Chronicles of Canterbury
the
Chronicles of Canterbury Febuary 2017
From the Rector
Bishop Election Coming in March
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n the first two centuries of the Church, based on what we find in the New Testament and in the earliest writings of the Church fathers, two orders emerge with primary pastoral leadership responsibility: overseers and elders. While the distinctions between overseer and elder were not totally delineated until the second century, suffice it to say overseers and elders were the two classes of ordained people who since apostolic times were identified to lead as shepherds of the flock. The third order, which is just as ancient and apostolic, is the order of deacons, but deacons were never intended to have pastoral leadership over churches or dioceses. The word deacon comes from the Greek word diaconos, which means servant.
sense, our use of the word “priest” or “priesthood” refers to something which alone belongs to Jesus Christ, and the whole baptized people of God who are His Body. The second meaning, stemming from the biblical word presbyter, is that of the elder of the Christian community – an office of explicit leadership authority within the community. It just so happens that the Greek word “presbyter” forms the origin for the English word “priest.” As such, in our tradition, the ordained people (like me) we call “priest” are more precisely called “presbyters.” We presbyters are the leading elders within the church. And in fact, on my ordination certificate, it specifically says that I am a presbyter.
The words “priest” and “priesthood” can be misleading, for they have many meanings. The one meaning, stemming from the biblical words sacerdos or hieros, is that of the Hebrew temple priesthood, in which the priest is the sacrificing agent making atonement between God and humankind. In this
The biblical overseers, appointed by the apostles to be their direct successors, are what we now call bishops – from the Greek word episcopos. Because the structure of our branch of the church is overseen by bishops, when we were founded we took the name Episcopal See RECTOR on page 3
From the New Senior Warden
what’s inside 2 Journey To Jerusalem 5 Be a Missioner 6 Belize Mission 7 Young Adult Ministry 8 Thomas Cranmer 9 OWLS 10 Briefly 11 Lifelong Disciple
Vestry 2017: Serving God, Serving Others
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ach one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” I Peter 4:10 I have had the privilege and the honor to attend the past three St. Michael’s Vestry retreats in the peaceful and quiet surroundings of Whispering Pines, NC. This is a cherished time of connection among our Vestry — a time of self-reflection, group reflection and church reflection — a time when members and clergy come to understand one another through devotion, discussion, shared meals and experiences. Our Vestry is unique in the fact that we intentionally carve out this time for fellowship. The bonds formed during the Vestry retreat lay the foundation for connecting us with each other and for sustaining us in the year to come
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Of course, we addressed the business of St. Michael’s at the retreat. including the fact that we have almost doubled in size in the past 12 years/ We have the third largest congregation in the Diocese of North Carolina, and our average 2016 Sunday church attendance was 608. St. Michael’s has experienced tremendous growth in the past 12 years, and we are so fortunate and grateful for that, especially at a time when many churches are faced with attendance, growth, and financial challenges. These are all admirable numbers to think about, but the true purpose of the retreat is to form relationships and trusts that connect us to each other, to St. Michael’s and ultimately to Christ. It is imperative that we form these bonds so we all truly understand each other as we serve and lead St. Michael’s together in the year ahead. Our Vestry remains healthy and
See WARDEN on page 4
Chronicles of Canterbury The People of St. Michael’s Church Phone: (919) 782-0731 All area codes are 919 unless otherwise noted.
The Rev. Samuel Gregory Jones, Rector ext. 117 • jones@holymichael.org (c) 559-2004 The Rev. Holly Gloff, Associate Rector ext. 127 • gloff@holymichael.org (c) 612-7228 The Rev. Robert Fruehwirth Associate Rector ext. 105 • fruehwirth@holymichael.org (c) 475-0082 The Rev. Meta Ellington, Deacon ellington@holymichael.org (c) 210-9123 The Rev. David Crabtree, Deacon (c) 614-2164 Marion B. “Chip” Chase, Verger (h) 851-9576 VESTRY Dale Roane, Senior Warden • 791-0168 John Merritt, Jr. Warden • 783-8792 Debbie Reed Treasurer • 783-8978 Jessica Widener, Clerk 803-4840 Class of 2017 LeeAnn Graham • 782-5919 | Jeff Hensley • 424-7951 Todd Kasper • 784-8112 | John Merritt • 783-8792 Dale Roane • 791-0168 Class of 2018 David Bull • 785-9860 | John Constance • 332-2258 Anna McLamb • 848- 9012 | Allen Marshall • 720-4236 Joe Warenda • 602-0839 Class of 2019 Tim Berry • 785-9573 | Dan Cahill • 785-1610 Valerie Jackson• 917-5164 Robin Kennedy • 571-3633 | Lee Walker • 896-8766 STAFF Stella Attaway, Director of Christian Education attaway@holymichael.org • ext. 106 Ann Garey, Publications garey@holymichael.org • ext. 103 Charlotte Griffin, Director of Development griffin@holymichael.org • ext. 121 Lee Hayden, Director of Operations & Newcomer Ministry hayden@holymichael.org • ext.108 A bby Van Noppen, Director of Youth Ministry vannoppen@holymichael.org • ext. 115 Kevin Kerstetter, Director of Music kerstetter@holymichael.org • ext. 101 Susan Little, Financial Administrator little@holymichael.org • ext. 113 Carolyn L’Italien, Assitant to Children’s Ministres & Operations litalien@holymichael.org Jean Olson, Parish Secretary olson@holymichael.org • ext. 112 Susan Rountree, Director of Communications rountree@holymichael.org • ext.122 FACILITIES STAFF Jesús Epigmenio, Groundskeeper Marcela de la Cruz, Housekeeper PARISH DAY SCHOOL 782-6430 Mandy Annunziata, Director annunziata@holymichael.org • ext. 110 Cason Maddison, Assitant Director • ext.114
OFFICE HOURS Monday-Friday, 9 am.-5 p.m. CANTERBURY SHOP HOURS Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday 9-9:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.-noon
Beloved Disciples
Lent 2017: Our Journey to Jerusalem
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he uniqueness of Christian faith is found in Jesus, and the uniqueness of Jesus is found in Hhis Passion and Resurrection. This makes events of Good Friday and Easter the most solemn and significant days of the Christian year.
