June 2015: The Chronicles of Canterbury

Chronicles of Canterbury

June 2015

From the Rector

Our Mission: Food, Housing, Work for All

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he center of Christian holiness is the desire to love as God loves. It is what the Gospel is all about, and it's the basis for our mission in life as Christians: to preach the Gospel, to raise up disciples of Christ, to resist evil, to respond to human need and to stand up for justice. The mission of the Church is all of this. Being a missionary, therefore, is not a special calling, but rather a general calling, to all Christians. If you are a Christian, you are a missionary. It is simple. Read the Bible. It says so right there. Jesus tells the disciples that they need to go into all the world baptizing in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit — AND, they need to go out there, fight the devil, cry out for God's justice and respond to human need. If you are a Christian, then this means you. And me.

what’s inside 2 Memories of Grace 3 Drawing Near 4 Senior Messages 6 EYC Beach Retreat 8 May Days 10 Briefly 11 Holy Michael 12 Newcomer Classes

St. Michael's has been doing these different missionary tasks for 65 years now. We proclaim the Gospel, we raise up the baptized members of Christ's body, we respond to human need, we seek to fix a broken world, and we cry out for God's justice — but not all in equal measure. If we look back at our 65 years of life as a piece of the universal Church, it's clear we have certain charisms (gifts) of the Spirit and missional tendencies. If somebody were to ask me quickly what those have been, I would say: We

are good at worship (word, music, proclamation, celebration, gathering); good at raising up new disciples (newcomer ministry, education, Sunday School, children's ministry); and good at responding to human need (global missions, local missions, outreach efforts, fundraising for ministry partners, etc.) In a nutshell, our historic emphasis for mission seems to be worship, discipleship and responding to human need.

As I reflect on the ECW's wonderful Back the Pack spring event, the upcoming StepUp Sunday, last year's Habitat for Humanity house build, the incredible Belize Mission program and this summer's hosting famlies in trasition with Wake Interfaith Hospitality Network, I am seeing a pattern in our response to human need.

Since I've been at St. Michael's, anyway, for 11 years now, it seems to me that in our mission and outreach work, we really do well when we are doing three different types of work. I see the categories as Feeding, Housing and Working. Maybe I'm mistaken, but when I look at all we do, and where the energy is, and where people are ready to roll up their sleeves and open their pocket books, I am seeing the

See RECTOR on page 3

Parish Hosts Families in Transition This Summer

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or the third summer, St. Michael’s will host homeless families in transition in partnership with Wake Interfaith Hospitality Network. A number of families will live at the church July 12 - 26, taking their meals here, joining in evening activities and sleeping in our Parish Day School classrooms.

Hosting these families, who will be working toward more permanent housing, requires an army of volunteers to set up rooms, plan and prepare meals, drive the families to and from the WIHN’s Day Center, and plan and execute activities for adults and children.

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Those who have volunteered in the past say serving others in this in-parish mission is a rewarding experience that changes any preconceived notions about homelessness and its causes.

The biggest change, says parishioner Chris Mann, has come within the parish itself.

“It has been amazing to see the evolution of the WIHN program, and I don’t mean for WIHN families,” he says. “The evolution has been on the St. Michael’s end. That first year was filled with fear and trepidation for parishioners: What will ‘these people’ be like, will we be able to interact with those who are different from us somehow, and what will it be like having these strangers in our midst?

“I remember how incredibly awkward the first dinner was, the adults — myself included — didn’t know See WIHN on page 7

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 Frances Penick, Senior Warden • 676-2757 David Coe , Jr. Warden • 741-3827 Chris Carson, Clerk •786-4210 Debbie Reed Treasurer • 783-8978 Marilyn Budrow • 510-5080 Anthony Carlton • 395-4229 Mike Ferguson • 624-4048 LeeAnn Graham • 782-5919 | Jenny Haase • 460-1966 Jeff Hensley • 424-7951 | Todd Kasper • 784-8112 Will Lingo • 833-1358 | Michael Painter • 821-0126 John Merritt • 783-8792 | Dale Roane • 791-0168 | Marilyn Stevens • 782-8670 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 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 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 Jennifer Elam, Asst. Director elam@holymichael.org • ext. 144

OFFICE HOURS Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Friday, 9 am.-1 p.m.

From the Associate Rector

Memories of Grace

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ur lives consist of memories. Memories influence our opinions. They help form who we are, and who we become later on in life. Memories not only calibrate our ethical, moral, and political compass, they impact our religious and theological identity.

