Summertime: God Does Not Take A Vacation
Many parishioners often remind me as well as other clergy-staff team members that “summer” does not mean that Christians take a vacation from worship, fellowship, service, giving, and more that happens in the life of faith communities, because God does not take a vacation from us. Indeed, such is the case for the GSL parish family!
We are called by our baptismal vows to engage weekly in whatever is offered on the calendar of events to nurture spiritual lives and growth in Christ. This summer, we purposefully simplify the schedule to gather the whole parish for one Sunday 10 a.m. service preceded by 9–9:45 breakfast and followed by refreshments and offer once-a-month Sunday 5 p.m. service. Two of these evening services will include special music and be followed by 5:45–6:30 parish suppers hosted by Congregational Life (gracestlukes.org/summer). While infrequent formation offerings for adults, youth, and children will be announced, weekly Sunday 4 p.m. More Than A Meal continues and could use volunteers (gracestlukes.org/more-than-a-meal).
In preparation for August–December 2025 and January–June 2026, the clergy-staff team will spend the summer working with the vestry and a host of ministry and committee leaders to plan programs. I hope that the outcome will be an inviting meaningful collection of events to bless our souls and faith journeys—and grow the parish, spiritually and numerically. You’ll also hear and see occasional calls for volunteers to get involved with stewardship and other areas and to be trained for lay liturgical roles to assist the clergy. All that we do and plan and offer in the life of this beloved parish is to the glory of God and the co-creating of God’s Kingdom.
Summertime, even as parishioners and employees take breaks and vacations, presents weekly and occasional chances for the GSL faith community, our invited guests, and weekly “walk-ins” to engage and deepen Christian community. In our parish of 450-plus households, the spiritual practice of gathering during summertime is bound to deepen faith-centered relationships.
Enjoy and share this issue of The Messenger to reflect on the past, engage the present, and imagine the future in communal ministry as devout followers of Jesus. Daily, our Creator calls us to walk by faith and not be sight, and to expect to be surprised as we both give and receive.
Faithfully and in peace,
The Rev. Ollie V. Rencher, Rector 901-252-6320 | orencher@gracestlukes.org
2024 Strategic Plan Report May 2025
On May 7, the vestry, clergy, and staff released a report highlighting 2024 goals and results as well as plans for 2025 and beyond based on the 2024-2028 strategic plan. Pick up a copy at GSL or visit gracestlukes.org/ strategic-plan
Hearing God’s Voice
On Good Shepherd Sunday (Easter IV, May 11), we heard Jesus say that his sheep “hear my voice. I know them and they follow me” (John 10:27). In my sermon that morning (gracestlukes. org/assets/2822/5425_sermon-2. mp3), I mentioned prayer as the primary way we learn to recognize the Shepherd’s voice.
There are many different forms of prayer, but growing up I think I only ever heard of one type: vocal prayer and mostly liturgical vocal prayers, at that. In classic theology, there are two big umbrella categories for prayer:
1. vocal prayer—prayer articulated with words
2. mental prayer—prayer without words, like meditation or contemplation (AKA “centering prayer”)
While vocal prayer is probably the predominantly used type for most Christians most of the time, I think it is through the mental prayer types that we learn to listen to God and recognize the voice of God. I also think that spiritual transformation is more readily facilitated by this type of prayer. It is all about intentionality and time spent intentionally with God, but it takes some practice and often isn’t intuitive.
There’s a story about Mother Teresa of Calcutta. They say once a young reporter asked her, “What do you say when you pray to God?” Teresa answered, “Nothing. I listen.” Then the reporter responded, “Then, what does God to say to you?” And, Teresa replied, “Nothing. God listens. And, if you can’t understand that, then I can’t really explain it to you.” It sounds nonsensical, but it’s true. With mental prayer, we come to a place where words are no longer necessary: We simply sit with God and spend time with God—and God spends time with us.
I’ve mentioned spiritual direction before, which is a timehonored practice of a person of faith meeting with a companion/mentor, usually once per month, for guidance and companionship in spirituality and prayer. It has been hugely helpful in my life, and I think my clergy colleagues here at GSL would say the same for them. Spiritual Directors can help us to tune into the voice of God, to sift through the noise of life to hear God a little more clearly.
If you’re looking for some help or coaching on prayer and spirituality, know that your clergy are here to help. We love talking about spirituality and prayer. We’re happy to talk, share
ideas and suggestions, and point you to resources. And, if you decide you want to find a trained spiritual director, we can help with that, too.
Ultimately, clergy want you to grow closer to God, and we’re always willing and eager to help with that.
Sincerely, Jesse+
The Rev. Dr. Jesse W. Abell, Associate Rector for Pastoral Care 901-252-6330 | jesse.abell@gracestlukes.org
Gratitude for the Services of Three Staff Members
by The Rev. Ollie V. Rencher, Rector
Between May and August 2025, three members of the GSL Church clergy-staff team will have left serving among us for various planned reasons, and I invite all parishioners to join me in gratitude for each lay minister and her ministry. It has been a privilege to serve with Jess Steenbergen (Youth Formation Associate, leaving the week of May 18), Lucy Owens (Communications Associate, leaving the week of August 3), and Debbie Smith (Assistant Organist-Choirmaster, leaving the week of August 17). Let us hold Jess, Lucy, and Debbie in prayer as they transition into the next seasons of life apart from the team; messages about each appear in this issue (pages 6, 7, 8). Meanwhile, I ask your prayers for me as I collaborate with the personnel committee and different advisory groups in the recruitment of each person’s successor. Gestures of appreciation have been and will be extended to each on behalf of the parish by the wardens, vestry, and me.
