Thenet summer 2013

The Episcopal Diocese of Southeast Florida

www.diosef.org

Vol. 44 No. 2

Renewal

Organ Pipes are Restored at Trinity Cathedral

ST. patricks centennial anniversary page 13

let’ s tal k!

Bishop Frade connects with two of the dioceses younger members

THE

NET

bishop frade travels to cuba! page 11

SUMMER 2013

check out our viewpoint page 4

Summer 2013

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THE NET Summer 2013 Issue On the Cover...

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ORGAN PIPES & FUNDING

Contents 3

Bishop’s Column

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Outreach & Funding

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Stewardship: Nehemiah Retreat

12 Youth 15

Parish Profile: Holy Comforter

Bishop Leo Frade visits with Jose Alfaro and Isabella Sandiño at Holy Cross, Miami over the summer. While at Holy Cross, Bishop Frade conducted several confirmations, and enjoyed time with the congregation. On July 28, 2013, Holy Cross held its last Eucharist celebration at the current location off of 36th Street and Biscayne Blvd. While a new location is being formed, services will be held at Church of the Resurrection, 11173 Griffing Blvd. in Biscayne Park.

Official Publication of the Episcopal Diocese of Southeast Florida The Rt. Rev. Leo Frade, D.D. Diocesan Bishop The Rt. Rev. Calvin O. Schofield, Jr. S.T.D., Retired Bishop The Rt. Rev. John L. Said Retired Bishop Suffragan

Communications

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Altoria E. White Director of Communications Editor, The Net

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Joe Thoma Production Management pspress.com

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The Net invites news of parish ministries and activities, as well as commentary on church-related issues and events. Whenever possible, all material should be submitted electronically.

Include with all material the name, address, phone number and if available, email address of the contributor. Parish affiliation is also requested, when applicable.

The Net reserves the right to refuse publication and to edit all contributions. Photographs should be high-resolution digital files or clear prints of film photographs, preferably on glossy paper. Do not send hard prints made from digital photographs. All material—letters, articles or photos—should be submitted electronically to: altoria@diosef.org or by mail to: Altoria E.White, Diocese of Southeast Florida, 525 N.E. 15th St., Miami, FL 33132-1411.

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DEADLINES 2013 - 2014

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BISHOP’S COLUMN

CATHOLIC BRIGHT RATHER THAN CATHOLIC LIGHT

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t was a member of our church, the comedian Robin Williams, that first referred to the Episcopal Church as Catholic Light in one of his comedy routines. He also used it during a funeral in San Francisco for his friend, the Pulitzer Prize winner Herb Caen, of all places.

“Catholic light,” he said, “all the religion but with only half the guilt!” I have heard it being used as a way to put down our faith inferring that we are inferior or imitative, like a facsimile of Roman Catholicism without actually being true Catholics.

Well, I don’t take it personally, after all as Robin Williams also said: “Angels have wings because they take themselves lightly.”

Regardless, I prefer to think of our Church as “Catholic bright” more than “Catholic light.”

Why do I say this? Well, let me start by mentioning Galileo. In 1633, it was declared “gravely suspect of heresy” for saying that planets orbit the sun and not the other way around as the church promulgated then. He was imprisoned at his home until his death. It may seem like harsh punishment but he fared much better than another scientist, Giordano Bruno, who claimed in 1600 that planets orbit the sun and that there were other planets besides the earth rotating around the sun. Unlike Galileo he was executed accused of heresy.

You could say that it was all in the past but not until 1882 the ban on Galileo’s Dialogue was lifted and it took 359 years for the Pope to say in 1992 that Galileo was right after all. I wonder if

it would have taken us that long to correct and admit our mistakes.

We live in a world where church and society have become so polarized that maybe it will be bright if we start applying a little bit of our Via Media in our daily discourse­—maybe even follow the advice of the good Queen Elizabeth I and begin to have no desire to make windows into men’s souls.

Sometimes our theological and political discussions from church and society have become and sound more like Russian Premier Nikita Khrushchev banging his shoe in protest during the 902 Plenary Meeting of the UN General Assembly.

I say “Catholic bright” because unlike others, we dare to see reason as a way to understand God’s revelation.

No, the world was not created during 6 twenty-four hour days. It took much longer than that regardless of some literalists claim.

