Chronicles of Canterbury
the
Chronicles of Canterbury
january 2016
From the Rector
Called to be Disciples in our Own Busy Place
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o you lead busy lives? Do you have a lot going on right now? I know we do in our home. Most of us feel that we are barely hanging on with all that we are doing. Whether we are retired, or an empty nester, or even single with no dependents at home, we are feeling busy. Busier than ever, perhaps. But I’ve got the book for you. The Gospel of Mark, it’s the Gospel for people in a hurry. It’s the shortest Gospel. And it wastes almost no time in getting to the point. Mark was a follower of Simon, the one Jesus called a fisher of men, the one Jesus called Peter. Mark was a scribe, and he seems to have captured in his writings the essence of immediacy – which is what Peter was all about. Written near Rome around 30 years after Jesus’ ascension, Mark’s Gospel is like a Roman short sword – quick, efficient and ready to cut to the quick.
what’s inside 2 A Striking Realization 3 Music Program Grows 4 Holy Michael 5 ECW 2016 7 Jr. Warden Remarks 9 Annual Fund 10 OWLS 11 Lifelong Disciple
In the Gospel of John, you find mystically dizzying verse after verse after verse. In Matthew and Luke, you get name after name, begat after begat, and all manner of rich detail. But, in Mark all you get is the point. Jesus’ message, the Good News of God, is given, and it comes quick.
And the message is this: Time’s up. In Christ the Kingdom of God has come. Change your hearts. Give them to the One who loves you best, and you will find the love you’re hungry for, the life you’re thirsty for, starting now and finishing never. Peter tells his story through Mark’s Gospel about how he was selected by Jesus. He was a fishermen. Jesus came to him, told him the good news of God, asked him to turn his heart toward him, offered him a new vision of life, and he dropped everything and did what was asked. Peter tells his story through Mark. He says, in a nutshell, “We met Jesus, we knew he was the Teacher, the Friend, the Master of Life, and we gave him our hearts.” What about you? If you’re at St. Michael’s, whether you are new or helped to found the place, the message is the same. “The kingdom of God has drawn near.” No matter your station on the journey, or your station in life the time has come. God has become one of us, and he has called us to change our hearts. Will we give our hearts to Jesus? For real? For life? See RECTOR on page 9
The Spirit Moves Freely Here
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may have had the honor to wear the mantle of Senior Warden this year, but in reality, I am just one of 15 Vestry persons who equally served this parish. It has been an unforgettable privilege to stand beside these fine men and women who have had a profound impact on my life. I have been inspired by their unique gifts, I have been taught by their witness and more importantly, I have been deeply humbled and encouraged by their testimony of faith. I thank each one for giving unselfishly of their time to St. Michael’s, their honest insight and their loving friendship to me. I especially thank David Coe for his partnership and expertise in the financial duties. It is a running joke with my family that my mathematical skills may be swift, but they are seldom
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accurate! Trust me, David, was the right person for the job! As a Vestry, we began this year with several questions to help navigate our purpose. The first question is the same one Jesus asked his disciples, “What about you.Who do you say that I am?” Our answer to this intimate question is inherent to the core of our values, our lifestyle and our belief. It is the very foundation upon which this church body exists. If we call ourselves Christians, followers of Christ, each person must at some point along their faith journey make that honest confession. The second question is, “Who does God say we are both individually and collectively?” We are See WARDEN on page 8
Chronicles of Canterbury The People of St. Michael’s Church Phone: (919) 782-0731 All area codes are 919 unless otherwise noted. CLERGY
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. Christopher W. Hogin Associate Rector ext. 105 • hogin@holymichael.org (c) 999-6269 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 Will Lingo, Senior Warden • 833-1358 Michael Painter, Jr. Warden • 821-0126 Jenny Haase, Clerk • 460-1966 Debbie Reed Treasurer • 783-8978 Class of 2016 Marilyn Budrow • 510-5080 Anthony Carlton • 395-4229 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 Valerie Jackson, Recorder • 917-5164 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 Abby 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 Jean Olson, Parish Secretary olson@holymichael.org • ext. 112 Susan Rountree, Director of Communications rountree@holymichael.org • ext.122 FACILITIES STAFF Buddy Stegall, Facility Project Leader Jesús Epigmenio, Groundskeeper Marcela de la Cruz, Housekeeper PARISH DAY SCHOOL 782-6430 Mandy Annunziata, Director annunziata@holymichael.org • ext. 110
OFFICE HOURS Monday-Friday, 9 am.-1 p.m.