Summer
Acronyms can be useful tools! As we approach summer, I thought I’d use the device as a way to suggest some ways of staying connected to God, GSL, and our Faith as we enter the summer. God bless!
An Acronym of Faith for Summer:
S: Sundays. Sundays remain important during summer. They are the day we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, take Communion, and get to fellowship with other Christians we often don’t see. While time away in vacation is beautiful, as often as possible bring your greatest gift, yourself and family to Mass to care and be cared for!
U: Use. Use the summer. Sports schedules, pressures of school routine are eased, and this provides a great opportunity to set new habits or practices that help you grow in the knowledge of God and God’s world. Some suggestions:
Readings:
1. Martin Laird’s Into the Silent Land, on the practice of quiet prayer. Small book, big impact!
2. Pick a book of the Bible to read as a family. I suggest the Gospel of Luke.
3. Anything by Madeleine L’Engle, Wendall Berry, Marylynne Robison.
4. The Narnia Books (or if you are in to Sci-Fi, Out of the Silent Plant) both by C.S. Lewis
Watchings:
1. The Chosen. This re-telling of Jesus is far from corny and the episode with Jesus and the Children in Season One is deeply moving.
2. The Good Place. You will learn a lot about growth, grace, and being human and have fun doing it. The showrunners have written a lot of complex philosophy in simple ways, and this philosophy is important for deepening your understanding of your own faith. Plus, Ted Danson!
3. Watch Bluey or Young Jedi Chronicles with your kids and see how the moral teachings of these shows echo in what you hear at GSL and what you’ve read in Scripture. Star Wars has many noble truths.
4. Documentaries: If you are a history buff, check out The Black Power Mixtape, which is all archival footage from the 1960s. This is available on YouTube and is for adults.
Practices:
1. Start a regular practice of prayer. Take 5 minutes each day to talk with God and 5 minutes to listen and go from there. (If you need suggestions, feel invited to connect with our clergy or myself. Many ways of prayer exist from “Praying in Color,” to meditation.)
2. Start a regular practice of being in nature. The Christian Church has believed God gave us two books: the Book of Scripture and the Book of Creation or Nature. We can learn many, many things by attending to nature. Walk Overton Park, go (safely) off trail.
Listen to music of beauty, find podcasts that speak good and true things. If you need suggestions, feel invited to reach out to our clergy or myself.
M: Make. Make time to create. Garden, write, bake, build. Like God, humans are gifted with creative imagination. Denise Levertov, an important American poet, says that when creativity and especially imagination dwindle, civic, personal, and political “neurosis” becomes likely.
M: Memorize. Memorization has gotten a bad rap in some circles, but the polyglot and polymath George Steiner reminds us that what is memorized is taken into us and becomes a part of us. This shapes us and allows us to have shaping powers in our words and worlds. continued on the next page
1. “ The Tyger” by William Blake.
2. In the Bible: “Philippians 4:6-8,” “Psalm 23,” “Ephesians 4:25-32; Ephesians 6:10-18”
3. “ The Second Coming,” by W.B. Yeats.
4. “Manifesto: The Mad Farmer Liberation Front” by Wendall Berry 5. Your own favorite verses, quotes or poems.
E: Engage. Engage Memphis. If I were writing in my hometown of Riverside, California, I’d say “Engage Riverside!” Education in faith, like all real education, is about learning to live well in our place. The philosopher Plato said that the maturest of adults were those who knew their city and were engaged and invested in making their city more beautiful, good, and true. And our beautiful city needs our loving care, as we need the care of our fellow Memphians.
R: Respect. Respect means to take a second look at something. The philosopher Michael Foucault talked about the modern way of looking as a “gaze,” but not of affection or connection. The gaze in modern society, according to Foucault is usually economic (people are ‘valued’ as commodities), utilitarian (to be used), and “lurid.” This is not the gazing of love but of power. Instead of the modern gaze, Christians use lenses of love to respect others and our island home.” To respect is to try and give the full sight of another person, place, or “thing” (though as Mary Oliver writes, “butterflies don’t write books neither do lilies and violets, which doesn’t mean they don’t know in their own way what they are, that they don’t know that they are alive”. All “things” matter and have the power to transform us.
As we take time to respect others, doing “unto others as ye would have done unto” us, we might find our respect changing and growing us this summer!
Anthony Calzia
Director of Children & Family Ministry 901-252-6321 | acalzia@gracestlukes.org
Greetings in the summertime! A season of much— graduations, vacations, staycations, farmer’s markets, maybe some new book reading, and summer worship. Thinking about summer also has me thinking about Pentecost and the different ways we use our time to care for ourselves and with one another. Author Christopher Huertz has described it as the four “Rs”: Recreation is vacation. Reflection is retreat. Rest is sabbath. Renewal is sabbatical. I have been particularly thinking about renewal as sabbatical as I share about my plans and upcoming preparations for sabbatical.
