March/April 2014 Church News

Bishop Suffragan David Reed stands with Bishop Francisco Moreno and Bishop Ramiro Delgado during the Council Eucharist service on Feb. 20.

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March / April 2014 The newspaper of the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas

Inside this issue

Reports from and the actions of the 110th Diocesan Council, which was held Feb. 20-22, in San Marcos. See pages 6-10.

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St. Mark’s, San Antonio, Offers Food & Hope to the Homeless

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The Election Process for the Bishop Coadjutor

Celebrating 50 Years: Resurrection, San Antonio; and Trinity, Port Aransas

As Important To Send as To Be Sent: Manos de Dios

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News and Features 2 On the Bishop’s Mind: Fasting and Feasting

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St. Mark’s Brings Food and Hope to the Homeless

6 Report on the Bishop’s Address 7 Election Process of the Bishop Coadjutor 8 The Actions of the 110th Diocesan Council 11 Celebrating 50 Years 12 As Important To Send As To Be Sent In Every

Issue

3 From the Editor 14 Around the Circuit 16 Calendar Cover photo by John Gaskins. the Church News is published four times a year by the Dept. of Communication Episcopal Diocese of West Texas P. O. Box 6885 San Antonio, Texas 78209 Editor: Laura Shaver Laura.Shaver@dwtx.org Deadline for news and advertising is the 15th of the month preceding publication.

Periodicals Postage paid at San Antonio, TX and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Church News P.O. Box 6885 San Antonio, TX 78209

Volume 71 Number 2 March/April 2014 USPS 661-790 The Diocese of West TX is a family of 26,000+ members in 90 congregations across 60 counties and 69,000 square miles in South Central Texas.

Bishop of West Texas: The Rt. Rev. Gary R. Lillibridge Bishop Suffragan: The Rt. Rev. David M. Reed The Bishop Jones Center 111 Torcido Dr. San Antonio, Texas 78209 Telephone: 210/888-8245387. FAX: 210-824-2164 general.mail@dwtx.org www.dwtx.org

Communication Department Staff: Marjorie George: editor, Reflections Magazine and ReflectionsOnline Laura Shaver: communications officer

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On the Bishop’s Mind The Rt. Rev. gary lillibridge Bishop of the Diocese

Fasting and Feasting

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e are well into Lent—that season which I often refer to as a “tithe” of our year (40 of 365 days). I like Lent. I look forward to it. I find it meaningful and important in my spiritual life.

Such was not always the case, however.

When I was growing up, and even in early adulthood, I saw the season of Lent as a one dimensional season, meaning you “gave up” something. In the Lenten seasons of my own life, my self-denial has ranged from superficial to significant, which is all part of growing up in Christ, I suppose.

Over the years, I have “fasted” from many things during Lent—chocolate, beer, dessert, bread, soda, and other things. Now I fast yearround from some of these things, although that has more to do with doctor’s orders than God’s orders.

I learned many years ago that the actual “things” that I was denying myself, while not all together unimportant, were not nearly as significant as the spiritual side of the awareness and discipline of the practice itself.

Somewhere along the way, I also learned that simply fasting from these things was not all I was called to do. Someone suggested to me that I should take another step, which was to donate the money I saved on these items to a worthy cause. So my Lenten awareness and discipline took another step.

When I entered the ordained ministry, I also became aware of my need to “take on” something in addition to “giving up” something.

This was yet another step in my Lenten awareness and discipline. For years I saw Lent as the “fasting” season and Easter as the “feasting” season. Of course, both of these things are accurate. But such a view does not allow for the depth and the totality of Lent to be experienced and therefore serve as a real “change-agent” in my spiritual formation and transformation.

I now understand Lent to be a season which includes both fasting and feasting. In my Lenten file, I have many articles, ideas, and thoughts that I have collected over the years to serve as aides in my Lenten journey. Recently, I came across something (author unknown) that I put in a parish bulletin in 2001. I hope that you find it as helpful as I do when it comes to fasting and feasting during this “tithing season” of our year (see next page). This comes with my prayers and best wishes for a holy Lent.

From the editor

From the bishop’s column:

Fasting and Feasting Lent 2014 Fast from judging others; Feast on Christ dwelling in them.

Fast from words that pollute; Feast on speech that purifies.

Fast from discontent; Feast on gratitude.

Fast from anger; Feast on patience.

Fast from pessimism; Feast on optimism.

Fast from negatives; Feast on affirmatives.

Fast from bitterness; Feast on forgiveness.

Fast from self-concern; Feast on compassion.

Fast from gossip; Feast on purposeful silence.

Fast from problems that overwhelm; Feast on prayer that sustains.

Follow Jesus?

What does it mean to

This is the question being addressed in the diocesan-wide Adult Christian Formation initiative entitled Following Jesus: Invitation to Discipleship, a study which runs through Holy Week.

The eight-week program, written by the Rev. Drs. John Lewis and Jane Patterson of the San Antonio-based St. Benedict’s Workshop (formerly The Work+Shop), is formatted for individuals, congregations, and small groups and is posted online on a dedicated blog at www.followingjesus-dwtx.org.

Each week of the study includes an audio interview, facilitated by Marjorie George, with a diocesan family member on the particular aspect of discipleship. The eight weeks are devoted to the following aspects: • • • • • • • •

introduction follower neighbor prayer and worship witness steward prophet forgiver

For more information or questions about Following Jesus: Invitation to Discipleship, email Marjorie at marjorie.george@dwtx.org.

Find Lenten programs and resources from around the diocese at www.dwtx.org/lent.

Laura Shaver

Mercy in Action

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I have a vivid memory of seeing mercy in action when I was quite young. My grandparents lived near Montell, Texas, and we spent many weekends there so my mother could visit with her parents and siblings, when they were in town, and so the cousins could spend hours exploring the Nueces River bottom just below Nani and Pa’s property.

Nani and Pa’s house set on three acres, which was country living to us kids. Wide, open spaces, Pa’s tool shed to rummage through, trees to climb, and a four-wheeler with a full gas tank.

But I recall one weekend afternoon sitting in the living room, hanging out with family, drinking sweet iced tea, when my mom stood and noticed a homeless man had made his way onto the property and was resting just beneath a giant oak tree in the front lawn. Perhaps she commented on his arrival.

I watched as she went to the kitchen, fixed a glass of fresh ice water, and walked out the front screen door. I remember hearing comments that she should just let him be. I climbed onto the couch to peer out the large front window, and I watched her take that glass of water to the homeless man, gently pat him on the shoulder, and turn to come back to the house.