One afternoon I met a successful young professional for coffee. This person possessed a sharp mind and a keen intellect. Although a professed agnostic, teetering on atheism, he nonetheless retained a fondness for the church even to the point of attending services from time to time. He said he attended services not out of any spiritual need, but out of a sense of “nostalgia,” and “respect for my cultural upbringing.” I heard his reasons, but wasn’t convinced, so I asked him to elaborate.

For the next five to 10 minutes he relayed memories connected with the church. How he attended Vacation Bible School as a child. He loved the cookies and the tiny Dixie cups of grape juice filled to the brim. He remembered how kind the teachers were. He remembered his favorite story: David and Goliath, and how that story taught him courage when presented with insurmountable odds. He spoke of his Sunday school years, specifically recalling the jelly-filled donuts his teachers sometimes brought. He reminisced about EYC—the ski trips and lock-ins. He then said something that caught my attention.

“I never really understood the worship services and was often bored.

Nonetheless, church was always positive. I felt safe there. I had fun.

It felt like home, and still does to some degree. So although I’m not really a ‘God’ person, it’s an important part of who I am.”

What struck me was the look in his eye—a tiny gleam that lit up as he recalled those memories. Although a professed agnostic, I sensed doubt. I sensed a warm glow in his voice, a voice unable to fully dismiss his religious upbringing. Seeds were planted long ago, watered by Dixie cups of grape juice, fed with jelly doughnuts, and exercised with ski trips and late night lock-ins.

I’ve also met people who endured horrific church experiences. Those wounds run deep, emerging in beliefs of anger and cynicism towards God and the church. Memory and experience have a profound impact on moving people either closer toward God, or further away. As a church community we should remember this.

I am thankful for St. Michael’s for many reasons. We take our worship seriously, and engage with the wider world through outreach programs. This is important, and I’m grateful for this. But what I also love about St. Michael’s is our ability to have fun, and our commitment to creating fond memories, especially for children and youth.

This summer, help create memories here at St. Michael’s for you and your family. If you have young children, consider participating in Vacation Bible School. Attend the block party scheduled for late June. Bring your family, or bring your friends and acquaintances.

Gorge yourself at the food trucks. Eat some ice cream. Engage in a water balloon toss, or simply sit on a lawn chair, listening to music and visiting with friends.

Create some memories. Plant some positive seeds of experience. Tend those seeds so that they will germinate, not just into fond memories of nostalgia, but of memories that point to a deeper truth: a truth revealing God’s glory, acceptance, grace, and unconditional love expressed within a community and found within the sacred grounds of a church.

— The Rev. Christopher Hogin

CANTERBURY SHOP HOURS Monday/Wednesday 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Sundays 9:30-10 a.m. & 11 a.m.-noon

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Chronicles of Canterbury

Drawing Near: Women’s Bible Study Presents Lisa Harper The Women’s Bible Study began 11 years ago on Friday mornings when a small group of women met to study God’s word. The next season, a Tuesday night class was offered and since then, both groups have journeyed through 23 Bible studies.

Over the years, the video-based curriculums have been varied, teaching us not only about the Old and New Testaments but also about seeking a deeper faith.

Two recent Bible studies that have made a particular impact have been “Malachi: A Love That Never Lets Go,” and “Hebrews: The Nearness of King Jesus,” both written by Lisa Harper. Lisa has become a favored teacher with our Bible study groups, as someone who stirs the hearts of women through her unique gift of storytelling.

The Women’s Bible Study is so very pleased to announce that Lisa is coming to St. Michael’s! Ladies, Bible study leader and speaker Lisa Harper please mark your calendars for

Drawing Near, A Women’s Bible Study event, Jan. 8-9, 2016.

A theological scholar, Lisa is funny in her delivery, but more importantly, dynamic in her ability to combine the ancient text with modern life. Scripture comes alive as she weaves together each thread of historical fact and present emotion, helping her listeners understand profound spiritual truths.

Lisa Harper is a highly sought-after author and speaker who is most noted for her authenticity. You will not find a hint of celebrity with her, but rather a humble heart and a welcoming smile. When asked about her many credentials in an interview, she replied, “I’m so grateful for the opportunities God’s given me, but don’t forget, He often uses donkeys and rocks!”

We feel most privileged to sponsor Lisa’s powerful ministry as she visits Raleigh for the first time. Lisa’s teaching promises to captivate women of all ages, and we hope you will plan to join us. Please look for more detailed information in the coming months.

