las hermanas del difunto, o, simplemente lleno los estomagos de personas con hambre. Jesus conso-

—THE REV. TRACY DUGGER The seminar was a wonderful two days for all who attended.

The Diocese of Central Florida gratefully acknowledges those who have so generously donated funds to help underwrite this training.

We also thank Father Reid Hensarling for agreeing to host the team at All Saints Lakeland. Team members from All Saints Lakeland include John Sauer, David Marichal, Deacon Bob Johnson, and Mr. Sid Glynn, who served as team leader.

The Rev. Larry Recla agreed to serve as team chaplain. Father Recla has a tremendous amount of experience in working with crisis responders, having served first responders including those in New York after 9/11.

Thank you to all those who served and attended this first-time event.

CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

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DIOCESAN FAMILY

Father Jason Murbarger Accepts God’s Call to St. Mary’s, Daytona Beach

Messiah, Winter Garden, Welcomes Deacon Richard Gonzalez

The church’s 20th rector has followed a unique path to the priesthood

He will help launch a Spanish Communion service, starting in December

By Father Jason Murbarger

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ather Jason Murbarger has accepted the call to serve as the 20th rector of St. Mary’s Church in Daytona Beach. For the last three years, he has served as assistant to the rector at Trinity Church in Vero Beach. He and Sharon, his wife of 24 years, have two adult sons: Jarrod, a real estate agent, and Jordan, who is employed by Verizon Wireless.

St. Mary’s, in the heart of Daytona Beach, is a traditional parish recognized as the “oldest religious building in Florida still in continuous use for religious services.” Its Carpenter Gothic architecture has provided a sacred place for Episcopalians to worship since 1883. According to Father Jason, he is “overjoyed at this new call and feels blessed to be the next spiritual leader of such a foundational congregation.”

Father Jason is a cradle Episcopalian who calls Huntsville, Alabama, home even though he was born in Michigan and has spent most of his life in South Carolina. He comes from a family of Episcopalians that includes both his maternal and paternal grandparents. His parents, Dick and Judy, met at church, and Father Jason and Sharon’s first date was a worship service at St. Michael’s in Charleston, South Carolina. He is a graduate of The Citadel in Charleston, and following graduation accepted a commission in the United States Air Force as an intelligence officer. During his eight years on active duty, his assignments took him all over the world.

While serving in the Air Force, he earned a Master of Business Administration from St. Martin’s University in Washington state, which is home to an active Benedictine monastery. He concluded his military service by teaching leadership and management at The Citadel.

Following his time in the military, Father Jason and Sharon returned to her hometown of Philadelphia,

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where he pursued a career in commercial real estate with Julien J. Studley, a Manhattan-based firm specializing in tenant representation for large users of office space needing help with complex transactions. After four years in Philadelphia, he was recruited to Charleston, South Carolina, by the developers of Kiawah Island to work with their extensive office and retail portfolios. It was during his eight years with The Beach Company that he discerned a call to the priesthood and began the lengthy process leading to ordination.

Father Jason laughs when he looks back on the path down which Jesus has taken him. The Citadel and Nashotah House, where he spent three years in residence for his theological training, were both founded in 1842, and Saint Martin’s University and Nashotah House are both Benedictine in their Christian formation. Nashotah House is an Anglo-Catholic seminary located just west of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Upon graduating from Nashotah House, he accepted his position at Trinity and was ordained to the priesthood on December 9, 2013, which also happens to be his birthday. In addition to his duties at Trinity, Father Jason also served as Chaplain at St. Edward’s Episcopal School for two years and as Chaplain to the Vero Beach Yacht Club.

Father Jason’s many neglected hobbies include cycling, boating, fishing, reading, and playing the guitar. When asked what is the most exciting thing about his call to St. Mary’s, he says, “God wants St. Mary’s to thrive and grow, and I’m looking forward to being a part of what he will do there.”

His ministry to the people of Daytona Beach will begin November 1.

CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

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he Rev. Richard Gonzalez, Deacon, is originally from Cuba and grew up in Maryland. A former Roman Catholic, he joined The Episcopal Church five years ago.

He is also a pediatrician and works in a community center that serves the medically needy population. This has been his Deacon Richard Gonzalez career for most of his life.

