Life at St. Peter’s Programs and Events at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Center City Charlotte 2015 Winter, Spring and Beyond
Engage God. Deepen Connections.
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he thriving life at St. Peter’s presents us with a myriad of ways—old and new—to engage God and deepen connections. In a world full of increasingly more choices of how we might navigate our journeys as spiritual beings and spend our valuable time, it is my prayer that we will commit our lives to intentional acts of engaging God and deepening connections. Both within and beyond St. Peter’s sacred space in Center City Charlotte, the 2015th year of our Lord provides us with opportunities to grow and be transformed by what is offered through our ministries. Our intentional commitments to the mission of the Church are bound to enrich our engagement of God and human need to deepen connections with others who also are created in the image of God. An “outline of the faith commonly called the Catechism” (The Book of Common Prayer, p. 855)
reminds us that the mission of the Church is to restore all people to unity with God and each other; that the Church pursues its mission as it prays and worships, proclaims the Gospel, and promotes justice, peace, and love; and that the Church carries out its mission through the ministry of all its members. With the 2015 Winter–Spring edition of Life at St. Peters, we are inviting members to complete a brief time and talent survey and showcasing the full array of programs and events to assist us on the journey of faith. (You can pick up the survey in the public spaces of the Parish House or online at web.st-peters.org/timetalent.) Some of the offerings represent the traditional rhythms of our parish life, while others are seasonal or new. In them and one another, may we find blessing and encouragement. Please join me in inviting others to share in them, as each offering is intended as a means to engage God and deepen connections.
— The Reverend Ollie V. Rencher, Rector
Our Vision A community of bold followers of Jesus A crowd that effects good change for the world A place known for radical love and welcome A beacon of hope in Center City Charlotte
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aily, our community of faith seeks ways to engage God and deepen connections as part of our journey of becoming what we articulate in our vision. The worship, formation, fellowship, servant ministry, music, and community engagement opportunities in this issue of Life at St. Peter’s are offered to assist us on the way. 115 West Seventh Street Charlotte, NC 28202
Your prayer, time and talent, financial support, and sheer encouragement of our mission and ministry reveal unceasing support of our parish life. All are welcome and asked to invite others to share in whatever we do to co-create the beloved community with God through our vision.
Inside Life at St. Peter’s Page 2 – Worship Page 3 – Adult Formation Page 5 – Children’s Formation Page 6 – Youth Formation Page 7 – Fellowship Page 8 – Servant Ministry Page 9 – Music Page 10 – About St. Peter’s Page 11 – Calendar
704-332-7746 www.st-peters.org
Life at St. Peter’s
Worship St. Peter’S
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ll that we do at and through St. Peter’s is rooted in the worship of God. The term “worship” comes from an Old English root “worthship.” We worship that which is truly worthy of our ultimate allegiance and devotion—God alone. Another term for worship is “liturgy,” from an ancient Greek word meaning “the work of the people.” In many ways, we come away from other common settings for liturgy: to pray, read and hear the Holy Scriptures, experience music, be silent, and partake in the holy meal from God’s Table at services of Holy Communion. God’s Table is central to our journeys and reminds us of Christ’s invitation of how we are to be in the world. In worship, we affirm our relationship with our Creator. We celebrate with friend and Sundays stranger alike what God 8:00 am Holy Communion in the traditional has done and is doing language of the Book of Common Prayer includes to create and renew sermon, organ music, and hymns the world. We reset our 8:30 am “Holy Chow” Breakfast compasses toward that in the Community Room until 9:25 am which is truly ultimate (offered according to formation schedule) amidst a culture cluttered with distractions. In 9:30 am – 10:30 am Christian Formation (education) a stressed and harried opportunities for all ages in the Parish House (watch world, we enter the sacred for our summer programming after May 24) time of worship to be refreshed in the company of God and one another. Ultimately, we are 10:45 am Holy Communion in the contemporary strengthened for service. language of the Book of Common Prayer includes sermon, choral and organ music, hymns Whether it is Holy Communion on a Sunday morning, evening or weekday at noon, the 30-minute service of weekday Morning Prayer, the 12:00 pm Coffee Hour with light refreshments in the seasonal service of Choral Evensong, lighting candles or touching holy Community Room after 10:45 worship water during one of the Taizé-patterned Holy Communion