Evolution is not the devil’s plan to destroy our faith in the Bible. Reason has helped us to understand that slavery, birth control, remarriage of divorce persons; ordination of women and the acceptance of all children of God regardless of race, ethnicity or sexual orientation are fine in God’s universe.

I want all of us to be proud of being Episcopalians not only for our Catholic tradition, our commitment to the Holy Bible, our beautiful liturgy but also because we dare to use our brains and insist on being Catholic Bright!

The Rt. Rev. Leo Frade Summer 2013

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VIEWPOINT

MINISTRY OF THE MISSION

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eace be with you. I’m Mark Sims and am the rector of St. Mary Magdalene Episcopal Church in Coral Springs, Florida. I would like to thank Bishop Frade for the opportunity to speak about ministry—specifically the ministry of mission work—in the Episcopal Diocese of Southeast Florida. One of Christ’s charges to us as followers of his word is to carry our work outside of our own doors and communities. Mission work allows us to do just that.

Let me be clear, mission work is not simply about going to some other community or country and teaching what we know about our faith for the benefit of others. More often than not, when we go outside our communities with an open heart and an open mind we discover that it is the very people we go to serve who actually end up teaching us. It is through our act of Christian social responsibility that we are able to better recognize the many faces of Christ in the world around us.

This is where the presence of Christ can be experienced in a very tangible way. Mission work can have an incredible impact not only on your own life, but also on the life of your entire parish community. Participation in mission work, whether as a traveling participant or as a supportive partner, can forever change the way your parish understands its place as a follower of Christ, and as disciples spreading the Good News in a very broken world.

Since we have adopted a ministry of mission at St. Mary Magdalene ten years ago, we have witnessed its profound impact on the spiritual depth of our community of faith.

It has changed the very fabric of our worship community

Rev. Mark Sims

in ways we could not have imagined. Nowhere has this impact been more evident than in the lives of our young people as they prepare to become both leaders in the church and in the community . . . *The above is text is a portion of Father Mark Sims’ video message on the diocesan website. To hear Fr. Mark’s message in its entirety, log on to www.diosef.org and click on VLogs. VLogs or Video Blogs, will be featured periodically on the diocesan website. This portion of the site will host video messages from our Bishop, Archdeacons, and clergy in the Diocese of Southeast Florida.

THE NET Grand processional

Members enjoy fellowship during the celebration

St. Paul’s Patronal Celebration

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By Adialyn Milien

n Sunday, June 30th, St. Paul et Les Martyrs d‘Haiti, Miami, celebrated their annual Patronal Feast with a standing room only crowd of at least 300 people. The Haitian congregation, which keeps growing, started the celebration the week prior with a week full of events, which showcased the new improvements to the church’s hall, baptisms, nightly worships and more. The week concluded with the big celebration on Sunday morning. St. Paul’s had the support of the diocese, along with their sister church La Trinidad, and delegations from Delray Beach, Naples, Broward and Palm Beach.

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Quarterly pre-pay discounted options are available, as well as per issue pricing.

Advertisements are currently being accepted for the Fall 2013 issue.

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OUTREACH & FUNDING

Episcopal Charities offering “Outreach Ministry: Development, Management & Fundraising” Certificate Program

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piscopal Charities has partnered with The Diocesan School for Christian Studies to offer a 16-session, one year certificate program for anyone involved with, or feeling called to participate in, congregational outreach ministries.

This soup-to-nuts program will offer professionals teaching the topics that will allow students to develop, implement, fund, and successfully maintain their basic human services programs. Courses will be taught by professional in the topic fields.

Classes meet on the school schedule — every other Saturday during the semester in the afternoon.

The full certificate cost is $125 per semester. Individual classes may be taken for $35 each. For more information, go to www.ecsefl.org, or please contact The Rev. Donna Dambrot at donna@ecsefl.org.

Save the Date: Saturday, September 21, 2013, Learn the Basics of Planned Giving and Capital Campaigns Episcopal Charities is pleased to host two workshops presented by The Episcopal Church Foundation on Saturday, September 21, 2013, at St. Philip’s, Miami.

Jim Murphy will present on The Basics of Planned Giving, and Terri Mathes will offer a session on Capital Campaign Basics. These are not to be missed! Details to follow.

A Gift from Episcopal Charities to Every Congregation Episcopal Charities is pleased to offer a gift of a TENS [The Episcopal Network for Stewardship] one-year Diocesan membership to all congregations. The membership is good through 2013, so take advantage of all the great resources available now! Clergy have been sent their user name and password – if you have not received it, please email Donna at donna@ecsefl.org.