First and foremost, I feel very privileged and honored to have this opportunity. Not everyone has sabbatical available to them. I am grateful to GSL and the diocese for offering clergy this time of renewal. The three months of my sabbatical will be August through October, and I return All Saints’ Sunday, November 2. While I am away, Community Engagement and the ministries of Justice and Outreach will continue with our strong lay leadership and clergy support.
I am really excited about sabbatical time and have been planning the renewal time around the theme of Beauty. Beauty in creation. Beauty in God’s people. Beauty in the creative. Beauty in self. My plans are still coming together with logistics, but it is my hope to spend time exploring the natural world and animal conservation. The natural world has always been a cathedral for me, a holy place to renew my spirit and connection to the Divine. I am also looking forward to gathering with wide variety of people from different cultures, religions, and backgrounds for conversation and reflection. Connecting with people in mindand-heart, expansive ways is energizing for me. Another part of sabbatical will include travel to see some incredible artists and artwork and enjoy participating in creative art classes. And lastly, I look forward to having Spiritual Direction and continuing to see my therapist. I am a fascinating and complex person—aren’t we all—and there is beauty in self to learn about as well!
I eagerly look forward to sabbatical and the summer rhythms ahead with plenty of ministry ahead: Worship, Outreach Book and Food donations, and Courageous Conversations. Perhaps I’ll also get a glimpse of you at a farmer’s market or two and the library. We will have a lot of stories to share when we return together.
With gratitude for the shared journey, Laura+
The Rev. Laura F. Gettys Associate Rector for Community Engagement 901-252-6329 | lgettys@gracestlukes.org
I Remember When…
Lucy Owens, Communications Associate
I remember when there was no internet, no computers, no websites, and no email. When more than a thousand Messengers were snail-mailed out weekly, and the Sunday leaflet was a single 8.5x11” sheet, folded. I remember when smoking was allowed inside offices and public spaces!
Oh, the changes I’ve seen—and the blessings I’ve experienced—during my years working at Grace-St. Luke’s Church.
By the end of this summer, I will begin my retirement and officially step away from my role as GSL’s Communications Associate. I began my career here in August 1986—the same month our beloved Wesley Emerson, who was hired as Assistant Director of Music, and the Rev. Charlie Riddle, Rector, arrived at Grace-St. Luke’s. At the time, I was at a low point in my life and searching for direction. I had two job offers (thanks to GSL parishioners James Glenn and Billy Denman)—one at an insurance company and one at Grace-St. Luke’s. My mother’s advice guided me: “You should go work at the church so you can be surrounded by God and people who love God.” She was right.
From the moment I joined GSL as Secretary/Receptionist (back before internet and computers!), this community became my home away from home.
Over the years, so many people and groups have touched my life—and my son’s—in profound and lasting ways. Not long after I started at GSL, I entered a 28-day rehabilitation program for alcohol and drug addiction (thanks to the Rev. John Patterson). I still have the placemat signed by the staff lunch crew and delivered by the Rev. Anne Carriere when she came to visit me. Typing the Daughters of the King prayer list was part of my job at the time. When I returned to GSL after treatment and saw my name on that list, I was deeply moved. Knowing people here were praying for me gave me hope and encouragement.
The love and support I received from the Daughters of the King, the Episcopal Church Women, and many other groups and individuals at GSL was not just kind—it was lifesaving. I completed the Disciples of Christ (DOC) program, EfM, parenting courses, and many other life-enriching classes. Shortly after returning to Grace-St. Luke’s from rehab in January 1987, I helped launch a recovery group at GSL, which continues to meet to this day.
This community helped me raise my son—truly. Hal attended GSL School from SK through 8th grade. He was involved in GSL Scouting (with wonderful leaders, especially Dr. Dan Eason, Dan Conaway, George Clarke, Dr. Marty Carr), Karate with Mr. Dragon (Pat Register), trumpet lessons with Scott Moore, Sunday School, EYC, sang in the children’s choirs, and served as an acolyte. The opportunities GSL provided him were phenomenal.
I’ve worked for five rectors: Charlie Riddle, David Fikes, John Moloney, Richard Lawson, and Ollie Rencher. I’ve seen many associates, assistants, deacons, curates, and staff come and go— too many to list. But the friendships I’ve made here will last a lifetime.
In 1986, The Messenger was mailed out every week! I wasn’t the staffer who assembled it—that was Julie Denman. It was a black-and-white edition on 8.5x14” paper, printed at Bob Heller’s print shop and mailed to over a thousand households. My job was to keep the mailing list updated, label the Messenger, bundle for bulk mail, and take it to the Post Office. One of the few responsibilities I have to this day that has not changed is bundling The Messenger (78 paper copies) and taking them to the post office, in addition to the over 1500 sent by email!
One of the biggest changes in my role came with the arrival of the internet. The late Dr. Charlie Clarke saw my son, Hal, typing a school paper on a computer in my office and gifted him a computer. Not long after (around 1996), we got internet at home. I knew we had to bring the internet to GSL, too. I received a flyer in the mail: “Learn how to build a website in one day.” I showed it to the Rev. David Fikes and asked if he wanted me to try building a website for GSL. He said yes—and I was thrilled! One of the earliest versions (if not the first) is still archived here: tinyurl.com/GSLWayBack. Make sure to check out the links to the school and diocesan sites as well from 1997!
