Chronicles of Canterbury
september 2015
From the Rector
Our Identity in Christ Is Our Bond and Strength
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ith the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like one day. The Lord is not slow with his promise — as some think of slowness —– but is patient with us, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:8-9)
I love these words from the Second Epistle of Peter. Remember them. When you need them, they will reassure you. And one day, perhaps even now, you will need them. One day, perhaps you already do, you will need the saving reassurance of a patient God who is seeking you, even when you always thought you were the one seeking him. God indeed is patiently waiting for us. He designed us. He made us. He gives us brains to think. He sends prophets to teach. He lived and died in the flesh, his own will and word incarnate in Christ. He sustains us in the Church by his spirit. God is patient. And thank God.
what’s inside 2 Renew Your Mind 3 Gifts of Grace 4 Contemplative Prayer 5 Women’s Bible Study 6 Diaper Train 7 Youth Kickoff 8 Annual Fund 9 OWLS 10 Briefly 11 Lifelong Disciple
I get fuzzy-headed when I think about the passing of time. My own life. My own years. Moving right along. The ups and downs. The struggles we’ve all faced this past year alone are amazing. We have suffered many illnesses, deaths and passages in the past year. As well, we’ve had children, sent them to school and college, and seen them grow into adults. This parish has done much this year for itself and for the world around it. Our outreach, even in summer, has been ongoing and
wonderful. Worshipping, learning, teaching, serving each other and the world — we have done much good in these ways as a people of God. When I think of all the things we have done as followers of Jesus Christ at this church, I stand in awe. When I think of the lives you and I are living, and how hard, and blessed, and difficult, and grateful, and lucky and unlucky we are, I know we are many, but we are one. We do not vote the same politics, have the same kinds of households, or share the same opinions about all sorts of important things. But we are one because we are members of Christ’s own body. Our identity at St. Michael’s is to worship and adore Christ, who is the will and word of God. We are the choir called to sing together in unity the song of God in Christ. We are God bearers. We are temple bearers. We are the ones who have but one faith, one lord, and one baptism. Our identity in Christ is our bond and our strength. And, our life together at St. Michael’s is a gift that will continue to grow in meaning for us, and for the world we’re commanded by Christ to love. I believe that as long as we keep our focus on Christ, and on loving one another as he loves us, we will be strong to serve. — The Rev. Samuel Gregory Jones
Drawing Near: Women’s Event To Host Lisa Harper
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hat do you do when God whispers to you loudly? For several years now, I have felt the tug to invite Lisa Harper, renowned Christian author and speaker, to St. Michael’s. The idea began after the Women’s Bible Study completed her study of Malachi: A Love That Never Lets Go that taught us about God’s enduring love for His people. Our Bible study also completed Lisa’s study of Hebrews: The Nearness Bible study leader of King Jesus. Again, the message was and speaker Lisa Harper about the close relationship Jesus yearns to have with us. I had the opportunity to hear Lisa speak in person as well and was deeply moved by
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the experience. Although the whisper to invite her to St. Michael’s became more persistent, I still did not act. Another year went by as the distractions of a busy schedule took priority. However, one morning in February, I believe the Lord would wait for me no longer. During my devotions, His whisper was loud, simple and piercing, “Call her.” Of course, my first response to the Creator of all things was with a silly question, “How?” Then again, the loud whisper in my spirit said, “Just make the call.” The directive brought a familiar sense of urgency that made me more aware of my disobedience than my insecurity. Now was the time. Nervously, I searched Google for a contact number. Within minutes, Lisa’s booking agent was on the
See...HARPER on page 5
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. CANTERBURY SHOP HOURS Monday/Wednesday/Friday 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays 9-9:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.-noon
From the Associate Rector
Transformed By the Renewal of Your Mind
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t Duke Divinity School, the wall by steps leading down to the chapel displays a series of stone panels. On one of the panels, the etched words from the apostle Paul proclaims, “Be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” It’s a powerful message taken from his letter to the Romans. As an incoming student, it jolted me with the strength to boldly carry on, despite the uncertainty of my newly chosen career path. Our ability to think, question and reason are miraculous gifts. That we can even question the existence of God is proof (at least in my mind) that God exists. Jesus even tells us to, “love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” But what does loving God with “all thy mind” actually mean? How do we strengthen our relationship with God by strengthening our mind? A sign that we are not learning or growing is when we no longer question our assumptions. It happens when we become static, or comfortable in our own knowledge or belief system. When our lives become more about affirming our viewpoints, rather than delving deeper into the mysteries of God. Expanding the mind means engaging the world by questioning and by seeking out truth. It comes, not only through reading, but