It’s been years since that moment. And I’ve had a good deal of experiences since then, but they’ve all been with privilege.

Fast forward to this year’s Diocesan Council and the incredible gift brought to those of us gathered by the Rev. Becca Stevens, who came to share her message the Church News

about the social enterprises she founded, Magdalene and Thistle Farms, which house and employ women survivors of prostitution, sex-trafficking, and addiction. Her message left listeners in tears, unable to sit after standing ovations because we all wanted to hear more. Her life is devoted to her ministry, and she embodies mercy.

From one act to a movement.

In my search to how best be a follower of Jesus, I think I am finally learning who Jesus really is.

And I’m okay saying that in my 30s. Though I was raised to know him and I have many other fond memories of getting to know him while I was growing up, I am just now realizing how great his mercy stretches, how his mercy reigns, how the simplest act of kindness or a movement that changes lives embodies his message today.

I think there are many of us across this diocese still processing what we heard Stevens say at Council this year. And I know there are many others across this diocese serving as Jesus’ hands and feet in other vital ministries.

And I know there are others, like me, who hold that ministry of wiping faces and reading Bible stories close to our hearts.

My family — this community — you are teaching me who Jesus is. My family — this community — you are teaching me how to serve him by always, always serving others. What a blessing, and I thank you.

March / April 2014

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Featured News

St. Mark’s Offers Food and Hope to the Homeless | By Mike Patterson Mike Patterson is a San Antonio-based freelance writer and member of St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church in Blanco.

Contact Mike at rmp231@gmail.com.

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t’s the Friday night before Christmas and St. Mark’s, San Antonio, is on lock-down.

More than three dozen young adults are spending the night locked in, stuffing bags of cookies and condiments to hand out to hungry diners the next day. In the parking lot, “pit crews” enveloped in wafting clouds of smoke tend to thick slabs of briskets and links of sausages in giant barbecue barrels.

The occasion for the all-night fuss is the ninth annual Christmas to the Street, an outreach ministry of St. Mark’s youth and kitchen ministries to provide home-cooked meals for the less fortunate at Christmas.

“It’s a cool way to give back,” said Jonathan Check, a senior at James Madison High School. “It’s a great way to interact with people just like us.”

Natalie Ribble greets guests to St. Mark’s “Christmas to the Street.”

By 2011, more than 100 parishioners and friends were volunteering in the Haven for Hope outreach program and serving nearly 43,000 meals to its residents.

Photos by Mike Patterson.

Come Saturday, the youth are lined up shoulder-to-shoulder behind a serving line covered in pans of brisket, sausage and all the trimmings, dishing out the noon time meal, smiles and good cheer to their guests who arrive from every corner of downtown.

By the end of the lunch rush, they have served some 500 of San Antonio’s neediest.

“I enjoy hearing about their lives, what they’ve been doing, their parents, their families,” said Natalie Ribble, a senior at TMI - The Episcopal School of Texas, who has volunteered at Christmas to the Street every year since sixth grade. “Some open their hearts. It makes me realize how blessed I am.”

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Fresh teams of church volunteers arrive mid-afternoon to deliver and serve another 1,100 plates of barbecue at Haven for Hope, a transformational homeless center about a mile from St. Mark’s. The campus combines the efforts of non-profit, governmental, and faith-based organizations to provide shelter and an array of comprehensive social services to homeless men, women, and families in San Antonio and Bexar County.

St. Mark’s outreach to the homeless began more than a dozen years ago when the church began handing out sack lunches on Fridays and serving breakfast on Sundays.

When Haven for Hope opened in June 2010, it asked the historic downtown church to help transition people off the streets and

onto the campus where they could receive regular meals, shelter, medical and dental treatments, and a myriad of assistance from social service and non-profit agencies.

St. Mark’s ended its independent feeding ministry and began partnering with the San Antonio Food Bank and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, the Catholic social service organization, to provide meals at the Haven for Hope campus rather than on the doorsteps of the church.

With a renovated and enlarged kitchen, the ministry quickly grew at St. Mark’s. By 2011, more than 100 parishioners and friends were volunteering in the Haven for Hope outreach program and serving nearly 43,000 meals to its residents, in addition to providing religious services at the campus.

Yet the remarkable aspect of St. Mark’s program is not only the food, support, and friendship it offers to the homeless, it’s the impact that it has on the volunteers.

“I feel enriched and humbled in ways I had never experienced before working in this ministry,” said Pat Donegan, a food ministry volunteer since 2010. “There is great reward

Gene Alderman dishes up the brisket.

in being part of a St. Mark’s team that serves local people the daily sustenance that most of us take for granted.”

“The Episcopal Church has on its website that ‘the Mission of the Church is the Mission of Christ’ and proclaims that one of the five marks of mission is ‘To respond to human need by loving service,’” Donegan said. “I think St. Mark’s food ministries are a fruitful response to this call for action.”

When she began volunteering about two years ago, Dr. Elizabeth Casiano “was focused on what must be missing in their lives,” she said. “Yet so many of the Haven for Hope residents comment on how blessed they are or how their days are going great, and they are truly hopeful for the future.

Spiritually it helps remind me to be grateful

to God for the amazing family, friends, and stability I have in life.”

Casiano believes the ministry is “doing the work Jesus wanted us to do. I think it fits in with the Episcopal Church in that we are an inclusive group. We are happy to help all people regardless of their backgrounds and beliefs. We are sharing our religion only with our Christian actions, not pushing our agenda verbally.”

“It’s our role to give ourselves to others, to share what we have with others,” said volunteer Derrick Dodge. “When I’m serving food to the homeless, it makes me grateful that I have a home to return to at night, a car to drive, a job to go to.”

At St. Mark’s, the priorities are to “roll up our sleeves” and reach out to the downtown community, he said. “That’s what Christ taught us to do.”

Sharing Faith dinners will

Members of the St. Mark’s youth group line up to serve meals to the homeless.

And tenth-grader Evan Tanner left his first “lock-in” several years ago with a “completely different understanding about these people,” he said. “I really learned how the homeless got there. These are human beings. I talk to them and see their humanity.”

Our Programs and Events Are Stacking Up Nicely.

be held across the diocese on Thursday, May 15.

For our Sharing Faith dinners this year, we will gather in small groups around the dinner table and respond to questions about our faith that allow us to share our thoughts and remembrances. The questions, all related to our annual theme, will call us to rekindle the gift of God in each of us.