As the Book of Common Prayer has it: “The first Christians observed with great devotion the days of our Lord’s passion and resurrection.” [BCP. p. 264] On these days we encounter, year by year, the core of our faith and know again its power. The one we call Lord, who healed and comforted, the one whom we aspire to follow and serve and the one in whom our meaning and joy are ultimately found — this one suffered rejection, mockery and a criminal’s death outside Jerusalem. This is Good Friday. Three days later, his tomb is empty; Jesus appears to his friends. Still bearing the wounds from the cross, he is glorious. He walks into his disciples' locked rooms, their fear and despair, and he eats with them. He offers forgiveness and blessing to those who had betrayed him, and gave them a new mission. This is Easter. The principle way we renew our faith is by walking into the mystery of Jesus’ Passion and Resurrection, walking together as a community with Jesus, year by year, into the mystery of these events. We allow their strangeness to ring in our souls. We give the revelation of God in Jesus a central place in our souls and communities. We allow God to speak anew into our lives to convict, convert and transform us. Thus the whole meaning of Lent — starting this year on March 1 and going through April 15 — is to prepare us to walk together into these great mysteries of God on Good Friday and Easter. Our parish program for Lent is called “A Journey to Jerusalem.” As a multifaceted program, it offers a number of programs and devotions, allowing people to participate in ways suited to them. Here is how you can walk on the Journey to Jerusalem: Sunday Worship. This is crucial; the lectionary and preaching and the Lenten liturgy all point to the mystery of Jesus and its meaning for our lives. Keeping a Lent Rule of Life. This is not about being miserable with less food and no alcohol. It’s about finding practices to open our lives to God: spiritual reading and meditating on God’s Word, self-reflection, simple fasting, prayer, and engaging in service and outreach. Attend the Adult Forum on February 5 to learn how and why to fashion a spiritual rule of life for Lent and how to follow it. Sunday Adult Forum. Following the 9:30 a.m. service, these 40-minute lectures will explore how the greatest figures in the Christian tradition have engaged with the mystery of Jesus’ Passion and been transformed by it: St. Paul, St. Irenaeus, St. Augustine, St. Benedict, St. John of the Cross, and Bl. Julian of Norwich. Weeknight Lent Dinner and Discussion. Tuesdays, 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Beginning with prayer and a soup supper, we will reflect on the Adult Forum from the preceding Sunday and discuss how we can apply it to our lives. Come, even if you have not attended the Adult Forum that Sunday. Space is limited, and we are asking people to sign up ahead of time. continued on the next page
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Chronicles of Canterbury continued from the previous page
More information is forthcoming. Friday Contemplative Prayer and Meditation on Jesus’ Passion. Following Julian of Norwich and the classic devotion called The Stations of the Cross, enjoy a period of silence and a brief , 30-minute meditation on an aspect of Jesus’ final day. Every Friday in Lent at noon, except Good Friday, when we will hold traditional Good Friday services. Lectionary Bible Studies and the Wednesday Eucharist. These prepare us for worship on Sunday by having us reflect on the readings ahead of time. Parish Bible Study happens every Wednesday at 11a.m., followed by the Eucharist at 12:15 p.m., and community lunch. The Men’s Bible Study group meets every Thursday at 7a.m., year round. Frances Penick’s Women’s Bible Study meets every Monday 7 p.m.-8:45 p.m. and Friday 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. starting on March 7. It is my joy to be walking with you this Lent into the mystery of our Lord’s Passion and Resurrection.