also through observing and concentrating, and through listening, so our perspective and understanding have the ability to change. In other words, expanding the mind helps us see the world more clearly, or at least from a different angle. A key cornerstone at St. Michael’s is about providing learning opportunities — opportunities aimed at transforming the heart, the soul and the mind, all for the purpose of loving God and one another better. This year, we kick off our adult education curriculum on Sunday mornings by exploring the history of our own parish through narrated voices of the past. Later in the fall, we will undergo a three-week exploration of one of the most difficult books in The New Testament, The Book of Revelation. The Rev. David Crabtree, one of our deacons, will share what he learned during his visit to the Holy Land. Our resident theologian, Jeff Hensley, will give us a deeper understanding on the meaning of All Soul’s Day. This upcoming year will expand your mind. Take advantage of the multiple learning opportunities here at St. Michael’s. Attend Sunday School in the Parish Hall, or if you prefer a more intimate gathering, join the contemplative prayer group led by the Rev. Meta Ellington, Catherine Phillips, Joyce Hunn and Sheila Pueschel. Challenge yourself in the Writing in Response To Scripture class. Join a Bible study, or participate in the upcoming Journeys of Faith gatherings on Thursday nights. Part of our mission in life is about learning and about growing, no matter how old we are, or how old we think we are. God wants us to continue asking hard questions, regardless of where those questions lead. More than anything, God wants us to grow closer to him, and to one another. We do that through prayer, through study, and by learning within a community of believers. Come join us, and be transformed by the renewal of your mind. — The Rev. Christopher Hogin
Our new program year begins Sunday, Sept. 13. To learn about our classes, see page 11 of this newseltter . 2
Chronicles of Canterbury
Gifts of Grace Returns Nov. 15 Gifts of Grace returns as St. Michael’s annual alternative gift market on Sunday, Nov. 15, from 8 a.m.– 1 p.m. in our Parish Hall. This is a wonderful way for our parishioners to participate in selfless giving and to honor your loved ones. Twenty-four local, national and international nonprofit agencies, as well as St. Michael’s service groups, will participat.We are pleased to announce a new non-profit participant: Alliance Medical Ministry (see profile). Representatives will be available at each agency booth to share the amazing work they accomplish each day for those in need. Monetary donations to Gifts of Grace agencies help provide food, clothing, shelter, medical care, women’s and child protection, plus opportunities for recovery and a more independent lifestyle. Our 2014 Gifts of Grace raised $26,850 for participating organizations. If you’ve never attended a Gifts of Grace event, please join us! St. Michael’s encourages giving from the heart to those less fortunate in our community and around the world. For each donation, you will receive a lovely gift card to present to family, friends, neighbors and business associates at Christmas and other times of the year. We encourage parishioners to visit as many tables as possible to learn about the ways non-profits help those in need. Something new this year: third graders will come upstairs to the Parish Hall during Sunday School to walk among the tables and learn about the different charities. Greeters will be available at the Information Table to provide you with a form on a clipboard. They will explain how to fill out the form when visiting the participating agencies. Credit cards, cash and checks will be accepted again this year. Note that every penny you donate will be given to the agencies you have chosen to support. Gifts of Grace will cover any credit card expenses. An a la carte continental breakfast will be offered between 8 a.m.– 1 p.m. Enjoy coffee, juice, muffins, bagels with cream cheese, Danish pastries, yogurt and fresh fruit salad. Most items will be priced at $1. Tables will be set up in the Convocation Room if you wish to be seated for breakfast. Volunteers are always needed to help with our Gifts of Grace event. We ask you to prayerfully consider helping for a few hours. Please contact Carol Braunhardt at (919) 469-0241 or by email: carolb77@ nc.rr.com. — Carol Braunhartd
New Partner: Alliance Medical Ministry
Gifts of Grace is pleased to announce that Alliance Medical Ministry will participate in our annual alternative gift market. Alliance is a faith-based medical clinic providing affordable health care to working, uninsured Wake County adults. The average Alliance patient supports a household of three on $19,900 annually, doesn’t have Medicare, makes too much to qualify for Medicaid, not enough to qualify for the subsidies through the Affordable Care Act, and cannot afford health insurance. Located near WakeMed off New Bern Avenue, Alliance is a medical home for over 4,000 working, uninsured adults. With our private practice model, Alliance’s staff includes physicians, nurses, medical assistants, a phlebotomist, a patient services department and a director of pastoral care and counseling. For an average co-pay of $20 (based on a sliding household income scale), a patient receives an appointment with one of our staff physicians; lab work; access to free prescription medication; mental health by way of pastoral care and counseling; specialty care in the areas of cardiology, ENT services, gynecology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and physical therapy; certain screenings including monthly mammograms on the Rex Mobile Mammography bus and on-site cardiac testing; chronic disease management; bilingual services; 24hour coordination of care; referral services to Wake Smiles and outside specialists through Project Access; and access to a comprehensive wellness program. Alliance’s patients are referred from WakeMed’s Emergency department, through partner agencies, and by self-referrals. Alliance’s approach to medicine is holistic in nature, and as such, health education, hands-on nutrition and cooking classes, and exercise opportunities are critical to the care Alliance provides. The Wellness Program includes produce from Alliance’s Community Garden, a CSA produce box program giving patients weekly access to fresh produce, cooking and nutrition classes, diabetes management and diabetes prevention classes, gardening classes, weekly yoga, and a monthly walking program. Alliance’s patients are getting healthier – A1Cs are going down, blood pressure is decreasing, and patients are losing weight. They are missing fewer days of work, and are making fewer visits to the Emergency room. — From Alliance Medical Ministry