Some of the most fun I had was with Wesley Emerson. We played pranks on each other almost daily! Neither of us could leave our keys lying around, or the other would swipe them and hide them. I think the first joke was Wesley’s: one afternoon, I looked at the clock and saw it was 2:30—I had thought it was time to go home. Wesley was in my office and burst out laughing—he had moved the clock back two hours! We had these big black metal mailboxes in my office, and I rigged Wesley’s box with rubber bands so that it would slam shut every time he opened it. What fun that was watching Wesley figure out what was wrong with his mailbox!
continued on the next page
One more prank story: years ago, the nave was decorated with stencils of oxen and anchors, symbols of Grace and St. Luke. Some people loved them, some didn’t—Wesley was one of the latter. One summer while he was on vacation, I got a hold of the stencils, traced and colored them, and covered the walls of his office with them. What a surprise he had when he came back! (If you visited the Way Back Archive link on the previous page, you’ll see a sample of the stencils.)
One very special memory: for years, every Christmas I received a $100 check from “Santa Claus.” As a single mom making just above minimum wage, it was a true blessing. When Dr. Riddle left GSL, the checks stopped. GSL has had so many “Santas,” saints, and angels who have shown me kindness over the years. I get teary-eyed just thinking about it.
After a few years at GSL, I realized I could put my piano education degree to use by teaching lessons. Dr. Riddle allowed me to teach at the church, and eventually, I became part of the school’s enrichment program—something I’m thrilled to say I’ll continue doing even after retirement.
I’m so grateful to have had the chance to work here—and to stay as long as I have. When people ask about my goals in life, being here until retirement was always near the top of the list. I only seriously considered leaving once, but nothing compared to the people and the purpose I found at Grace-St. Luke’s—my forever church home where so many wonderful memories have been made over the years.
Lucy Owens
Communications Associate (until August 30!) 901-252-6333 | lowens@gracestlukes.org
Gratitude for Ministry Season at GSL
Dear Grace-St. Luke’s Family,
With a heart full of gratitude and bittersweet emotions, I share that I will be stepping down from my role as part-time Youth Formation Associate, soon after Sunday, May 18. I have accepted a new position at Compass Community Schools, where I work full time, which will demand more of my time and energy, making it challenging to fulfill my commitments at GSL.
Serving the youth at GSL since June 2023 has been a profound joy and privilege. The memories we’ve created together—from spirited Episcopal Youth Community (EYC) evenings to engaging in meaningful service projects—are treasures I hold dear.
While I transition into this new chapter, please know that my connection to GSL remains steadfast. I look forward to seeking opportunities to volunteer in the future and remain committed to supporting events like Happening.
Thank you for your unwavering support, trust, and the countless moments we’ve shared. I am profoundly grateful for the time we’ve spent together and look forward to the ways our paths will continue to intertwine.
Importantly, my GSL supervisor, Father Jesse Abell (Associate Rector for Pastoral Care) as well as Father Ollie Rencher (Rector) will be working with an advisory group of youth parents and youth to assist their process of recruiting my successor. Stay tuned for updates from them and please hold them in prayer as they search.
With heartfelt appreciation and love, Jess Steenbergen Youth Formation Associate
Lucy & Wesley at their 30th work anniversary celebration.
Summer Music Update
Music at Grace-St. Luke’s the past few months has been nothing short of spectacular. It was one of the highlights of my time so far at GSL to host the Choir of St. John’s College, Cambridge, on their 2025 US Tour. GSL had a packed house of parishioners and musicians from across Memphis who came to hear this world-renowned choir. No one in the choir had ever been to Memphis before, so in addition to their incredible concert, we were able to share our great city with them.
On May 18th our final choral evensong of the season was in celebration of Debbie Smith, Assistant Organist-Choirmaster. I remember my first phone call with Debbie when I’d accepted the job at GSL. Of course, I was nervous because I was going to have to work closely with this person I’d never met. After our initial phone call which lasted over 30 minutes, I had the biggest sense of calm and sigh of relief that we were going to be great together. And we have been! The gifts and talents that Debbie has used to support GSL simply cannot be numbered. Her work with choristers, her abilities on the organ, her organization, her capabilities to serve as interim and take charge of the program between directors, serving as organist for school chapels twice a week, and her overall love and care for all things music at GSL—and so many more things that we’ll never know about. Debbie will continue to be with us until Homecoming Sunday in August. While we can’t fault her for moving to Birmingham to be with her grandchildren, we will miss her immensely.
GSL Choir in residence at Wells Cathedral from Monday, July 20–Sunday, July 26. We will offer daily services of Choral Evensong and will sing Choral Eucharist on Sunday morning. During the weekday mornings, we’ll have excursions to nearby towns like Bath, Bristol, Berkeley Castle, and Glastonbury. If you would like to make a donation to help offset some of the cost of this pilgrimage, please contact Director of Music, Patrick Scott—or scan the QR code for a quick donation link. We are grateful for all of the support that GSL provides our choir!