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Honoring Tom Fro st | May 9, 2014 | San Antonio Coun try

Participants (church members): Contact your local Dinner Coordinator or priest by May 5 to indicate you would like to attend a dinner.

Find all the info at

Club

Serving Alice, Corpus Christi, Pharr, San Antonio and Sonora

www.dwtx.org/sharing-faith

www.GoodSamaritanCommunityServices.org | Volunteer | Donate Pd adv.

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GSAM1009 DioceseAd-AwardDinner.indd 1

March / April 2014

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Featured News

Report on the Bishop’s Address

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n his annual address to the 110th Diocesan Council, the Rt. Rev. Gary Lillibridge, bishop of the diocese, explained the 2014 diocesan theme of “Rekindle the Gift of God that is within You” from 2 Timothy. Lillibridge explored ways for congregations, and for the diocesan family as a whole, to participate in personal and spiritual transformation and to seek their calling to faithful discipleship. He also invited the diocese to study the books of 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus this year.

Before moving to matters of diocesan ministries, Lillibridge first acknowledged his January 28 letter to the diocese, in which he announced his plans to transition out of office over the next three years. Lillibridge is in his 11th year as bishop, and he said, “It has been and continues to be a holy and sacred blessing in my life.”

As Lillibridge stated in the letter, he and his wife, Catherine, have been prayerfully discerning this decision for some time, and he thanked Council for the many comments of support and thanksgiving he has received since the letter was sent.

Photo by John Gaskins.

Election of a Bishop Coadjutor Lillibridge officially called for the election of a bishop coadjutor on Saturday, October 25, at TMI – The Episcopal School of Texas.

A bishop coadjutor has the automatic right of succession upon the resignation of the diocesan bishop. After the election in October, the new bishop coadjutor will begin work in the diocesan office in January 2015. This timetable will provide the opportunity for a smooth transition and ample time for the bishop coadjutor to assume the leadership responsibilities of the diocese in an orderly fashion.

The election process is the responsibility of the Standing Committee. Information regarding how the election process is progressing will be posted frequently on the diocesan website at www.dwtx.org.

Lillibridge said, “I want us to remember that this is a calling forth by God of a person to serve in the office of bishop. We do not seek a person who covets the role of bishop; rather a person who is willing to serve as bishop if called forth by God through prayers and your faith-filled discernment.”

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| By Laura Shaver

Living the Christian Faith Turning to his next few years in office, Lillibridge said that while his daily duties will continue, he also plans to address some needs for the future that are very important.

In January he began a conversation with the Development Committee, which will extend to the Standing Committee, Executive Board, and other leadership, considering the broadest and most effective ways to live the Christian faith and convey the Christian message.

“We know the world and the Church are changing, and we have the responsibility to actively engage these shifting landscapes,” said Lillibridge. He explained the subsidiarity principle, which means organizing a system in such a way that ministries and programs are carried out at the simplest level, rendering them most effective. For example, pastoral care is most effectively handled at the local congregation level; a shared camping program at the diocesan level; and matters regarding the Book of Common Prayer at the national level.

Lillibridge said understanding our church and diocesan involvement begins with information and education in a host of areas.

He invited the diocesan family to join him in this broad range of thought and to expect some changes in what we have been doing, how the funding is coming, and how it might be coming in the future.

Lillibridge said he wants to focus much of his time over the next three years on resource gathering. He said, “The opportunities and needs of our congregations are surpassing the financial resources of congregations to address them in full, and sometimes partial, ways. The same is true on the diocesan level.” And this is a good thing, for the opportunities to reach out in the name of Christ abound.

Camps & Conferences Turning to Camps and Conferences, Lillibridge addressed the significant year for the diocesan department, noting the completion of the Phase I renovations at

Bishop Gary Lillibridge delivers his annual address to the 110th Diocesan Council, Feb. 21, 2014.

Camp Capers at a cost of about $4 million.

Also, the purchase of an additional 108 acres was made, more than doubling the size of Camp Capers.

The ministries at Mustang Island Conference Center continue to grow, especially Family Camp sessions during spring break and the summer. A new $1 million addition of ten rooms with private baths and small meeting spaces should be completed this fall.

The diocese also purchased the location of the Colorado Adventure Program in 2013 and renamed it Duncan Park in honor of Baker and Sally Duncan for their many contributions to diocesan life.

Diocesan Appeals Lillibridge reminded the diocese of the three diocesan-wide appeals we have each year, including Camps Sunday, which took place on March 2, providing the opportunity to grow the camp scholarship fund. The Mother’s Day offering benefits the efforts of the World Mission Department, and the Father’s Day offering proceeds go directly to the work of the Habitat Builders for West Texas. The first Habitat home of three to be built in six years was completed in the fall of 2013 in Lockhart. Lillibridge encouraged continued participation of each church with a donation of $300 per year to fund the new Habitat homes.

Annual Theme Turning to the theme of “Rekindle the Gift of God that is within you,” Lillibridge quoted various passages of Scripture that remind us of the importance of the patterns of our lives and that we are created “in the image of God.” The Scripture references included: Genesis 9:6, Romans 8:29, and 2 Corinthians 3:18. Lillibridge said, “Being ‘created in God’s image’ and being continually transformed into the ‘pattern of Christ’ is not something achieved simply by our own doing. It is produced by the creative power of the Holy Spirit.”

“This transformation becomes a way of looking at life,” said Lillibridge. Referring to the Kenosis (self emptying) hymn, from Philippians 2:4-11, Lillibridge said we should build our lives on the basis of servanthood.

“This begins not with a set of duties and functions, but rather with a personal relationship with Jesus Christ,” he said.

Rekindling the gift of God within you refers to this personal relationship.

If one’s life is built on the basis of servanthood, certain images come to mind: follower, prayer and worship, witness, neighbor, forgiveness and reconciliation, prophet, and steward. These aspects come directly from the new Adult Christian Formation Initiative entitled “Following Jesus: Invitation to Discipleship,” an eight-week study that began February 24 and continues through Lent and Holy Week. This study can be accessed through the diocesan website under Quick Links at www.dwtx.org.

In closing, Lillibridge asked Council, “What are you creating out of the whole cloth which is your life?” He said, “I hope that your answer is that Christ’s pattern, Jesus’ way of being in the world, is being carefully and firmly sewn into the daily fabric of your life so that you are becoming an ever more faithful disciple, witness, and servant.”