services, or entering the unlocked front doors of St. Peter’s that are open for prayer 5:00 pm Evensong: Sung Prayers from the Book of (Monday–Friday during parish office hours), all are welcome to all that Common Prayer led by clergy and choral ensembles we offer—to worship. (second and fourth Sundays through March 22, visit Adults and youth interested in serving and supporting worship as website for detailed schedule) an Acolyte, Altar Guild Minister, Eucharistic Minister, Lector, Usher 6:15 pm Holy Communion in the contemporary language or Welcome Host should contact Mary Virginia Woodall, Director of of the Book of Common Prayer includes Ministry Development, 704-749-6151, mvwoodall@st-peters.org. a brief reflection, acoustic music, candlelight, and contemplative silence
Monday through Friday
8:00 am Morning Prayer in the Chapel without music (30-minute service from The Book of Common Prayer, this service is a meditative way to enter the day ahead)
Tuesdays and Thursdays
Noon Holy Communion in the Chapel without music (30-minute service, this service is a perfect way to spend lunchtime) Church Doors are open Monday through Friday 8:00 am until 4:00 pm for private prayer, reflection, and meditation
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2015: Winter, Spring and Beyond
Life at St. Peter’s
Formation St. Peter’s
Adults Formation (Education) is the lifelong educational journey of growing in the Christian faith. Sunday and weekday opportunities are offered for all ages to nurture their spiritual growth. Childcare is available during most offerings. Parents should contact the Director of Children’s Formation, Laurie Haynes Burlington (lburlington@stpeters.org) to confirm availability. More information, including any updated schedules of events, is available at www.st-peters.org.
April 19, 26: A Glimpse into Other Religions – Come with questions as we learn about the basic tenets and principles of the faith of some of our neighbors. How can what we learn deepen our respect for the diversity of God’s good creation?
May 3, 10: Saving Faithfully: God and Your Budget – These two practical sessions will focus on the nuts and bolts of faithful stewardship of personal finances. The Young Adults in the Church class will be joining us for these important sessions.
May 17: Saving Faithfully: God and St. Peter’s Budget – Now that
Sundays Parish Hall, 9:30 am (Second Floor)
we have identified some principles for faithful stewardship of personal finances, we will explore how the Rector and Vestry seek to apply them to our life together at St. Peter’s.
January 4, 11: Unpacking The Lord’s Prayer – Based on
May 24: Pentecost: The Birthday of Church – All ages will join
Matthew 6:9–13, Christians have prayed “thy will be done” and “as it is in heaven,” while struggling daily to communicate with God. This twoweek session will explore a prayer that most have memorized and explain what each verse attempts to teach us.
together as we celebrate another year of life together at St. Peter’s.
January 18: A Movable Feast: Exploring Mobile Models for Young Adult Ministry – Every generation receives and passes on the sacred tradition in ways marked by their contemporary context. Come and learn about a new model for ministering to, with, and among young adults.
January 25: Legacy Sunday: A History of St. Peter’s – Celebrate the work God has been doing among the people of St. Peter’s and beyond since 1834…and learn how you can keep it going.
February 1: Health and Faith: Dying with Dignity – Join us as we continue our conversation begun last Fall. In this session, we will talk about developing smart public policies and consistently compassionate care for those approaching life’s end.
February 8, 15: Engaging Justice – This two-week series will provide
Tower Room, 9:30 am (Second Floor)
January 25, February 1, 8, 15 – Young Adult (20’s and 30-ish) Book Study – God-making amid anxiety is a standard human procedure.” Where is God in your work, play, and loving? This class is based on Walter Brueggemann’s Sabbath as Resistance: Saying No the Culture of Now. What are we called to do, as Christians, in a “culture of now”? Led by Ruth Woodend.
Town Choir Room, 9:30 am (Basement) January 4, 11: Navigating Challenges Among God’s Children – Led by the Associate Rector, this two-week series will provide practical tools on navigating conflict in a healthy way.
January 18, 25, February 1, 8, 15: Bible Study: The Beatitudes Assisting Priest and New Testament scholar Jonathan Soyars will lead us in an in-depth study of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount and its relevance for our contemporary context.
you with a Biblical overview of the idea of “justice,” examples from history where the Church has been a leader in pursuing justice, and discussions featuring parishioners committed to this important part of our Baptismal call.
April 19, 26: Growing in the Dark – Too often we associate God
February 22, March 1, 8, 15, 22: Forgiveness, Reconciliation and Renewal – In this series we will explore the liberating power of
May 3, 10: Bible Study: The Bible and Immigration – While the
forgiveness and reconciliation on personal, inter-personal, and social levels.
