May 2026

The Steeple May-July 2026

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity 208 Eustis Avenue Huntsville, AL 35801 www.nativity-hsv.org

Clergy The Reverend Michael Goldsmith Rector mgoldsmith@nativity-hsv.org The Reverend Melissa M. Hartley, PhD Priest Associate mhartley@nativity-hsv.org The Reverend Rosie Veal Eby Priest Associate rvealeby@nativity-hsv.org The Reverend Deacon Bob Serio, MD Deacon bserio@nativity-hsv.org

Staff Directory Kayela Allen- Director of Parish Engagement kallen@nativity-hsv.org

Veronica Love- Weekend Sexton

Aaron Tan, PhD-Director of Music Madeleine Bell-Colpack- Director of Youth Ministries atan@nativity-hsv.org mbellcolpack@nativity-hsv.org Lane Tutt- Groundskeeper ltutt@nativity-hsv.org Amy Brooks- Director of Communications abrooks@nativity-hsv.org Keke Warren- Nursery Manager Emily Cantrell- Director of Christian Formation Marlin Wilder- Assistant Facilities Manager ecantrell@nativity-hsv.org Austin Cook- Director of Finance acook@nativity-hsv.org Jabbar Jasper- Facilities Manager jjasper@nativity-hsv.org Rachael Samples- Worship Coordinator rsamples@nativity-hsv.org Sally Stockton- Director of Kitchen Ministries

Easter at Nativity

Click HERE to sign up to help or drop off food!

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

Our Becoming One Body Accessibility Project continues to be on budget and on schedule!

Fite Building Company and Matheny Goldmon Architects and Interiors remain in constant communication as we make steady progress.

Walls are up and painted in the Choir area, all plumbing has been roughed in, and the electricians are hard at work wiring for our updated fire protection system.

If you have been in Ridley Hall recently you have seen the exciting changes being made there as well.

We can also celebrate that $40,000 in new gifts have been made to the campaign in the past two weeks as we continue to close the $1 million gap between current pledges and projected cost.

We have secured our construction loan but hope to borrow as little as possible.

Thank you for your continuing generosity, patience, and love for your church as we grow closer to our goal of making ALL of Nativity accessible to ALL people ALL to the Glory of God!

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

Music Music of the Past and Music of the Future The month of May is great time to reflect on joys of the past year and also to look forward to the long summer months ahead. Our church community has been blessed with a plethora of sacred music this past year: • Weekly choral music sung by our dedicated Chancel Choir • Reestablishment of the Nativity Chorister program • An organ crawl in February for our ECY youth • The formation of a new Parish Choir for our 8:45am service • Monthly Choral Evensong and Compline services • Our choral-orchestral-organ concert in March, “Verleih uns Frieden” • Looking ahead, we can all look forward to many more opportunities for beauty and joy through music this summer: • Sunday, May 17 — The Nativity Choristers sing their own Choral Evensong • Sunday, May 24, 12:15pm (Bibb Chapel) — Nativity music students perform a recital to showcase their work on piano, organ, voice, and harp this year • Thursdays at 5:15pm — Market Music mini-recitals during Greene Street Market, inside Nativity at 5:15pm • Sundays in June and July — our Cursillo band returns to lead 8:45am worship • June 29–July 1 — Nativity offers a Chorister Summer Camp (runs 9am-2pm each day, with a closing Evensong on July 1 at 6pm) in collaboration with St. Thomas Episcopal Church and Holy Spirit Catholic Church! All events will take place at St. Thomas Episcopal Church (Bailey Cove).

• Sunday, August 9 — our Nativity Choristers have been invited to sing the national anthem at the Trash Panda game!

If you enjoy singing, consider participating in the Chancel Choir for 11am services during the summer! There is no Wednesday rehearsal, and the choir simply meets on Sundays at 10am to quickly prepare music for that service.

They are a friendly and welcoming group and would love more voices to join them!

For more information on any of the above musical activities, or to subscribe to our Nativity music mailing list, contact Aaron Tan, atan@nativity-hsv.org.

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

NATIVITY MUSIC RECITAL Support our talented Nativity Choristers and students as they perform solo music for piano, voice, organ & harp!

Sun May 24, 12:15pm Bibb Chapel duration: about 20 minutes

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

CHORISTER

SUMMER CAMP June 29–July 1, 2026

Compline

In Eastertide

RS. 600

For rising 3rd to 9th graders 3 days (9am-2pm) of musical activities, community building, and fun!