The Election Process of the Bishop Coadjutor as set forth by the Committee on the Bishop’s Address and approved by the Standing Committee February 22, 2014 (1) The Bishop calls for the election of a Bishop Coadjutor.

March-April, 2014 (2) The Standing Committee seeks consents to the election from the Standing Committees and Bishops holding jurisdiction of The Episcopal Church.

March-May, 2014 (3) The Standing Committee implements a diocesan-wide process to create a profile of the Diocese of West Texas. Such profile will be distributed to the diocese immediately upon completion.

(4) Standard forms to submit information on potential nominees, together with a list of questions developed by the Standing Committee regarding the office of Bishop, will be sent to all delegates and clergy. These forms and questions are to be addressed by all potential nominees.

April 1-July 31, 2014 (5) The Standing Committee receives information on all potential nominees. In order to be equitable to all, the information must be submitted on the standard forms sent out to all the delegates and clergy. In order to facilitate the election process, no one may be nominated without having first successfully completed the requisite background check. To accomplish the requisite background checks, the names of all potential nominees must be received by the Standing Committee no later than July 31, 2014.

September, 2014 (6) The Standing Committee provides the information it has received from the potential nominees to all delegates and clergy.

October 25, 2014 (7) The Council convenes at TMI - The Episcopal School of Texas in San Antonio to elect a Bishop Coadjutor. The first ballot will serve as a formal nominating ballot, whereby the previous potential nominees may become the nominees for Bishop Coadjutor.

October 2014-February 2015 (8) The Standing Committee seeks consents to the election from the Standing Committees and Bishops of jurisdiction in The Episcopal Church.

February 28, 2015 (9) Consecration (if needed) of the Bishop Coadjutor during the 111th Annual Council of the Diocese of West Texas to be held in San Marcos.

Find updates and information throughout the year on the Election of the Bishop Coadjutor at

http://council-dwtx.org

Photo by Katherine Warmack.

Facilitated Conversations Last year, Lillibridge spent a substantial part of his annual address on the matters of homosexuality and same-sex blessings.

He reported that churches have come forth in the past year and have held facilitated conversations on the issue, with the assistance of the Reconciliation Commission.

Lillibridge said those who have participated are consistently reporting that the conversations have been helpful discussions.

Council participated in its own facilitated conversation on Saturday morning, Feb. 22.

Online you can also find the form to nominate a clergy person for bishop coadjutor. Only 2014 Council delegates and canonically resident clergy may submit a nomination.

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March / April 2014

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The Actions of the 110th Diocesan Council Held February 20-22, 2014 Embassy Suites and Conference Center, San Marcos Host: St. Mark’s, San Marcos

Left: Bishop David Reed delivers his sermon during the opening Council Eucharist service.

Right: Clergy in the diocese follow the processional cross.

Remembering and Rekindling

by Marjorie George

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n his sermon at the Council Eucharist on Thursday evening, Feb. 20, Bishop David Reed echoed Paul’s admonition to his follower Timothy to “rekindle” the gift of God within him. This, of course, is the diocesan theme for 2014.

“But,” Bishop Reed asked, “what is it that we are to rekindle?” He suggested that rekindling for discipleship “requires remembering.” If we forget “the main thing, the best thing, then we are like dead coals,” he said.

Reed recalled three biblical stories in which God’s faithful people were called to remember. In the book of Nehemiah, when the Hebrews are finally allowed to return to their homeland after many years of exile, they are told to rebuild. But not until the priest Ezra reads from the Bible do they remember how and why.

Photos by John Gaskins.

In the gospel story, Jesus goes to the synagogue in his hometown and reads from the scroll that “The spirit of the Lord is upon me because he has anointed me to bring good news . . .” and the people remember again the old prophecy.

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Listen and View Online

St. Paul calls Timothy to remember the gift of faith that “lived first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice” and, secondly, that came through the laying-on of hands by Paul.

“In this remembering and retelling of Gospel stories,” said Reed, “the people of God are put back together, rekindled, and sent out.

Like coal in a fire, we need others so that God might rekindle in us a bonfire such as the world shall never put out.”

Reed suggested four ways the people of God can engage this rekindling – Bible study, going to Cursillo, attending one of the Sharing Faith dinners that will take place across the diocese on May 15, and getting outside of ourselves as congregations for shared life and ministry.

“We have been given everything we need to be rekindled,” said the bishop. “Remember the story of the Good News of Jesus,” he added. “Gather around it like campers drawn to a bonfire.”

“Our joy and our calling,” he said, “is to work at it, work it out together, remembering and being re-membered by the spirit so that the gifts may be rekindled and the light of Christ might fill our hearts and minds.”

http://council-dwtx.org/councillive-2014/ Listen to:

• Welcome from St. Mark’s, San Marcos • St. John’s, New Braunfels Receives Parish Status • Habitat Builders for West Texas • Bishop Lillibridge on the Council theme • Frontera Unida • Christian Education • Dr. Cooper for TMI • Camps & Conferences • Report on College Missions • Good Samaritan Community Services • The Rev. Becca Stevens - Why the Burning Bush Won’t Burn Out • The Episcopal Church Foundation in West Texas • Youth Commissioning • Background to the Facilitated Conversations • Committee on the Bishop’s Address • Courtesy Resolutions

• • • • •

View:

Bishop Reed’s sermon Bishop Lillibridge’s Address The World Mission “Thank You” video The Rev. Becca Stevens - Love Heals Mrs. Barrington on Facilitated Conversations • The Elisha Leadership Initiative five videos - All About Council

“Love Heals”

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he Rev. Becca Stevens graced Council with her presence and message as the keynote speaker at the Bishop’s Luncheon and during the business session on Friday afternoon.

Stevens is an Episcopal priest and currently serves as chaplain at St. Augustine’s Chapel at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. However, it is her ministry with the Magdalene program and the social enterprise Thistle Farms of which she spoke that rekindled Christ’s light in all who had the privilege of listening.

A recent graduate and a current resident of Magdalene traveled with Stevens and smiled and reached out in love to all visitors that stopped by the Thistle Farms exhibit booth.

“You bought us out!,” Stevens exclaimed during her second presentation.

Stevens repeatedly referred to the annual theme, “Rekindle the Gift of God within You,” and said she and her team had experienced a total rekindling by visiting Council and the Diocese of West Texas.