When Deacon Richard and his wife, Esther, first moved to Florida, they lived in Naples and attended St. Monica’s Episcopal Church. St. Monica’s sent Deacon Richard on to Bishop Dabney Smith to begin his diaconate formation. After ordination, Deacon Richard returned to St. Monica’s.

After the couple moved to Central Florida, they happened to attend Messiah on a Sunday when they were in town. They met Rector Tom Rutherford and Associate Rector Tracy Dugger and learned the two had been praying for a Spanish-speaking deacon to help start a Spanish service. Deacon Richard was soon welcomed as one of Messiah’s own. And the Rev. Dugger started learning Spanish.

Deacon Richard’s goal is to assist in beginning a Spanish-language service to reach the Latino community around Winter Garden. On Sunday, December 4, at 11:30 a.m., Messiah will launch a Spanish Communion service.

When not serving the community or the church, Deacon Richard enjoys spending time with his family on the weekends. He also enjoys riding his motorcycle, going out to dinner with his wife, and reading.

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DIOCESAN FAMILY

Orlando Historic Preservation Board Chooses St. Luke’s Bell Tower Photo for Calendar Congratulations on a Great Honor

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he City of Orlando’s Historic Preservation Board recently held its annual photography competition. A shot of the Bell Tower at St. Luke’s was chosen as one of the winning entries and will be featured as the December photo in the board’s 2017 calendar.

Featured with the photograph will be the following glimpse at the history behind the bell: Francis Eppes, grandson of Thomas Jefferson, came to Orlando in 1869 and held the first Episcopal services in his home. The Eppes, Shine, Summerlin, Westcott, and Greetham families formed the early congregation of St. Luke’s, which purchased its current plot of land in 1882. St. Luke’s was officially organized as a parish church in 1884. To commemorate this significant event, a 600-pound bell was cast by Henry McShane of Baltimore, Maryland, in 1884 and dedicated to the Rev. C.W. Ward, St. Luke’s rector at the time. The bell hung above St. Luke’s original wooden church as well as on the roof of its newly built Chapter House in the 1950s.

St. Luke’s present Gothic Revival church building was designed by Philip Frohman of Boston, the chief architect of the Washington National Cathedral, in a blending of Spanish Medieval and English vertical Gothic styles. On April 13, 1925, the Rt. Rev. Cameron Mann laid its cornerstone. Due to local economic conditions and the Great Depression, elaborate plans for the Spanish Gothic church were set aside, and it was decided to build only the nave, which was completed in 1926.

In 1987, the Cathedral was completed in the spirit of the original plans from the 1920s with an apse, flying buttresses, pinnacles and finials, an ambulatory, enlarged sacristies, and the bell tower. Many of the architectural and sculptural features are of concrete artstone, which simulates carved limestone. The Cathedral’s bell was refurbished in England in 1987 and was then hung in the newly completed bell tower on September 30 of that year.

We are grateful to the Historic Preservation Board for choosing to honor St. Luke’s in this special way. May God use this unanticipated publicity to draw more people to the Cathedral and ultimately, to himself.

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Meet Beverly Jennings Assistant to the Diocesan Administrator

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everly has a complicated and detailed job. She is in charge of the diocese’s day-to-day accounting: checks and deposits, accounts payable, entering all financial data into the system, and maintaining records. She also assists Earl Pickett, Diocesan Administrator, with insurance protocols and procedures, including but not limited to enrollments, help with forms, and changes in plans. Beverly, who works closely with the churches, collects, organizes, and creates reports summarizing each church’s information based on the parochial reports.

Beverly is also the go-to person on the diocesan staff for anything mechanical: copiers, postage machines, leaky sinks, and more. She has a way of knowing what to do and whom to call, if necessary, to keep all the systems operating.

Beverly serves as a lay representative to the Commission on Ministry, an advisory board that counsels with Bishop Brewer and those in the ordination process.

Beverly began her diocesan career in 2003. She has worn many hats, including Assistant to the Diocesan Youth Officer and staffer for the Florida Episcopal Credit Union, which was located where the Archives Room is now. In 2011, she became the Assistant to the Diocesan Administrator.

Beverly’s passion is working with youth, a ministry she shares with her husband at The Church of St. Luke and St. Peter in St. Cloud. They have been ministering to students for more than 20 years.

Beverly and her husband, Jeff, were high school sweethearts and have been married for 33 years. They have two children: Jason, who is married to Brittany and lives in Lakeland; and Amanda, who is married to Skylar and has just moved back to Central Florida. Jason and Brittany have one daughter, Hannah-Kate. Amanda and Skylar serve at St. Barnabas’ Episcopal Church in DeLand.