A Choral Evensong concludes the camp

REGISTRATION

All activities will be held at St. Thomas Episcopal Church 12200 Bailey Cove Road A partnership between Church of the Nativity St. Thomas Episcopal Church Holy Spirit Catholic Church

REGISTRATION: tinyurl.com/ChoristerCamp2026 More info: Aaron Tan, atan@nativity-hsv.org

FREE

A Chorister’s Evensong Sunday, May 17, 2026 4:30pm organ recital 5:00pm service

Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 8pm This spring’s final meditative service of night prayer sung by the Nativity Schola, featuring music of Peter Philips and Thomas Tallis.

, et k r Ma f, sic! e h of u p t ool e m o Sh c som joy en

N Im ew m pr us ov ic isa ev t ta ion ery w ke re n! qu eek es ! ts

with Aaron Tan

20-MINUTE MINI-RECITALS AT CHURCH OF THE NATIVITY

The Nativity Choristers sing this spring’s final Choral Evensong. The service is preceded by an organ recital by Aaron Tan with music of J. S. Bach.

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity, Huntsville www.nativity-hsv.org/music

THURSDAYS AT 5:15 PM May 7—Oct 29 presented by presented by

GREENE STREET MARKET www.greenestreetmarket.com

& CHURCH OF THE NATIVITY www.nativity-hsv.org/music

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

Youth and Children Youth Summer Outreach

mural at second mile

Nativity EYC

YOUTH POOL PARTY July 15th Mountain Springs Pool @ 7:30-9:30pm Questions?

Call/text Madi

@ 205-704-7403

Can't wait to see you there!

Work Days:

Join us to help spruce up the community garden at June 8 & 9 Second Mile this summer!

June 11 & 12 We will be painting a mural June 25, 26, & 27 designed by our own, Diana Sommer!

June 29 & 30

Nativity wants to send your children & youth

Click HERE for Camp Letter Form!

Fill out the form with your camper’s information & Nativity will send them a letter this summer!

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

NATIVITY’S

YOUTH SUNDAY WORSHIP NEEDS:

2 LECTORS @ 8:45AM 1 INTERCESSOR @ 8:45AM 1 CHALICE BEARER @ 8:45AM 2 USHERS @ 8:45AM 6 ACOLYTES @ 8:45AM 2 LECTORS @ 11AM 1 INTERCESSOR @ 11AM 1 CHALICE BEARER @ 11AM 2 USHERS @ 11AM 6 ACOLYTES @ 11AM SENIOR ACOLYTES @ 11AM

SIGN UPS OPEN NOW Click HERE to sign up!

MAY

17 YOUTH AGES 16 & OLDER

BLESSING OF THE CAR KEYS All youth drivers are invited to bring their keys to service to be blessed and to receive a special keychain.

AUGUST 16th, 2026

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

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Oh the Pastabilities!

Our youth at Nativity are amazing. What started out a few years ago as throw-away rhetorical questions has grown into over a dozen topics for study most shy away from. Our youth do not. They dive headlong into topics such as “did I choose God or did God choose me?”, “What is Hell and why does it matter?”, If aliens are real, did Jesus die for them too?”. This is just a small sample of the topics we have covered in “Oh the Pastablilities.” We start simple enough, cook a cheap, easy meal together and then sit down for an hour or hour and a half and discuss. Talk through their thoughts, doubts, questions, and sometimes general bewilderment.

The class is meant to mirror C.S. Lewis’s great hall of doorways from the preface to “Mere Christianity.” “But it is in the rooms, not in the hall, that there are fires and chairs and meals.” Around the table, the discussion is always lively, and our youth never fail to surprise with the topics they bring. This year, what started as “do God and dinosaurs go together?” turned into a discussion of God’s role in the simulation if simulation theory is correct. What seems silly and lighthearted becomes something altogether different. The youth are discovering what their role is in this world, what God’s role is, how their faith is structured around what we know, and, perhaps, around what we don’t know. Their curiosity is central to the conversation.

Disagreements abound, but we always return to one of our central tenants of Pastabilities: “When you have reached your own room, be kind to those who have chosen different doors and to those who are still in the hall. If they are wrong they need your prayers all the more; and if they are your enemies, then you are under orders to pray for them. That is one of the rules common to whole house.” Myself and our youth director, Madi, invite all of you to continue the conversation throughout the year, and we look forward to exploring all of the “pastabilities” for years to come.

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

Seniors 2026 Ava Allen is looking forward to attending Auburn University in the fall. My favorite memory at Nativity is playing grog at youth group!

Austill Baker will be going to Princeton University to study Chemical and Biological Engineering! Some of her favorite Nativity memories are VBS, the rafting trip, lemonade in the shade, and youth breakfast club.