CANTERBURY SHOP HOURS Monday/Wednesday/Friday 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday 9-9:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.-noon
From the Associate Rector
A Striking Realization
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ith the season of Christmas behind us many people fall into a holiday letdown, often referred to as the January blues. No longer is there a sense of excitement and anticipation. We no longer have twinkling lights or carols diverting our attention from the dark cold depths of winter. The only holidays ahead are Valentine’s Day, and the birthdays of two American presidents pictured on the $1 and $5 dollar bills. (Even then, it’s really nothing more than an excuse for furniture companies to have a sale.) Easter is but a glimmer far off in the springtime distance. Let us not forget this is the season of Epiphany. Even though it receives little commercial or even liturgical attention, profound theological meaning exists. Many people don’t realize that up until the Fourth century, the early Eastern Church viewed January 6 as a more important date than December 25. January 6 was considered the date of Jesus’ baptism, or his epiphany. In Greek, epiphany means, “a striking appearance, or sudden and striking realization.” For early Christians, the recognition by humans of Christ’s divinity had far more theological depth and meaning than his birth. It wasn’t until the middle of the century that the eastern and western churches merged by venerating December 25 as Jesus’ nativity. Even today that Armenian Church stubbornly holds on to January 6 as the supreme holiday of the season. In Sunday school we learned Epiphany was when the Magi, or Three Kings, traveled from the East bearing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the infant child Jesus. If you read Matthew’s Gospel though, nowhere does it say the wise men were kings. Magi actually means someone who is a sage, astrologer or interpreter of dreams. Additionally, Matthew never gives a specific number of how many wise men visited Jesus. We don’t know if there were three or 30. We only know that three gifts were laid before Jesus the infant: gold, frankincense and myrrh. The gifts themselves are a key element in understanding the significance of Christ. These gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh foreshadow Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. In the ancient world, gold was associated with monarchs or kings. Frankincense, and its sweet aroma, signaled the presence of the divine. Myrrh was an effective painkiller used in the ancient world. In Mark 15:23, myrrh is mixed with wine, and offered to Jesus as he hung on the cross. Jesus refuses it. Later, in John 19:39 aloe and myrrh are used as an embalming solution just before the resurrection. Finally, myrrh was used to anoint high priests. According to Laurence Hull Stookey, author of Calendar: Christ’s Time for the Church, “the Magi identify Jesus as the supreme ruler of the world; as God’s anointed high priest; and as the suffering servant who dies as a fragrant and beautiful offering before God.” During this season of Epiphany, allow the reality of Jesus’ birth, life, death and resurrection settle into the depths of your soul. Such a realization does not vanish once the Christmas tree is mulched or Auld Lang Syne sung amidst falling confetti on January 1. It is not the end of something wonderful, but only the beginning. Use this time to have your own striking realization that the darkness, pierced by the light of God thousands of years ago, emerged with the arrival of Emanuel. Truly, God is with us. — The Rev. Christopher Hogin
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Chronicles of Canterbury
Choir Program Fosters Lifelong Worship through Song
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n the Episcopal Church, Sunday mornings offer the comfort of a familiar liturgy. Walking into churches from Raleigh to Asheville, from New York City to London, Episcopalians will feel right at home. Though sermons certainly vary by content, since they are based on the lectionary, messages delivered from the pulpit will have similar themes. Not so with the music. Each Sunday, as St. Michael’s choir stands waiting for direction from choirmaster Kevin Kerstetter, the congregation can be sure the experience of listening to them sing will be new, complex and remarkable.
is a ‘theatrical performance’ in itself, the way the participants ‘perform’ has a great influence on the members of the congregation. Most folks don’t realize that the acting and singing techniques, such as posture, projection, movement, choreography, attitude and expression are also a vital part of our worship services. We discuss the text of each piece so that the intent and meaning of the composer is better understood.” High school student Isabella Garrison has been studying choral music at St. Michael’s, and with the Royal School of Church Music’s summer program. Isabella first sang with our choirs in Beckwith Chapel.
St. Michael’s music program’s reputation for excellence draws musicians from all over the area — close “I expected an intimidating to 180 singers and atmosphere,” she says, “but I St. Michael’s chlidren learn about the importance of music to our worship experience found a warm and welcoming instrumentalists from from a very young age in All Angels Choir. Close to 180 singers are involved in the St. one, in which every choir the 4s to the 80s — the largest choir program in St. Michael’s Music Program, and our parish has one of the best Adult choirs in the state. member’s voice was heard Michael’s history. (There (literally and figuratively.) are more than 40 in the All Angels Choir alone.) Since that time, she says, she’s seen the choir greatly Virginia Reed is among the veterans, having sun in the choir for 23 years. evolve. “Most recently, I have seen an influx of She joined in 1969, sang for 10 years, then rejoined in 2002. members who are excited to sing every Wednesday night, who do not view choir as a chore. It’s exciting “Our choir, under Kevin’s leadership,” says Virginia, “has the reputation of to see a younger group of singers rising up. being one of the best choirs in Raleigh. He is a master at bringing out the best in his singers, stressing perfection and good technique at all times.” “Because of choir,” she adds, “I now see music as an A number of our singers, she says, are members of the North Carolina integral aspect of worship. Sacred music and worship Master Chorale, and Brock Downward, who assists Kevin as organist, is are synonymous to me.” among the “most outstanding organists in Raleigh.” Kevin is thrilled with the growth of the choir Singing in the choir, she says, enhances her worship experience in a special program. “The music program continues to grow way. “Through music, I feel the presence of God.” because the people of St. Michael’s are so eager to support worship, community and education. Parents Choir member Elizabeth Hume left the Church for awhile, she says, “and see children offering joyfully the gift of their singing it was my desire to be in a choir again that drew me back.” Elizabeth