—The Rev. Robert Fruehwirth
Food for Lenten Thought “Only he who loves God knows how to love himself, for without the love of God, we cannot know the self that is to be loved, and we live with delusory images of it. In God’s light, the true self appears, in all its poverty and helplessness; yet it is lovable, because the breaking-in upon us of God’s light is the evidence that he loves it. And what quarrel can there be with his love? Look at the cross, the great visible mark of God’s compassion, and see how greatly He values you.”(in Ps. 143.10). — Rowan Williams, Wound of Knowledge. Dear People of God: The first Christians observed with great devotion the days of our Lord's passion and resurrection, and season of penitence and fasting. This season of Lent provided a time in which converts to the faith were prepared for Holy Baptism. It was also a time when those who, because of notorious sins, had been separated from the body of the faithful were reconciled by penitence and forgiveness, and restored to the fellowship of the Church. Thereby, the whole congregation was put in mind of the message of pardon and absolution set forth in the Gospel of our Savior, and of the need which all Christians continually have to renew their repentance and faith. I invite you, therefore, in the name of the Church, to the observance of a holy Lent, by self-examination and repentance; by prayer, fasting, and self-denial; and by reading and meditating on God's holy Word. And, to make a right beginning of repentance, and as a mark of our mortal nature, let us now kneel before the Lord, our maker and redeemer. — Book of Common Prayer, pp.264-265
RECTOR continued from page 1 – meaning we had bishops. Other denominations also have bishops – like the Roman Catholic or Greek Orthodox, of course – but don’t use the word episcopal in their name. But they could if they wanted to. What is now the United Methodist Church once was called Methodist Episcopal – not because they were Episcopalians (that’s us) but because they had bishops. The African Methodist Episcopal Church (or AME) was not formed out of our denomination, but rather as a church in the Wesleyan (Methodist) tradition, having bishops, by and for African Americans in the early 1800s. The Presbyterians, for instance, are so named because they do not have bishops in oversight, but rather, are ruled only by elders (presbyters). Our denomination, formally called The Episcopal Church, was formed out of the Church of England after the Revolution in the 1780s. While we separated ourselves structurally from the monarchy and nation of Great Britain, and government in general, we didn’t change our basic structure very much. The first several Americans to become bishops of our new offshoot of the Church of England were consecrated by bishops in Great Britain. The first was in Scotland, and the next two were in England. With three bishops receiving consecration in the apostolic succession, we were then able to consecrate our own subsequent bishops without foreign assistance. At a special convention of those eligible to vote early in March, the Diocese of North Carolina will elect a new bishop. The people who get to vote are clergy of the diocese (such as Holly, Robert, Meta, David and me), and delegates from each parish. A church of our size gets six lay delegates, which is the maximum number a parish may have. There are four presbyters on the slate, two from the diocese and two from
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outside. That’s a fairly common number on a slate. Of the local candidates, one is the rector of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Cary, the Rev. George Adamik, and the other is the Rev. Canon Michael Hunn — who has been Bishop Curry’s right hand for many years now, in both Raleigh and New York. (Michael Hunn’s parents, Joyce and Bruce Hunn, are members of our parish!) When the special convention meets there will likely be numerous ballots until a single person receives enough votes. When that person is elected they will then be consecrated in July at Duke Chapel by the Presiding Bishop Michael Curry (our former bishop who now runs the whole Episcopal Church) and at least two other bishops, following the ancient practice of three bishops laying hands on someone to consecrate them as a bishop in the apostolic succession. There will be walkabouts and whistlestops around the diocese this month. The diocesan website has profiles and videos of each candidate, as well as dates for these events. Visit episdionc.org/ for more information. We look forward to welcoming our new bishop!
—The Rev. Samuel Gregory Jones
Chronicles of Canterbury
St. Michael's To Host American Boychoir the American Boychoir spreads messages of beauty and hope through outstanding musical achievement. Boys in fourth through eighth grades, reflecting the ethnic, religious and cultural diversity of the United States, come from across the country and around the world to pursue a rigorous musical and academic curriculum at the American Boychoir School in Princeton, New Jersey. While keeping up with their academic demands, the boys balance schoolwork with an intense national and international touring schedule. In addition to the almost 80 solo concerts, the 2016–2017 season includes three national tours, one international tour, performances of Mahler’s Symphony 3, Orff’s Carmina Buran and Britten’s War Requiem with the Philadelphia Orchestra, and an engagement at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The legacy of the American Boychoir is preserved through an extensive recording catalog, which boasts over 45 commercial recordings and the launch of its own label, Albemarle Records.
St. Michael's is thrilled to host the American Boychoir in concert on Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 7:30 p.m. The American Boychoir has long been recognized as one of the finest musical ensembles in the country. Under the leadership of Fernando Malvar-Ruiz, LittonLodal Music Director, the American Boychoir has dazzled audiences with its unique blend of musical sophistication, spirited presentation, and ensemble virtuosity. The Boychoir performs regularly with world-class orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, The Philadelphia Orchestra, and the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and is often featured with such illustrious conductors as James Levine, Charles Dutoit, and Alan Gilbert. The American Boychoir has performed with great classical artists such as Jessye Norman and Frederica von Stade, and jazz legend Wynton Marsalis and pop icon Sir Paul McCartney. The choir’s young soloists are also in high demand and have joined forces with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, The Cleveland Orchestra, and Spoleto Festival USA, to name a few. And the Boychoir has been invited to sing for every sitting U.S. President since John F. Kennedy.
As a special treat for St. Michael’s own boychoir (the St. Gregory Choir), our boys have been invited to perform a piece with the American Boychoir on this concert.
Touring frequently at home and abroad as preeminent ambassadors,
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energized because of the new members elected each year, and I am so thankful and grateful for all of our Vestry members and for the work, time and service they give to St. Michael’s, to our community, and to God. As a Vestry, we take our responsibility and service to St. Michael’s very seriously. We are diligent and mindful in fulfilling our commitment to St. Michael’s, and we are intentional in placing the needs of St. Michael’s above our own. Yes, we are here to serve, but that does not mean that we don’t have fun doing so! We are here to serve God by enthusiastically serving others. We take tremendous joy in serving those among us in various ways and in various callings. We pondered this question during the retreat: “When you think of home, what comes to mind, and how does that relate to St. Michael’s?” It was evident from the sincere and heartfelt responses how very blessed we all feel to call St. Michael’s home and that we all truly hope that everyone in our congregation feels the same LOVE for St. Michael’s as we do.