Dr. Patrick A. Scott, Director of Music and Organist 901-252-6323 pscott@gracestlukes.org
Artistic Director, Memphis Boy & Girl Choir memphisboyandgirlchoir.org
June 25-28
The 18th annual Belvedere Chamber Music Festival (belvederefestival.org) will be held at Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal Church June 25-28. Concerts are each evening Wednesday through Saturday at 7 and on Thursday and Friday afternoons at 3. The Belvedere Festival is produced by Luna Nova Music (lunanova. org) for the purpose of featuring masterworks of the 20th and 21st centuries as well as new works by young, aspiring composers. It features twenty performers from Memphis and around the country. Composers included in this year’s festival are Bach, Bartok, Prokofiev, Stravinsky, Milhaud, Martinu, and others. Concerts last approximately an hour with no intermission. The opening Wednesday night concert will be in memory of Breen Bland, husband of Jeanie Mercer and longtime friend and supporter of Luna Nova. It will feature a new work by Gianluca Vierlingieri, an early festival student composition winner. There will be a reception after this concert.
In addition to the concerts, Luna Nova performers will offer masterclasses to local young musicians in the areas of woodwinds, strings, and pipe organ exploration. Anyone wanting more information about masterclasses should contact Patricia Gray at 901-493-0958. The Belvedere Festival is designed to appeal to chamber music lovers everywhere. All are free and open to the public. Over 100 videos from recent Festival performances are online at: belvederefestival.org/video.html. We hope everyone in the Grace-St. Luke’s community and all their friends will be joining us! —Patricia Gray
Belvedere Chamber Music Festival
Summer Sports Information
FALL SOCCER & FLAG FOOTBALL What to Expect TOP 10 CHECK LIST
1) SOCCER TEAM ASSIGNMENTS are made according to an individual’s school grade (birthday) and ability, with an effort to make team rankings as even as possible. TEAM ROSTERS ARE REDIVIDED IN THE FALL. Fall and Spring teams stay together for one year.
2) By tradition, Recreational League Coaches are VOLUNTEER PARENT COACHES. We make every effort to equip coaches with knowledge and assistance in order to provide quality coaching.
3) FALL SPORTS PRACTICES may begin MidAugust and are most often held at the GSL Field. Coaches will contact team parents no later than August 20. JK/SK (U5–U6) coaches typically have ONE practice per week/weekend and U8–U10 may have up to TWO practices (one during the week and one on the weekend) dropping one when the season begins. Please contact Athletic Director Christi Authement if you haven’t heard from a coach by August 20.
4) SOCCER SEASON is September 6–November 15. The games are on Saturday mornings and afternoons. Game schedules are available by the end of August.
FLAG FOOTBALL SEASON for 1st–4th Grade Boys ONLY is September 7–November 9. Games are on Saturday mornings and afternoons and are PLAYED at ESCRA League DESIGNATED flag football fields.
5) FALL SPORTS TEAM PHOTOS are held at the GSL field. Day/times TBA. Pictures are distributed by the coaches at the end of the season.
6) SOCCER UNIFORMS are provided by GSL (jersey and shorts). Players provide their own (suggested RED) soccer socks. In previous years, GSL provided socks, but many parents said they wanted to purchase their own socks! Uniforms are distributed by coaches before the first game.
FOOTBALL UNIFORMS & EQUIPMENT are provided by GSL. Football players provide their own mouthpiece.
7) GSL RECYCLES UNIFORMS each year to keep the replacement costs low and help the environment. Please return your uniform to your coach (or drop off in the UNIFORM DROP BOX–date TBA) at the end of the season.
8) TROPHIES are provided by GSL. Coaches will distribute trophies at the end of the season.
9) END OF SEASON PARTY: Many teams have an end of the season party organized by the parents. This is a great opportunity for coaches to hand out team photos, trophies and collect uniforms.
10) BASKETBALL REGISTRATION is September 1–30. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis and does fill up quickly. Mandatory Basketball Assessment Day for 1st–4th Grades ONLY (held in the GSL Gym) is October 25. Times TBA.
If you have any questions, please contact Christi Authement by phone or email.
Summer Wellness Events
June—Wolf River Kayaking
Join us in June for a fun and adventurous kayak trip down the Wolf River. Our private Ghost River Kayak guide will take us on a tour down the Wolf River for a 6-hour day trip which includes lunch, swimming, and stops along the way to relax and take in the river’s beauty. The kayak rental fee is included in the trip cost. You may bring your own kayak to receive a discounted trip fee. Please look for more information in the eNews, leaflets and at gracestlukes.org/ wellness in the coming weeks.
July—The Adventure Museum
Are you ready to create your own masterpiece of play? Join GSL Church folks for a fun, family night out at the AMUSE Adventure Museum on Sunday, July 27. The Adventure Museum was brought to life in 2023 by the same founders that created Memphis Escape Rooms. AMUSE believes that play is a form of art, so they set out to create a place that celebrates and curates the finest form of fun imaginable: AMUSE–The Adventure Museum. Included in the fun are the areas of Elements of Adventure, Discovery, Challenge, Resistance, and Reward. Please look for more details in upcoming announcements. Read more about AMUSE here: theadventuremuseum.com.
Grace-St. Luke's School
News from GSL School
Spring flew by this year at GSL, as it always does! It’s exciting to see a year of learning come to fruition and to honor the growth and achievements of students at all levels during our year-end ceremonies and celebrations. From our JKers’ presentation of their first-ever Alphabet Fashion Gala, to third graders’ annual Stations of the Cross, to our fourth graders’ Citizenship Breakfast, to our eighth graders’ final Chapel Talks, we watched our students present themselves with confidence and enthusiasm in various endeavors. We are so proud of all of our Saints and what they’ve accomplished this school year!