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Chronicles of Canterbury
Contemplative Prayer: Silence Bringing Us Closer To God
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ithin each of us is an infinite stillness through which we can experience more deeply our connection with God and one another. We are each made in the image and likeness of God. As Christians, we believe this divine reality was restored and made again accessible by Jesus’ life, death, resurrection and ascension. These are not just words we say to make us feel special. Rather, these words describe the deepest truth of our beings. The image and likeness of God. That reality is within you. It is you. Of course, most of us don’t go through our days exhibiting a lot of Godlikeness. We are probably plagued by any number of life-crushing habits of mind — anger, impatience, self-doubt, conceit, greed, selfishness, self-loathing, hard-heartedness, gluttony. If we are honest and selfaware enough, we come to realize that even our virtues are quite tepid in comparison with the radical love that radiates from the being of God. We may be good enough — fair, industrious, kind in public or to those close to us, generous at times. But like God? Maybe, not quite.
will offer a series of sessions designed to teach, practice, and support one another on our prayer journeys. Each week a different contemplative method will be presented, with time for practice and discussion. We hope this series will make this deeper way of praying more accessible to all who feel called to it. Please join us on Sunday mornings this fall.
— Shelia Pueschel: shepueschel@gmail.com — Joyce Hunn: bjhunn@earthlink.com — Catherine Phillips: catherine_alice_phillips@ hotmail.com
Contemplative prayer is a prayer of silence — not just outward silence but a deep inner silence, too. (Indeed, eventually the deep inner silence stays even amid outward activity.) While the practice is sometimes described as listening to God, it is simply about being with God, without individual agenda or demands. Saints throughout time have described contemplative prayer as indispensible to their lives because when we encounter this space of inner silence, we encounter our own Godlikeness: the image of God within us. Within this silence, we experience the peace that passes all understanding and our indelible connection with God. Through the silence, we can most powerfully manifest our Godlikeness: all the genuine, unambiguous and transformative virtues that are our birthright as redeemed children of God. It is from this silence that we manifest unconditional love for everyone, seeing the Christ within each, and discover the boldness to act against injustice with conviction and humility. One of the earliest monks, a desert father known as Father Ammonas, described it this way: “It is by silence that the saints grew... it was because of silence that the power of God dwelt in them, because of silence that the mysteries of God were known to them.” The experience of contemplative prayer is always a gift from God. But like everything in the spiritual life, there is work we can all do to open ourselves up to this deeper communion with God. Throughout its history, the Church has embraced a myriad of practices that help focus our minds on God, allowing us to deepen our openness to the presence of Christ and the work of the Spirit. Beginning Sunday, Sept. 13, St. Michael’s Contemplative Prayer group
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Sept. 13: Introduction to Contemplative Prayer Sept. 20: Lectio Divina Sept. 27: Jesus Prayer/Prayer of the Heart Oct. 4: Centering Prayer Oct. 11: Welcoming Prayer Oct. 18: Labyrinth Oct. 25: Prayer Beads Nov. 1: Icons Nov. 8: Guided Meditation (Scripture) Nov. 15: Breath Nov. 22: Candlelight
Chronicles of Canterbury
HARPER continued from page 1
other end of the phone, excited because Lisa had never been invited to Raleigh. By the end of the week, I’d scheduled Lisa to come to St. Michael’s Jan. 8-9, 2016. I sat amazed, but not surprised, at the swiftness of God’s hand at work in all the details. The words of Hebrews 7:19 came to life that morning as I read, “there is a better Hope through which we draw near to God.” With that confirmation, our Women’s Bible Study event, “Drawing Near” took flight. Whether through Lisa Harper’s books or the many Bible studies she has authored, the appeal of her message is one of simplicity, though dynamic in style. Drawing near to God through His son, Jesus Christ, is the theme of her ministry, which Lisa summarizes in three words… “God’s Love Story.” Lisa has a divine gift of tilling the heart for God’s love to take root. As a master storyteller, Lisa has the unique ability to captivate her audience as she shares God’s unrelenting love and pursuit of His broken people. A theologian, Lisa teaches Bible doctrine through stories and life events using colorful pop culture references while weaving together the Bible era and modern life. This style of teaching brings a whole new dimension to God’s word making, it more intrinsic to one’s faith.