Contact: Frances Penick, at fhpenick@nc.rr.com

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pattern that we at this parish want to help people find food, housing and work.

When it comes to other works of mission, such as advocacy for social justice causes, or decrying the failures of our political system and world, and so forth — we're not too into that. Some are. And it's really important work. And we are indeed all called to seek God's justice and the improvement of a fallen world.

But maybe that is not the special charism of this parish.

There are others for whom it is. And of course it is also a passion of our bishop and the Diocese in general.

I say all this in the spirit of discernment and looking back over what God has led us into this far. We may look back at our 65 years and say, "God has led to us beloved ministries of worshipping, discipling and responding to human need." That sounds good to me.

And when it comes to our response to human need, in missions and outreach programs, it looks like we really are led to focus on feeding, housing and working. Our growing relationships with different local ministries is a sign of it. Backpack Buddies, StepUp, Habitat for Humanity, Wake Interfaith Hospitality Network (WIHN), the Episcopal Farmworkers Ministry, Stop Hunger Now are excellent partners, and they can do things we cannot do. But with them we can do amazing ministry, and with our help, they can do a bit more of what they do well.

Feeding the children of Wake Co. through BackPack Buddies, like this collection by the Youth last year, is one of the many missions of our parish: Food, Housing and Work for all.

If you are looking for a way to respond to human need, as a Christian, as a local missionary, I invite you to consider volunteering your time in the coming year. If you would like to learn more, contact me or Christopher Hogin to talk about how.

—The Rev. Samuel Gregory Jones

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Senior Sunday 2015

Editor’s Note: On Sunday, May 17, high school seniors Genie Mason and Trent Ryden delivered messages about how being a teen at St. Michael’s has changed them. Genie is the daughter of Scott & Nina Mason, and Trent is the son of Karen & Geron Ryden. Here, in their own words, are their faith stories.

At St. Michael’s, God Removed My Shield

I’m

Genie Mason and I attend North Raleigh Christian Academy. I’ve gone to St. Michael’s my entire life and like many of y’all, I have sat through and shamefully slept through tons of sermons in this sanctuary. But I hope y’all don’t sleep through mine.

I decided to start this off from the beginning. The beginning, not meaning Genie coming into Parish Day School in diapers and all, but the infamous 6th Grade me. Yes, 6th Grade. Otherwise known as the awkward stage.

It was actually the summer right before 6th grade. At church there’s something called Reality Check for the middle schoolers, where you spent the entire week at the church, nights included, did mission work in the morning and then fun stuff at night. This was the first thing I ever did with EYC. My parents just decided to sign me up and abandoned a little 11-year-old girl. I only knew maybe two people attending.

You must be thinking, “This poor little middle school girl walking into a place where she knows barely anyone. She must’ve been so nervous.”

NOPE! I strutted into those back doors with my Boston Red Sox baseball cap like I owned the place. I walked in there with so much confidence you would’ve thought I was a celebrity.

experience. It was when I really got involved.

That first year of youth group I went all the time, wearing my Boston Red Sox hat of course. Then the summer came and I could not wait to go to Reality Check again. I had made extremely close friends from going to youth group throughout that year.

Reality Check might have been even more fun the second year. But having fun wasn’t what stuck out to me about that week.

One night during quiet time, a couple of friends and I went out into the parking lot. We sat there having normal conversations as always and then we decided to play some music. The song “I Saw God today” by George Strait came on. I don’t know what happened while that song played but something came over us, something came over me. I saw God. It sounds almost crazy when I say it, but I saw Him. No, it was not a ghostly figure, it was through the people with me. God showed himself to me.

After that night, I realized that I can read all the Scripture I want, and recite every verse of the Bible, but still won’t know God. Knowing God is having a relationship with Him. And these relationships I have with the people sitting right in front of me are how I truly know God.

The Boston Red Sox hat that I wore the first day of Reality Check became my omen. That hat was my best friend for a point in time. Wherever you After my second Reality Check, saw that hat you saw me. I wore High School Seniors Trent Ryden, left, and Genie Mason I never wore the Boston Red Sox it every time there was a youth hat again.

That hat was my mask, my shield from group event. Anyways, later that night we started to play capture the flag.

God. But that night, as I sat out in the parking lot, Unfortunately, I had been tagged and confined to the library for quite some God removed my shield.

God showed himself to time. My new friend Julie — who is now my good friend and sitting here me, not through a sign, but through people. People today — whom I had met about five minutes prior to the game, joined my who love me.