Episcopal Charities Awards Three Small Grants to Outreach Programs in the Diocese Three programs were recent recipients of Episcopal Charities’ Small Grant program, which provides up to $1,000 in start-up or enhanced outreach program funding to congregations: • St. Faith’s, Cutler Bay, received funding for its additional food pantry community needs; • Church of the Ascension, Miami, received a grant to support its health programs for seniors and families; and • St. Steven’s, Coconut Grove, received support for its Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay and Transgender Families Education Program and Picnic.

Episcopal Charities is proud to support our program partners and their grace-filled ministries.

Session One - September 14, 2013 •What has called you to outreach ministry?

Session Two - September 28, 2013 •What was the discernment process in determining the outreach program chosen?

Sessions Three and Four - October 12, 2013 and October 26, 2013 •How do you create a program budget? What are the components of a program budget?

Session Five - November 2, 2013 •How do you develop and sustain a committed core of volunteers to serve your program?

Sessions Six and Seven - November 16, 2013 and December 7, 2013 •Does your outreach program use social media to get the word out about your program?

Session Eight - December 21, 2013 •How do you manage the “goods” needed for your program?

Session Nine - January 11, 2014 •How do you fund your outreach program?

Session Ten - January 25, 2014 •How do you write a grant application?

Session Eleven – February 8, 2014 •How do you sustain your outreach program and prepare for leadership succession?

Session Twelve and Thirteen - February 22, 2014 and March 8, 2014 •Stewardship Plan - Does your church currently have an ongoing stewardship plan?

Sessions Fourteen and Fifteen - March 22, 2014 and April 5, 2014 •Planned Giving - Does your church have a comprehensive planned giving program?

Session Sixteen - April 19, 2014 •Putting it all together - Evaluate your outreach program based on the components taught in prior sessions.

Summer 2013

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STEWARDSHIP

nehemiahRetreat

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“Designing the Future of Your Church”

By Altoria E. White

he Nehemiah Retreat was held at the Duncan Conference Center on April 24 – 25, 2013. The theme was “Designing the Desired Future of Your Church”, and it featured two dynamic days of dynamic presentations.

Presenters Marvin Dejean, Daniel Ledo, and Teresa Pasquale lead the group in discussions, which would benefit congregations continuing to move into the 21st century.

Marvin Dejean, who has led Nehemiah workshops before, featured several sessions about where do we ‘grow’ from here, specifically for the Episcopal Church. He stated the biggest challenge will be articulating the larger picture – specifically,

who we are in the future. Marvin also talked about social media. “(It) will open new possibilities for more churches to reach more people, but,” he warned, “you must remember that you

Daniel Ledo, one of the facilitators for the retreat, leads discussion about young adults.

are not the church for everybody.” In reference to churches embracing the future and the mainstream of social media, he said “People are overwhelmed.

They are really questioning, and they don’t know where to go, what to do, when to move, and the only point of reference they have is what they’ve always done. So to really bring in something new is a huge challenge, but it’s not impossible to do. The church has to do it.”

Marvin had the group of about 65 clergy and lay persons, get together in smaller groups

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and work on a vision and mission that encompassed several of the seven C’s of a powerful vision he spoke of in one of his presentations – clear, concrete, compelling, creative, consen-

Attendees worship during Eucharist, at the closing of the retreat.

sus, communicated and committed. “People are thinking about the future, but they haven’t put it in the context of how does that help move the needle of where the church needs to go,” said Dejean. The groups presented creative drawings and diagrams of what they feel as the future of the Episcopal Church.

The Reverend Horace Ward, Rector of Holy Family, in Miami, has been involved with Nehemiah since its inception 11 years ago. He has seen great progress since his involvement,

stating that every year the retreat allows him and the leaders at Holy Family to revisit and refocus the vision, mission and action steps of the parish.

church. Their presentation, “I am 20, I am 30 and I love the Church: Let Me Tell You Why.” Teresa wanted the attendees to know why she and Daniel were

“(Nehemiah) gives us a sense to look forward and provides the proper tools starting now.” “(Nehemiah) gives us a sense to look forward and provides the proper tools starting now. It helps us to continue to build on the foundation that past Nehemiah retreats have provided.”

Father Ward also spoke about the young adult aspect, and how that shapes what we do.