March 29: What is so Holy about Holy Week? – We will walk
exclusively with light, neglecting the long Biblical and spiritual tradition of finding God or being found by God in the dark. Come learn about how God uses both light and dark to nurture our souls. “immigration debate” rages on in Congress, we are invited on a regular basis to welcome the immigrant among us. Come explore how the Biblical mandate to “welcome the stranger” might connect with daily life in Charlotte.
through the four sacred liturgies that comprise the holiest of weeks.
April 12: Easter Continues: The Great 50 Days – Ever notice that the Easter season is ten days longer than Lent? Come explore theological and liturgical traditions of the Great 50 Days.
2015: Winter, Spring and Beyond
Please See Formation, Page 4 3
Life at St. Peter’s
Formation St. Peter’s
Formation, Continued From Page 3
Adults Adults are offered a creative spread of morning and evening offerings on Sundays and weekdays. Childcare is available during most offerings. Parents should contact the Director of Children’s Formation to confirm availability. To learn more about the following and future ones, stay tuned to www.st-peters.org under the Formation tab.
Weeknight Programs
Reading Holy Books: A Comparative Look at Scriptures – Tower Room (Second Floor) Tuesdays 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm, January 13, 20, 27, February 3, 10: “They denied the truth and uttered a monstrous falsehood against Mary. They declare: We have put to death the Messiah, Jesus Son of Mary.” Sound like a familiar passage from the New Testament? NOPE! This passage is a quote from the Koran. Come join us for a 5-week session exploring the sacred scriptures of the world’s other largest religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Judaism.
Kergyma: The Bible In-Depth – Mondays 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm Library (First Floor) - The thirty-four week intensive overview of the Bible continues through June 8 under the leadership of Assisting Priest Murdock Smith.
Holiday Weekend Event
Center City Concerts: A Multicultural Celebration – Monday, January 19, Noon - Observe the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday at a celebration of civil and human rights through music and poetry to be offered by talented artists from the Charlotte region. All ages are welcome to attend this important event to inform how we might share in creating a better world for all people.
Retreats
Episcopal Church Women’s Retreat: “Finding God’s Peace Within” – February 21, 8:30 am – 12:30 pm – Led by Elizabeth Richardson, this retreat will explore how to seek rest and peace in God, by identifying barriers that keep us from that peace and offering practices that may help us overcome them.
God’s Tapestry: A Lenten Weekend of Reconciliation – Friday, March 6 and Saturday, March 7: The season of Lent calls us to focus our attention on reconciling ourselves to God and our neighbor. Understanding and celebrating our differences is a foundational step toward
justice, healing, and reconciliation. This interactive weekend retreat will equip participants with practices and tools to live fully into the diversity and difference of God’s creation and our community. Facilitators will be professor, consultant, Episcopal priest, the Rev. Dr. William Kondrath, Episcopal Church Missioner for Social Justice and Advocacy Engagement, Chuck Wynder, Jr. of Charlotte, and St. Peter’s Clergy.
Summer Offerings
Formation Course for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (Level I) – June 15 – June 20, Monday-Friday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm and Saturday, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm in the Parish House Library and Catechesis Atria. Parents, catechists, religious educators, clergy, and other interested adults are drawn to the very rich, retreat-like courses in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Through this course, adults have the opportunity to see all age appropriate presentations and materials given to children from the Bible and liturgy. Each course focuses on a specific developmental age group of the child. Level I prepares adults working with children ages three to six years old. The foundation for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is in the Level I formation course, as it is in this course that a catechist becomes attuned to the religious life of the child. The course includes preparations in giving the presentations (the lessons) to children, provides a solid background in the theological and pedagogical underpinnings of this work. Please note that one does not have to commit to working with children as a prerequisite for participation in the course. Contact Sunday Catechesis Coordinator Anna Hurdle for more information at ahurdle@ st-peters.org.
Stay tuned to our website and weekly eNews for additional summer offerings.
Pastoral Care Ministries Our practical and spiritual care for one another Addiction and Therapy Resources Calls and Cards to the Sick and Shut-in Counseling Services by Parish Clergy Grief Support and Counseling Guild of the Christ Child for Households with Children Healing and Intercessory Prayer Ministry Home Communion to the Sick and Shut-in Lay Pastoral Visits to the Sick and Shut-in Prayer Shawl Ministry Support Group on Various Topics To serve through or access these ministries, contact The Reverend Joslyn Ogden Schaefer, Associate Rector for Pastoral Care and Formation, 704-749-6150, jschaefer@st-peters.org.