Beverly loves working at the diocese and serving the people and churches of Central Florida.

CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

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DIOCESAN CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 12 Holy Spirit, Apopka’s Annual Holiday Bazaar and Gift Boutique,

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at 601 S. Highland Ave., Apopka

Nov. 12 Masque Ball presented by Cursillo Commission, 5 – 8 p.m.

Canterbury House at St. Barnabas Church, West Wisconsin and Clara Avenues, DeLand

Nov. 13 Celebration of a New Ministry – 4 p.m., St Mark’s, Cocoa Nov. 18 – 20 8th Annual Men’s Retreat at Camp Wingmann 3404 Camp Wingmann Rd., Avon Park

Nov. 20 St. Mary’s 30th Anniversary, 9:00 a.m.

½ mile west of Hwy. 441 on Babb Road, Belleview

Nov. 20 Good Shepherd’s Advent Wreath Workshop, 11:30 a.m.

221 S. 4th Street, Lake Wales

Nov. 20 St. Mark’s 50th Anniversary, 4 p.m. at 102 N. 9th Street, Haines City Nov. 27 Celebration of a New Ministry, St. Anne’s, Crystal River Nov. 27 Grace Episcopal Church Advent Wreath Workshop

510 SE Broadway St., Ocala

Dec. 2 HAPPENING, 6:00 p.m., Camp Wingmann Dec. 2

Shepherd of the Hills’ 19th Annual Father Christmas Benefit Ball, 5:30 p.m. at 2540 Norvell Bryant Hwy., Lecanto, FL

Dec 3

Kringle Christmas, St. Mary’s ½ mile west of Hwy. 441 on Babb Road, Belleview

Dec. 4

Advent Lessons & Carols at the Cathedral, 6 p.m.

130 N. Magnolia Ave., Orlando

Dec. 9

St. Andrew’s Christmas China Banquet 210 S. Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce

Dec. 11 Good Shepherd’s Christmas Banquet and Pageant, 5:30 p.m.

221 S. Fourth Street, Lake Wales

Dec. 11 Live Nativity, Church of the Good Shepherd, 6:30 pm

331 Lake Avenue, Maitland

Dec. 11 Celebration of a New Ministry, Christ Church, Longwood Dec. 17 St. Nick Breakfast, St. Barnabas, 8:30 a.m.

319 W. Wisconsin Avenue, DeLand

Dec. 17 St. Jude’s ECW Cookiewalk at 815 E. Graves Avenue, Orange City Dec. 17 Holiday Wild Game Dinner , 6 – 9 p.m. at Canterbury Retreat Center

3601 North Alafaya Trail, Oviedo

Dec. 18 Christmas Lessons & Carols at the Cathedral, 6 p.m.

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Bishop Brewer Visitation Schedule November 2016 - February 2017

11/6/16 Enterprise All Saints’ 11/13/16 (a.m.) Winter Garden Messiah 11/13/16 (p.m.) Cocoa St. Mark’s (New Ministry) 11/20/16 (a.m.) Belleview St. Mary’s 11/20/16 (p.m.) Haines City St. Mark’s 11/27/16 (a.m.) Orlando San Cristobal 11/27/16 (p.m.) Crystal River St. Anne’s (New Ministry) 12/4/16 Lakeland St. David’s 12/11/16 (a.m.) Apopka Holy Spirit 12/11/16 (p.m.) Longwood Christ Church (New Ministry) 12/17/16 Titusville St. Gabriel’s 12/18/16 Port Orange Grace 12/24/16 Orlando Cathedral 1/8/17 Ft. Pierce St. Andrew’s 1/15/17 Satellite Beach Holy Apostles 1/22/17 New Smyrna Beach St. Peter the Fisherman 1/29/17 Orlando Cathedral 1/30/17 Orlando Cathedral (Deacon Ordinations) 2/5/17 Winter Park St. Richard’s 2/12/17 Avon Park Redeemer Bishop Brewer’s visitation dates are subject to change.

Please refer to www.cfdiocese.org for the most current visitation listing.

130 N. Magnolia Avenue, Orlando

CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

www.cfdiocese.org

CAMP WINGMANN /CANTERBURY

Camp Wingmann Calendar

Canterbury Calendar of Events

For more information or to register for an event, visit www.campwingmann.org.