JR Faherty plans to attend Calhoun Community College after graduation, where he will major in Systems Engineering Technology, while also studying music. He hopes to continue his education by pursuing a four-year dual degree in Computer Science and Music. In the future, JR aspires to develop video games independently and compose the musical scores that bring them to life. My favorite Nativity memory is the time we tried baking without using our hands in EYC.

After graduation, Lily Cantey will be attending Penn State University and majoring in Aerospace Engineering. Her favorite Nativity memory is making hot cocoa in the kitchen before Sunday school

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

Ralph Hornsby says Nativity has been a meaningful part of his life and he is excited to attend Sewanee, the University of the South in the fall!

Will Knight will be attending the University of Alabama in the fall. He will be majoring in mechanical engineering.

Will's favorite memories of growing up at Nativity include Sunday School on Angel Lane and EYC ski trips. His time at Camp McDowell also ranks high on his list!

Anne Louise Wilson will be attending the University of Tennessee, majoring in kinesiology! Her plan is to then go to physical therapy school to be a physical therapist! Her favorite Nativity memory is going on the rafting trip and Little Debbie store!

Volunteer Workday

Club 56 Spring outing!

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

Vacation Bible School Children are gift, plain and simple. Across cultures and times in history, something most humans can agree on is that there is something particularly precious about children. Church of the Nativity is no exception to this. Whether it's a fist bump from Father Michael during the processional, baking bread with Mrs. Emily during Communion class, or enjoying a Sunday school lesson with one of the many caring and generous volunteers, children are being cherished at Nativity.

It's this culture of love that influenced this year's VBS. Playing off the theme of a carnival, the phrase, ‘Come One Come All' has become our VBS anthem. Each day has an overarching one word theme; love, integrity, and peace.

Our hope is two fold: 1) to remind Nativity's youngest members that they themselves are loved, right where they are, just as they are and 2) that they will extend this belovedness and belonging to others. Old stories will be told with new perspectives. Through the tale of Jonah and his reluctant trip to Nineveh we will remind our kids that God’s love is for everyone. Remembering Daniel’s commitment to integrity we will encourage children to stand up for what they believe is good. And as we recall Jesus calming the storm, children will have the chance to explore big feelings and remember that God’s peace is with them wherever they go. In a world where so much can feel upside down Nativity strives to be a place where everyone can experience Divine love and peace, right where they are, just as they are. So come one come all! God’s love is for everyone!

Article by Melissa Robinson

Sign up for the weekly Children's Newsletter HERE. Sign up for the weekly Youth and Parent email HERE. Sign up for the Club 56 email HERE. Questions about Children's Ministry? Contact Emily Cantrell ecantrell@nativity-hsv.org Questions about Youth Ministry? Contact Madeleine Bell-Colpack mbcolpack@nativity-hsv.org

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

Parish Engagement Our connection to the broader community is thriving. Greene Street Market is already off to a great start and will continue through the end of October, offering opportunities for fellowship and outreach. As summer unfolds, there will be many ways to get involved through volunteer opportunities with our community partners. These opportunities will be shared on our website and in upcoming newsletters.

Looking ahead, August will be a particularly vibrant month for parish and community engagement. We will gather for a Trash Pandas game, where the Choristers will perform the National Anthem and Nativity will have the honor of throwing out the first pitch. A ministry fair will also take place, showcasing the many ministries within Nativity and helping both new and existing parishioners find meaningful ways to connect and serve. The month will conclude with an extended Nativity Fest as we transition into the fall season.

In September, we will return to regular rhythms with children, youth, and adult formation classes, along with the opportunity to attend our Parish Weekend Retreat at Camp McDowell. This is just the beginning of what promises to be a fun, engaging, and spiritually enriching fall season.

We invite you to join us and be part of all that is happening at Nativity.

-Kayela Allen, Director of Engagement

Save the Dates

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

Cursillo Alabama Cursillo #240 will be held at Camp McDowell May 28-31. Nativity is well represented on this weekend with the following pilgrims and staff members: NATIVITY PILGRIMS: • David Nicely • Laura Nicely • Amanda Musselwhite Parker • Harris Parker NATIVITY STAFF MEMBERS: • Michael Shipley (Head Cha) • Tom Lydon • The Rev. Bob Serio (Spiritual Director) • Peggy Serio • Shari Williams If you are interested in attending a future Cursillo weekend, please contact David or Debbie Collette.

Upcoming dates include: • October 8-11, 2026 (final opportunity in 2026!)