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2015: Winter, Spring and Beyond
Life at St. Peter’s
Formation St. Peter’s
Children On Sundays, ages 3–12 participate in a Montessori-based Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program before joining their families during 10:45 am worship at the Exchange of Peace to participate in the Holy Eucharist (Communion). Crib to two-year old care is available 8:30 am – 12:30 pm in the Infant and Toddler Center, which is open Sunday mornings and for special classes and events. Seasonal events for households with children are scheduled throughout the year.
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or more than 20 years, St. Peter’s has chosen the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd as the way we introduce God’s love and grace to our children. The Catechesis is a Montessoribased approach where children can grow in their relationship with God through a deep engagement in scripture and liturgy. One of our primary beliefs is that God and the child have a unique relationship with one another, and that the growth of this relationship should be assisted by the adult and is directed by the Spirit of God within the child. With this approach, rooms called atria are prepared for the children. An atrium is a place of simplicity and order, where work and study spontaneously become meditation, contemplation, and prayer. The religious needs and capacities of the children guide the Catechist in instruction. The atrium allows the children to come into contact with scripture and the liturgy of the church. Our specially trained catechists work with our children in the atria, located on the main floor of the parish house. In addition to serving children ages 3-12 in our well-established atria, we now have a transitional toddler atrium in a space adjacent to the nursery. The Catechesis begins at 9:30 am and ends at the exchange of the Peace (in the context of the 10:45 am Eucharist). For more information on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, contact Anna Hurdle at ahurdle@st-peters.org.
Solemn Communion
Solemn Communion and Rite of Reconciliation Retreat for Children Saturday, May 2, 9:30 am – 4:00 pm Solemn Communion is offered for children in second grade or higher to deepen their understanding of what takes place during the Eucharist. (Young children in our Parish receive communion after baptism but may want to know more about the sacrament as they get older.) It involves a series of classes and a reconciliation retreat, culminating with the Solemn Communion Service, held this year on True Vine Sunday, May 3, where each child is welcomed into a deeper relationship with God. In the classes, adults and children wonder together about the mystery of communion and the profound gift given to us in the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. It is an invitation to consider a singular moment in a child’s spiritual life in new and age-appropriate ways.
Upcoming Events
March 14, 10:30 am St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Join other families for coffee and doughnuts before we gather on the front lawn to enjoy the parade. April 3, 4:00 pm Stations of the Cross for Children SAVE THE DATE August 3 – 7 Vacation Bible School
Atrium Schedule
Last day of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from Spring 2015 is Pentecost Sunday, May 24.
2015: Winter, Spring and Beyond
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Life at St. Peter’s
Formation St. Peter’s
Youth Ages 12–18 participate in the transformative Journey to Adulthood (J2A) program in addition to serving as acolytes (altar servers), lectors (readers), and Eucharistic ministers. Seasonal play, fellowship, service, and worship events are scheduled throughout the year. For more information contact the Director of Youth Ministry, Lyn Holt at lholt@st-peters.org
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hrough diverse and fun programs for our youth, we focus throughout the year on the four goals of the Journey to Adulthood (J2A) curriculum: celebrate the transition from youth to adulthood, train young people in the skills of adulthood, explore the mystery of our faith heritage, and establish our experience in the strength of community and liturgy. You will see them almost everywhere serving in every role available to their age and abilities. Since 1994, life at St. Peter’s has been enriched immensely through this specific approach to forming (educating) our young people in preparation for holy living beyond their teenage years. Trained volunteer youth leaders assist lay and ordained staff members with the support necessary to offer a strong and vibrant program divided into three sections: Rite-13, J2A (includes Pilgrimage year) and Young Adults in the Church (YAC). Central to our communal nature is the gathering of younger and older teens alike on Sunday mornings, certain afternoons or evenings, and for overnight experiences, such as retreats, mission trips and diocesan events. The commitment that youth and their families make is rooted in the Baptismal Covenant and promises made to hold God and God’s Church at the center of their lives, passions, and involvements in the world. To learn more about youth formation, including how to enroll your child, volunteer, or donate to seasonal fundraising, contact Lyn Holt, Director of Youth Formation, 704-749-6148, lholt@st-peters.org.