Dangerous Prayer December 2 - 3

November 18–20: 8th Annual Men’s Retreat “Fathered by God: Six Stages of a Man’s Life” Become the person God designed you to be as you explore the six stages a man encounters as he matures in life and faith, with insights and teachings about how each stage can be supported and encouraged. The goal of this retreat is for each man to discover God as Father in a deeper and more real way than most men have ever done.

December 2–4: Happening A Christian experience presented by teenagers for teenagers in grades 10-12, sponsored by The Episcopal Church. Most young people have serious questions about Jesus and the church. Happening is designed to address these questions.

January 6–8, 2017: Winter Camp This is a chance for campers to get together for a spiritual boost. It’s a great time to catch up with your summer-camp buddies, too. Come out and have a blast playing sports, experiencing the ropes course, line dancing, stargazing, singing, and praising God. Middle school and high school students are welcome.

www.cfdiocese.org

Jesus: Yesterday, Today, and Forever Through sharing, reflection, quietness, singing, and conversation, we will explore the life of Christian faith. By looking back at our lives, we will identify moments of revelation, encounter, and transformation (Jesus Yesterday). By active participation, we will position ourselves to dwell in the house of the Lord (Jesus Today). By prayerful discernment, we will seek the Lord about the transformation he wants to bring into our lives and how we are to grow in our knowledge of him until we see him face to face (Jesus Forever).

Cost – Double Occupancy, $125/person; Single Occupancy, $150

4th Annual Holiday Wild Game Dinner – December 17 See our ad. Come enjoy your out-of-the-ordinary holiday feast. Contact Sue Grosso, Director of Guest Services, at sue@canterburyretreat.org or (407) 365-5571 for more information, or visit our website at www.canterburyretreat.org.

Individual tickets are just $30 each, or you can sponsor a table of 8 for $200 or a table of 10 for $250.

CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

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REACHING OUT

Bruna’s Story – São Paulo

By Stephen Dass

Bruna never had much of a chance. Her mother is a crack addict. Consequently, Bruna has been exposed to drugs and crime since the day she was born. This did not stop her from hoping that she would have a decent mother, though. She really just wanted a mother, but her mother never wanted a daughter. However, this did not stop Bruna from trying to be one to her. She tried everything within her capacity to please her mother, but nothing seemed to work. Her mother was too broken to notice. It was really a question of identity.

C

hildren discover their self-worth through their parents. They are the first ones to give us a sense of meaning for our existence.

Unfortunately, Bruna’s mother never gave her this assurance.

Bruna admits that she always had people willing to look out for her. But for a little child, there is nothing like a parent’s love and care. She wanted her own mother to love her and always tried to win her mother’s heart. She wanted her life to mean something to her mother. But all her attempts only brought her tears. Her mother had nothing to give, and this is why she was slowly killing herself with crack.

Bruna hardly smiles. She usually keeps to herself and does not interact with people easily. The thing that struck me most was that after our first meeting, she remembered Mary’s name almost immediately. She would come to Mary and, instead of a generic greeting, clearly articulate her name, as if to say, “I know you.” She would always give Mary a kiss.

Sharing Mary’s interest in art, Bruna loves to color complex designs and patterns. She told us that she discovered her love for art when she was living in a Catholic orphanage, something we had never known. She could also recite the rosary in Latin, which she learned from the nuns.

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CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

Picture Credit: virusdaarte.net/portinari-crianca-morta

São Paulo has a world-class art museum with a permanent collection that includes works by Van Gogh and Rembrandt. Despite her interest in art, Bruna had never set foot in the museum. This is not uncommon, because places like this tend to intimidate our children and teens. They feel too selfconscious to enjoy them. We asked if she would like to go to the museum with us. Her face lit up with a huge smile, and she nodded enthusiastically, so we set a date and time. When the day arrived, we found Bruna dressed and ready for our visit together.

When we walked into the museum, Bruna wandered off alone and started admiring the different paintings. It appeared that all the beauty displayed in this place consumed all her fears and sense of insecurity. She gazed at the paintings, savoring the colors and details of the works of art. On several occasions, we all were drawn to the same paintings, as in the case of one particular work by a Brazilian artist, Candido Portinari. Depicting the death of a child, it showed a family in tears, devastated by the tragic event. This painting conveyed a sentiment so palpable that Bruna and I just stood there, absorbed in the emotion.