Admission: $15 for adults; $10 for those 18 years of age and younger. Purchase tickets on holymichael.org/concerts-1/.
leaders, wrote a prayerful tribute to St. Michael’s, “My Second Home,” during her years on Vestry. Her poem is so powerful because it conveys not only the feelings that she had of loyalty and faithfulness to St. Michael’s, but it also so eloquently conveys our own devotion and love we hold for St. Michael’s —a place we call home as well. Nell is no longer with us, but if you have not read her poem, you can find it framed in the Parish Hall lobby. We welcome, we invite, we support, and we serve our congregation, our newcomers, our clergy, our staff, our community and God. St. Michael’s is a special place of worship, and the hope and desire of our Vestry is that ALL feel welcomed and loved when walking through her doors. I am truly honored to call St. Michael’s my home. St. Michael’s has been one of the greatest gifts in my family’s life, and I am grateful to serve you and St. Michael’s — a church that has given so many gifts to my family and to me. Gratefully, —Dale Roane, Senior Warden
Nell Finch, one of St. Michael’s truly great and awe-inspiring
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Chronicles of Canterbury
Missioners Share Stories of Humility and Change What is it like to be a missioner at St. Michael’s? On Sunday, Jan. 15, three parishioners shared their stories about how being the hands and feet of Jesus has impacted the lives of others and their own.
hearts.
I was at the garden one afternoon last year and saw Katie walking down from the teaching kitchen through the garden. As she approached the gate I saw a bunch of 5-8 year-old kids run from their apartments across the street and flock to her, jumping and laughing with joy.
Lee Walker
In high school I participated in the Reach mission trip with the EYC in Hurricane, W. Va. Our group replaced an elderly lady’s failed roof with a new tin roof. I spent the week hammering nails on that blazing roof in 90-degree heat. Instead of using screws, for some reason, our construction leader decided that we were going to nail the roof nails on the thin ridge line of the tin sheets. I must have hit my thumb 100 times that week with the hammer! Talk about a lasting impression. The real impression that I think I took away was that for first time in my life, I was spending my time and effort solely for the purpose of another. I think that stuck with me
It hit me – like one of those Holy Spirit smacking you in the face visions: THIS IS A JESUS MOMENT! Perhaps this is exactly what Jesus might be doing if he showed up to walk with us today. I like to think that he would find joy getting his hands dirty planting the seeds of hope and leaving a lasting impression of grace and love in the places that need it most. Outreach is an adventure. You get to go to new and undiscovered places, bond with new people, and do things that you have never done before.
My second reflection is from 2011. After Hurricane Irene flooded much of eastern North Carolina, devastating many homes, St. Michael’s adopted a family and helped rebuild their house. My father and I drove down one Saturday morning to help, and I spent the day working with Philip Lambe laying a new sub floor in the house. I didn’t know Phil before that day, but spending the day together, working hard together in service of another created a bond between us. Although we may only see each other at St. Michael’s, when we smile at each other and say hello I feel a real, palpable connection and reflect on that day.
Vaughn Wagoner
Most of us hang out with folks of basically the same social/economic status as ourselves. We understand the prayer book phrase “all sorts and conditions” and know that there are folks that are less fortunate than ourselves, but it’s all rather abstract – until you step into that world for a little while – a few days or even a few hours. And then you really understand that so many things we take for granted are not the norm in many people’s lives. A roof that doesn’t leak, a heating and cooling system that works, hot water or running water at all. A car that starts and runs. That’s when you really get stirred to try and do something – to make a difference. Making a difference – Robert has talked about “infinite needs with finite resources.” How can one person possibly make a difference when there is so much need in the world?”