Upcoming Events January 19, 12:30 pm – 5:00 pm All-Youth Uptown Scavenger Hunt and Outreach Project January 25, 9:30 – 10:30 am J2A Parent and Youth Leader Meeting February 1, 9:30 – 10:30 am Rite 13 Parent and Youth Leader Meeting February 1 “Souper Bowl Sunday” Donation Collection for Urban Ministry Center February 7 Pilgrim Class Lock-in, 5:00 pm February 28 Rite 13 Class Lock-in, 5:00 pm March 14, 4:00 – 8:00 pm Youth Parent and Leaders Social and Q&A with local family/ teen psychologist March 21, 5:00 pm Pilgrim Class Outreach Lock-in March 22, 10:45 am Youth Sunday April 18, 6:00 pm Parish-wide Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction (Pilgrimage Fundraiser) April 26, 10:45 am Rite 13 Liturgy: Celebration of Manhood and Womanhood April 26, 5:00 pm Youth for 6th - 12th grades – Dinner and presentation about teen drinking/addiction by Charles Odell May 1 – 3 All Youth Beach Trip (6th - 12th grades) to Cherry Grove, SC June 7, 10:45 am Presentation of Gifts to Pilgrims and Graduate Recognition June 16, 1:00 pm Pilgrimage Send-Off Eucharist June 16 – June 26 Youth Pilgrimage to Spain (10th and 11th graders) SAVE THE DATES July 12 – 15 – Episcopal Outreach Camp for Charlotte Convocation Middle School Youth July 19 – 25 – HUGS Camp (9th grade and up) July 27 – 31 – Mission Trip for Charlotte Convocation (High School Youth)
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2015: Winter, Spring and Beyond
Life at St. Peter’s
Fellowship St. Peter’s
We believe that sharing intentional time with others who make up the body of Christ is very important to a life in faith. Through weekly and seasonal fellowship offerings, we celebrate our holy interconnection as people of God. In one way or another, each gathering tends to remind us of how much we need one another and is likely to bring refreshment to those who come.
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very week, once a month, or once a year—there’s always something going on at St. Peter’s to bring us together for fellowship. Most gatherings include food because we love to eat together! Fellowship reminds us that we are alive, especially as we interact with others, exchange stories, learn from one another, and foster holy friendships to support individual journeys of faith.
Groups, guilds, and events of various sorts are essential aspects of life at St. Peter’s. Some offerings are regular while others are seasonal and even last-minute.
Sunday Morning Hospitality Room Need a place to have a quiet conversation, read the paper, informally connect with other parishioners? Beginning January 4, we will offer a “hospitality room” with fresh brewed coffee and comfortable seats in the Parlor. Occasionally, we may surprise you by offering a structured conversation on a relevant topic.
Groups and Guilds The gift of making connections 20s/30s Fellowship (Young Adults) Kathryn Reddick, kathryn.reddick@claconnect.com Senior Class Fellowship (55+) Hannah Craighill 704.334.6276, Mary Griffin mjgriff@carolina.rr.com Episcopal Church Women (ECW) Kristine Reid kmrlady@ymail.com, Sydney Burgess sab7001@gmail.com St. Mary’s Guild Ann Hinson ahinson@carolina.rr.com Prayer Shawl Knitters Fellowship Linda Smith lvsmithnc@carolina.rr.com Pub Theology on Fourth Thursday Nights The Reverend Ollie Rencher orencher@st-peters.org “Holy Chow” Breakfast on Sundays at 8:30 Tate Sterrett TSterrett@horacktalley.com Coffee Hour on Sundays at Noon Kristine Reid kmrlady@ymail.com To connect with others or serve through these ministries, contact Mary Virginia Woodall, Director of Ministry Development, 704.749.6151, mvwoodall@st-petersorg.
You are encouraged to show up first and ask questions later—or ask questions first and then show up. Whatever your approach, your presence will be a gift and others will be glad to welcome you.