Election Results 110th Diocesan Council Executive Board Clergy: The Rev. Patrick Soule The Rev. Nancy Springer The Rev. Robert Woody – to fill a one-year unexpired term Lay: Elizabeth Manning Roger Graham Beverly Heyen Tom Lee Trustees to the Episcopal Church Corporation Clergy: The Rev. John Badders Lay: Bryan Duffy

The Rev. Becca Stevens delivers her presentation, “Love Heals,” at the Bishop’s Luncheon on Friday.

Bishops Reed and Lillibridge visit with Council participants from the stage.

But it was Stevens’ sincere message of how love heals that rekindled those attending Council. “Friday,” the day Stevens led two presentations, “was a deep day for the diocese,” said Bishop Gary Lillibridge.

“Becca’s presentations set the tone. God was present, and she touched us with the authenticity of her message.”

You can view Steven’s luncheon presentation and hear her afternoon address by visiting http://council-dwtx.org/council-live-2014.

You will also find the link to the Thistle Farms and Magdalene video Stevens showed during her luncheon presentation.

Trustees to TMI – The Episcopal School of Texas Holly Baker Hill The Rev. Tim True

Diocesan Council views the Department of World Mission’s video “Thank you for giving to the Lord.”

You can view the video at council-dwtx.org/council-live-2014.

Standing Committee Clergy: The Rev. David Read Lay: Richard Mosty

Clergy Alternates: The Rev. Michael Bertrand The Rev. Tommy Bye The Rev. Sandy Casey-Martus Lay Deputies: Connie Bye Melanie Klotzman Sharon Neukam Roger Graham Lay Alternates: Kent Hutton Cash Keith Todd Mackenzie Dan Williams-Capone

Deputies to Province VII Synod Clergy Deputies: The Rev. Matthew Frey The Rev. Canon Joann Saylors The Rev. Patrick Soule The Rev. Nancy Springer

Deputies to the 78th General Convention of the Episcopal Church Clergy Deputies: The Rev. Ripp Hardaway The Rev. Scott Brown

Trustee to the University of the South – Sewanee Dianne Pape

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The Rev. David Read The Rev. Lisa Mason Clergy Alternates: The Rev. Canon Joann Saylors The Rev. Jennifer BrookeDavidson The Rev. Ben Nelson The Rev. Paul Frey Lay Deputies: Kelley Kimble Carrie Guerra Alice Ann Fischer Rob Schneider Lay Alternates: Jennifer Wickham John Warren Roger Graham Sharon Neukam

March / April 2014

Photos by Chuck Gibbons.

Stevens is the founder of Magdalene and Thistle Farms. Magdalene is a two-year residential program that serves women survivors of prostitution, trafficking, and addiction, at no cost to the residents. Thistle Farms includes a natural body care line, a sewing studio, and the Thistle Stop Cafe, all which employ graduates of the Magdalene program.

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St. John’s, New Braunfels, Receives Parish Status

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n her report on the Status of Parishes and Missions on Thursday afternoon, Feb. 20, the Rev. Joann Saylors, diocesan canon for deployment and congregational development, presented the resolution for St. John’s, New Braunfels, to gain parish status from mission status. All those in favor stood and clapped, as the full congregation from St. John’s marched in across the Council floor to the foot-stomping song, “Celebration.”

The congregation wore T-shirts imprinted with St. John’s new logo, which includes the word “blessed.” Ron Morrison, member of St. John’s, acknowledged the large crowd that gathered from the church to celebrate this momentous occasion.

St. John’s reverted to mission status from parish status in 2008 after the church endured a split within the congregation.

Morrison gave thanks to “the work of Bishop Lillibridge and Drew Cauthorn,” and the 27 faithful members who remained, and “God, who resurrected St. John’s.” Morrison extended a tremendous gratitude of thanks to the Rt. Rev. James Folts, who came in to serve as priest-in-charge after the congregation was split apart.

Morrison said the blessings continued with the appointment of the Rev. Ripp Hardaway as vicar in June 2009. “By God’s grace, we are thriving, and that is why we are here today,” said Morrison. “This journey has been emotional, heart-rendering, gratifying, and a blessing.”

Photos by Santos Nagao and John Gaskins.

Morrison shared a poem he wrote about the “blessed journey,” saying, “We know we can’t carry our burdens alone, so we come.” To the

Council floor, Morrison introduced the many members of St. John’s Church, a group that is healthily growing. “As our T-shirts show, we are ‘blessed,’” said Morrison. “We are blessed

by God, and we know it.”

Hardaway, now rector of St. John’s with the passing of this resolution, said, “I am blessed to be called as the new rector. I love being a part of a people who are open to the power of God – this incredible group of people keep saying ‘yes’ to God.” Hardaway took joy in extending the invitation to all of Council to return to San Marcos next year, as St. John’s will host the 111th Diocesan Council, Feb. 26-28, 2015.

Council Participates in Facilitated Conversations

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n Saturday morning of Diocesan Council, February 22, clergy and delegates, as well as alternates and visitors, met in small groups for facilitated conversations led by members of the diocesan Reconciliation Committee.

Each group was led by a trained facilitator, and the goal of the conversations was to encourage and equip members of the diocesan family to engage one another on topics in which they may hold different theological positions, specifically on matters of human sexuality and the blessing of samesex unions.

Using a framework that encouraged all to have a generous pastoral response to those with whom they disagree, the conversations were held through mutual listening and respectful discussion, outlined by questions provided by the Reconciliation Commission.

Members and friends of St. John’s, New Braunfels, marched in and gathered on the stage at Diocesan Council to celebrate receiving parish status.

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Last year (2013), in his address to Council, Bishop Lillibridge first invited congregational conversations on the matter of homosexuality, which followed upon the actions of the 77th General Convention of the Episcopal Church, held in July 2012, which authorized for provisional use a liturgy for same-sex blessings in dioceses that chose to do so. Those congregations who accepted the bishop’s invitation to these conversations have consistently reported that they proved to be a helpful discussion in which to participate.

In this year’s address to Council on Friday morning, Lillibridge once again invited congregations throughout the diocese to engage in a prayerful, careful, and intentional conversation about homosexuality and samesex blessings.

Lillibridge said, “These facilitated conversations continue to represent the broad range of thought and hopes on this subject. They call us to seriously consider what the phrases ‘generous pastoral response’ and ‘honor the theological diversity of this Church’ look like in our life together.”

Following the table conversations at Council, the participants were invited to stand and give a one-word response to the exercise.

During the time allotted, the one-word responses included: enlightened, respect, okay, compassionate, gentle, tolerant, committed, love, cloudy, painful, family, holy, encouraged, sensitive, beginning, amor, vulnerable, heart-felt, blessed, lucky, grateful, difficult, acknowledged, faithful, timely, emotional, laughter, tolerance, embraced, wisdom, concerned, real, suicide, friendly, courageous, and accommodation.