Pain and suffering unite all humanity. It is something we have in common.

www.cfdiocese.org

REACHING OUT Bruna is only 20, and she has experienced more than her fair share of it. But maybe it wasn’t the hardness of life that attracted her to this painting. Maybe it was the family being together despite the tragic circumstances, something she has never experienced.

This was not the only painting that held Bruna’s attention. Those that did revealed her distinctive taste and perhaps even a little bit about her. After the museum visit, we went for ice cream, sat at a food court, and just talked and ate together. Then we went back to our apartment, and she went back to her spot in the streets.

We hugged before we said goodbye. She was truly happy to have spent the day with us.

At least when we were in the museum, our differences melted away, and we were united by the different expressions of the human experience. There were no class or social divisions in the works of art themselves, only a longing for something meaningful.

We did not see Bruna for a while after this little excursion. This is not uncommon. Everything in the streets is very fluid. We might spend a special day or have an intimate connection with a child one day and then not see them again for months. We have learned to appreciate each special moment as a gift from God without expecting a constant repetition. Such occasions are treasures that will stay with us for eternity.

We shouldn’t get too greedy but receive them as the Holy Spirt gives.

Bruna eventually began to reappear in our lives. Since we are often sitting at the steps of the cathedral, she knew exactly where to find us. She sat next to us on the steps and asked if she could color. As usual, she chose a page with a complex design. She is very meticulous. She never repeats colors and chooses them in a way that highlights particular objects in the picture that have impressed her. She sat and colored in silence for almost two hours. When finished, she wanted to work on another piece. Occasionally

One of Bruna’s Colorings

she would stop to say something, but nothing significant, perhaps a passing thought. She did not need to say anything important. Her presence alone spoke volumes.

We found out that her birthday falls on the same day as Mary’s, so we asked what she wanted to do. She had no idea. Birthdays come and go for these children without any significance. It is not surprising that they want nothing special for their birthdays. We convinced her to have coffee and cake with us. She smiled and agreed.

her in any way.

Bruna is known for her aggressiveness in the streets. She has to be this way in order to survive.

With us, she has the opportunity to be a peaceful young girl who just wants to be loved and to have someone believe her life matters. All she ever received from her mother was rejection. We hope she knows her existence is meaningful to us.

I believe she does.

The times we spend with Bruna are quiet and peaceful. She does not say much, but just sits with us. I think this is all she wanted from her mother: just to be with her. She does not demand anything from us and has never asked us to help Steve and Mary Dass

www.cfdiocese.org

CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

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DIOCESAN FAMILY

Five Newly Ordained Deacons Share Their Experiences By the Rev. Becky Chapman, Deacon

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e all were up by 4:00 that morning. How do I know?

Because we had gotten into the habit of checking in with one another on Facebook in the days before ordination. One of our classmates had been posting a numerical countdown on our Facebook group early every morning, and I think we all were curious to see what he would post for The Day. Some days, looking at that number would bring excitement; and on other days, it sobered me as I took in the mission to which God was calling us. But today was The Day. It was here, finally, after two or more years of study and preparation. And we were ready!

If you have never attended an ordination or participated in one, the best comparison I can give is that of a wedding. An ordination has many similar elements: family and friends coming in from everywhere, a church, clergy, processions, attendants (called presenters), proper attire, special music, and even the “I do’s.” I was blessed to be in the September 10 diaconate ordination along with seven other candidates, and we would like to share some of our thoughts about that special day:

The Rev. Becky Chapman, Deacon As I look back on that day, I am still humbled and filled with awe at the service.

In The Episcopal Church and in this diocese, the process of discernment for the diaconate is conducted in community. By that I mean that at every step in the process, clergy and laity come alongside the aspirant to help them decide if God is calling them to ordained ministry. The culmination of that process, the ordination service, was also one of community. Choirs from each of our individual churches joined with the cathedral choir to create the most joyful noise. Each ordinand selected persons who were significant to their journey to officially present them to the bishop as qualified. The various liturgical roles—readers, torchbearers, oblationers—were filled by friends and family. Clergy from around the diocese, many of them our instructors at the Institute for Christian Studies, processed with us in welcome and support. And each church provided a bounty of refreshments for the reception afterward. Throughout the service, I wanted to drink in the Spirit of the moment, the colors, the sounds, the smell of the incense. Each element confirmed God’s call to me and made me eager to follow that call.