2015: Winter, Spring and Beyond
Events Shrove Tuesday Festival, February 17 Community Agape Meal, March 29 High Sunday Brunch, April 12 Parish Picnic on Pentecost Sunday, May 24
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Life at St. Peter’s
Servant Ministry
Beyond our Doors
St. Peter’s
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ooted in Christ’s words, “just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me,” outreach and social justice ministries are integral to life at St. Peter’s. As part of our Baptismal Covenant, we seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving our neighbors as ourselves, and strive for justice and peace among all people, respecting the dignity of every human being. The desire to serve our community has spanned the generations of our church. In 1876, the St. Peter’s Hospital and Home for the poor sick was started and in 1891, Good Samaritan Hospital opened exclusively for the treatment of black patients. Today, our programs and actions associated with reconciliation are examples of how we plant communal seeds that will keep us in the business of justice and relationship building. Get Involved Among many relationships, we support the Charlotte Pride Parade and AIDS Augustine Literacy Project Walk, the Episcopal Church’s “Seeing Charlotte Family Housing the Face of God” anti-racism seminar, and Mecklenburg Ministries, which Crisis Assistance Ministry promotes interfaith relationships, Episcopal Farmworker Ministry fosters racial and ethnic understanding, and inspires collaboration to address Episcopal Relief and Development social issues. Habitat for Humanity Last year, we became involved with the North Tryon Vision and Master Samaritan House Plan process in partnership with the Florence Crittenton of North Foundation for the Carolinas and Carolina Charlotte Center City Partners to assist with future community development Thompson Child and Family Focus of the north end of Uptown. For Urban Ministry Center several years, we have partnered with Trinity Episcopal School to maintain Loaves and Fishes a Community Garden on 8th Street in Regional AIDS Interfaith Network Uptown adjacent Myers Street. Last (RAIN) year, the garden produced more than St. Peter’s Community Garden 1,000 pounds of fresh, healthy food to feed hungry neighbors through Supportive Housing Communities Friendship Trays. To get involved Latin American Coalition with this innovative initiative, contact Nancy Duncan at nancylwd@gmail. North Carolina Justice Center com. Through these and a wide variety of outreach and social justice Contact St. Peter’s Servant Ministries initiatives, we strive to deepen our Coordinator (servantministries@st-peters.org, commitment to servant ministries 704-332-7746) to connect with our outreach and invite all to share in this and social justice ministry partners and/or rewarding work. serve with others from St. Peter’s.
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Partners in Ministry New since November 2014
Latin American Coalition North Carolina Justice Center
2015: Winter, Spring and Beyond
Life at St. Peter’s
Music St. Peter’s
A longstanding history of musical excellence enhances life at St. Peter’s. Whether one might experience the inspiring music for worship or performances of The Choir School at St. Peter’s (est. 1993) or the eclectic Center City Concerts at St. Peter’s (est. 2013), the gift of music is readily available at the corner of Tryon and Seventh streets. It is our belief that music has the unique capacity to transcend most things, to heal brokenness, enliven hearts, and connect people with God and one another. It is our hope that you will “taste and see” the goodness of life through music.
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he St. Peter’s Choir leads worship weekly with the great musical traditions of the church, from early music to music composed in the modern era, including music composed especially for St. Peter’s. The St. Peter’s Choir also provides music for special feast days beyond the Sunday morning schedule such as Advent Lessons and Carols, Christmas Eve, occasional Evensongs, Ash Wednesday, Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and the Great Vigil of Easter, concluding with Easter morning. Twice, the St. Peter’s Choir has traveled to Washington, D.C. (2001 and 2006) to sing at Washington National Cathedral and, with The Choir School at St. Peter’s,
recorded a CD, “New Music at St. Peter’s.” The 2010 addition of our new organ, “C. B. Fisk Opus 136,” has enhanced worship and challenged the St. Peter’s Choir to partner equally with this magnificent instrument. The St. Peter’s Choir consists of 40 volunteer choristers and four section leaders. Repertoire prepared by the St. Peter’s Choir is serious and challenging. Choristers need a good command of music reading, interpretation, and the ability to give grace to phrases and meaning to poetry. The St. Peter’s Choir rehearses weekly for two hours on Thursday evenings and one hour each Sunday morning. Additional rehearsals are scheduled as necessary. Independent preparation is expected and staff members are available to assist. The Evensong Choir at St. Peter’s sings traditional evensong services and provides an opportunity for highly
2015: Winter, Spring and Beyond
skilled and responsible musicians to participate with a high standard of performance and a minimum of rehearsal time. Choristers receive music for upcoming services two weeks in advance. It is then their responsibility to learn the music. On the day of the service, there is a two-hour rehearsal at which the ensemble comes together to polish the music. The evensong service follows at 5:00 pm. This project is designed for those whose schedule will allow them to participate in only one or two of the services. It is our hope that singers will enjoy themselves and return as often as possible To schedule an interview/audition, contact Director of Music and Organist Ben Outen, at bouten@st-peters.org.
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Life at St. Peter’s
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enter City Concerts at St. Peter’s (CCCSP) offered its first concert in October of 2013 as part of a concert series partnership with Music at St. Alban’s in Davidson, North Carolina. In July of 2014, CCCSP was incorporated as a non-profit organization established to offer a broad range of musical concerts for the community’s enrichment, education, and enjoyment. Most concerts of its nine-month season are performed at noon on the third Mondays of the month; some concerts are scheduled for Sunday afternoons and weeknights. A variety of music lovers attend performances because a diverse repertoire of excellent music is offered throughout each season. The 2014-2015 season schedule appears in the guide or at www.centercityconcerts.org. Donations to support these “free” concerts are appreciated.