Lillibridge extended his thanks to Council for their participation. The Rev. Lisa Mason, member of the Reconciliation Commission, closed the session with a prayer, thanking God for listening ears and listening hearts.

She prayed for all to be bearers of mercy, and continue to be bearers of light, and love, and peace.

Celebrating 50 Years Resurrection, Windcrest, and Trinity, Port Aransas, Mark a Milestone | By Laura Shaver

Current members, friends and visitors gathered at Resurrection on Sunday, February 9. The Rev. Chris Cole, rector, was joined by former rector, the Rev. Paul Worley, who served the Windcrest congregation for 20 years (1987-2007), and by the Rev. Craig Pooser, who served as assistant rector to Worley and to Cole during his first three years. Bishop Suffragan David Reed was present, as well. The Rev. David Veal, second rector of Resurrection (1980-1987), was unable to attend the celebration.

Cole shared some words quoted in the minutes of the first vestry meeting, when the congregation met in a local bomb shelter, that said, “Be it resolved that we will do at least as much for others as we do for ourselves.” Cole said that sentiment has become a part of the DNA of Resurrection.

The congregation also celebrated the completion of a new building, which houses a brand new parish hall and school building for Resurrection Children’s Center, which serves children in infancy through Pre-K4.

Reed led the members through the halls as he dedicated both facilities.

The remodel of the children’s center and parish hall is “an outward and visible sign of our work,” said Cole. “Today we re-dedicate ourselves for the sake of the world and the one who created it.”

A catered lunch was served after the dedication, and life-long and new members of Resurrection shared stories and memories amidst laughter and fellowship. Referring to the appointed Gospel reading, Matthew 5:13-20, Cole said, “We have been the salt and light in the community of Windcrest for

50 years, and we will continue to preserve the values Jesus taught and to bring forth the deep, rich colors of hope, joy, and peace.”

February 9 was also Boy Scouts Sunday, and members of Troop 926 presented the colors at the beginning of the service and served refreshments before the building dedication.

The troop has grown from one young scout to 35 Cub Scouts and 10-15 Boy Scouts while located at Resurrection.

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t Trinity-by-the-Sea, Port Aransas, a large crowd gathered on Saturday, March 1, to celebrate the first 50 years in ministry. The weather was warm, and flowery leis adorned many necks.

The children of Trinity-by-the-Sea Day School led the congregation in singing “Arise, Shine,” to open the service of Holy Eucharist. Bishop Gary Lillibridge and Bishop Suffragan David Reed joined the Rev. James Derkits, vicar; the Rev. Bill Calhoun, retired priest serving as associate vicar; and several past vicars and members of their families to celebrate Trinity’s first 50 years.

The congregation first gathered at Carter Chapel and then at Tarpon Inn in Port Aransas in 1958. “I hope those meetings included lunch,” commented Lillibridge. The present church building was dedicated in 1964.

Lillibridge, referred to the heavy red doors at the front of the church as “glory doors,” and said, “Through the glory doors, we share God’s presence going one way or the other.”

Bishop Reed and others at Resurrection, Windcrest, follow the banner and bells to the dedication of the new children’s center and parish hall.

Derkits extended multiple “thank yous.”

Among those in attendance were the Rev. Janne Osborne, former vicar of Trinity (1994-1997), the Rev. George Dawson, who has served as supply priest often, as well as Judy Leveridge, wife of the late Rev. Al Leveridge, former vicar (2001-2004).

The Rev. Doug Schwert, who served Trinity just before Derkits, was unable to make the service, but several Corpus Christi-area clergy attended the celebration.

Following the service, the crowd gathered for lunch inside the parish hall and under a tent set up outside and enjoyed birthday cake.

The walls of the parish hall were decorated with notes from members about what makes Trinity special. Many notes referenced the church’s hospitality and the school’s ministry to area children.

The church was full at Trinity-by-the-Sea, Port Aransas, during the 50th anniversary celebration, March 1.

the Church News

March / April 2014

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Photos by Laura Shaver.

T

wo churches in the Diocese of West Texas are celebrating 50 years of ministry in 2014. The Church of the Resurrection, Windcrest (San Antonio), and Trinity-by-the-Sea, Port Aransas, held festive celebrations as they each marked 50 years and looked toward a bright future of service.

Featured News

As Important To Send As To Be Sent | By Kaitlin Reed

Kaitlin Reed is the administrative assistant for the Department of World Mission. You can reach Kaitlin at kaitlin.reed@dwtx.org.

The Manos de Dios mission team left for their annual trip to Danli, Honduras, on January 23 and returned, hearts full, a week later to bring news of their successful trip back home to their sending parishes. During the brief time spent in Danli, the Manos Team, bearing the motto “Flexible and Faithful,” accomplished many wonderful things. This impassioned team of 17 individuals from St. Francis in Canyon Lake, St. Andrew’s in Seguin, Emmanuel in San Angelo, and St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Church in San Antonio, set out to further expand and develop the ministry that they began in Honduras over 12 years ago.

The Rev. David Chalk, rector of St. Francis, Canyon Lake, leads worship at the Iglesia Manos de Dios, built by the Manos team, in the Nueva Esperanza colonia in Danli, Honduras.

One of the first and arguably most crucial developments the team made was to grow the Manos mission team by including their senders in their plans for ministry.

Photos submitted by Kaitlin Reed.

Although only 17 members actually travelled to Honduras, many fellow parish members prayed for, loved, and supported them— groups who saw the importance of sending as well as being sent. One of the first and arguably most crucial developments the

A few of the Honduran children that gathered for VBS presented by the Manos team.

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team made was to grow the Manos mission team by including their senders in their plans for ministry.

Members of the congregations formed a prayer team, the “Manos Pray-ers Powerhouse.” The “Pray-ers” added another dimension to the existing team. They were participants from the different congregations who followed the travelers’ daily journey by supporting them in prayer every step of the way. “It provides a much richer experience for the senders when they are immersed in it,” said Libby Templeton, prayer team leader and member of St. Francis, Canyon Lake. “It really gets the church to reach out and go beyond itself.”