“The Young Adult (YA) Ministry is a critical aspect going forward into the future. The whole thing ties together between today and tomorrow and what happens in our congregations going forward.” Fr. Ward says the purpose of Nehemiah, in his opinion is to help us better understand and live the mission of Jesus Christ.

excited about their presentation and why they were there. “We want you, and all churches, to have a better understanding of what this demographic looks like, what their needs are, and help you to provide opportunities to engage them in their community in ways that are relevant to them.” All attendees seemed open to the information, and even welcomed the help, admitting challenges of engaging the young adult population in their church. To the point of tradition being of the utmost importance in the Episcopal Church, Daniel responded, “We have to adapt the beautiful traditions to fit the young

Group members Derrick Hankerson, and Rudy Esteva explain their poster to the attendees, after being given a reflection assignment.

Daniel Ledo and Teresa Pasquale led the discussion the next day about the integral role young adults have in the

adult population.” He also stated that the young adults don’t want to strip it away, agreeing that it was something that

drew him to the Episcopalian faith, but add to it. “The population should embrace the fact of change and that change is necessary to bring in that age group (young adults).”

Both Daniel and Teresa have been involved in the Diocese of Southeast Florida’s Young Adult Ministry, and are cochairs of the mission. Daniel, a member of St. Stephen’s in Co-

Deacon Marivel Milien and Malcolm Briggs prepare for the reading during Eucharist.

conut Grove serves on the vestry and is the Leadership Coordinator for the YA Ministry.

Teresa, a member of St. Paul’s in Delray Beach, is the Spiritual Formation Coordinator for the YA Ministry. Teresa has also just finished her first book, entitled Mending Broken, about the stages of trauma and recovery from stages of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. She is also the program organizer for SEEK{ers} worship service for 20-and 30-something spiritual seekers.

The spring retreat was a resounding success, and preparations are currently underway for the fall.

Summer 2013

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FEATURE STORY

Organ pipes are removed and prepared for restoration

ORGAN PIPES & FUNDING Helping Complete Cathedral Restoration

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alking into Trinity Cathedral this summer, you might assume that the nearly five-year restoration of the building is complete. The new marble floor of the chancel gleams; the jewel tones of the restored stained glass windows spread pools of color on the now-level floor of the nave; the chancel wall, the lectern, and the pulpit with its shell have returned, all repaired and repainted.

But two things are still missing: the additional $2M to finish paying for the ambitious resto8

THE NET - www.diosef.org

By Mary W. Cox ration and preservation project; and the 3,600 pipes of the E. M. Skinner organ.

First installed in the sanctuary during the cathedral’s construction in 1924, the organ was expanded in 1964, and a new console was added in 1970.

Over 87 years, wear, dust and water damage took their toll, leaving some pipes bent and cracked, and other parts of the organ mended with electrical tape.

In October 2011, contractors from R.A. Colby Organbuilders spent a week disassembling the instrument, and packed each

pipe, as well as other vital components of the organ, for shipping from Miami to Colby’s studio in Johnson City, Tenn.

In addition to repair and cleaning of the pipes, the restoration of the organ has included replacement of the keyboard, inspection and reassembling of the electrical system, and renovation of the wind-chests and bellows. Restoration of the echo chamber, damaged in Hurricane Andrew in 1992 and removed in 2001 for repairs, has also been part of this work.

Cathedral organist and music director Matthew Steynor

The Very Reverend Douglas McCaleb listens as Trinity Cathedral Director of Music and Organist Matthew Steynor plays a classic hymn in the midst of the restoration process.

said that he’d hoped to have all the pipes reinstalled by September, but the complex repairs have taken longer than anticipated and Colby’s target date is now later in the fall. Steynor added that Colby has assured him that the pipes will all be back in place by the end of the year.

“It takes a bit longer to reinstall than to take down,” he said. “Like a Christmas tree.”

The organist is eagerly anticipating the return of the pipes.

Since October 2011, he has been playing an instrument that he calls “a synthesizer,” instead of “a living, breathing thing.”

He recalled a quotation from a sermon by the Rev. Andrew C. Mead, rector of St. Thomas, Fifth Avenue, in New York City: “A real organ is a wind instrument—a pipe organ has a soul, or certainly a spirit, a wind that passes through and is its life.”