Membership at St. Peter’s
St. Peter’s strives to be a place of radical welcome and hospitality. We are constantly welcoming newcomers among us and finding ways to weave them into our vibrant community life. We host quarterly Newcomers’ Luncheons where you can learn more about the mission and ministries of St. Peter’s. Also, each Fall we hold a Inquirer’s / Confirmation class to provide you with additional resources for living into the Anglican path of Christianity. We encourage those who worship with us regularly to become baptized and/or confirmed members in order to participate fully in the spiritual life at St. Peter’s. To learn more about baptism, membership, or confirmation contact Mary Virginia Woodall, Director of Membership Development (mvwoodall@st-peters.org)
Staff
Laurie Haynes Burlington Director of Children’s Formation (part-time) lburlington@st-peters.org • 704-749-6155
Leigh Dixon Parish Administrator
ldixon@st-peters.org • 704-749-6142
Joy Floyd After-hours Receptionist
(part-time) receptionist@st-peters.org • 704-332-7746
Lyn Holt Director of Youth Formation lholt@st-peters.org • 704-749-6148
Anna Hurdle Sunday Catechesis Coordinator (Children)
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he Choir School at St. Peter’s is an auditioned community choir with a mission to enrich young lives through excellent, rigorous music education and choral performance. Founded in 1993 by Artistic Director Ben Outen and Managing Director Kay Johnson, the school has grown to include five choirs and serves dozens of talented young people between the ages of seven and 18 each year. The school offers choristers a remarkable foundation of vocal skills, musicianship, language and poise. It also offers them the opportunity to develop practical skills like teamwork, self-discipline and leadership. Choristers come from every background and diverse neighborhoods and represent more than 30 zip codes. They attend public, charter, private and home schools. Some come from families native to Charlotte and some from families new to the United States. What they hold in common are talent, commitment and a love of singing. The Choir School’s distinguished alumni include organists, composers, choirmasters and performers as well as educators, therapists, business and nonprofit professionals, scholars, and volunteer leaders. The choirs perform in concert at St. Peter’s and throughout Charlotte, as well as with partner arts organizations that include Opera Carolina and Charlotte Symphony Orchestra. They travel each summer, performing for audiences throughout the Southeast United States. Every four years the MasterSingers travel to Europe to perform. The choirs also offer sacred music during worship at St. Peter’s. To arrange an audition, please contact Kay Johnson at 704-749-6146.
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(part-time) ahurdle@st-peters.org • 704-749-6156
Kay Johnson
Managing Director, The Choir School at St. Peter’s kjohnson@st-peters.org • 704-749-6146
Elizabeth Lenti
Assistant Organist and Choirmaster Assistant Director, The Choir School at St. Peter’s elenti@st-peters.org • 704-749-6147
Dishawn Muldrow After-hours Receptionist
(part-time) receptionist@st-peters.org • 704-332-7746
Kevin Nunnery Facilities
knunnery@st-peters.org • 704-749-6155
Ben Outen Director of Music and Organist
Founding Director, The Choir School at St. Peter’s bouten@st-peters.org • 704-749-6145
The Reverend Ollie V. Rencher Rector
orencher@st-peters.org • 704-749-6141
The Reverend Joslyn Ogden Schaefer Associate Rector jschaefer@st-peters.org • 704-749-6150
The Reverend L. Murdock Smith, PhD Assisting Priest (retired) msmith@st-peters.org • 704-749-6141
The Reverend Jonathan E. Soyars Assisting Priest
(non-stipendiary) jsoyars@st-peters.org • 704-749-6141
Mary Virginia Woodall Director of Ministry Development mvwoodall@st-peters.org • 704-749-6151
Volunteer Receptionists
Bob Atkins, Nick Burnett, Tina Coelho, Sue Coonen, Kathy Cress, Diana Gibbs, Phyllis Ferguson, Carolyn Fitzgerald, Kitty Hughes, Pat Markel, Hulene McLean, Toni Moore, Kathleen Mundle, Nancy Sarazen.