To ensure that they provided effective and energetic spiritual support, the Pray-ers read from the same daily mission devotional as their travelling counterpart, and they used the devotional to pray and meditate both before and during the trip. “We were also

given a timeline of the trip so that we could pray over each activity and each aspect of the mission before, during, and after it happened,” said Templeton. The prayer team also gave the goers small gifts and encouraging notes, which the team leader, Patricia Perea from St. Francis, Canyon Lake, distributed to the members at various points during their time in Honduras. These served as reminders to the team that they were loved and supported by their church family and constantly held up in prayer by the team back home.

Having worked in Honduras for so many years, the Manos team has formed a relationship and lasting partnership with the people in Danli, specifically in the Colonia Nueva Esperanza, where they have done the majority of their work. In previous years, the Manos team planted and built Iglesia Manos de Dios, which has now become the second largest church in Honduras. “We also built a vocational center and have been able to work in various social areas with the purpose of empowering the members of the community and to help them be selfsufficient,” said Perea. These endeavors, along with Manos’ many other projects and missions, have come to greatly benefit this colonia.

Another aspect of the Manos ministry is the Casitas Project. Doña Graciela, whose

with the different house had been speakers,” said Perea. partially eroded and destroyed Manos de Dios, “The Hands of God,” is a phrase which perfectly They also interviewed ten worthy 2014 by floods and encapsulates the effect of this mission many hands coming unrelenting rains, scholarship applicants, and through God’s had lived in her together for great, spiritual work, for living and sharing the grace, were able to home in Danli for Good News of Christ. accept all of them into 15 years, along with the program.

14 other people all under one

Manos de Dios, “The deteriorating roof. at Iglesia Manos de Dios in Yusacaran and in Their walls were cracked, the roofing did Hands of God,” is a phrase which perfectly Santa Maria. Working side by side with their encapsulates the effect of this mission - many little to keep out the rain, and the kitchen Honduran counterparts, the team fitted over was in great need of repair. The construction hands coming together for great, spiritual 300 pairs of glasses. “It is a wonderful feeling team embraced the challenge of repairing work, for living and sharing the Good News to bring ‘clarity’ to someone’s life,” said of Christ. And this mission would not have Graciela’s home as one of their most deserved Perea. been so wonderfully fruitful and spiritually Casitas Projects to date.

rewarding were it not for the collaboration of

The Manos de Dios ministry previously set With a vision of expanding their successful the Pray-ers and goers, and the involvement in place a scholarship program, which helps of the entire congregations. Templeton said, ministry, this mission team, accompanied by provide education for children, empowering “Though we were not there with them, we their friends in Nueva Esperanza, reached them to become a stronger, more vital part also were in the field, through the prayers we out to two other under-served villages, of their community. During this trip, the Santa Maria and Yuscaran. In addition to the lifted up for them and the love and kindness team held a resume workshop and career we showed to one another.” Through their construction and repairs, the mission team day for their scholarship students and had collaborative efforts, in praying, physically also organized three sessions of Vacation different speakers from various disciplines and spiritually preparing, and planning Bible School, with over 150 children in talk about different college major options, attendance who participated in arts and together, these churches accomplished so career paths, and ways to start the college crafts, Bible teachings, games, and activities. much and became a true testament to the admission process. “It was wonderful to see The team also conducted three vision clinics power of prayer. these kids being engaged in conversations

Honduran high school students attend a resume workshop and career day presented by the Manos team, which featured speakers from various disciplines who addressed career paths and attending college.

the Church News

The construction on the home of Doña Graciela, pictured before (above) and after (bottom).

March / April 2014

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Around the circuit

The Texas Conference of Churches presents a one-day workshop, “What do you say after the hug?”, that provides

St. Margaret’s Church and Day School, San Antonio, will host a Fiesta Carnival on Saturday, April 12, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. St. Margaret’s is located at 5310 Stahl Rd., San Antonio, TX 78259, right next door to Stahl Elementary.

models for ministering to returning soldiers and their families.

The workshop will be held on Thursday, March 27, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Bishop Jones Center (111 Torcido, San Antonio, 78209). Cost per person is $30, and this includes lunch.

Register by emailing tcc@txconfchurches.org.

Call 512-708-0660 for more information.

The fourth annual Spring Scholarship Event for St. Luke’s Episcopal School, San Antonio, will be held Friday, April 4, at the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre at 7:30 p.m.

The Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio presents the fifth annual Contemplative Retreat with Lecture Series

featuring the Very Rev. Michael Battle, PhD, “People of Pilgrimage: Ubuntu - Practicing Compassion” from 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 30, till noon on Thursday, April 3. You may attend the four-day retreat, or choose the three-evening lecture series with Battle, who is a former chaplain to the Episcopal House of Bishops.

“Ubuntu” invites us to deepen our awareness of what it means to be human and to learn of our need for one another. More information, the retreat itinerary, and the registration costs and form can be found on the Oblate website at www.ost.edu. During the retreat, there will be opportunities for spiritual direction from conveners Suzanne Broussard, Rosalyn F. Collier, Rev. Mary Earle, or Sylvia Maddox.

The concert will feature Radney Foster, Randy Rogers, and Charlie Robison. Created to support the John R. Foster Service Scholarship Fund to honor his memory and his commitment to lifelong learning and community, the fund provides a scholarship to an outstanding middle school student who is dedicated to community service.

Please join the fun at this star-studded event.

For tickets, please contact Tracee Feik at 210262-3718 or traceefeik@yahoo.com.

For information about tax-deductible donations to the fund, please contact Director of Advancement Lynn Bobbitt at 210-826-0664 or visit www.sles-sa.org.

The event will raise funds for a new playground at the day school. There will be food, games, a bouncy house, Velcro wall, photo booth, vendors, and a variety show.

Wrist bands will be on sale for $10.00, which are good for most events (except food, the cake walk, and any additional photos).

Tickets will also be on sale for $0.25 per ticket. Tickets will need to be purchased for food. If you would like to be a vendor at this event, please contact the church at 210-6573328 or at the day school 210-657-0395.

The annual Charity Golf Tournament benefiting Trinity by the Sea Episcopal Day School in Port Aransas will be held Friday, April 25, at the Palmilla Beach Golf Course in Port Aransas, an Arnold Palmer Signature Course.

Check-in begins at 11:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 1:00 p.m. for the 4-person team scramble. The registration fee of $135 includes drink coupons, lunch with a beverage, goodie bag, and a light buffet dinner. Sponsorship opportunities are available; online registration is available, as well, at www.trinitybythesea.com. To learn more about Trinity Day School, contact Nana Ward at 361-749-6448.