• April 8-11, 2027 • September 16-19, 2027 • November 4-7, 2027

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

Membership Since the beginning of the year, Nativity has experienced exciting growth and renewed energy within the parish community. Since January 1, we have welcomed 27 new members and continue to see a steady stream of visitors each month. One of Nativity’s greatest strengths is its ability to make everyone who walks through its doors feel genuinely welcomed, at home, and part of something meaningful. This s trong sense of belonging reflects the love of Jesus, which shines through our parishioners, while our clergy faithfully lead the way with compassion and guidance.

Meet a few of our "newest" members!

Clark Dingess

Hunter James Saxon

Ann Hillman Spano

ECW in May at the home of Mem Bryant 423 Eustis Avenue Adam Nolte

Margot Tieslau

Jackson Sabatier

Jeremiah Cornelius

Hannah Corker

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

Outreach The Episcopal Church of the Nativity will present Second Mile Development, the Greene Street Market 2026 grant recipient, with a $25,000 check to be used for the Second Mile Neighborhood Garden & Community Growing Program.

This new garden program provides healthy food to children and families, builds relationships among neighbors, creates economic opportunity for women, enhances the beauty and pride of the community, and offers a safe, welcoming space for connection.

Second Mile is a locally founded nonprofit 501 (c)3 corporation that serves the Terry Heights/ Hillendale community and beyond through four programs: Pride for Parents, The 29:11 Story, Second Mile Preschool, The Neighborhood Thrift Store, and Parent Initiative The Greene Street Market is a 501(c)3 organization, managed entirely by volunteers. Over $350,000 has been donated to organizations in need in the Huntsville community.

Event Details: Thursday, May 7th at 3pm The Greene Street Market 208 Eustis Avenue Huntsville, Alabama 35801

Farmers’ Market Artisan Alley and

Church of the Nativity

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The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

Pilgrimage Opportunity

Mother Rosie is in the starting phase of planning a Social Justice Pilgrimage to Washington DC. The trip is tentatively planned for March 8-12. The group would lodge at Virginia Theological Seminary, and the pilgrimage would be focused around visiting museums who focus on the history of the marginalized and oppressed.

There would be time for reflection as a group every evening, led by Mother Rosie. Please reach out with any questions. Below is the sample agenda: Tuesday March 9 AM National Museum of African American History and Culture PM Chinese American Museum Wednesday March 10 AM National Museum of the American Indian National Museum of Women in the Arts PM National Museum of American History Behring Center, LGBTQ+ exhibit Thursday March 11 AM United States Holocaust Memorial Museum PM National Cathedral Contact Mother Rosie for more information rvealeby@nativity-hsv.org.

Sleep in Heavenly Peace NO KID SLEEPS ON THE FLOOR IN OUR TOWN Come join us as we partner with St. Thomas and Sleep in Heavenly Peace to build beds for kids in our town who do not have a bed to sleep. This is the fourth year we have worked with SIHP to provide beds for kids in Madison County.

The build will take place August 23 (Sunday) from 2-4 pm at the SIHP warehouse 6000 Technology Dr. off Sparkman near UAH. We have several opportunities to help. We need volunteers to help build the bed (no tools or special skills required) and all supplies will be provided.

We need persons to buy bedding (Walmart has twin bedding sets for kids for about $35-40) and we will always accept cash donations (each bed costs about $250 to build-make donations to Church of the Nativity— bed build).

Please mark your calendar to join us with this worthwhile community effort.

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

First Stop Volunteer Appreciation Event May 19th 6-8pm 206 Stokes Street 35805

Volunteer Opportunities with Friends Inc. Since 1998, Friends Inc has provided transportation, friendly visits, errands, and support to people with disabilities, and those who are seriously ill in our community. Many of those we serve are also lonely and isolated, and our volunteers often become an important part of their lives, forming meaningful bonds and genuine friendships.

We are currently looking for caring volunteers to help in the following ways: Office assistance (help sorting our community closet) Special events (Mailings, Autumn Evening fundraiser) Friendly visits to those who are homebound Transportation to doctor appointments Errands and light assistance for people without family support Individuals interested in serving on the Friends, Inc. Board of Directors - contact Kim You can volunteer on your own schedule, even just a few hours a month can make a big difference.

We also welcome financial donations to help us continue providing these essential services.

If you’re interested in volunteering or donating, please contact us at: Phone: 256-534-4079 Email: Beth Haynes, Volunteer Coordinator, beth@friendsinc.net Email: Kim Houser, Executive Director, kim@friendsinc.net Thank you for considering being part of this important ministry. Your time and support truly changes lives!

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity 208 Eustis Avenue Huntsville, Alabama 35801

Click HERE for the March Vestry Minutes