ministry and eagerly endorse her. However, there are those here at St Michael’s who have been as equally inspired and gladly share their experience of Lisa’s teaching. “Lisa’s knowledge of the Bible, combined with her down-to-earth funny stories from her every day life, keep you rapt! You want to pay attention because she will either touch your heart with God’s message or make you laugh! I am so excited to see her in person!” — Josey Kasper “Joyful, faithful servant of Our Lord Jesus who has been given a sense of humor and gift of communication to reach the depths of your heart and soul.” —Teresa McLean “ Lisa can get her message across with great humor and wit!” — Buffa Powell “Lisa’s speaking style is engaging and keeps you on the edge of your seat. She is very real and has a way of relating to all women. As an amazing storyteller, Lisa has a gift for tying real life stories into scripture, making God’s message crystal clear.” — Alison Gugenheim “Lisa made me feel like we were long lost friends on our faith journey.... together. Because of this, I heard the applicable lessons of Hebrews in a much more everyday manner, especially having faith without proof.” — Karen Ryden The Women’s Bible Study invites women of all ages to be inspired and join us for a weekend of “Drawing Near” with Lisa Harper, Friday & Saturday, Jan. 8-9, 2016. This event promises renewal of spirit, fellowship, laughter and most of all, a tilled heart. For more information go to www.holymichael.org or contact Frances Penick, fhpenick@nc.rr.com, or 919-676-2757. — Frances Penick, Women’s Bible Study leader
Many distinguished Christian authors and speakers throughout the world have been inspired by Lisa’s
Fall Bible Study Focuses on Acts Join the St. Michael’s Women’s Bible Study as we study the lives of the believers in Acts and how Jesus’ command to spread the Gospel forever shaped their lives. With Lisa Harper’s study, Believing Jesus — A Journey Through the Book of Acts, we will learn how Peter became a churchbuilding saint with the power of the Holy Spirit. We’ll look at how it cost Stephen and other early believers their very lives to follow Christ. And how Paul’s case proves God’s grace can change the worst of sinners, making us willing to our their lives interrupted by God and boldly share the gospel to the world. •
Tuesday Evenings: 7 p.m. - 9 p.m, Sept. 22 - Dec. 1
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Friday Mornings: 9:30 a.m – 11:30 a.m., Sept. 25 - Dec. 4
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Workbook Cost - $14. Child care available on Friday mornings
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Contact: Frances Penick at fhpenick@nc.rr.com or 919-676-2757.
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Parish Picnic Set for Sept. 27 Celebrate the Feast of St. Michael’s at our annual Parish Picnic, Sunday, Sept. 27, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. We’ll have barbecue and all the fixin’s from Cooper’s in the circle in front of St. Michael’s. • $12 per person • $6 per child (no charge for children under 5) • $30 family limit (up to 5 family members) Sign up at the front desk. Your payment is your reservation. Deadline is Sunday, Sept. 20. (Online registration is not available for this event.)
Chronicles of Canterbury Register Online Now!