is voices in worship. They recognize that singing in a among the new members, having joined our choir nine months ago. “I choir models how the world would be if everyone love singing, and the camaraderie that comes with being in the choir. worked together toward creative, peaceful and noble Being in the choir connects me to worship in a greater way than being in goals. the congregation. Not only am I worshiping when I sing, I’m also helping bring the congregation into worship, and that’s really a special feeling.” “And we know that training in choral singing provides the foundation for an activity that people Among over 60 Adult Choir members is a team of seasoned professional can enjoy for a lifetime,” he adds. “My hope for musicians, some of whom help direct one of five choirs for children our young singers is that choral music will draw and teens. Dan Mason, who has sung in the choir for many years, helps them profoundly into the liturgies of the Episcopal direct the St. Gregory Boychoir and St. Cecilia Girls Choir, and often Church, that singing in a choir will be part of their accompanies the younger choirs on piano. “I’ve been involved in church lives always, and that through choral music they find music since I was a child, and it has played a huge part in my life,” he says. friendship, fulfillment, and delight.” “My personal worship is through music, so I try to instill in young singers how important it can be to them for the rest of their lives.” Dan, who is well known in Raleigh for his theatrical performances, brings that experience to teaching young singers as well. “Each worship service
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Choir registration is available on holymichael.org
Chronicles of Canterbury Holy Michael Foundation
It’s Our Turn: Foundation Gift Extends To All
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s most of you know by now, in 2004, one of our parishioners, Bob Slaughter, passed away. He was a true servant of God and St. Michael’s. You could find him anywhere on the grounds, in the building, or on mission trips working quietly and without fanfare for God and his church. He often remarked, “St Michael’s has given me so much more than I’ve given it.” When he died, he left the bulk of his estate to St. Michael’s for the purpose of establishing a foundation to support the mission and ministries of St. Michael’s. In 2005, the Holy Michael Foundation was incorporated with initial funds of approximately $370,000. Today, its balance stands at approximately $650,000. Bob’s bequest to St. Michael’s also underscored his recognition of St. Michael’s founding members’ contributions and vision 65 years ago. Those dedicated parishioners built a church that some considered, at the time, to be “way out in the country.”. But, they had a mission and worked very hard to achieve it. Most of these members have passed away, leaving the future of St. Michael’s in our hands. It is our duty to build upon their legacy, perhaps moving beyond what they ever could have envisioned. Holy Michael Foundation is the vehicle through which we can achieve our vision. Holy Michael Foundation bylaws require a sustained average two-year balance of $1 million before any funds can be distributed to ministries and special projects of St. Michael’s. It cannot be used to fund the operating budget. Once the threshold balance is reached, Holy Michael Foundation can use 4.5 percent of the fund’s balance to fund what? The “what” remains unclear, and therein, lies the potential scope of outreach this investment can fund. Most other churches our size are older and have established endowments permitting them to support important outreach projects. Some support internal parish projects, others have established signature programs that have grown to become well known throughout the community. Consider a few of the programs St. Michael’s supports now: Habitat, BackPack Buddies, StepUp, Wake Interfaith Hospitality, St. Michael’s adult and youth mission trips and more. With Holy Michael Foundation funds, we have the opportunity to serve these ministries at a higher level, or create our own signature project to serve a current, or as yet unrecognized, need in our community. Of course, none of this can be accomplished without you. Some of you have already included Holy Michael Foundation in your will or some other form of planned giving. If you have not done so, consider a planned gift as the perpetuation of your Annual Fund pledge, creating the opportunity for you to support your church forever. Your gift will grow and continue to benefit our outreach efforts for years to come. Still, some of you have given cash gifts, stock and other creative gifts — cemetery plots, for example — and we have converted to cash and invested in our fund. All these gifts, regardless of size, combine to impact the growth of our foundation, propelling us toward our $1 million minimum goal.
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Just in the last few months, a parishioner donated to Holy Michael Foundation because, as he described, he had recently received some good, unexpected news, and he wanted to donate to Holy Michael Foundation in gratitude for that. Another parishioner wanted to donate a portion of her inheritance to Holy Michael Foundation. Regardless of how, why, or how much you give, you can be assured your donation will be cared for wisely by the Holy Michael Foundation Board. The board’s investment strategy is to achieve long term, steady growth. Our goal is to ensure this investment remains strong for future generations. We follow a passive investment management model adhering to funds with low cost indices. We have pledged to commit to transparency and a long-term time horizon. Our fiduciary responsibilities are at the forefront of our decisions. Current board members are: the Rev. Samuel Gregory Jones; Will Rideout, President; Pansy Morton, Vice President;Audrey Black, Secretary;Kip Meadows, Treasurer, Amanda Carson;Harold Hall, Tommy Malone; Garland Radford; Debbie Reed, and Charlotte Griffin; Director of Development. THANK YOU to those of you who donated to the Holy Michael Foundation, made a bequest to us, or notified me of your planned gift to the foundation in 2015. Your generosity and commitment to Holy Michael Foundation is invaluable to the future of St. Michael’s. To learn more about planned giving or donating to the Holy Michael Foundation, please contact Charlotte Griffin (griffin@holymichael.org, 919-7820731, ext. 121), or any board member. — Charlotte Griffin, Director of Development
Visit the New Holymichael.org For several months, the staff and Communications Committee have been working to redesign holymichael.org. The new site is now live, and we hope you’ll visit often. We have new ways to read and download Chronicles of Canterbury and Canterbury Tales, new ways to listen to sermons, and a member login, so you can check your pledge balance, update your contact information and even upload a photo to our database. Stop by a browse, and let us know what you think! Many thanks to Katherine Coe Forbes, daughter of Junior Warden David Coe and his wife, Darden, who designed the site.