In 2012, my wife and friend and I partnered with the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle in an effort to create (Vaughn has led many missions for St. Michael’s a community teaching garden on for both youth and adult, and the work of the a piece of property that we own teams he leads make a difference, one person, in downtown Raleigh. This block one house, one home, at a time.) You don’t need had really been struggling with Our Youth and others have worked at the to be a skilled plumber or carpenter to go on these the crime and drug abuse that Camden Street Garden in southeast Raleigh. St. generally accompany poverty and a Michael's will be strengthening its relationship with trips. All you really need is a servant’s heart. The most precious commodity we have is our time – lack of hope. We got together with the garden in 2017 it is absolutely irreplaceable. The most touching Jill Staton-Bullard and started a example I remember is making repairs on an elderly lady’s home garden for the community. At first we didn’t know if the garden – sheetrock, some plumbing and some roof repairs. One of the was going to succeed. Developing consistency and creating participants, without being asked, picked a spot beside the front meaningful relationships in the community proved to be tough. steps, cleared the junk out, weeded a small area, and planted After the first year, the garden’s new leader, Katie, poured her several flowers. The lady was so moved that someone thought heart into the project. She showed up every day and walked enough of her, and her residence, to plant some flowers. across the street to meet the kids and moms in the housing authority apartments and engaged them with enthusiasm. She We’re likely to head “down east” later this spring to help with began teaching them to plant seeds and grow food in the garden along with planting the seeds of enthusiasm and hope in their Continued on the next page
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Chronicles of Canterbury
Plans Taking Shape for Belize Mission 2017 Following a well-attended initial information meeting held Jan. 5, plans are taking shape for another mission to Belize. We have an excellent group of committed St. Michael’s missionaries to assist at Holy Cross Anglican School (holycrossbelize.org). This year’s team departs from RDU on Saturday, April 8, and will return a week later – Saturday, April 15. We will be in Belize City worshipping with the congregation at St. John’s Anglican Cathedral on Palm Sunday, a wonderful cross-cultural experience. That afternoon, April 9, the team will catch a water taxi out to Ambergris Caye and check in at our beachfront hotel, a modest but comfortable location with a beautiful view of the ocean and reef. Each day for the next week we will make the short walk up the beach and cross the bridge before heading left into the Holy Cross campus – where an entirely different world will present itself. Holy Cross was built where it is because of the desperate conditions of the people living in the San Mateo community — lacking reliable clean water and electricity, undrained roads and no sanitary sewage. Almost all of the children living in San Mateo attend Holy Cross, and we meet many of them and their families. Our work will consist of daily construction and maintenance activities, helping in the sewing center, and hosting a morning Vacation Bible School for the younger children. In the evening, we will gather for dinner and a time of spiritual reflection as we recall how God encountered us during the day.Currently we have about six openings on this year’s team. If you are thinking about going but did not attend the information meeting, please note the following schedule. Or, if you know you cannot go but want to help with our Annual Coffeehouse fundraiser — and there are many ways to help — please also note the schedule. In either case, don’t hesitate to contact John McHenry (john.mchenry@baronams.com; 919-306-3659) or Nanci Atkeson (natkeson@aol.com; 919-247-5655) for more information.
Belize Mission 2017 Schedule Wednesday, Feb.22 Youth Applications Due Friday, March 3 Commitment Deadline Sunday, March 5 Coffeehouse Planning (after Sunday School) Sunday, March 12 Team Orientation Saturday, March 25, 7 p.m., Parish Hall Coffeehouse/Fundraiser Sunday, April 2 Final Preparation meeting (After Sunday School) Saturday, April 8 Departure Saturday April 15 Return
— John McHenry, Belize Mission Team Leader
Missioners continued from page 5
flood damage. I’d ask you to consider doing these things. Pray for the trip. Consider going. If you can’t go, contribute to the trip. The money is used to buy materials for repairs, not to pay travel expenses. If you can’t go, or can’t contribute, then pray for the trip. You can pray for volunteers to turn out or funds to be collected, and that’s all good, but what I really want you to pray for is that we will make a difference. But, I’ll warn you. When you start praying, you’d better be careful, because you will suddenly find yourself caring.
Judy Spaziano
I often hear that Raleigh has been designated an outstanding place to live. I have a couple of thoughts about this. First, I’m pleased —I love Raleigh. But I’m puzzled, too, as there are many very needy — and hungry — people in this area. This led me to volunteer at Wake Relief, a local emergency food pantry. I had hopes that I could make a difference. But like most of us, I have some frustrating times with volunteering. I know I can help with an immediate need---people receive food for a week. But whether it’s a mission trip to W. Va, a trip to Mississippi after Katrina, or serving local agencies, there seems to be little I can do to affect a long term change. Problems seem overwhelming.
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“But what I have discovered is that I can affect a change in me. In serving others, I’ve learned about myself. I’ve learned that there’s no “us” and “them” or “me” and “others.” We are bound to each other in our humanity. When I look at the face of a homeless woman, I see me. When I see a mother trying to feed her children, I see me! I’ve learned that I must honor and respect the struggle some face every day just to have a roof overhead and enough food. This courage humbles me. I’ve learned that my role is to serve, not judge. I’ve learned that I don’t believe in the Prosperity Gospel. I do not believe that wealth and worldly success indicate the measure of God’s love. God’s love and grace are for all. How ironic that in trying to serve others I’ve found myself. There will be many opportunities for mission, both in the
Chronicles of Canterbury The Whole Life
Young Adults Find Faith and Fellowship in Their Growing Community
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n Thursday evenings, a small group in their 20s and 30s gathers around a table in the basement of St. Michael’s to study and pray with the Bible. When the Rev. Robert Fruehwirth began the Bible study this fall, his goal was to start the group off and eventually have them lead the study themselves. But when given the decision to make, they wanted Robert to stay. And in teaching them, he has learned a lot about what makes this age group click. “I’ve learned how hungry they are for teaching on Christianity, and ready to explore the meaning of the scriptures and the meaning of current events for themselves.”
Young Adult Bible Study February 12 & February 28 March 16 & March 28 6:30 pm-7:30 pm, in Room 12, Lower Level Yams Beach Retreat Trinity Center, Salter Path, N.C. April 28-30 Late Friday evening - Sunday morning. Cost: $179, all meals included.