New Choir Season Begins Wednesday, Sept. 16
St.
contact me to see if the Adult Choir might be a good Michael’s supports the ministry of over 150 singers of all match for you. ages, who serve as an integral part of our weekly worship. Choral singing is an expression of humanity at its best, while Children are remarkably busy these providing an enriching days, with an array of important experience that can last a activities. The commitment lifetime. I was inspired required for singing in a choir, recently by an interview however, is no less than that of with John Rutter, one of any other worthwhile endeavor. our day’s leading church Wednesday is our primary rehearsal music composers, who said, day, but I’m glad to explore “Choral music is not one of alternate rehearsal times for our life’s frills. It’s something youth and boychoir if it will create that goes to the very heart opportunities for more to enjoy the of our humanity, our sense experience of singing. I encourage of community, and our parents to be in touch with me souls. You express, when about what might work best. you sing, your soul in song. And when you get together Early choir registration helps with a group of other us make the best plans for singers, it becomes more the entire season. Visit www. than the sum of the parts.” Melissa Raley rehearses with members of the Beckwith Choir, who rang choir HolyMichaelMusic.org and click on chimes during the Choir Festival in May. Beckwith is one of five choirs for
Our St. Gregory Boychoir children and youth. (for boys in grades 3 through 8, or until the voice changes), offers boys the opportunity to use the amazing gift of their treble voice, which lasts only a few years! Teen guys with changed voices sing in the Youth Choir, as do girls in grades 6-12.
Girls in grades 3-5 sing in the Canterbury Girls’ Choir. Boys and girls in grades 1 and 2 sing in the Beckwith Choir. And children 4 and 5 years of age sing in the All Angels Choir. We’re blessed by a superb staff of experienced choir leaders, who are professional music educators, voice teachers, and instrumentalists. The Adult Choir sings a broad range of music spanning five centuries, with a special emphasis on music from the English cathedral tradition. September is an ideal time to join the Adult Choir, which requires basic music reading skills and a voice that blends well with others. Please
Choir Registration. The site includes detailed information about all choirs.
Some exciting concerts are planned for the coming year, including three concerts by world-class organists! Tickets are now on sale for the Nov. 6 “Phantom of the Opera,” concert — an unforgettably fun evening as organist Dorothy Papadakos accompanies the 1925 silent film “The Phantom of the Opera,” (see story, p. 10). Visit HolyMichaelMusic.org and click on Special Events for the link to purchase tickets. Thanks be to God for music — a gift we receive and a gift we return with thanksgiving. Whether you experience music as a singer or a listener, you are part of the song created by the people of St. Michael’s. — Kevin Kerstetter, Director of Church Music
Climb Aboard the Diaper Train! Collect Diapers for Needy Babies St. Michael’s will again be collecting diapers in September for The Diaper Train, a program of Saint Saviour’s Center. The Diaper Train continues to grow to address the needs of low-income families in Wake County. They expect to distribute more than 600,000 diapers in 2015. Volunteers distribute diapers to referred families on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at Saint Saviour’s Center. The Diaper Center also gives diapers to many local partner agencies for the families in their programs including StepUp, Interact of Wake County, SAFEchild, Salvation Army, WIHN, Wake Relief, and The Healing Place. St. Michael’s has one of the most successful
community diaper drives, collecting more than 7,000 diapers last year! This year our goal is 8,000 diapers! Most needed are sizes 4, 5, and 6 and baby wipes. Diapers may be dropped off during September in the Parish Hall. This year, our drive coincides with the Diaper Need Awareness Week sponsored by the National Diaper Bank Network in an effort to raise awareness about this need across the country. Watch for news about a special event at St. Michael’s on Sunday, Sept. 20! For more information about The Diaper Train, visit https://vimeo. com/121549681 One of the volunteers featured in this video is Clair Marshall, a St. Michael’s parishioner. Thank you for supporting this ministry. For questions, contact Linda Rogers at lrogers518@nc.rr.com or Frances Fontaine at francesgfontain@gmail.com
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Chronicles of Canterbury Youth Ministry (6-12 grades)
Missionpalooza: Jr. EYC Joins in Service, Fun stayed there to take with them when leave each morning Learning and touring the Raleigh Rescue Mission facilities was a great experience for the youth.
Our first middle school Missionpalooza was a huge success! Over this three-day service experience, 16 middle schoolers and 5 volunteers had one objective: to help serve and learn more about the needs in the Raleigh community. And that’s just what we did.