These people I have met in EYC and imprisonment in the library. Everyone kept trying to get us free, but the all of the St. Michael’s community have changed me. guard would not let anyone get by. We were stuck for what felt like hours.

Because of these people, my shield was removed.

But then suddenly something came over us, it was almost like a revival. We looked at each other, then looked at the window we were like “Oh, yeah.”

I cannot thank this church enough for all the That was an escape route. We waited for the guard to turn around, and relationships I’ve built and how much I’ve grown in we were out. We opened that window and jumped. I fell to my knees and my faith. You have shown me God, and as I go into I could feel the battle wounds. I got up, cuts all over my legs and then I the future, that is something I will never forget. thought to myself “I think I’m going to like it here.”

— Genie Mason After that week, I came to almost every single youth group event. That first week, or really first day, was what I would call the beginning of my church

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Chronicles of Canterbury

Youth Leaders Left Tremendous Mark

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ood Morning to all. My name is Trent Ryden and I am here today to tell you of how the EYC and St. Michael’s have affected my life over the past seven years.

EYC has been a huge abiding presence for me as I have grown older.

Many relationships which I cherish have been built, right here at St. Michaels, through the EYC. The impact this church has had on my life was unforeseen by me. Back in July of 2008, I had first stepped foot in this beautiful sanctuary. My family and I moved to Raleigh that same year, and, in the process left our former church. I resisted this change every step of the way. I was entering into the unknown. It was unsettling.

At that point in time, I was leaving behind friends, classmates and teachers. Little did I know of the wonder of St. Michael’s.

I first experienced EYC through a weeklong lock-in for middle school kids called Reality Check, led by a dear friend of mine Travis Smith. This too, I resisted intensely; just ask my mom. The idea of spending a week of summer with total strangers, in a brand new place was incomprehensible.

The cause of my resistance was fueled by pessimism and lay solely in my attempt to predict the future and label EYC was always the place it with predisposed judgments. In the midst of my frustration, I had not allowed where I could flourish myself to see the bigger picture. As Albert spiritually. The place where Einstein said, “in the middle of difficulty, I could see the greatness of lies opportunity.” Reality check was a blast. God shine through not only myself, but my peers.

If it wasn’t, I don’t think I would be here today speaking before you.

There have been times where I seriously doubted the existence of God. To be honest, I believe this may be a lifelong struggle. I know I’m not the only one.

Travis Smith, my first youth leader, has had a tremendous effect on me as a member of the EYC. On my first fall retreat with the EYC, Travis had us youth take up the practice of going and being alone and being silent, by ourselves. At the time, I did not know why he had us do this, but I knew I felt the gravity of the practice. As Meister Eckhart said “There is nothing so much like God as silence.” When we are silent, and our minds are shut off and clear, we open up ourselves to the infinite, to the eternal, otherwise known as God. Essentially, this is what prayer is. Travis once spoke to us while at another Reality Check and asked us to remove the word perfect from our vocabulary. Being humans, we are flawed. But he said it is in the stubborn pursuit of perfection where we most often find God. When we are at our absolute best, it is not our greatness, but God’s greatness shining through. We are simply the carriers of this greatness. It is our choice to let it shine.

On a Reach Workcamp a few years back, I was told something very important. Something I feel we all need to know. In a small group with members of the EYC, led by an EYC leader and lifelong St. Michael’s member, Chris McHenry, he revealed to us what sounded like a secret, or a newfound discovery. As a group, we had been talking of the struggles which life presents to us, and how, at one point or another, we become frustrated with God, and maybe even question his existence. Chris exposed to us the truth of how, by placing our anger, regrets, frustrations, worries, sorrows, fears and burdens upon God, we rid ourselves of these worldly, self-made impurities. It is liberating, and in the process, we become more pure, more whole and one with God. In the book The Power of Now, author Eckhart Tolle tells us how God

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lies beneath everything you see, smell, feel, hear, and taste. This can be heard in the Gospel of Thomas, Saying 77: “Jesus said, ‘I am the light that is over all things. I am all: from me all came forth, and to me all attained. Split a piece of wood; I am there. Lift up the stone, and you will find me there.” God is here, with us, as I speak these words. God never leaves; we do.

For he is ever present, and we ever absent. To be one with God is to be here with God. This is explained

by Jesus in the parable of the lost son, who leaves his home, squanders his wealth and is forced to come home back to the father, and is loved even more than when he left. The home and the father were always there. Being mortals, we take the reigns ourselves, and try to control.