In addition to the wide range of student events we enjoyed, our community (including a number of parishioners) celebrated GSL by attending and supporting the school’s annual Anchor Auction this spring. We also held admissions events, a new parent welcome party, and our third annual Emeritus Society gathering, which honors current and former Trustees. And equally important, we launched an exciting construction project to improve campus security by adding beautiful brick playground enclosures to two of our busiest outdoor spaces. This work is expected to be completed by August.
Last but certainly not least, we recognized students and faculty members at two special year-end ceremonies—Honors Chapel and 8th Grade Graduation. We couldn’t bring these special events to life without the help and support of the church’s clergy and staff, and we are so grateful to everyone who played a role and helped us celebrate our outstanding students.
In admissions news, at the time of this writing we had enrolled 440 students, and we expect that number to keep moving up over the summer. Spots in selected grades are still available. If you know families looking at schools for this fall (or for the future), please encourage them to reach out. We have a phenomenal academic and extracurricular program to offer! For more information, contact Head of School Andy Surber or Director of Admissions Shelly McGuire at 901-278-0200, or visit gslschool.org/admissions. Happy summer!
Student Council Presidents Ellie and Parker with Father Ollie Rencher on the day of their 8th Grade Chapel Talks, a capstone experience for our oldest students.
Upcoming Events
May 27–30: Bridge Week Care; Summer Office Hours Begin, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 2–Aug. 1: SummerFest Camps (open to boys and girls in Grades JK-8, regardless of school affiliation)
June 30–July 4: School Office Closed; No SummerFest
Aug. 1: Regular Office Hours Resume, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Admin & New Faculty Report to Campus
Aug. 4: All Faculty Return
Aug. 11: First Day of School
Aug. 15: Dress Uniform Day, Opening Convocation, and Eucharist
Aug. 21: Back-to-School Night
Aug. 24: Episcopal School Sunday
Food Pantry Ministry News
What does it mean to experience food insecurity? Simply put, it means an individual or family lacks the ability to purchase enough food necessary to sustain a healthy, active life. In every county in the United States, someone is experiencing food insecurity. Did you know in Memphis, Tennessee, that 21% of our neighbors and their families are food insecure? This insecurity not only negatively impacts our brothers and sisters in Christ but also our entire community. Food insecurity creates community health issues, leads to poor school performance, and impedes economic growth. This is why food insecurity must be addressed by those with the means to make a difference (feedingamerica.org and tinyurl.com/ BridgingTheGapFood).
So, what can you do to make a difference? Join a GSL cooking team to make prepared meals for Church Health patrons. These teams cook every 6 weeks, and there are a variety of days and times available. Volunteer to come to the GSL Food Pantry every Tuesday morning from 9 to 9:30 a.m. to hand out meals to Food Pantry guests. Donate food items to the Food Pantry. Dry goods such as cereal and pop top cans of meat, vegetables, and fruit are used to make food bags for guests who come to the church in need.
If you would like to join a cooking team, lead a cooking team, and/or distribute meals to Church Health patrons and GSL guests on a Tuesday morning, please reach out to Congregational Life Associate/Assistant to the Rector Abby Huber (ahuber@gracestlukes.org) or Jerry Hudson through Realm (tinyurl.com/RealmJerryHudson). We look forward to hearing from you!!
Little Luker Alice does some painting outdoors during our annual Preschool Gardening Day in the Outdoor Classroom
Baptisms at Grace-St. Luke’s
The sacrament of Holy Baptism will be administered in 2025 public worship at Grace-St. Luke’s on June 8 and November 2. For more information on scheduling a baptism, contact Membership and Stewardship Associate Chapman Morrow (901-252-6328, cmorrow@gracestlukes.org).
Memorials and Honoraria
Honoraria (through April 22, 2025)
• To MTAM in honor of Earle Donelson’s 70th birthday by Julie Gattas
• Dr. Baker Gross & Dr. Hunter Rittenberry by Betsy Wilson Memorials (through November, 2025)
• For Friends of Music in memory of George Breen Bland Jr. by Martha & Glenn Hays, Aimee McMillin, Julie Denman, Nora & Dan Conaway
• Peggy Lee Robinson Eddins by Mary & Jon McCalla
• Martin E. Edwards Jr. by Barney Rolfes, Jackie & Keith Kays, Alice Anne & T.V. Miller, Julie Denman
• Nancy Roberts Edwards by Bond & Jim Moore
• Billie Jeanne Johnson by Becky & Gary Coleman, Mary Spann, Will Abbay, Robin Watson, The Armstrong Company, Julie Denman, Karen & Ken Isaacman, Jane & Mackie Gober, The Johnson Family, Cynthia Saatkamp, Nora & Dan Conaway
• Keith Sevier Kays by Alice & George Burruss, Nora & Dan Conaway, Jill Norcross, Julie Denman, Margaret Owen, Carol & Thomas Mastroe
• Donald Edward McLemore by Jill Norcross, Tim Disalvo, Alice & George Burruss, Lindy & Bedford Dunavant, Ruthie Lentz, Sidney & David Hickey, Mary & Jon McCalla, Susie Sutton, Linda Niell, Barney Rolfes, Louise & Blanchard Tual, Nora & Dan Conaway, Alice & Matt Crow, Sandy & Larry Rutledge, Becky Boone, Julie Denman, Lynn Petry, Jennifer & Roy Golightly, Frank Langford, Barney Rolfes, Greer Simonton
• Daniel Ernest Oppenheimer by Oliver Cobb, III, Nancy & Jimmy Tashie
• John Quitman Rasberry by Leigh Ann Blakely, Alice & Matt Crow, Julie Denman, Betsy Wilson
• Mary Virginia Rogers by Candice Carr, Jane & Mackie Gober, Nora & Dan Conaway, Chapman Morrow
• Nancy Clarke Wilkerson by Preston Wilson
Altar Flowers, Eucharistic Supplies
During Worship
Altar Flowers are made possible by parishioner donations in memory or honor of loved ones. To share in this meaningful way, contact Communications Associate Lucy Owens (lowens@ gracestlukes.org, 901-252-6333). Flowers are $215 per Sunday, which one or more people may share in giving. Eucharistic supplies (wafers, wine, candle oil) also may be donated for $25 per week. For more information, visit gracestlukes.org/altar-flowers.