We spent the last Missionpalooza The first morning, we literally morning at Interclimbed the walls at Triangle faith Food Shuttle’s Rock Club. We participated Camden Street in icebreakers, team-building Learning Garden. The games and free climbing time, kids learned all about all helping to strengthen our urban and community relationships with each other. gardening, and the In the afternoon, we loaded up important impact 2,099 pounds of food donated it makes on our by St. Michael’s parishioners in community. After July, for Urban Ministries. We walking through the tag-teamed to load the bags into The Missionpalooza team of Jr. EYCers and leaders spent a morning at the Camden garden and learning the truck, then made our way to Street Learning Garden in downtown Raleigh. all about the fruits and Urban Ministries and got a tour vegetables that grow there, we got to work. Clearing of the building, learned all about the services they out two dirt and worm beds and tree limbs, I think offer to the community and stocked the food pantry it’s safe to say we were all very good with shovels and shelves. wheelbarrows by the time we left. Wednesday morning, we played some outdoor games As we finished up Missionpalooza with the best game before it got too hot and spent the rest of the time of kiddie-pool kickball and made ice cream Sundays decorating snack bags and writing words of thanks in the Youth Room, I was so thankful for this group. for the great men and women of the Raleigh Police All of these kids gave their time and energy to not only Department. After lunch, we made 30 lunch bags serve the Raleigh community, but also howed great for the Raleigh Rescue Mission’s “Lunches To Go” support for our St. Michael’s youth community. program and delivered them to the Emergency Overnight Shelter, where they are distributed to the men, women and children who have — Abby Van Noppen, Director of Youth Ministry
Youth Kick-Off, Sunday, Sept. 13, 5-7p.m As summer slowly approaches its end, students are returning from summer trips, camp and family vacations. School is just around the corner and that means one thing...the Youth Kick-Off! Save the date Sunday, Sept. 13 from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. for our annual kick-off at the church. The Youth Kick-Off Potluck is for 6-12 grade youth and their parents. You will receive information about all upcoming youth events for the 2015-2016 school year like EYC, Bible studies, mission trips, Fall retreat and more! With great energy and momentum coming from this summer’s high school Reach mission trip and the middle school Missionpalooza experience, I’m very excited about what this year will hold for our youth. We have a great group of kids returning and we’re excited to meet all of the new faces that will join us!
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If you’ve never participated in EYC, haven’t had the time or you’re completely new to St. Michael’s Youth Ministry, now is your time. We have a place for you in a fun and welcoming environment. We want YOU to be a part of this awesome youth community! To find out more information about all things Youth Ministry and to register for the Youth Kick-Off, please visit holymichael.org. — Cheers! Abby
Check out our Youth Bulletin Board in the Parish Hall lobby and see the great fall we have planned for your
Youth!
Chronicles of Canterbury
Stewardship: The Most Important Work of the Church
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im Coker, my old Junior Warden at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Ellicott City, Maryland, said it best: Stewardship is the most important work of the church. He said it so many times, in so many meetings, over so many years, that whenever Jim would prompt us with that first word, we would all complete the definition in unison. While it was often accompanied by a corporate chuckle, it was very serious to Jim. He repeated it because in a lifetime of church work, he truly believed it. Jim’s point was that without a commitment of time and treasure to the body of Christ, there is no church, there is no service to the world.
In the economic rush of today’s world, standing still means moving backwards and each year we are called on to match the achievements of the past and increase our obligations for the future. St. Michael’s is no different in that regard than your family, your business, or any other enterprise. Yes, we are always being asked to do more, because there is so much more to do. In asking you to do more, I see it as our obligation to make two things very clear in this year’s campaign. First of all, where do your pledge dollars go? How are they being used to run this large church, to serve its 2000 members and the world?
In the words attributed to St. Teresa of Avila, we are all reminded of our vital role in that mission: Christ has no body but yours, No hands, no feet on earth but yours, Yours are the eyes with which he looks Compassion on this world, Yours are the feet with which he walks to do good, Yours are the hands, with which he blesses all the world.
Secondly, what is the vision of the Vestry and the Clergy in meeting the greater needs of the parish and world with new higher levels of giving? Where would those pledge dollars go in 2016?
A “steward” is a person who acts as a surrogate for others. As stewards of Christ’s service to the world, we are called into service. As members of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church we have an obligation to ensure a strong ongoing foundation as a platform for that service. At the most basic level, we create that platform, that place, that spiritual home for each other. I am sure that when “The Little Red Church”1 began in 1950, those families were thinking about creating a place of worship for themselves and those they would invite to join them. Service to the community and the world would come later, but their faith, their worship, their Christian education, their sense of place came first. While we take that step for each other, that is not an act of selfishness. Before you do the work of the Savior, you need to create a strong foundation, a strong sense of home. That is what St. Michael’s is to us and it is our obligation to keep it strong. But strength for service does not stop at our door, does not end on Sunday when we walk beneath the angel windows, say goodbye to each other and go back to our cars. We are only then beginning to “do the work (He has) given us to do.” We need to remain strong as a parish to do Christ’s work in our community, our diocese, and the world. That is why we have chosen Strong to Serve as our theme for this year’s Annual Fund Campaign. Since the doors opened on The Little Red Church, St. Michael’s has grown in space, membership, staff, programs, and in the strength of service for us and the world. Keeping it Strong to Serve is our calling today. And I know the people of St. Michael’s will
1
answer that call again.