Chronicles of Canterbury
Join the Fabric of the ECW
Trends come and go, even in church life. But St. Michael’s Episcopal Church Women continues to represent the vibrant people of our parish. We are the past, present and future of St. Michael’s woven together to care for each other, our church and our community. We accomplish the smallest tasks and host the biggest events. We laugh, plan and pray together. Our board quietly works throughout the year to ensure the success of our ECW budget and outreach efforts with The Helen Wright Center, Cheshire House, Meals on Wheels, Backpack Buddies, and our wonderful Spring Event. We host General Membership Meetings in the spring and fall to gather all women of St. Michael’s for a meal and speaker. Our four unique chapters enrich the Christian life of their members through fellowship, prayer and outreach. In all we do, we hope to follow Paul’s teachings to “encourage one another and build each other up.” As we begin 2016, join us! We need your story and gifts to enrich this colorful fabric of women at St. Michael’s. — Clair Marshall, ECW President 2016
Incoming ECW President Clair Marshall, left, with Past President Catherine George, are among a group of women woven together to care for each other, our church and our community. The ECW is for every woman in our parish.
St. Elizabeth
St. Margaret
St. Elizabeth’s chapter enjoys a diverse membership from mothers of young children to women who are employed and those who are retired. We meet nine times a year on the fourth Monday of the month from 7-9 p.m. in members’ homes.
St. Margaret’s ECW chapter members are generally mothers of young children, but also include any women interested in socializing and fellowship. This chapter’s outreach projects involve children and families, supporting organizations such as Thompson Child and Family Focus and the Diaper Train at Saint Saviour’s Center. We help with baptism Sundays and craft banners for the newly baptized members of St. Michael’s.
We enjoy a variety of speakers, read and discuss books and participate in potluck meals and a Christmas brunch. Our outreach and mission activities are wide-ranging and include supporting Note-In-The-Pocket, the Community Music School, meals for Cheshire House, accessories for Dress For Success, baskets for parish auctions, making rolls for Gifts of Grace, baking cookies for the OWLS Christmas luncheon and the birthday card ministry for parish seniors. In past years we have created Valentine boxes for parish college students, Easter baskets, Angel tree family Christmas gifts and boxes for troops in Afghanistan. Our meetings are casual; communication is via e-mail and online sign-ups. Contact: Co-chairs are Malinda Taylor 919 630- 5163 or Eileen Sakey, 919 881-7919, stliz@holymichael.org
St. Madeleine Women with limited time because of work or mom duties may find St. Madeleine’s is the right chapter for them, meeting bi-monthly on the second Monday, from noon -1p.m. at North Hills Club. Lunch is $6.50, and guarantees that the meeting will end on time for those that have to get back to the office or pick up a child. (Membership at North Hills Club is not required. All are welcome.) St. Madeleine Barat lived from1779-1865 and was passionate about educating poor children, founding schools and teaching in them. In the spirit of St. Madeleine, one of our main projects is Book Harvest, a non-profit program that collects new and gently used books and distributes them to children in need who would not otherwise have books of their own. This program recently has been adopted parish-wide, so St. Madeleine’s coordinates the collection and acts as a liaison with the program. We contribute over 1,500 books to Book Harvest each year. Contact: Chair Ashleigh Black 919-6307906, or ashleigh.e.black@gmail.com
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St Margaret’s meets monthly on Wednesday evenings during the Children’s Choir hour from 6-7 pm, monthly throughout the school year. Child care is provided and meetings are casual and social. Most communication is done via email and online sign-ups. Contacts: Co-chairs: Caroline Manoogian 919-609-4366 and Brantley Springett 919-610-1184, stmargaretschapter@ gmail.com.
St. Mary St. Mary’s chapter members are primarily the more mature ladies of the parish. We enjoy fun and fellowship with other ladies who are in the prime of life. We have been involved in numerous projects, which include organizing the Angel Tree at Christmas and supporting numerous outreach projects such as Meals on Wheels and the Episcopal Farmworker Ministry. St. Mary’s usually meets on the first Monday of the month at 10 a.m. in the Adult Ed. Room. Our meetings are informal and open to anyone. Meetings feature guest speakers and activities, like our annual December trip to Quail Ridge Books to hear about the many offerings for the Christmas season. For those who do not have email, we have a phone tree to communicate the chapter news. Contact: Nanci Atkeson (919) 553-2719, natkeson@aol.com.
Chronicles of Canterbury
WARDEN Continued from Page 1
God’s disciples, called to be a Light to others. We are God’s ambassadors — called into leadership to spread the Gospel. And we are God’s church — called into communion as one body. As we discerned the call as a Vestry, we knew that no matter the task, we were “Going Forth With God.”
recognize and fulfill the need for sustaining one another. St. Michael’s is certainly devoted to the Breaking of the Bread as this sacrament is most central to our faith. Through the Eucharist, we not only remember the life, death and resurrection of Christ, but it allows us to commune together at God’s table while satisfying our hunger and thirst for spiritual food. Kevin and the choir so beautifully lead us in songs of praise and thanksgiving setting the joyful tone for our worship. Through it, we have felt the presence of the Holy Spirit and wept knowing that we are embraced by God’s grace.