Membership News
Transfer In (through April)
• Andrew Mathewes from Holy Communion, Memphis
• Shauna Myers
• Angie & Jim Lenschau from Christ Episcopal, Alameda, California
• Piper Lake Martin from St. Mary’s Cathedral, Memphis
• Marie C. Stone from St. Mary’s Cathedral, Memphis
• Audrey & Gary Hager from Calvary, Memphis
• Paige & Scott Matlock from St. Luke’s, San Antonio, Texas
• Merlyn Munroe from St. Elisabeth’s, Bartlett
Births (through April)
• Lucy Ellen Lamb, daughter of Natalie Hendry Lamb and Zach Lamb (Apr. 8)
Baptisms (through April)
• Conley Louise Hirschman, daughter of Abbey & Blake Hirschman (Feb. 23)
• Tucker Adam Ellenburg, son of Kelly Munson Ellenberg and Nicolas Ellenburg (Apr. 19)
• Cameron Santiago Long-Corona, son of Yahaira Long-Corona and William Long (Apr. 19)
• Lucy Max Parker, daughter of Lauren and Michael Parker (Apr. 19)
• Brinkley Ayla Sarinoglu, daughter of Selden and Erim Sarinoglu (Apr. 19)
Burials, Committals, Deaths (through April)
• Margaret Byrd Barnes (died Jan. 2, service Feb. 5)
• Nancy Roberts Edwards (died Apr. 12, service May 31)
• Keith Sevier Kays (died Mar. 13, service Mar. 21)
• Donald Edward McLemore (died Mar. 1, service Mar. 29)
• Daniel Ernest Oppenheimer (died Mar. 28, service Apr. 12)
• John Quitman Rasberry Jr. (died Mar. 15, service Mar. 20)
• Nancy Clarke Wilkerson (died Mar. 18, service Mar. 24)
Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal Church Vision Statement
Our Vision is to be a thriving community of hope, belonging, and healing through worship, parish life, and service, and who rejoices in the love of Jesus to transform the world.
Worship & Formation
gracestlukes.org/worship | gracestlukes.org/discover
SUNDAYS (Summer schedule May 25-August 3)
Nursery for infants through age four
9–9:45 a.m. Community Breakfast by the Crossmen
10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Sermon and Choir, Livestreamed includes Children’s Chapel and return to families at the Peace
11 a.m. Fellowship & Refreshments
4–4:50 p.m. More Than A Meal Outreach, Trezevant Hall
5 p.m. Monthly June 8, July 13, August 3. See gracestlukes.org/summer
Parish Office Hours (Summer schedule May 25-August 3)
Monday–Thursday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. (Friday’s, the staff work from home) 901-272-7425 | www.gracestlukes.org | 901-252-6334 Pastoral Emergencies
Parish Clergy & Staff
www.gracestlukes.org/welcome/clergy-and-staff
The Rev. Ollie V. Rencher, Rector
The Rev. Laura F. Gettys, Associate Rector
The Rev. Dr. Jesse W. Abell, Associate Rector
The Rev. Anne S. Carrière, Priest Associate
The Rev. Jessica T. Abell, Deacon
Christi Authement, Recreation and Wellness Director
John Barnum, Director of Finance and Operations
Anthony Calzia, Director of Children and Family Ministry
Patricia Gray, Lead Volunteer Receptionist
Abby Huber, Congregational Life Associate and Assistant to the Rector
Chapman Morrow, Membership and Stewardship Associate
Lucy Owens, Communications Associate
James Plopa, Facilities Assistant
Dr. Patrick A. Scott, Director of Music and Organist
Debbie Smith, Assistant Organist-Choirmaster
Chris Swenson, Facilities Manager
Dianna Wright, Facilities Assistant
2025 Vestry, Treasurer, and Chancellor
www.gracestlukes.org/vestry
2025: Jennifer Gibbs (Clerk), Ruthie Lentz (Recreation and Wellness), Price Peacock (Strategic Plan), Matt Sights (Senior Warden), Hal Wright (Congregational Life)
2026: Dawn Currica (Congregational Life), Jerry Hudson (Community Engagement), Jim McCall (Junior Warden), Terry Trojan (Recreation and Wellness), Susanna Weston (Formation: Youth & Children)
2027: Malle Carrasco-Harris (Congregational Life), Barb Frazer (Community Engagement), Melanie French (Communications), Hunter Rittenberry (Strategic Plan), Michael Rowland (Formation: Adult)
Daniel Reid (Treasurer); Johnny Norris (Parish Chancellor).