Two donated World War II barracks were our first church buildings. Painted red, St. Michael’s became known as “The Little Red Church in the Woods.”
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We will be transparent and specific in answering those questions in our Campaign this year and I look forward to the dialogue. Finally, I want to thank you for your generosity to St. Michael’s in the past and for your active participation in the life of this parish. The energy, love, and spiritual growth is evident everywhere you look in this special place, and I feel lucky to be a part of it. I thank you for the honor of chairing this campaign and am truly excited about keeping St. Michael’s Strong to Serve. — John Constance
Campaign Chair
Important Annual Fund Dates Sunday, Sept. 27 Annual Fund 2016 Kickoff Feast of St. Michael Parish Picnic, 5:30 p.m. Pledge Sundays Bring your pledge card to church and place it in the alms basin Sunday, Oct. 11 & Sunday, Oct. 18
Chronicles of Canterbury
Your Pledge Dollars: Where Does the Money Go?
OWLS Start Program Year Where Raleigh Began The OWLS have come back home after visits to the shore and the mountains. We’ve been busy planning for the fall, and I think we have some winning programs on tap. We’ll start our journey this year where the city of Raleigh began. On Thursday, Sept. 10, Belle Long, director of the historic Joel Lane House, will visit St. Michael’s to share the story of this important house.
He was a member of the first Board of Trustees of the University of North Carolina. The first student, Hinton James, was the son of his wife’s sister. The house, small by today’s standards, was considered grand in the 18th century. Though it was remodeled through the years, in 1970 it was restored to its circa 1793-94 appearance.
Located on St. Mary’s Street, the house was built by Lane, known as the “Father of Wake County,” in 1769, As a representative from Johnston County to the Colonial Assembly at New Bern in 1770, he introduced the bill for Wake’s creation from parts of Johnston, Orange and Cumberland counties. Lane also gave land for the location of the new capitol city. He was a colonel in the militia, justice of the peace, and served Wake County as senator in the General Assembly for 11 terms.
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Ms. Long will tell us about the rich history of the house as we prepare to visit it on Thursday, Sept. 17. Join us at 2 p.m., Sept. 10 for a step back into Raleigh’s history. And plan to visit the Joel Lane house with us on Sept. 17, at 11 a.m. After our tour, we’ll have lunch at Pie Birds, near historic Oakwood. Sign up at the front desk. — The Rev. Holly Gloff
Chronicles of Canterbury
briefly
Fall Mission Planned for Appalachia Global Missions is planning a regional mission trip to Jonesville, Va., the weekend of October 22-25. We will be working with Appalachia Service Project (ASP) to repair homes in the region, as the folks prepare for another winter season. Some details are still being worked out, but it’s shaping up something like this.
Participants – anyone 13 years old or older, who has completed the 8th grade. Persons under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult (not me, but I’m sure we can find someone!) • Cost – about $175 per person, which includes meals and lodging at the ASP Jonesville Year Round Center (bunk bed accommodations with a full kitchen). It also helps pay for the cost of materials. • Travel – check in Thursday evening, work Friday and Saturday, return Sunday. We’ll car pool, or take a van, or both, depending on how many people sign up (I hope we have to get a BUS!) If you can’t come up Thursday, we can work out a Friday arrival for you. • What you need – bed and bath linens, work clothes and a servant’s heart. Materials and tools will be provided. You can bring your favorite finger smasher (hammer) or other favorite tools, if you wish. We all know that the Appalachia area has long been economically depressed. It’s amazing how much just a little effort on our part can affect the lives of someone else – being the hands and feet of Christ. I hope you will consider coming on this trip — make it a family affair!! We’ll get out more information as the details shape up. Meanwhile, contact either John McHenry (919-306-3659) or Vaughn Wagoner (919-601-2880) with any questions. — Vaughn Wagoner
Men’s Prayer Breakfast Tuesday Sept.15 7 a.m.