The Rev. John E. Clark, Deacon Sunday (after ordination) was a whirlwind of emotions and business.

Being present on the altar for all three services after the Saturday ordination completed the emotional and spiritual draining that began earlier. It is hard to explain how I felt on Monday morning: excited, yet like it wasn’t really me, almost like watching myself in a surreal dream.

Many people I have known for years came up to me and touched me on the shoulder. For the most part, they didn’t talk but touched my shoulder or gave me a partial hug and smile. Some made comments about my appearance; others just smiled. On Wednesday, I hit the wall in the late afternoon and became physically ill. My stomach became a tied-up knot, my mind a fog. But God gave me the strength to officiate a Taize service, and then I went to Bible study.

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CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

www.cfdiocese.org

DIOCESAN FAMILY

The Rev. Rose Sapp, Deacon

Dorothy Hunter-Spencer

For a long time, I saw ordination as a goal, something I was working to achieve. But as the day drew closer, I began to recognize it as a milestone on a lifelong journey. God’s call looks different in each of our lives, but it’s there. All we can do is continue to answer, “Yes, Lord.” The rest is up to him.

I’ve been walking around in a different place since Saturday, in an unexplainable state of mind, but in a very good way. I finally “came back to earth” this morning. What an awesome feeling. Has anyone else felt this way? Wow.

Ordination is God celebrating with us the work he has done in our lives.

And what a glorious celebration! I can’t imagine the journey without the amazing group of people ordained with me. May our journeys continue!

Follow-up post, Rose Sapp

The Rev. Kay Ruhle, Deacon The date always seemed so distant, but then it was suddenly before me.

Time telescoped, and the days just prior took on a movement and life all their own. The actual day of the ordination just moved from glory to glory.

I felt completely loved and supported by a multitude of people; it was moving, humbling, and invigorating all in one. The four-and-a-half years of the process shaped me in ways subtle and not so subtle through it all. I would recommend it to all who feel called.

www.cfdiocese.org

Monday morning…What just happened? God is so good! Ordination on Saturday, still a bit of a blur! Great time with family! Then Sunday: all three services with a 9:00-11:00 litany service thrown in and a couple of lastminute changes, but all went well. I was fine until I elevated the chalice for the first time. That alone was worth these last few years. I thought I was going to lose it, but managed to hold it together. It was an amazing weekend.

God bless each of you as we enter into his service. Go forth with boldness to serve him!

Becky Chapman was ordained to the Diaconate in 2016.

She attends Church of the Ascension, Orlando with her husband Rod. She is actively involved in the Bishop’s Anti-Racism Commission and ICS.

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YOUTH

Your Support Counts Camp Wingmann Update by the Rev. Deke Miller

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ur mission statement at Camp Wingmann says we will be a “safe place for kids to come to know and grow in Christ.” Our main event is our summer-camp program that runs eight weeks every summer. Last year, 361 kids attended summer camp. That’s a lot of kids!

We are able to host such numbers because we work hard to keep our tuition down.

What this means is that we strive to keep our overhead costs to a minimum while providing excellent quality in programming, housing, and food. How do we achieve this? Through tuition from our programs and weekend events, yes; but we really depend on the financial support of monthly donors. In fact, nearly 60 percent of our income comes from the monthly donations from the diocese, churches, and individuals.

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Our fundraising efforts include letters sent in the fall and spring that invite our community (past, present, and potential donors) to include the camp in their monthly outreach budgets. We also have our annual Golf Tournament, for which you do not have to play golf to help.

The weekend events we host include our own program, Winter Camp, for middle and high school students. For the diocese, we are proud to host a middle-school retreat weekend known as New Beginnings and a high school weekend called Happening. Each of these events runs twice a year.

And, of course, we host various events for churches, schools, and other nonprofits that need a space to run their own retreats and programs.

We are also very excited to announce that we are entering a capital campaign for the renovation of Yates Hall (the old mess hall). This building, used as our primary meeting space for programs, dances, registrations, and general assemblies, is quite old and lacks restrooms. More information will be forthcoming on our plans for Yates Hall and how you can get involved.

We want to thank the churches and individuals who have supported us through the years. You do so when you send youth to camp or to the weekend events; when you give financially; and, as always, when you pray for us.

CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

If you are not already giving in support of Camp Wingmann, would you consider doing so?