Cathedral House Gallery opens a new show entitled

“Pilgrimage” during the weeks of Lent. The opening reception will be held on Sunday, March 23, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Bishop Jones Center, located at 111 Torcido Dr. in San Antonio.

“Pilgrimage” will feature the works of diocesan artists, including Erdem Balikci, Toni Cheshire, Keith Cheshire, Terry Gay Puckett, Patsy Sasek, Peter Szarmach, Threads of Blessing, and World Mission. Self-guided tours, the Cathedral Park Meditation Walk, will be open, and the event will also feature live music, books from Viva Bookstore, and is presented in collaboration with Pilgrimage of Compassion.

Artwork by Patsy Sasek.

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For more information, contact Marjorie George at marjorie.george@dwtx.org.

See the new look online for the Commission for Women’s Ministry:

www.dwtx.org/women

Around the circuit

SUMMER CAMPS Registration Open for Summer Sessions Registration is open for summer sessions at Camp Capers, for Family Camps at Mustang Island Conference Center, and for week-long adventures at Duncan Park in Colorado.

Visit www.dwtx.org/camps for more information on each program and to register. Send an email to Caroline Kittrell, marketing and development director for the Department of Camps and Conferences, at caroline.kittrell@dwtx.org if you have questions or need assistance. The summer schedules follow:

Camp Capers Senior High A: June 8-14 (rising 10th grade-college freshmen) Primary A: June 15-21 (rising 3rd-5th grades) Junior High A: June 22-28 (rising 8th-9th grades) Intermediate A: June 29-July 5 (rising 6th-7th grades) Good Sam Camp: July 14-18 (rising 3rd grade-college freshmen, from Good Samaritan Community Services) Senior High B: July 20-26 (rising 10th grade-college freshmen) Junior High B: July 27-Aug. 2 (rising 8th-9th grades) Intermediate B: Aug. 3-9 (rising 6th-7th grades) Primary B: Aug. 10-16 (rising 3rd-5th grades)

Family Camp at Mustang Island

Summary of apportionments through February 28, 2014.

Spring Break: March 13-16 Session 1: June 5-8 Session 2: June 12-15 Session 3: June 19-22 Session 4: June 26-29 Session 5: July 3-6 Session 6: July 10-13 Session 7: July 17-20 Session 8: July 24-27 Session 9: July 31-August 3 Session 10: August 7-10 Session 11: August 14-17 Session 12-Labor Day: August 29-Sept. 1

Colorado Adventure Program at Duncan Park Youth Trips (high school students): Base Camp: June 19-July 4, July 21-26 Backpacking: July 6-12 College Trip: July 14-19 Adult Trips: June 15-20, June 22-27

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March / April 2014

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Episcopal Diocese of West Texas P. O. Box 6885 San Antonio, TX 78209 www.dwtx.org Send address changes to The Church News, P.O. Box 6885, San Antonio, TX 78209

the

Church News

calendar of events

Diocesan events April

Spring Women’s Gathering The annual Spring Women’s Gathering sponsored by the Commission for Women’s Ministry will be held Friday-Sunday, April 4-6, at Camp Capers. The theme for the weekend is “Stranger in Our Midst: Angel or Annoyance?”, and the presenter for the weekend is Sam Carter Gilliam. For more details about the gathering and about Sam, visit the commission’s webpage at www.dwtx.org/women. Register online at www.dwtx.org/events.

Sunday Night Live Sunday Night Live (SNL) will be held Sunday evening, April 13, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the Bishop Jones Center (111 Torcido, 78209) in San Antonio. SNL is a gathering for high school-age youth in the San Antonio area and is led by students that participate in the diocesan College Missions programs on various college campuses. The evening includes worship, a talk, small groups, fellowship, and dinner. For more information contact the Director of College Missions, Greg Richards at greg@stirflux.com.

Daughters of the King Province VII Assembly The Order of the Daughters of the King invite all DOK members within the diocese to attend the DOK Province VII Assembly, to be held FridaySunday, April 11-13, at St. Thomas, San Antonio (1416 N Loop 1604 E, 78232). Friday will consist of a meet-and-greet, light supper, and Eucharist service; Saturday will include a business meeting and several keynote speakers, dinner, and a Taize service; and Sunday will close the weekend with the service at St. Thomas. For more details and the registration form, visit www.dwtx.org/events.

Cost is $75/participant.

Nails & Prayers Men’s Retreat The Nails and Prayers Men’s Retreat will be held at Camp Capers, Friday- Sunday, April 25-27.

Led by the Rev. Jay George, men ages 18 and up are invited to gather for worship, fellowship, individual time for prayer, and the opportunity to give back to camp. There will be a variety of projects involving different levels of physical labor and construction expertise. Bring your work gloves and a servant’s heart. Register online at www.dwtx.org/events. Cost is $75.00.

Second Saturday Mini Retreat Spend time in guided meditation and reflective conversation in the company of women on the grounds of Cathedral Park at the Bishop Jones Center in San Antonio (111 Torcido, 78209). The mini retreats are held each second Saturday of the month from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. No reservations are needed. For more information, send an email to Marjorie George at marjorie.george@dwtx.org.

maY

Cursillo #264 Cursillo #264 will be held at Mustang Island Conference Center Thursday-Sunday, May 8-11. Please note that Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 11. The Rector is Ben Powers, and the Spiritual Director is the Rev. David Read, rector of St. Luke’s, San Antonio. Register online at www.dwtx.org/events.

Sharing Faith Dinners Sharing Faith dinners will be held around the diocese on Thursday, May 15. See page 5 in this issue, and read about the event at www.dwtx.org/sharing-faith.

june

Abide in Me VI The sixth annual Abide in Me Conference will be held on Saturday, June 7, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at TMI - The Episcopal School of Texas. The keynote speaker is J. Clif Christopher, author of Rich Church Poor Church and Not Your Parents’ Offering Plate.

Christopher is a successful church growth consultant who leads churches through all phases of building, finance, and church growth. All churches in the diocese are encouraged to bring lay leadership to learn in fellowship with each other. Registration opens on April 15 at www.dwtx.org/abideinme.

The Diocese of West Texas Online

www.dwtx.org/blog

Read ministry stories from our churches in between issues of The Church News. The blog also features current news, national news, and diocesan ministry updates.

ReflectionsOnline

The diocesan spiritual formation blog, ReflectionsOnline offers weekly reflections and resources for your spiritual journey. www.reflections-dwtx.org “Episcopal Diocese of West Texas Bishop Jones Center” @DioceseWestTX