Save the Date! Phantom of the Opera Organ Concert Nov. 6
Don’t Miss the Phantom Organ! Don’t miss the most fun pipe organ and film performance you’ll ever experience! On Friday, Nov. 6 (just six days after Halloween), organist Dorothy Papadakos will be at St. Michael’s to improvise a thrilling musical accompaniment to the 1929 silent film “The Phantom of the Opera,” starring Lon Chaney. Dorothy will put our organ’s 3,385 pipes through their paces, and you’ll hear amazing sounds that will delight and entertain.
Formerly organist at the Cathedral of St. Dorothy Papadakos John the Divine in New York City, and now residing in Wilmington, N.C., Dorothy is known internationally for her extraordinary organ improvisation. She is a member of the seventime Grammy Award winning Paul Winter Consort. The Blu-ray film will be projected on a 12-foot screen, and the organist will be visible to the audience as she brings the film to life with her magical playing. Tickets are available online at HolyMichaelMusic.org. Tickets for adults (18 and older) are $15, and student tickets (up to age 17) are $10. Do you have a large family? Contact Kevin Kerstetter directly for a discounted family price. Join us for this evening of exciting, actionpacked music and film! — Kevin Kerstetter
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Wednesday Words & Wisdom
Book Group Reads The Wounded Healer The St. Michael’s book club, Wednesday Words & Wisdom will begin a new season on Wednesday, Sept. 9, by reading Henry Nouwen’s book, The Wounded Healer: Ministry in Contemporary Society. Nouwen, renowned priest and author, was a respected professor and beloved pastor who wrote more than 40 books on the spiritual life. The Wounded Healer, according to Amazon.com, is “a hope-filled and simple book that speaks directly to those men and women who want to be of service in their church or community, but have found the traditional ways often threatening and ineffective.” All are welcome to join the club for light refreshments and lively discussion, led by the Rev. Christopher Hogin. The meeting will take place at the home of the Rev. Jane Gurry, 817 Rosemont Ave., Raleigh.
Tea with the Ladies Oct. 4 All ladies of St. Michael’s are invited to a tea, Sunday, Oct. 4. Women and girls of all ages are encouraged to attend this party hosted by the St. Michael’s ECW. Watch your mailbox for your invitation! Contact ecw@holymichael.org for more information.
Chronicles of Canterbury
september Sundays
lifelong disciple
September 13: These Walls Do Talk: A History of The People of St. Michael’s in the Parish Hall Our moment in time matters, for we live amid history. History impacts who we are and where we are going. The parish of St. Michael’s has a rich history spanning 65 years. Come experience this history through sight and sound as many of the founders of this parish, along with those who helped elevate the church to even higher levels, share their memories through audio reflections. Not only will it provide a better understanding of our parish, but will inspire each of us to build upon the rich legacy and heritage of St. Michael’s.
September 20 Life In Transition — StepUp’s Career Transitions Program in the Parish Hall All careers eventually end. For some this happens unexpectedly, and often at the most inconvenient time. St. Michael’s now partners with StepUp Ministries in hosting a weekly program known as Career Transitions. Career Transitions provides support for highly skilled professionals who, for whatever reason, find themselves seeking
employment. It helps participants evaluate and repackage themselves in order to compete in an ever changing, highly competitive job field. On a theological level, the experience can be meaningful and transformative, as each person has the opportunity of exploring undiscovered God-given potential. Come listen to the testimonials of those who engaged with StepUps’s Career Transitions Program as they share what they learned, and how they grew in the process.
Won’t You Join Us? Newcomer Classes Wednesdays Introduction to St. Michael’s 6:15 p.m. four sessions for all those new to our parish 6:15 p.m.-7:30 p.m.,
Sunday, Sept. 27 Annual Fund Sunday with Charlotte Griffin, director of development,
Meet our Annual Fund chair and hear how a pledge to the Strong To Serve campaign will help us carry out the mission of St. Michael’s — to go forth with God! Every Sunday Centering Prayer in the Parlor (See story, Page 4) Beginning Sunday, Sept 20 through Nov. 8 Writing as Spiritual Practice in the Wall Conference Room Many of us continually look for ways to feel closer to God. Join the writers of St. Michael’s as we explore, through personal writing, new ways to connect our stories with the story God is writing for us.
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Sept. 16, 23, 30 & Oct. 1
Outline of the Faith 6:15 p.m. four sessions for all new to the Episcopal Church and for parents seeking baptism for children 6:15 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Oct. 14, 21 & 28 and Nov. 4
Newcomer Dinner Tuesday, Nov. 10 6-8 p.m.
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
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, Sept. 16
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 St. Michael’s many ministries. • 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.