But the organist is thankful for what the electronic instrument is able to do. In the absence of the pipes, he has played for

regular Sunday worship, two Thanksgivings, two Christmases, two Holy Weeks, two Easters and two diocesan conventions, as well as weddings, funerals and ordinations; and he has also

“A real organ is a wind instrument”

100,000 parts of the organ to be tweaked and tuned. Then in early spring 2014 there will be a series of rededication concerts, for which Steynor plans to invite internationally known artists to perform.

The total cost for the restoration of the organ, including reinstallation of the echo chamber, is estimated at $460,000.

As of June 2013, approximately $145,962 had been collected by Friends of Trinity Cathedral for this part of the restoration project. Members of the diocesan family can “buy” an organ pipe for $200—or sponsor a half-rank of pipes for $5,000 or a full rank for $10,000. All contributors will be recognized during an organ rededication service and will be named on the permanent organ restoration memorial.

An envelope for donations toward the restoration of our diocesan cathedral is enclosed with this issue of The Net. Donations may also be made online at www.trinitymiami.org.

The Very Reverend McCaleb and Matthew Steynor proudly stand in the sanctuary showcasing a few of the pipes restored.

given several recitals and has accompanied concerts by the Anglican Chorale and other choirs.

Many people hearing the organ may not have noticed a difference, he said, though “We had one bride who was very upset that the pipes weren’t there.”

After the pipes are reinstalled, it will take some time— “a teething period,” Steynor called it—for the more than Summer 2013

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GROWING MORE THAN JUST FOOD The Urban League Partners with Intercession

By Steve Kantner

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n a repeat of last year’s “ground-breaking” program, at-risk teens are now learning to garden while expunging their minor criminal records. It’s part of Black History Boot Camp, where 30 students of various racial origins are currently attending the bi-weekly sessions at Intercession parish in Fort Lauderdale. According to Sherrie Barnes, criminal defense attorney for the Office of Regional Conflict Counsel, who pioneered the Boot Camp, “We got the idea that by exposing at-risk teenagers to certain areas of interest, we would broaden their horizons. Then they, in turn, will become more polished and self-assured. So far, it’s working.”

Included in the course are healthy eating, home-grown food, and an introduction to botany. The emphasis, not surprisingly, is on avoiding contaminants that may later prove harmful—a concern for all of us. Steve Kantner, gar-

den co-manger and Leadership Team member who helps teach the course, said “What we’re teaching these kids is to know what you’re eating, whether you grow it yourself or pay someone else to do it— meaning at a market. What originally surprised me is how these kids ‘get it.’”

JoAnn Smith, Florida Master Gardener and garden co-manager, believes that more than just veggies grow from the soil, or as she likes to put it, “The kids work together towards a common goal that, especially in summer, requires planning. They learn patience, along with organization— qualities they’ll nurture throughout their lives.”

Already snug in the ground are okra and squash seeds. In the words of Valarie Adebayo, a Leadership Team member who assists at these sessions: “We’re planning to cook gumbo on the last day of class. Hopefully, it leaves a lasting impression.”

Intercession Garden Project

Breaking Bread & Continuing Tradition By Altoria E. White

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The Reverend Hap Warren, one of the coordinators of the event, and Mrs. Elaine Schofield, wife of retired Diocesan Bishop The Rt. Rev. Calvin Schofield, Jr. pause for a photo.

Mrs. Nadine Griffith and Lynn Libby were also in attendance at the luncheon.

It is a time for renewal of friendships and fellowship.

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he annual Retired Clergy Luncheon continued in tradition on Thursday, May 16, 2013, at the Duncan Center in Delray Beach. Diocese of Southeast Florida retired clergy and their spouses gathered to reconnect, fellowship, and enjoy lunch in the Bethesda Refectory. All were happy to be a part of the afternoon, as a few retired clergy only see each other annually at this celebration. Retired Bishop the Right Reverend John Said, and the Right Reverend Calvin Schofield were in attendance with their wives, along with Diocesan Bishop The Right Reverend Leo Frade, and his wife Diana. The Reverend Hap Warren presented noteworthy information to the clergy, and all welcomed the update. However, everyone was just happy to be in the company of other retired clergy members.

The luncheon is sponsored by Bishop Leo Frade and coordinated with the help of Bishop Schofield and the Reverend Hap Warren. Diocesan Coordinator Gail McShane and the Bishop’s Assistant Jackie Fernandez also assisted in making the event a success. We look forward to next year!