Abby Van Noppen, our current EYC leader, said recently that we must sacrifice our attempt to control and put faith in God. For faith is the link between us and God. This was the case for me before I went to Reality Check — I tried to control.

As the years passed, the lessons learned through the EYC were always at the back of my mind. EYC was always the place where I could flourish spiritually. The place where I could see the greatness of God shine through not only myself, but my peers. And thus radiate so strongly, it spread to many, many others beyond the EYC through mission work and outreach.

John McHenry, a passionate man who has significantly influenced me, has shown to me, best of all, the miracle of service work. For my spring break the past two years, several others and I have ventured down to the small country of Belize. Being so fortunate to have visited Belize twice is a true blessing.

In creation, we are all equal. But having seen Belize, I find this hard to believe. The poverty and destitution is, to me, otherworldly. The people at Holy Cross Anglican School, though, thrive. Despite the long, arduous work week there, I noticed a rejuvenating energy, which is contagious and unfamiliar, but welcoming. They share this energy with all who enter their energy field. I think this energy is the love of God, endless and bountiful. I have fed off of the energy of this love and grown as a result. To have been part of such an environment is more than a blessing.

Now my times in the EYC have come to an end.

As the famous funk-rock musician George Clinton said, “Every ending is a new beginning. Life is an endless unfoldment.” To live is to move on. I move on to whatever the future holds for me, with the many lessons learned here at St. Michael’s by my side. I knew not seven years back the wonderful opportunities placed before me. I thank God for them. Amen.

— Trent Ryden

Chronicles of Canterbury From the Director of Youth Ministry

EYC: A Place To Grow and Let Go To pray is to let go and let God take over. This was the focus for our high school EYC beach retreat this May. The end of the school year is always the busiest, but it’s also the best time to refocus. With school, exams, work and life, it’s important to take the time to get away, breathe in the salty air, feel the sun on your face and reconnect with God. We packed up our vans and headed to Atlantic Beach, NC over Mother’s Day weekend. We didn’t mind that tropical storm Ana was making her way to the coast.

She may have kept us from swimming in the rough, chilly waters, but she didn’t stop our fun. We made a huge brunch on Saturday morning, relaxed during the day with walks along the beach and searched for seashells. The guys played Frisbee and football on the beach and basketball with the next-door neighbor.

That evening before dinner, I had them write down questions they wanted to talk about. Questions they had about life, love, God and their faith. We openly read and discussed each question and reflected on them as a group. This turned into a two-hour discussion. A masterpiece. The questions and responses from this group of Senior EYCers was just amazing. God was present and it was powerful.

listen for Him, to see Him in everything and everyone around us. What a great and powerful weekend, one we’ll never forget.

If your child is in middle or high school, WE WANT THEM TO DISCOVER US! We are a place where your teens can be themselves. We explore relationships with God, ourselves and others. Most importantly, we like to have fun! And we want your teen to be a part of that fun!

After our discussions, we all sat down together and shared a meal. As we laughed, told jokes, shared funny stories, played card games and sardines (in the dark), I couldn’t help but think of the entire weekend. I was thankful. We were all thankful.

Experiences like this don’t just happen. God makes them happen. We were the ones who were willing to open up, to

— Abby Van Noppen

Congrats, Class of 2015!

On May 17, we honored our high school graduates. Pictured, front row, from left: Ashley Keefe, Lizzie King, Lydia McInnes, Deborah Reed & Genie Mason; Back row: Trent Ryden, Meredyth Albright, Thad Beaver, Hollis Hatfield, Stephen Saleeby, Olivia Aschman, Hunter Keravuori, Julie Mitchell, Will Davidson, Alec Suttle, Ryan Jeffers, John Pupa, Jonathan Williams & Harris Wheeless.

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Chronicles of Canterbury

WIHN

Bring the Kids Along!

how to interact. It was like pulling teeth just to get people to sit with each other at dinner.”

If you have hesitated to get involved with hosting the Wake Interfaith Hospitality Network program at St. Michaels because you were not sure what to do with your kids, bring them with you! Volunteering for WIHN can be a rewarding experience for the whole family. Children can easily participate, from preparing and serving meals, providing entertainment for our younger WIHN guests, and helping with clean-up at the end of their stay at our church home. It also allows children to relate to real people in tough situations and to see how they can make a difference in the lives of those who are less fortunate.