The third question is one Jesus specifically asked Peter three times but is continually asked to us and that is, “How much do you love me?” Most often, the answer requires that all the divisive chatter of a secular world be left outside our doors. We must choose instead to listen for that quiet voice within our spirit that says, “Put your trust in me… remain one body in Christ.” This does not mean we have to be of like minds or opinions, but as Jesus’ followers, we must have gladness and singleness of heart… It’s God’s dwelling place.
And finally, St. Michael’s is devoted to prayer. This essential connection with God the Father is what the early church knew would bind believers together. It is what enables our parish to act as a cohesive unit …a working body in one accord. Interceding for one another weaves the spiritual thread into our blanket of healing, In the Book of Acts, the comfort, protection and early church, despite great hope in dark circumstances. opposition, set the model for Prayers are offered through the serving Christ in singleness of faithfulness of the Intercessory heart. Scripture tells us, Prayer group, the Prayer shawl ministry, Contemplative “They devoted themselves to Prayer, Bible study groups the apostles teaching, and to and also through our liturgy the fellowship, to the breaking with the Prayers of the People. of the bread and to prayer. All Each person on the Vestry the believers were together and At St. Michael’s, we pray for and support each other with programs like The also made a commitment had everything in common. They Gathering, above. And we teach the Gospel, beginning with our youngest in to the people, as every man, our Children’s Ministry program. Above, children present their silhouettes to continued to meet together woman and child in our parish the congregation during the First Communion Celebration. in the temple courts. They has been prayed for by name broke bread in their homes over the past 10 months. As and atetogether with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and all blessings are, the blessing of this discipline proved to be enjoying the favor of all the people.” multifaceted. The dedication to our brothers and sisters also With the abundance of programs and ministries here, this model opened our eyes to an even greater purpose . . . a personal revelation of the power of prayer. should sound very familiar to us. Of course, the utterance of our prayers is delicate by nature and is unique to the individual. Being a visual person, my physical posture of prayer has always influenced my spiritual posture of faith. In prayer as a youth, I pictured myself as one of the little children playing at the feet of a sitting Jesus, his arms open wide as he welcomed the innocent. In my adult years, I like to picture myself sitting at the Master’s feet in full expectation of a lesson taught. But as I deeply examine myself, it is more customary in my prayer time to be humbly kneeling at the foot of His cross. Jesus is still with outstretched arms, but now welcoming the lost and the broken.
Under the leadership of our outstanding clergy, St. Michael’s is devoted to the teachings of the Gospel. Each sermon, EfM, Adult, Youth and Children’s Christian Education, Women’s, Men’s, High School and Middle School Bible Studies, along with Journeys of Faith are just a sampling of what helps us discover the way of Truth and Life. St. Michael’s is devoted to fellowship. The Gathering, Gifts of Grace, Women’s chapters, Band of Brothers, Martha Ministry, ECW, EYC, Parish Life activities, OWLS, Daughters of the King, YAMs, the Men’s Retreat and Drawing Near, all help us
See WARDEN on page 8
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Chronicles of Canterbury From the Outgoing Jr. Warden
Financially Healthy Churches Spiritually Sustain Members Almighty and everliving God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth, hear our prayers for this parish family. Strengthen the faithful, arouse the careless, and restore the penitent. Grant us all things necessary for our common life, and bring us all to be of one heart and mind within your holy Church; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. I’ve had the privilege of serving as St. Michael’s Junior Warden this year. Let me begin by saying “Thank you.” Your presence this morning and casting your vote at the Parish Meeting signifies that you are “known to the treasurer,” which is the Church’s quaint way of saying you provide financial support to St. Michael’s Church – your church, our church, God’s church. Thank you. However, the ongoing health and operation of St. Michael’s depends on far more than your monetary contributions. Your time, your talent, and your active St. Michael’s offers a participation in this faith community number of opportunities are as important as your timely for each of us to annual pledge. A church whose engage with our members are spiritually fed and fellow parishioners in sustained by relevant programs the service of God, and services will be healthy and the community, this financially viable over the long term. St. Michael’s offers a number church, and each of opportunities for each of us to other. I encourage you engage with our fellow parishioners to participate and in the service of God, the volunteer as you are community, this church, and each able based on your other. I encourage you to participate talents, interests and and volunteer as you are able based time. The rewards are on your talents, interests and time. The rewards are great, and a vibrant great, and a vibrant faith community faith community requires your requires your participation.
participation.
Now, having said that, make no mistake, we do need your treasure as well! Thank you again! The good news is that St. Michael’s continues to operate a balanced budget with no debt. For many, the Stewardship Campaign is the most visible and familiar financial activity of the church year. St. Michael’s has been blessed with dedicated stewardship volunteers and increased pledge contributions over the years, and this year is no exception. We are so close to our goal! More than 470 pledges totaling close to $1.5 million have been received towards our $1.6 million goal. More than half of all households increased their pledge compared to last year, and more than 10 percent of pledges are new. These are positive signs of a healthy, growing parish.