When he came to St. Michael’s in the summer of 2016, Robert was charged with examining our Young Adult Ministry to find ways to connect more meaningfully to the group. Historically a difficult age to bring through the doors, the number of young adults at St. Michael’s has been growing slowly during the past few years. So Robert invited some young adults he knew into his home, and one evening to discuss what they look for in a church. “Young adults can feel invisible in their churches,” he says. “As the gap between college and being married with children widens in our society, young adults can feel that the church leaves them in limbo for 10 or 15 years, a limbo between college campus ministries and typical ministry to young families.” To reach this group, Robert has found himself chasing after them in the parking lot after church, so they won’t leave church feeling unseen. He’s talked with them in a Raleigh whiskey bar, attended a Durham Bulls game and helped organize the YAMs/OWLS annual dinner. “In our meetings, Bible sStudies and social events, I’ve discovered these young adults as a busy, positive, energetic group, wanting to grow in their faith, looking for social connections and eager to engage in meaningful ministry. They do not want to be stuck in a young adult ghetto in the church, but seek to engage with the whole community of the church, even as they have time to be young adults together.” In a time in their lives when it’s easier to turn off the alarm for an extra hour of sleep or meet other people their age for coffee on the corner, some are turning to church on Sunday mornings. They are seeking God, yes, but what are they looking for in a church community? The biggest problem when trying to draw young people to church, says Brittany Love, Young Adult Missioner for the Diocese of North Carolina, is that there is usually nothing for them. “Programs are usually geared toward more established adults — couples, families with young children.”
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So it’s become more important for churches to meet young people where they are: at ball parks and in whiskey bars, as Robert has discovered. “Bar nights are so successful,” Brittany says, “because they take away the barriers of church, the loneliness you can feel when you’re in a whole group of people you don’t know.” Maggie Bizzell found St. Michael’s the easy way: Google. How did you find St. Michael’s? Having grown up in St. Mary’s in Kinston, where she was active in youth group, summer camp and retreats,she was looking for a church with an active group of 20s and early 30s. She attended one Newcomer class and found others in the group whom she knew. “I started coming to St. Michael’s in February 2016 and from what I’ve seen so far, the outreach is awesome and there are plenty of opportunities to connect with other young adults and other members of the church.” Logan Price grew up at St. Michael’s and returned when he settled in Raleigh for his career. “I appreciate the priority young adults receive by having a dedicated clergy member (first Christopher Hogin, now Robert) for the young adult population,” he says. “St. Michael’s is a big, active church and it’s easy to get ‘lost in the crowd.’ Having a dedicated point of contact and someone like Robert who is actively trying to promote YAMs to visitors has been great. As a long-time young adult member, I know immediately who to approach with any pastoral need or question.” Logan was drawn back to our parish after college because of childhood, family and choir connections. “My attraction to St. Michael’s was similar to my attraction back to Raleigh. While I’m biased toward my childhood city and church, I feel fortunate that both are also objectively vibrant and growing places to live and worship. “I was pleased the YAMs program is targeted to my particular life stage,” says Logan. “Having a small spiritual community of peers in similar life stages has been crucial to my connection to St. Michael’s and my broader spiritual journey. The YAMs program provides a warm and approachable introduction to St. Michael’s, with enough programs (Bible studies, brunches, bar nights, etc.) to match anyone’s interests and schedule.”
Chronicles of Canterbury For all the Saints
Thomas Cranmer, Author of the Book of Common Prayer Where would Episcopalians be without Thomas Cranmer? While he was the main creator of our beloved Book of Common Prayer, he was also Archbishop of Canterbury from 1533-55. But a year later he was burned at the stake for being a Protestant under Mary I, an ardent Catholic. Cranmer was born in 1489 in Nottinghamshire, England. His father had only enough land for the eldest son, so Thomas and his younger brother had to join the clergy. He attended Jesus College at Cambridge and took Holy Orders in 1523. To escape from the plague, he moved to Essex, where he came to the attention of Henry VIII, who was staying nearby. He became a willing advocate for King Henry, who wished to divorce his wife, Catherine of Source: Wikipedia Aragon, who had produced no heirs. As soon as the Pope approved his appointment as Archbishop, Cranmer declared Henry’s marriage to Catherine void, and this allowed Henry to marry Anne Boleyn. Along with Thomas Cromwell, the chief minister to the king, Cranmer supported Royal Supremacy, meaning the king would be head of the Church during his reign. He also supported the translation of the Bible into English, and Cranmer wrote a litany that is still used in the church. After Henry’s death and under the reign of Edward VI, who was Protestant, Cranmer was permitted to make doctrinal changes — quite a break from Roman Catholic rule. In 1549, he helped complete the Book of Common Prayer.
ECW Party To Benefit Camden St. Garden The St. Michael's ECW is making plans for its annual Spring Garden Party, to be held Friday, May 12. This year's recipient is the Camden Street Learning Garden.