A monthly gift of $100 pays the salary of one summer-camp counselor for all six summer sessions. A single gift of $550 pays for 10 days of electricity for the Louttit Lodge. If you would like to share a smaller monthly gift, that too goes a long way in helping us meet our expenses. In other words, your support makes a difference!

For more information or to schedule an event for your church or school, contact us through our website, www.campwingmann.org, email us at campwingmann@gmail.com, or call us at (863) 453-4800. Again, thank you for all your prayers and support.

Rev. Deke is a graduate of Trinity Episcopal School for Ministry. He was ordained in 2007. He has served as assistant Rector and Academy Chaplain at St. Andrew’s in Fort Pierce, Rector of St. Paul’s in New Smyrna Beach and is currently the Priest and Director of Camp Wingmann.

www.cfdiocese.org

REACHING OUT

Exciting News From St Mark’s in Cocoa

30 Days Toward Healing Your Grief A new resource from members of our diocese

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ased on Walking the Mourner’s Path, an eight-week support program designed to accompany people in their grief, 30 Days Toward Healing Your Grief differs from other support resources by using a proven methodology that does not leave people in their pain but gently leads them forward from “that my loved one died” to “how my loved one lived” and, finally, to “how I must live to honor his or her memory.”

Historic Cocoa Village Association Tour makes the church a stop

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t. Mark’s has been included in the Cocoa Village Historical Tour listed on the Cocoa Village maps distributed by the Historic Cocoa Village Association.

Published in workbook form (30 daily reflections/ studies), this book addresses many of the issues that develop with those struggling with grief. This book will assist mourners as they walk through pain, remember their loved one, honor the relationship, honestly address the complications of grief, and find the courage to turn their pain into joyful living once again. Those who thought God had abandoned them will once again feel his presence through a renewed spiritual relationship with our Lord.

St. Mark’s original church building was constructed in 1886. Its beautiful interior includes the original stained glass windows.

St. Mark’s welcomes visitors to stop by and take a look. If a service is in progress, please join us in worship and examine the windows afterward.

Authors Danielle Morris and Kristen Alday are excited about this new resource to take people who are in extraordinary grief to a place of life and joy. This is not a devotional but an interactive, tender workbook that is also a tribute to Danielle’s mother and Kristen’s father. The authors both lost these parents in their teen years and spent four years together traveling the country sharing in grief counseling.

To see how St. Mark’s is listed on the tour, scan the QR code below, and it will take you to www.mainstreethistory.com and an informational tour of Historic Cocoa Village.

Congratulations, St Mark’s!

Danielle Morris, an Episcopal priest in the Diocese of

Central Florida with extensive experience in loss and grief, created Walking the Mourner’s Path in 1996. The eightweek grief support program is now used in nearly every state, Canada, Australia, and the Cayman Islands. A former television writer and producer, Morris, who earned a bachelor’s degree in clinical psychology, has written and produced more than 120 medical mini documentaries for major networks; written for Medical Tribune, Central Florida Magazine, Orlando magazine, and McCall’s, among others; and has published seven children’s books. She lives in Orlando, Florida.

Kristen N. Alday, Archdeacon, has a bachelor’s degree in

economics from Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, and worked in the private sector until becoming Chief Operating Officer for Walking the Mourner’s Path. During her time there, she spent four years traveling the country training clergy and laity in grief ministry. Ordained to the diaconate, she serves as Archdeacon of the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida. She has earned a master’s degree in counseling at Asbury Theological Seminary and spent two years as a licensed mental health intern in the state of Florida, specializing in issues surrounding grief and loss; anxiety and fear; and trauma that accompanies emotional, physical, or sexual abuse. She lives in Maitland, Florida.

30 Days Toward Healing Your Grief is available by preorder and will be in print in March 2017.

Please visit www.churchpublishing.org/30daystowardhealingyourgrief to order yours today. www.cfdiocese.org

CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN • Nov. 2016

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December 11

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Page 27

St. Mark’s has exciting news.

Page 24

5 Newly Ordained Deacons share their stories.

Page 14

St. John’s is planting seed for the future.

Page 10

Why did Holy Cross go to Louisiana?

Page 6

Want to know more about January Convention?

NEWS FROM THE EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA WWW.CFDIOCESE.ORG • Volume 118, No. 6 • November 2016

EPISCOPALIAN

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