Travels

BISHOP’S TRAVELS

Bishop Frade with DIOSEF Community for Renewed Faith

Written by Altoria E. White

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his is not the first pilgrimage, nor will it be the last for Bishop Leo Frade and his wife, Diana Frade as they continue their travels around the world, specifically two countries over the next six months. The Diocesan Bishop will be traveling to Cuba in November and, the Holy Land in January 2014. “The purpose of these travels,” states Bishop Frade, “is to provide an in depth experience and a revitalization of energy for the people of the Diocese of Southeast Florida. Both areas are places where the church has flourished under difficult conditions, particularly adverse government, but the transition has taken some time.

Cuba was an atheist state for over 20 years and religion was not encouraged. Many obstacles were put in the way of people wanting to learn more about their religion and

Bishop Leo Frade and his wife Diana walk through the streets of the Holy Land.

wanting to praise their Lord and Savior. Times have changed, and religion is not only tolerated but encouraged, although some may still have reservations. People have continued to persevere in faith, but sadly, many have left due to lack of religious freedom. Even knowing

Church of San Francisco de Asis in Old Havana. One of the many sites on the trip.

all of this, Bishop Frade and Diana are still committed to bringing people to see the changes and how the church has continued to flourish regardless of the obstacles. “This is a great way for our brothers and sisters to reach out to others on the island and provide spiritual support for them and their families.”

Just as in Cuba, our friends overseas have also faced many obstacles in living their faith daily.

Over in the Holy Land, most have been intimidated by the Muslim majority, especially by extremists.

The Holy Land pilgrimage will last 12 days from Israel to Palestine, and includes tours of some of the most historic places on earth.

“It’s exciting to walk in the same places where Jesus walked,” Bishop Frade said. Diana added, “It allows you to read the bible with new eyes. You can identify places that you’ve read about…it really brings the bible to life.” This trip provides an “all access” pass to go everywhere from Jerusalem to Jericho. Daily tours will be provided by the Christian organization, Guiding Star, which specializes in

handling large Christian groups from around the world.

“If we don’t go, we will loose our roots,” comments Diana. Bishop Frade agrees and wants those traveling with him to “renew their strength and faith, and feel proud of their Episcopal heritage, and know the church is still alive.”

Both Bishop Frade and Diana Frade will lead the trips to Cuba and the Holy Land, and be present at all times. If you are interested in learning more about either pilgrimage, visit Bishop Frade’s website: www.bishopfrade.com, or email him at bishopfrade@aol.com.

CUBA November 27 - December 2, 2013 $2,966 - Double (Single available) Full payment due

by September 2, 2013 HOLY LAND January 28 - February 8, 2014 $4,195 - Double (Single available) Full Payment due

by October 15, 2013 *Log on to the website for specific itinerary, payments, and travel information Summer 2013

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YOUTH

Diocesan Acolyte Festival 2013

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By Altoria E. White

aturday, April 27 was a truly special day for the acolytes of the Diocese of Southeast Florida to convene at Trinity Cathedral in Miami. The Diocesan Acolyte Festival is an annual event in this diocese, which has been going on for many, many years. All deaneries gathered to fellowship with acolytes from around the diocese, and catch

Acolytes process into Trinity Cathedral as the 2013 celebration begins.

up on the happenings over the past year. The theme for this year’s festival was “Acolytes and the Bible Challenge.”

One of the hallmarks of the festival is the parade down 15th street into the front doors of Trinity Cathedral. Many, who attend every year, say this is their most favorite part of the entire festival. Eva Ortez, Vice President of the Youth Commission, and co-coordinator of the events, enjoys seeing people’s reaction to the parade. “I think it’s a lot of fun.

It’s nice to see people from the outside seeing all the acolytes and the band going through the streets. The acolytes also feel important, being a part of a big, diocesan-wide processional and walking through the streets of Miami.”

Led by a band and Bishop Leo Frade, the processional allows each acolyte to walk proudly through the streets of Miami, in their vestments, carrying crosses, candles, flags, and incense.

At this year’s festival, several acolytes were commended on their service to the church over the past year. The Bishop asked each parish participating in the festival to nominate one acolyte to be recognized by the diocese for their outstanding dedication and commitment to serving around the Lord’s Table. The awardees received the Honored Acolyte Award, along with a certificate, signed by the Bishop, and a meaningful lapel acolyte pin. Congratulations to all of the awardees.