So, St. Michael’s, cheer up and submit those remaining pledges! Thank you! The annual budget is based almost entirely on pledge income. Your pledge is very important for the planning and programming of the upcoming year. You may rest assured that your contributions are accurately accounted for and used appropriately. Just as the Canons and Constitution of the Church require individuals be to “known to the treasurer” in order to vote at the Parish Meeting, there is a requirement for each parish to annually submit independently audited financial reports, approved by the Vestry, before its delegates may vote at the Diocesan Convention. Other churches perhaps have never been audited, but every Episcopal parish’s financial books are audited each and every year. This costs money — we incur an audit expense to meet this requirement — but that is money well spent to ensure the proper accounting and use of your hard earned contributions. At a high level, your annual financial contributions fund the following expenses: •
Clergy and staff salaries, benefits, and pension
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Building and grounds, including building maintenance and insurance, and grounds maintenance
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The Diocesan assessment
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Programs, such as Music and Choirs, Outreach, Christian education, Nursery, EYC, Kitchen and the Youth Mission Trip
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Operations and maintenance, such as utilities
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Office supplies and maintenance, including office equipment and technology, and postage
The costs of operating a church the size of St. Michael’s continue to increase, particularly employee health care costs and building maintenance. The Vestry, represented by the Junior Warden, is ultimately responsible for the financial health of the Parish. Quite frankly, Junior Wardens roll in and are gone a year later. But, thankfully there are a number of dedicated people involved in the ongoing financial operations of the church that provide continuity and institutional knowledge. First and foremost is the treasurer. Debbie Reed volunteers considerable time and talent to provide professional financial oversight and advice as treasurer of St. Michael’s. Debbie, I am indebted to you for our partnership this year. Thank you.
Susan Little is St. Michael’s very capable and knowledgeable financial administrator who works tirelessly with church and Remember what Paul says in 2 Corinthians, Chapter 9: 6-7, day school staff and committees, inputs data into the accounting “The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, system, provides reports, prepares the payroll, and provides and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each requested information to the auditors. This description does not one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under do justice to all that Susan does in her job for the church. When compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” you see Susan, thank her for all that she does for St. Michael’s.
See JR WARDEN on page 8
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Chronicles of Canterbury
WARDEN Continued from Page 6
Jr. WARDEN Continued from Page 7
The architecture and interior of St. Michael’s is truly distinctive. I love the beautiful angels that guard our entrance way, but my favorite image is the one above the altar … the cross. Its massive structure is made of steel, signifying to me the strength of sacrifice. It is positioned high above our heads demonstrating its sovereignty, shadowing all who gather here. Like many of you, I have knelt below it many times … in thanksgiving, in need, in praise, in despair, in fear, in heartache, with joy and wrapped in awe of a loving God so willing to divinely cover me with His mercy. I was married at the foot of this cross; my children participated in Day School and church programs at the foot of this cross. My grandchildren were baptized at the foot of this cross. And upon my wishes, friends and family members will celebrate my life at the foot of this same cross. Yes, it is there we enter into covenant, we welcome the new and say goodbye to beloved ones who are called home before us. It is where we reach the milestones of our Christian lives and Thanks be to God, we are never, ever alone there. All of this to say, that the cross, or the “Jesus Movement” as Bishop Curry would tell us, is where our faith journey begins and ends. Along the way, as individuals and as a church, we can choose to either be stagnant in our complacency or “Go Forth” by the power of the Holy Spirit to turn the world upside down in our passion for Jesus. In closing, it is the responsibility of the Senior Warden to report on the state of the church. I gladly confirm what I hope you already know; St. Michael’s stands in union with Christ and therefore in union with one another. We are richly blessed.
The Finance Committee is composed of volunteers who review monthly income and expense reports, and provide advice and guidance on issues that may arise. Please stand if you serve on the Finance Committee. The members are Tim Berry, Bryan Bickley, Joe Dye, Garden Freeman, David Hayden, Brooks Malone, James Mattox, Chris Peoples, David Sousa, Chance Van Noppen and Jessica Widener – thank you all. Director of Operations Lee Hayden is integral to the financial operation of the parish, particularly with regard to building and grounds. In her job she sometimes is the bearer of bad news involving an air handler, drain, “crocodile asphalt” (that’s a real thing – “crocodile asphalt!”), or broken this or that. Lee always thoroughly researches the issue at hand and provides alternatives and recommendations. Thank you, Lee. Financial oversight is also provided for the Parish Day School and the Holy Michael Foundation by their respective committees. Please stand if you serve on these committees. Thank you for your service. Finally, it has been a distinct pleasure and honor to serve with Senior Warden Frances Penick and our Vestry class members Chris Carson, Michael Ferguson, and Marilyn Stevens over the past three years. I leave with very positive memories of our time together. I leave you with these words from Proverbs 16: 9:“ The human mind plans the way, but the Lord directs the steps.” — David Coe, Outgoing Junior Warden
Our new Vestry class will be installed this month. They are: David Bull, John Constance, Alan Marshall, Anna McLamb and Joe Warenda. Will Lingo will be Senior Warden, Michael Painter, Jr. Warden, and Jenny Haase, Clerk.