Pastoral Care
Sharing and Responding to Concerns. To alert the clergy of a pastoral matter concerning yourself or a member, including any medical procedures, contact the clergy confidentially via 901-252-6330 or pastoralcare@ gracestlukes.org. For hospitalizations or emergencies concerning a member, contact the 24/7 Clergy-on-Call phone line at 901-252-6334. This is the best way to communicate pastoral needs and ensure a prompt response from a member of the clergy or pastoral care team. Lay Pastoral Care Coordinators: Natalie Davis and Beth Perkins.
On the Cover
Grace-St. Luke’s Church.
Support Groups at GSL
Looking for a supportive community on your recovery journey? Join one of these meetings:
• AA (Alcoholics Anonymous): Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.
• Narcotics Anonymous: Sundays at 7 p.m.
• Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous: Saturdays at noon
Interested in starting a new recovery support group at GSL, such as Al-Anon, a 12-step young people’s meeting, Nar-Anon, Gamblers Anonymous, or Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA)?
Contact Lucy Owens at lowens@gracestlukes.org or 901-252-6333 to explore new possibilities!
Look for GRACESTLUKES in Cyberspace.
Church website: gracestlukes.org
Facebook: ---- facebook.com/gracestlukes
X.com: ------ x.com/gracestlukes
Instagram: ---- instagram.com/gracestlukes
Vimeo: ------ vimeo.com/gracestlukes
Pinterest: ----- pinterest.com/gracestlukes
Flickr: - - - - - - - flickr.com/gracestlukes
YouTube: ---- youtube.com/gracestlukes
Realm Connect for GSL
Realm Online Directory for GSL & One-Way Texts. Realm is a GREAT WAY to connect to other parishioners. In order for other members to find you in the Realm Directory, your privacy settings need updating through your Realm profile. Contact Lucy if you need assistance doing this. Text START to 901-676-9013 to Opt In to Receive One-Way Texts from GSL. In addition to replying to opt-in email requests, the simplest way to opt in to receive One-Way Texts from GSL via Realm is to text START to 901-676-9013. Your mobile number must be added to your Realm profile for this to work. You can log into your Realm profile here: onrealm.org/gracestlukes. If you’re not certain that we have your mobile number, please contact Communications Associate Lucy Owens. For questions or more information, visit gracestlukes. org/realm or reach out to Abby Huber (ahuber@gracestlukes.org, 901252-6336) or Lucy Owens (lowens@gracestlukes.org, 901-252-6333).
Subscribe to the GSL eNews
Missing your weekly eNews? Check your spam folders! We use the email service, MailChimp, to send out our eblasts. If you are not getting eNews emails, they are most likely going to your spam or junk folder. Be sure to add gsl@gracestlukes.org to your address book. Need help getting them to NOT go in your spam folder? Contact Lucy Owens, 901-252-6333 or lowens@gracestlukes.org.
Privacy Policy & Photo Opt-Out Form
Grace-St. Luke’s privacy policy and photo opt-out form may be found on the GSL website at www.gracestlukes.org/privacy-policy
Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal Church
1720 Peabody Avenue Memphis, Tennessee 38104-6124 901-272-7425, 901-272-9833 (fax) gsl@gracestlukes.org, www.gracestlukes.org
The Messenger of Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal Church (USPS 778-900)-published quarterly by Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 1720 Peabody Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38104. Periodicals postage paid at Memphis, TN. POSTMASTER: send address changes to GraceSt. Luke's Episcopal Church, 1720 Peabody Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104, (901) 272-7425, email gsl@gracestlukes.org. Lucy Owens, Editor.
Grace-St. Luke's Church benefits from financial gifts to support our life and ministries: visit www.gracestlukes.org/onlinegiving.
POSTMASTER: Please do not hold. Dated Material.
THE SUMMER
SUNDAY SCHEDULE
May 25*–August 3 gracestlukes.org/summer
WEEKLY
9 a.m. Breakfast
10 a.m. Holy Eucharist
11 a.m. Refreshments
MONTHLY
5 p.m. Eucharist on 6/8, 7/13, 8/3
5:45 Parish Supper on 7/13, 8/3
*No 5 p.m. service on 5/25
Celebrate Pentecost Sunday, June 8 gracestlukes.org/pentecost
Wear red and join us for worship and our joyful Parish Picnic!
Festive Eucharist: 10 a.m. Parish Picnic: 11:15 a.m. featuring 5-piece band RSVP & Volunteer at tinyurl.com/ GSLPentecostPicnic25 Contemplative Eucharist: 5 p.m.
Help bring Acts 2:1–21 to life at 10 a.m. by reading in a language other than English—any age or skill level welcome. Contact Abby Huber to read: ahuber@ gracestlukes.org or 901-252-6336.
Vacation Bible School on Sundays, June 15 • 22 • 29 gracestlukes.org/vbs
Calling all households with young children and their guests to three Sundays set aside for families to assemble beginning at 11:15 a.m., after the 10:00 service, for a simple lunch, prayer, songs, games, and crafts.
For details including adult volunteer roles, registration, and more, visit gracestlukes.org/vbs
Stay up to date by subscribing to the eNews: gracestlukes.org/weekly-enews