All this happens in a safe environment — after school or on the weekend. Here’s what Brad & Heather Gillespie’s boys had to say about their experience.

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Perhaps unsurprisingly, he recalls, the children tore down the artificial walls parishioners had put up. “They immediately became fast friends, playing and laughing joyfully, not caring a lick about the cultural, social, and economic differences we old codgers were holding onto. The children also gave the adults some common ground, and while watching the youngsters interact, you could see the adults hesitatingly strike up conversations.

Looking back, he says, “I chuckle at how silly the whole thing was, and how shameful, really. When you start talking to these families, you realize the obvious… they’re just like us! They may have differing circumstances, but they share the same fears, anxieties, hopes, and human frailties we all do. When I finally started interacting, it was transformative, although much more so for me than the families we were hosting.”

Chris and his wife, Sara, and their kids enjoy joining other families to plan and prepare evening meals. Chris’s most ‘David Bull and Matthew Terribile rewarding experience has come in being an have turned the program into a overnight host.

well-oiled, welcoming, volunteer-led “The last couple of years, my son has been machine. The program is entirely joining me for these sleepovers at church, and it’s been so rewarding. From watching a reliant on St. Michael’s parishioner movie with the kids, helping a guest prepare involvement.’ for a job interview, trying to make sure the families feel comfortable and safe, listening — Chris Mann, WIHN volunteer to a young mother tell her tale of escaping an awful relationship on the other side of the country, prepping a meal of leftovers for the dad who’s working late, staying up later than normal just talking with my son, and reflecting on how difficult it must be to sleep in a strange place that’s not your home every night, it’s an adventure I look forward to each year.”

WIHN continues to emerge as an important institution at St. Michael’s. It’s one of the few programs that invites cross-generational participation in cooking meals, joining in planned activities, spending the night at the church, driving a van, or just being a warm and welcoming host to these families who are facing the overwhelming reality of homelessness.

“The fear and trepidation isn’t so obvious anymore,” Chris says, “and the organizational efforts of people like David Bull and Matthew Terribile have turned the program into a well-oiled, welcoming, volunteer-led machine. The program is entirely reliant on St. Michael’s parishioner involvement, and I encourage everyone to give the gift of time and/or talent to this summer’s WIHN efforts. I’m thinking it’s about time our daughter joined in on the overnight hosting fun for the first time this year! “

Sign up now to volunteer during our WIHN weeks, July 12-26. www.SignUpGenius.com/go/30E084EAEA82EA64-wihn for a full explanation of volunteer needs & options.

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Nathan, Age 11: WIHN provides the homeless a temporary home at churches. I love to help out when people come to our church with this program. It is a great way to become friendlier with others and do a service at the same time. One thing you can do is help prepare or serve meals. Kids can play games and do other activities with the kids in WIHN. After participating in WIHN, I feel very good about what I have done to help the great program and the people who are part of it.

Matthew, Age 14: My favorite part about WIHN is helping with the children. Most of the time these kids are toddlers and infants, and the toddlers have so much energy built up inside that they are practically bouncing off the walls! They need a playmate that will help channel that energy into fun activities. The best people for this job are other kids, from about 3rd grade to 8th or 9th grade. Child helpers can serve as comfortable and energetic playmates.

Playing with these kids is both fun an extremely helpful. Helping with WIHN can also help you earn service hours for Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and school.

There is nothing more satisfying than seeing a huge smile on a less fortunate child having fun in this great program!

Chronicles of Canterbury

May Days May is always a busy time around St. Michael’s. We celebrated our high school seniors and our music program, and this year raised $50,000 to support our BackPack Buddies program for many years to come.

The ECW auctioned off works of art by parishioners Jimmy Black, Martha Crampton, Lyles Dunnagan and others, a beach house, a dinner with the Joneses, parking spaces and support for a BackPack buddy for up to a year. David Crabtree ably led the auction.

From left, John Merritt and his wife, Elizabeth; Clair Marshall and her brother, Nelson Freeman; and Leigh Longino enjoy dinner before the auction begins.

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At right, Beckwith Choir members practice before the service celebration of our High School seniors and our choirs. Below, senior Lydia McInnes.

Below right, All Angels choir members open their lungs as they wait for the service to begin.

Gretchen Hardage, Senior of the Year Gretchen Hardage, outgoing chair of the St. Michael’s Altar Guild, was named Senior of the Year on May 28 at the annual Senior Spring Fling. Gretchen, who has been a member of our parish since 1974, has quietly and devotedly worked in many ministries, including St. Elizabeth’s ECW Chapter, the Canterbury Shop. She has served on the Altar Guild for 35 years.