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The day concluded with workshops, lunch, and musical performances by G-Quinn and 40 Days.

To view all photos and video clips from the 2013 Diocesan Acolyte Festival, log on to http://tinyurl.com/l68hnne.

We Have an EYE on Roger!

I am very excited and blessed to have this opportunity to represent the diocese in the EYE (Episcopal Youth Event) 2014 mission planning team. I want to thank God for allowing me to be part of this life-changing event that is going to take place about a year from now. I am very excited for what the future holds for this event and I’m just glad to be part of this new team, or family, that I have adopted. I remember receiving the email that said I had made it to the team and screaming “yes!” in the middle of class. Overall, I want to thank God for putting my church and this diocese in my path so that I may keep growing in my faith and spreading Jesus’ love throughout the youth of the Episcopal Church and beyond. *Roger Villatoro is a member of Holy Cross, Miami, and has been selected to serve on the national planning team for the Episcopal Youth Event (EYE) in 2014. Roger is one of just 14 chosen from across the country.

Kathy Walker, Reverend Horace Ward, and The Venerable J. Fritz Bazin share with the congregation.

The Right Reverend Leo Frade leads the Holy Eucharist with a packed house at Holy Family, Miami Gardens.

St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church Celebrates its Centennial Anniversary

By Altoria E. White

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t. Patrick’s in West Palm Beach celebrated its Centennial on March 13, 2013 (Founders Day) and its 100th Patronal Festival on Sunday, March 17, 2013 (St. Patrick’s Day).

The chief celebrant on March 13th was the Right Reverend Calvin Schofield (Retired Bishop of the Diocese of Southeast Florida). The guest preacher, the Reverend Canon Dr. Richard L. Marquess-Barry, formerly of The Historic St. Agnes Church, Miami, shared the rich history of St. Patrick’s with the congregation.

As a fitting prelude, The Avenue “D” Children’s choir of Fort Pierce, comprised of girls and boys of varying ages gave a scintillating performance of religious songs. This was indeed one of the highlights of this memorable occasion.

On March 17th, the Suffragan Bishop of Ohio Diocese (retired), the Right Rev. Arthur B. Williams was the chief celebrant. Other co-celebrants were the Rev. Canon Howarth Lewis, Jr., (Deacon, Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, West Palm Beach), Rev. Kate E. Kelderman (Associate for Ministry Development, Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the Sea, Palm Beach) and the

Rev. Canon Winston B. Joseph, Rector. Special musical treats included a stirring rendition of “The Right Hand of God” by the St. Patrick’s Choir, and guest soloist was Jarvis Ramil, of the Dreyfoos School of the Arts, sang the “Ave Maria” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

Retired Diocesan Bishop the Right Reverend Calvin Schofield leads Eucharist at the centennial anniversary.

Everyone truly enjoyed both events. The most noteworthy of both events was simply the time spent together. We can’t wait to see what the next 100 years has in store!

My Brother’s Keeper

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By Kathleen Walker

ore than 150 persons attended a special service at Holy Family, Miami Gardens, in May sponsored by the Diocesan Office of Immigration and Social Justice Ministries. The service was designed to celebrate the diversity of the Diocese of southeast Florida as well as an urgent appeal to end gun violence in this community.

One of the three testimonies was offered by a tearful Michele Bazin who lost a boyfriend to gun violence. The teenager was walking with a friend who owed someone a small amount of money and the offender shot both victims.

Another testimony was from Shontana Wray, whose brother was violently killed approximately 20 years ago and she talked about how that murder has profoundly impacted her family. Both gave riveting accounts of how they had lost persons close to them at the hands of those who had a disregard for human life.

The Rt. Rev. Leo Frade spoke about the enormous task of protecting the vulnerable among us from gun violence in his address to the congregation. He began his message with

the story of Cain and Abel; the awful story of brother killing brother. He asked the question that Cain asked God, “Am I My Brother’s Keeper?”

Frade asserted that even members of congress must ask themselves that question after they refused to pass any meaningful gun reform legislation, including a requirement of background checks even for “weapons of war, which do not belong on our streets.” In the end, Frade concluded, we must look out for our brothers and sisters and as Christians; we must continue to spread the message of peace.

The service that contained prayers and hymns in English, Spanish and Kreyol featured an anointing for healing and a renewal of the baptismal covenant.