Located at 315 Camden Street in the Southeast Raleigh food desert, the Camden Street Learning Garden is run by the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle in an effort to bring fresh, healthy food to our areas "food deserts." The Garden is a new model for Raleigh run by Katie Murray, IFFS Raleigh Urban Agriculture Programs manager. It is a green space in the middle of a city where kids, families, and individuals can be in nature. The Learning Garden features a large community growing area to increase access to fresh food in the neighborhood. People in the community are given access to land, seeds, water, tools, and gardening experts teach them how to produce fresh food in a small amount of space. It is open to everyone in the neighborhood, and volunteer groups, including St. Michael's EYC and our Young Adult Ministry, have visited the garden to help maintain it. We're excited about this opportunity to have a lasting impact on the health and well-being of families in our community. Join us May 12! — Catherine Rideout, ECW President
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Many of his beautiful prayers are still being said today. In 16th century Briton, the country’s loyalty to Protestant or Catholic changed with each monarch in power. It was a dangerous time to be clergy. After Edward VI’s death, Cranmer supported Lady Jane Grey as his successor. She ruled for only nine days and was succeeded by Mary I. Mary imprisoned him and forced him to publicly recant his protestantism. He was sentenced to be burned to death on March 21, 1556. In his final act, he renounced his recantations, and stuck his right hand, —with which he had signed his recantation — into the fire first before the rest of his body. Read more about him in Foxe’s Book of Martyrs. I am a great lover of the Sunday collects, most of which Thomas Cranmer wrote. I do have a favorite that I’d like to share with you. You’ll see why our seminary professors quoted it often. It is from the Second Sunday in Advent. “Blessed Lord, which hast caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning; grant us that we may in such wise hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them; that by patience and comfort of thy holy word, we may embrace, and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which thou hast given us in our savior Jesus Christ.”
— The Rev. Holly M. Gloff
Which Chapter is for You? St. Elizabeth Women of all ages who prefer to meet at night. Chairs: Katharine Davies, katharinedavies@ bellsouth.net & Jessica Schindler, jescanick@ gmail.com St. Madeleine Women of all ages who prefer a lunchtime meeting. Chairs: Ashleigh Black, ashleigh.e.black@gmail.com & Catherine George, catherinedunngeorge@icloud.com St. Margaret Mothers with young children who meet during choir practice.Chair: Courtney Phillips, courtneybphillips@gmail.com St. Mary Empty nesters and older women who meet on the first Monday of the month at church. Chairs: Linda Berry, lindabberry@gmail.com, & Lindsay Hornthal, allenandlindsay@gmail.com.
Chronicles of Canterbury
February Means Food for Thought for the OWLS Like all creatures great and small, OWLS enjoy being fed. So this month’s offerings include being fed not only with a great lunch, but also we will be fed both spiritually and, as Hercule Poirot would say, “via the grey matter” in our brains. This month’s outreach from the St. Michael’s Missions Committee is The Green Chair Project on Capitol Blvd. Parishioners who have small, gently-used quality kitchen, bath and bedroom items they no longer need, can donate to Green Chair. Green Chair reuses donated household furnishings “to renew lives of participants referred from area programs who are recovering after homelessness, crisis or disaster.” They have helped untold numbers of families whose houses have burned down, women in crisis and homeless families. Join us Feb. 16 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Michael’s, where we will take a bus to Green Chair and tour this amazing facility. Lunch will follow. We will return to the church before 3 p.m. Jesus reminds us to take care of the widow and orphans and all those who are disenfranchised, who need our help just to survive. Green Chair Project takes these words seriously and puts flesh onto Jesus’ commands. You will be impressed to see how these clever volunteers put together mismatched items people have donated and package them to make them look like they came out of an
expensive boutique! The families who shop there are given vouchers to “purchase” items, and are treated with great dignity and care. John Constance will be our guest speaker for February. He'll share “Tales & Treasures from the National Archives,” with us on Thursday, Feb. 23 at 2 p.m. John has been with the St. Michael’s family for five years, retiring to Raleigh from Ellicott City, Md., with his wife, Hayden. In that time, John has chaired the Annual Fund and now serves on the Vestry. He also volunteers with Step-Up Ministries. But John will give our brains food for thought when he speaks to us about his time working in the National Archives in Washington D.C., where he was longtime director of Congressional Affairs and Communications. He spent 35 years in federal service and 14 years as the National Archives liaison to Capitol Hill. He supervised congressional relationships, communications, public affairs as well as the agency’s web program. John will share fascinating stories about the National Archives and the treasures held there. — The Rev. Holly Gloff
More than 80 people turned out in January for Jack Budrow's OWLS talk on an insider's look at music. Each month, the OWLS bring special speakers to the parish. Our February speaker will be John Constance, who will talk about the stories and treasures found in the National Archives. He will speak on Feb. 23.
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briefly
Chronicles of Canterbury
American Boychoir in concert Tuesday Feb. 21 7:30 p.m. Tickets:
$15, adults; $10,18 years age and younger,
on holymichael.org
Women’s Bible Study
Study Provides Plan for Invisible Battles We are living in turbulent times surrounded by visible warring chaos. However, all day, every day, an invisible battle also rages around us — unseen, unheard, yet deeply felt throughout every area of our lives. A devoted enemy seeks to wreak havoc on everything that matters to you: your heart, your mind, your relationships, your family, your resilience, your dreams, your future and his battle plan depends on catching you unaware and unarmed.
Monday evenings: 7 p.m. – 8:45p.m. March 7- April 25 Friday mornings: 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. March 10 – April 28 Workbook cost: $14 Child care available on Friday
The good news is that this Enemy always fails miserably when he meets a woman well dressed for the occasion. The Armor of God, written by Priscilla Shirer, is more than merely a biblical description of the believer’s inventory. It is an action plan for putting on and developing a personalized strategy to secure victory. This Bible Study is open to all women, Monday evenings or Friday mornings. Contact: Frances Penick to reserve your workbook and for child care, at fhpenick@nc.rr.com, Men’s Retreat 2017
Belonging & Brotherhood
Friday & Saturday, April 21 & 22
Being a modern man is challenging, confusing, and everyone has an opinion. How can men gain a new sense of belonging and brotherhood? Belonging is a man’s desire to be part of something bigger than himself. Brotherhood reflects the active part – the part where his presence matters to the group, to others, to God.