It is also the desire of each Senior Warden to end their term with a message of what the experience has meant to them. So I leave you with this thought: It is my prayer that we continue to model the early church by “Going Forth” with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. In doing so, may we answer boldly without question when Jesus asks, “Who do you say that I am?” May we answer with prompt enthusiasm when Jesus asks, “How much do you love me?” And when we meekly kneel at the foot of His cross, should we ever question, “Lord, who are we?” may our Heavenly Father’s tender whisper resonate with great clarity: “You are beautifully and wonderfully made; I hold you closely in the palm of my hand. You are mine St. Michael’s, you are mine!” — Frances Penick, Outgoing Sr.Warden
Giving Hands: St. Michael’s 2nd grade Sunday School class put together a blanket and cards for a child at Wake Med Children’s Hospital during or their Class time. Photo by Stephanie Jeffers.
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Chronicles of Canterbury
RECTOR
Annual Fund Nears End
Continued from Page 1
As I write this article in mid-December, my heart is filled with gratitude for all of you who prayerfully considered a pledge to our Annual Fund Ccampaign and for those who joined me in making a 2016 pledge. You have ensured that we will remain Strong to Serve and we have done it for one another.
For good? It’s a scary thing to turn toward Jesus. It’s hard to know beforehand what it’ll mean. What it’ll look like. What it’ll cost. But, the good news is you don’t have to have it all figured out. You don’t have to know why. You don’t have to be sure. You don’t have to count the cost. Once you turn toward Jesus, you’ll know why. You’ll be sure. You’ll be able to bear the cost. Jesus says, “Trust me – God is close – I am on your side.” Luckily most of us are not called to be apostles. We’re not all called to preach the Gospel all across the world, and give it all up, and die like Jesus at the hands of men. We’re not all called to be apostles, but we are all called to be disciples. We don’t have to go to China, or Africa, or even Mississippi. We don’t have to leave our jobs, our duties, our families. We don’t have to drop our nets and leave our parents. Indeed most of us will be called to stay in the lives we have been given. But we are all called to turn toward Jesus. That’s the call we all share at St. Michael’s. — The Rev. Samuel Gregory Jones
“Bill’s Book” — in Memory of Bill Duff
I hasten to add that, in the immortal words of the late Yogi Berra, “it ain’t over till it’s over.” To be more specific, it ain’t over till we say it’s over. So as you review your list of New Year’s Resolutions and you come to that one that says “follow through on your commitments,” you still have time my friends. We will keep the phone lines open. We will not leave you out. We will not close the store until your order is complete. We will not refuse your pledge card for 2016. Call or email Charlotte now. As this year’s Campaign Chair, I want to thank you for your many kindnesses. You have been most generous with your encouragement, compliments, and prayers and all three have meant a lot. I want to personally thank Charlotte Mock Griffin for her expertise, advice and daily support in this task. St. Michael’s is very lucky to have a development professional to carry the ball 365 days a year. Charlotte, you are a star! And Greg, I have long ago forgiven you for announcing my appointment before asking me. What you lacked in process, you made up with advice, encouragement, inspiration and good humor. As in all things at St. Michael’s, your spiritual direction kept me and the campaign on true north. In Christ,
John Constance
It’s Not Too Late! Though a new year is upon us, it’s not too late to pledge to the 2016 Annual Fund. Budget preparation begins this month. Please have all pledges in by January 31. The St. Michael’s Vestry presented a painting of Bill Duff’s Bible to the Duff Family at its Dec. 15 Vestry meeting. Painted by parishioner Jimmy Black, it will eventually hang at St. Michael’s. Pictured, from left: Jimmy Black, daughter-in-law Claire Hunter Duff, sister Claire Duff Dodd, son Bill Duff IV, Sally Duff and daughter Erin Koontz. Daughter Claire Duff could not attend
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Pledge online at holymichael.org. If you pledged online for 2015, your pledge does not carry over into 2016, so you must create a new pledge.
Chronicles of Canterbury
briefly
Needlepoint Stitching Has Begun
St. Michael’s is blessed with a sanctuary surrounded by exquisite stained glass windows. Designed by artist Mary Patricia Stumf, the windows use Christian symbols and brilliant color to depict key elements of the liturgical messages of the Episcopal Church.
Men’s Prayer Breakfast Tuesday Jan 12 7 a.m.
St. Michael’s is also blessed to have had Pat Stumpf design the seven canvases that are to be upholstered as communion rail kneelers for our main altar. It¹s been a long road from design to the actual stitching by our St. Michael’s volunteers, but we¹re finally there. The canvases are being stitched on frames designed and built especially for them by a former member of St. Michael’s. The lengths of the canvases range from 36” to 48”; they are all 13 inches tall and 3 inches deep with approximately 7,000 square inches to be stitched. We are using 28 wool colors, each chosen by Ms. Stumpf to match the jewel tones in the church windows. Needless to say, this next leg of our journey will take a long time and will depend on many volunteers.