As a young woman, she was active in St. Margaret’s ECW chapter and was co-chair of the Couples Club.

“Gretchen approaches every task with a cheerful heart, a loving spirit, diplomacy and grace,” wrote someone when nominating her.

“She carefullly and lovingly executes the care of our altar, the items used in that sacred place, and plans with input from our parish leaders,” wrote another. “Gretchen possesses a servant’s heart and is a Godly example to all who know her.”

Gretchen, who retired as associate director of admissions at St. Mary’s School after 26 years, has two grown children and three grandsons, and a Cavalier King Charles named Harrelson.

Gretchen Hardage, Senior of the Year

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briefly

Mark Your Calendar

WIHN with Us Again

St. Michael’s will be among more than 35 churches hosting families in transition from homelessness to permanent housing. This year, our guests will be with us from July 12 - 26. We will provide meals and lodging, plus evening activities for children.

To sign up, visit holymichael. org and look for the post on the home page. Youth needing service hours are welcome to join us, and we love for families to volunteer together for his important inparish mission.

Mark Your Calendar Wake Interfaith Hospitality Network July 12-26

VBS June 21-25 Under the Sea

To learn more, see the cover story in this issue. Contact: Matthew Terribile at mtterribile@gmail. com.

Come to the Block Party!

You don’t want to miss our second annual Block Party, Wednesday, June 24 from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. We’re featuring the Chirba Chirba food truck, Dang Good Dogs, an ice cream truck and more! Bring your blanket or chair and relax on the grounds in front of our beautiful church. Play games and enjoy music from DJ Ryan Pflumm.

Please bring some money for your food truck selections.

Games include cornhole, four square, volleyball, super soaker war (bring your own shooter), and the grand finale — a water balloon toss! You don’t want to miss this event! It’s free. Just bring money for the food trucks.

Register now at holymichael.org.

And if you’d like to help with setup and breakdown, contact Christopher Hogin at hogin@ holymichael.org.

Children Go ‘Under the Sea’ for VBS

Just a few more days to register your child for “Under the Sea,” June 21-25, during our annual Vacation Bible School. Deadline is June 5.

Using Bible stories that take place on or around the sea, we will treat the children to a week of story and song and special activities that will draw them into the world of the Old and New Testaments.

Beginning with the story of Noah’s Ark, the children will take a voyage with Noah, then learn about God’s promise to all with the rainbow in the sky. They’ll travel with Jonah and the Whale, and escape through the sea with the Israelites and Moses. By mid-week, Jesus will calm the storm and call the four fishmen into a life of spreading the Gospel.

The week begins on Sunday, June 21, at 5:30 p.m. with an Under the Sea carnival, complete with games, pizza and cotton candy. Closing ceremony will be held in the nave at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 25, with Kona Ice to follow.

Visit holymichael.org to register!

Back the Pack Raises $50,000!

Thanks so much to everyone who came out on May 1 to Back the Pack!

With your generous support, we raised $50,000 to continue funding our Backpack Buddies program at St. Michael’s! This far surpassed our initial goal of $30,000 and was the most successful fundraising event in ECW history!

We could not have done it without the extraordinary help from our amazing team of volunteers! Special thanks to everyone who prepared an appetizer or dessert, donated an item to our silent or live auction, helped set up, bartend, serve dinner and clean up!

Thanks also to Deacon David Crabtree for serving as auctioneer for the live auction and parishioners Jonni Jones and Michael Jones with BB&Y Cafe and Catering for providing the delicious meal for the event!

— Catherine Rideout, ECW Ways & Means chair Save the Date!

Blood Drive Aug. 2 Mark your calendars now for Sunday, Aug. 2, when we will host a blood drive at the church. Look for more information to come via This Week at St. Michael’s and Canterbury Tales. Blood donations decrease during the summer, though the need rises. Plan now to be part of this life-saving day.

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planning for the future Holy Michael Foundation: Feeding, Housing and Working Established in 2005 from a generous bequest from parishioner Bob Slaughter, the Holy Michael Foundation’s purpose is to provide long-term support for the mission and ministries of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church. An initial investment of less than $400,000 has grown through gifts and investment performance to more than $680,000.

While a hefty sum, it is short of the Holy Michael Foundation’s bylaw requirement that the Holy Michael Foundation sustain a two-year average balance of $1 million before any of its funds can be used for the mission and ministries of St. Michael’s. But we can get there with your help.