The Vestry (Lay Leadership Council)
Class of 2015: Sam Bowles, Mark Boyd, Sam Gardner, Amy Dillon King — Class of 2016: Des Keller, Dave Lavoie, Nelda Leon, Irma Hoffman — Class of 2017: Candace Armstrong, Abigail Cudabac, Paul Keller, Kristine Reid
2015: Winter, Spring and Beyond
Life at St. Peter’s
January – August 2015 Schedule of Events Date
Time
Event
January 3
7:00 pm
Parents of Young Children Social (Parishioner’s Home)
January 6
7:00 pm
Feast of the Epiphany: Holy Eucharist
January 11
noon
St. Peter’s Community Garden Seed-Starting Event (Parish Hall)
January 11
5:00 pm
Evensong: Evensong Choir
January 19
noon
Center City Concert: A Multicultural Celebration
January 25
5:00 pm
Evensong: St. Peter’s Choir and MasterSingers (Organ Recital 4:30)
January 25
7:00 pm
Outreach and Social Justice Soup Celebration
February 8
5:00 pm
Evensong: Girls Tour Choir
February 16
noon
Center City Concert: A. W. Duo with Eun Sun Lee
February 17
6:00 pm
Shrove Tuesday Festival
February 18
7:00 am, noon, 5:00 pm, 7:00 pm
Ash Wednesday
February 21
8:30 – 12:30 pm
Episcopal Church Women’s Retreat
February 21
6:00 pm
The Serenade: The Choir School at St. Peter’s Fundraiser (Mint Museum)
February 22
8:00 am, 10:45 am, 6:15 pm
First Sunday of Lent: The Great Litany
February 22
5:00 pm
Evensong: Evensong Choir
March 6
5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
God’s Tapestry: A Lenten Weekend of Reconciliation
March 7
8:30 am – 3:00 pm
God’s Tapestry: A Lenten Weekend of Reconciliation
March 8
5:00 pm
Evensong: Master Singers
March 14
10:30 am
St. Patrick’s Day Parade Viewing
March 15
4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Parents of Youth Social (Parishioner’s Home)
March 16
noon, 7:30 pm
Center City Concert: Organist Marilyn Keiser in Recital
March 22
5:00 pm
Evensong: Last Monthly Evensong until September 2015
March 29
8:00 am, 10:45 am, 6:15 pm
Sunday of the Passion: Palm Sunday
March 29
5:00 pm
Community Agape Meal
April 2
noon, 7:00 pm
Maundy Thursday
April 3
noon – 3:00 pm
Good Friday Liturgy with Meditations and Music
April 3
4:00 pm
Stations of the Cross for Children
April 4
8:00 pm
The Great Vigil of Easter
April 5
7:00 am, 9:00 am, 11:00 am, 6:15 pm
The Sunday of The Resurrection: Easter Day
April 6 - 9
all day
Parish Offices Closed
April 12
noon
High Sunday Brunch
April 18
6:00 pm
Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction to Support the Youth Pilgrimage
April 20
noon
Center City Concert: The Timeline Jazz Quartet
April 20 - 24
St. Peter’s hosts April 22 evening
National Workshop on Christian Unity (Citywide)
May 8 - 9
7:30 pm
The Choir School at St. Peter’s Spring Concerts
May 18
noon
Center City Concert: Ensemble Vermillian
May 24
8:00 am, 10:45 am, 6:15 pm
The Day of Pentecost: Whitsunday
May 24
9:30 am
Pentecost Celebration and Last Day of Spring Formation
May 24
noon
Parish Picnic on Pentecost Sunday
August 3 - 7
9:00 am – noon
Vacation Bible School
August 21 - 23
5:00 pm Friday to 1:00 pm Sunday
Parish Retreat at Kanuga Conference Center
April 13 - 15
National Workshop on Christian Unity
www.st-peters.org 2015: Winter, Spring and Beyond
11
Life at St. Peter’s
NON-PROFIT U.S. Postage PAID Charlotte, NC Permit No. 960
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church A parish in the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina 115 West Seventh Street Charlotte, North Carolina 28202 704-332-7746 www.st-peters.org
Life at St. Peter’s Programs and Events at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Center City Charlotte 2015 Winter, Spring and Beyond
T
he seal of St. Peter’s was designed by parishioner Rob Smith. Based on Matthew 16:16–19, the Latin words “Tu es Petrus et super hanc petram ædificabo ecclesiam meam” reflect the words of Jesus to Peter: “You are Peter and upon this rock I will build my church.” The two keys symbolize more of Jesus’ words: “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven.” “1834” signifies the year in which St. Peter’s was organized for worship before recognition as a parish church in the Diocese of North Carolina in 1844 and as the first Episcopal Church in Charlotte. To learn more about the rich history of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, go to our website, www.st-peters.org.