The stitching is organized so that each volunteer is assigned a specific color in a canvas and when the areas using that color are completed, the canvas is passed on to another person. Each of the seven canvases being worked on will stay with its volunteer until after the New Year.Then they¹ll be passed on to another seven stitchers who will start on seven different colors. Every Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. our stitchers join the Prayer Shawl Knitting Group to offer each other encouragement and advice. If anyone would like to check on our progress or just see the beautiful designs and how well they reflect our windows, please stop by! Our needlepoint journey is a long one, and we’ve only just started, but we’re beginning to see our kneelers come to life under the capable hands of the St. Michael’s stitchers. Anyone who might like to join our volunteers can email Holly Gloff at gloff@holymichael.org, Louise Orr at lorr2@nc.rr.com, Mary McMillan at marymcmillan@mindspring.com, or Nanci Atkeson at natkeson@aol.com.
OWLS Explore Winter Downsizing, Southern Art It’s New Year’s once again, and everyone is trying to improve their lives, their homes, their waistlines…. And the OWLS are going to talk about impoving our spaces by downsizing!
OWLS for January Lecture Thursday, Jan 14 2 p.m. Outing Thursday, Jan 28 10 am
— St. Michael’s Needlepoint Guild
Susan Standhope will be our guest speaker at 2 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 14 in the Convocation Room. As one person said to me, “We spend half our lives collecting stuff and the second half trying to get rid of it.” So true! So what do we do with all those collectables and china, furniture, “chotchkies” and other assorted items we have so carefully amassed over the decades and that our kids don’t want? Please join us to learn how to purge most effectively! On Thursday, Jan. 28, we will be staying in Raleigh, and visiting The North Carolina Museum of History, where there is a special exhibit called “Southern Impressions.” We will have a docent give us a personal tour at 11 a.m., with lunch at Irregardless. We’ll depart from the church at 10 a.m. and be back around 2 p.m.
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The husband and wife team of Dr. Everette James and Dr. Nancy Farmer have amassed an amazing art collection that is not only quite Southern, but also honors women artists. Dr. James is an historian who has guest-curated many exhibitions, and he has published more than 500 articles and has written 20 books. Dr. Farmer is a renowned educator, and Dr. James’ philanthropic partner. What you can expect to see are paintings that explore the Southern heritage, landscapes and people who have shaped what the South is today. The time period captured in the images reflects life in the South from 1820 through 1950. The exhibit also includes handcrafted items, including quilts, baskets and pottery. Please join us as we explore the arts of our Southern heritage! — The Rev. Holly M. Gloff
Chronicles of Canterbury
january
lifelong disciple
January 3 No Adult Ed
Are You New?
January 10 ‘Light of Grace— A Meditation on Icons’ with the Rev. Holly Gloff Far more than mere painting, icons exist as a visual portal that guides humans along the pathway of seeing God’s light, God’s grace, and God’s love. Last year, The Rev. Holly Gloff immersed herself in the spiritual discipline of iconography at an instructed retreat held at Kanuga Episcopal Center. In this session, she shares her experience and her wealth of knowledge, on the history, technique, and appreciation of these powerful spiritual emblems. January 17 ‘Writing Your Own Obituary’ with Susan Rountree & Beth Grace Many people consider writing an obituary to be the work of a family member or funeral home director. The task seems too daunting or too moross. But writing obits can be a fun and practical way to look back on your own life. Join our writing group as we bring the skill of writing to the craft of the obituary. This class promises to be light and informative for all.
If you are new to St. Michael’s and would like to learn more about our parish and our membership process, we invite you to our first Newcomer Orientation for 2016, Sunday, Jan. 3, in the parlor, after the 9:30 a.m. service. Visit with clergy and members of our newcomer ministry, and sign up for classes. • “Intro to St. Michael’s” — Jan. 13, 20, 27 & Feb. 3 For all who are interested in joining our parish • “Outline of the Faith” — Feb. 17 & 24, March 2 & 9 For all new to the Episcopal denomination, and all parents seeking baptism for a child Child care is available with advance reservations. Contact: Lee Hayden, Director of Newcomer Ministry, at hayden@holymichael.org
January 24 ‘Behind Closed Office Doors— A Jones /Hogin Conversation’ Last fall, Canon to the Ordinary Michael Hunn presented some the challenges faced by the institutional church. Cultural pressures such as shrinking numbers and decreased financial giving may make the church leaner in the coming years. The Rev.Gregory Jones and the Rev. Christopher Hogin meditate on possibilities on reversing this trend, and examine their own views on the state of the church at this time in history.
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January 31 ‘Let It Go—Part I’ with the Rev. Christopher Hogin It’s a common story. A relative passes on and the heirs end up cleaning out closets and attics stuffed with boxes of memorabilia. Some are valuable, but most are not. Eventually, a lifetime of collecting ends up in the trash compactor. Why is this? In this two-part series, The Reverend Christopher Hogin explores why many of us have just some kind of hoarding disorder. Drawing from the secular book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, Christopher Hogin gives a Christian spin on why clearing out our physical world opens up new possibilities for our spiritual one.
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
Lisa Harper, Jan. 8 & 9, 2016 $35. Tickets available on Holymichael.org 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: Wednesday, Dec. 9 The Canterbury Girls Choir performs ‘A Star, A Song’ on Sunday, Dec. 20. For more about our growing music program, see page 3.