Over the past two years, the board of the Holy Michael Foundation has been monitoring its investment and planning for its future. Recently, we have become increasingly excited about the potential use of these funds once we are able to tap into them. This outreach is limited by the time requirement only. Currently, we don’t know how our first funds will be used or whom they will benefit. Should we seed a signature project for St. Michael’s? Do we piggy back on another group’s efforts?

Or, is there a need – a mission – as yet unidentified that St. Michael’s could initiate and support?

• Name the foundation as beneficiary to your estate, stock, real estate, life insurance or in retirement plan assets.

• Any amount will make a difference.

Questions? Contact Charlotte Griffin, griffin@holymichael.org.

The Canterbury Circle Each year, the Holy Michael Foundation holds a dinner to recognize the Canterbury Circle, created to honor those who have made a gift to the Holy Michael Foundation or have included it in their planned giving. This year, our dinner is planned for the evening of June 4.

Pat and Ray* Morrison Pansy Morton Randy Newcomb Gwen Nicholson Sharon and Bill Nicholson John Prymack* Lee and Garland Radford Catherine and Will Rideout Cater and Jack* Riggan Susan and Rick Rountree Betty Shook Bettie and David Sousa Judy and Bob Spaziano Brantley and Matt Springett

How?

• Make a direct gift by check, donate real estate or other tangible property — a cemetery plot, for example.

We don’t have those answers – yet - but we have begun to focus on what our church does well. As Greg says, the people of St. Michael’s are passionate about helping people find food, housing and work. Imagine how we can use the Holy Michael Foundation to accomplish that! To bring our imagination to reality, we need YOU. The sooner we reach $1 million, the sooner the clock starts on our two-year window, bringing us closer to helping those who need food, housing and work.

Canterbury Circle Members Mary and Cliff Baggett Charlotte Baker Paula and Bryan Bickley Audrey and Jimmy Black Archie and Charlie Blanchard Sandra Callahan Amanda and Chris Carson Julie Corbin Faye and Charley* Culpepper Harry DeLung Polly and Brock Downward Charlotte and Rob Griffin Ann and Harold Hall Amelia and Cecil Harrison

Give to the Holy Michael Foundation

Please contact your financial or legal advisor for complete guidance, benefits and implications of charitable giving. For questions regarding the Holy Michael Foundation, please contact Charlotte Griffin, Director of Development, (919-782-0731, ext. 121, griffin@holymichael.org), or any member of the Holy Michael Foundation Board.

Mimi Keravuori Laura Mae* and Steve VanWestendorp Fred W. London, Sr.* Harry Walker, Jr. Monica and Tommy Malone Hilda Pope Willett* Lisa and Kip Meadows Bonnie and Leon Woodruff Anonymous – A group of Holy Michael Foundation donors wish to remain anonymous. * Deceased

Holy Michael Foundation Information Holy Michael Foundation 1520 Canterbury Road Raleigh, NC 27608 EIN 20-3161207 11

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

‘Outline of the Faith’ Classes 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, June 15

Parents wishing to have their child baptized this summer or fall are required to take a series of three classes called “Outline of the Faith,” with the Rev. Greg Jones.

• Wednesday, 6:15 p.m., June 10, 17 & 24. Please register your child for baptism on Holymichael.org. Once you have registered, Jean Olson will contact you about a date.

Baptismal dates: July 19, Sept. 20, Nov. 1

Fall Series of Newcomer Classes Those seeking membership in our parish are required to attend a series of classes.

“Introduction to St. Michael’s,” for all who are new to St. Michael’s Greg Jones, will discuss our parish history, our identity as a Christian community called to serve God in the world, God’s covenant with us, and the many ministries of St. Michael’s.

• Wednesdays, 6:15 p.m.-7:30 p.m. , Sept. 16, 23, 30 & Oct. 1 “Outline of the Faith,” for all who are new to the Episcopal Church and seek membership or a deeper knowledge of our denomination, and for parents who wish to have their child baptized. (This class was previously called “Episcopal Beliefs & Practices.”)

Greg Jones will lead an exploration of our liturgy, our beliefs and practices, engagement of the Scriptures, our physical objects and our roots in the ancient church.

• Wednesdays, 6:15 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Oct. 14, 21 & 28 and Nov. 4 *Child care is available with advance reservations. Contact: Lee Hayden, hayden@ holymichael.org.