Belonging to the Brotherhood with the Rev. Greg Jones & the Rev. Robert Fruehwirth
Please mark your calender to join us for lively discussion, prayer, sports and relaxed fun with friends new and old at St. Michael’s gathering for parish men on Friday, April 21 and Saturday, April 22 in Whispering Pines. Wednesday Words & Wisdom 7 p.m. Feb. 8 Miracle at St. Anna by James McBride at the home of Nina & Ralph Yeager Newcomers Welcome
The Country Club of Whispering Pines, Whispering Pines, NC
Information on cost and registration will be available soon.
Men’s Ministry In February Join our Men's Ministry team for our regular monthly events. • Tuesday, Feb. 14, 7 a.m.— Men’s Prayer Breakfast We’ll have breakfast and time for prayer and fellowship. We’d love to have you join us! • Monday, Feb. 20, noon—Band of Brothers Lunch Join us for lunch and fellowship at the Sawmill Tap Room. Men’s Ministry Contact: Tim Berry (tberry56@gmail.com). If you are not receiving Men's Ministry emails, please contact Susan Rountree at rountree@holymichael.org.
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Donate To Green Chair Project As part of the ongoing efforts of the newly structured Outreach Ministry at St. Michaels, to alleviate hunger, meet emergency family needs and provide support to children, we are happy to have the February Monthly Collection recipient be The Green Chair Project. The Green Chair project started in 2010, has served more than 1,000 households and 3,900 individuals in Wake County. The Green Chair project reuses donated household furnishings to help families and individuals renew their lives. Participants are referred from area programs and are recovering homelessness or disaster.The reusable gifts are cleaned and repaired by volunteers and are presented in a way that promotes dignity and respect. To be most effective in our collection efforts, The Green Chair has asked that we focus our donations around the concept of household bundles, such as build a bundle for the kitchen, bath or bedroom. A suggested list of items to donate can be found on thegreenchair.org, under Collection Drive ideas. Thank you in advance for your contributions. — Outreach & Missions
Chronicles of Canterbury
february
lifelong disciple
Sundays February 5 with the Rev. Robert Fruehwirth Wise Care for the Soul Every year the Church observes special spiritual practices for Lent, meant to prepare us for a deeper entry into the mysteries of Good Friday and Easter. A full month before Lent begins, the The Rev. Robert Fruehwirth will discuss creating and keeping a spiritual rule of life for Lent, drawing on classical Christian practices of study, prayer, reading Scripture, fasting and selfreflection. The aim is the practical care and renewal of our souls, our faith, and our parish. February 12 St. Michael’s Love with The Holy Michael Foundation Enjoy hearing parishioners share their stories about St. Michael’s, and what it means to them to be a parishioner at our special church. Holy Michael Foundation Board members will close with a brief update on our endowment. February 19 A Life in Two Worlds with the Rev. Marion B. Robinson, pastor of St. Matthew’s AME Church The Rev. Robinson will share his journey as a black Christian in America, born in a segregated small town in South Carolina, yet coming to live as a young man in Raleigh, for the first time living and working in a predominately white community. February 26 The St. Michael’s After-Gathering with Heather Lende Heather Lende — author of Find the Good, and keynote speaker at St. Michael's 2017 GATHERING — will read from her book and talk about how she finds holy moments while working with families to write a loved one's obituary.
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Friday & Saturday, February 24 & 25 It's not too late! Friday, 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Reception, Keynote & Sung Compline Saturday, 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Hymn sing, Morning Prayer, Keynote & 2 breakouts Lunch is included.
Registration: $75 Get your tickets today on holymichael.org.
St. Michael’s Episcopal Church 1520 Canterbury Rd. Raleigh NC 27608-1106 Phone: 919-782-0731 Fax: 919-782-5085 www.holymichael.org
NON-PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID Raleigh, NC PERMIT NO. 696
Chronicles of Canterbury is a monthly publication of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church Editor: Susan B. Rountree Phone: 919-782-0731, ext. 122 Email: rountree@holymichael.org
Special Lenten Program Parishwide Journey to Jerusalem Tuesday Evenings during Lent March 7, 14, 21, 28 and April 4 & 11 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Prayer, Soup supper & Program Save the dates! Details on Page 2!
Questions? Story Ideas? Susan Rountree, Director of Communications rountree@holymichael.org • 919-782-0731, ext. 122 www.holymichael.org, Chronicles of Canterbury, ThisWeek@St. Michael’s & Rector’s Weekly Epistle: Susan Rountree, Editor rountree@holymichael.org Canterbury Tales/brochures/bulletins: Ann Garey, Publications Coordinator garey@holymichael.org
Deadlines: • Canterbury Tales: noon Wednesday before Sunday publication • Chronicles of Canterbury: Monday, Feb. 15
A special part of Sunda mornings at St. Michael's is Beckwith Chapel. Children in grades 1-3 follow "Miss Kim" and the cross from Big Church to the chapel, a 65-year St. Michael's tradition. If your child ages 3 through 3rd grade has not attended our chapels, accompany them one Sunday soon.