The $437 offering collected during the celebration mass was donated to the Diocese of Oklahoma following a massive tornado in the City of Moore. The service was co-sponsored by the Theodore R. Gibson chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians, The Hispanic Coalition, the Haitian commission and the Anti-Racism commission.

Summer 2013

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PARISHES IN PROGRESS

St. Luke’s garden continues to grow! - St. Luke’s Episcopal Church Children and Youth Program has created a cross-shaped community garden. They have planted herbs, lettuces, tomatoes, squash and much more! The produce gleaned from this garden will be donated to Love and Hope in Action for its community food program. Debbie Dwyer and Melodie McKenzie, the advisors, led the effort along with the help of the children and many parishioners of the church. The children are learning about gardening, nutrition, and community spirit. The garden will be utilized this summer for Vacation Bible School. St. Luke’s is located in Port Salerno.

Holy Comforter celebrates – Congratulations to Holy Comforter, Miami for moving from “mission” to “parish” status this spring. Read more about Holy Comforter in this issue’s “Parish Profile” on page 15. (Pictured: Bishop Frade and Senior Warden Malcolm Briggs)

Clergy Milestones – Several Diocesan clergy members recently celebrated significant milestones.

Bishop David Richards celebrated his 62nd anniversary of his consecration July 19, 2013; Reverend Donald Krickbaum celebrated his 50th anniversary of his ordination as a deacon on June 29, 2013; Reverend JoAnn Murphy celebrated her 25th anniversary of her ordination to the priesthood on May 14, 2013.

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THE NET - www.diosef.org

Reverend Chip Stokes says goodbye – Former Rector of St. Paul’s, Delray Beach, The Reverend William (Chip) Stokes, was elected the 12th Bishop of the Diocese of New Jersey on May 4, 2013. Stokes was elected out a field of nine nominees on the fifth ballot at the election convention meeting. The consecration of Bishop-elect Stokes will be held on November 2, 2013 at Trinity Cathedral in Trenton. We wish him the best!

Confirmations – Along with several clergy milestones this season, there were also, many, many confirmations and growth in The Episcopal Church. Pictured here are confirmands from St. John’s in Homestead this past June.

Bishop Todd’s Enthronement – Still in the midst of cyclone recovery, Bishop Todd McGregor officially became the Bishop of the Diocese of Toliara on April 21, 2013. Over 500 people were present as Bishop McGregor accepted his new position at St. Luke in Ankilifaly – a place where devastation tore through only months earlier. Congratulations to Bishop Todd, his wife Reverend Patsy McGregor, and his family.

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Comforter, Miami

PARISH PROFILE

By Altoria E. White

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ocated in Southwest Miami, Holy Comforter is more than just a one or two day-a-week church. This historical pillar of the Miami community operates seven days a week, 365 days a year; not only with traditional church services on Sunday and Wednesday, but additionally a weekly daycare, a senior housing service, and a food for the needy service.

After being involved in the day-to-day activities, and seeing the inner-workings, it is evident this church could affectionately be called the “community’s church.”

Holy Comforter began as a mission of Trinity Church (now Cathedral) in Miami, and was founded in 1925. A need presented itself for a more local-

Members of Holy Cross: Juan Ortega, Elena Aragon, Estevan Rodrigues, Rev. Rafael Garcia, and Senior Warden Malcolm Briggs

ized church, on the other side of the river, which could not be too far for the community to walk to worship. Holy Comforter began and was built to fill that need. Over time, the parish grew to record numbers of attendance, but the income was not constant. One of the main income sources, the daycare, was beginning to dwindle. Attendance was at an all time low approximately five years ago, dropping to a consistent 30 children over five years. Recently, after several years of hard work, the church was seeing success. Within the past two years, Holy Comforter has been able to bring the attendance number up to over 90 children. The other major income source is the senior housing building the federal government released to the church after 40 years.

The building, which is only steps away from the church, houses 60 people in 42

efficiency and two bedroom apartment homes. This building, much like the church, is a 24/7 operation. Residents live independently, however if there is a maintenance issue, or assistance is needed, the church staff is responsible to tend to the needs of the residents.

Senior Warden Malcolm Briggs is the first person who hears of those concerns, as the director of housing, and is often the first responder for the majority of the rescue calls. He says the Senior Housing development is like a “mini nursing home.” Two of the requirements of the government releasing the housing to Holy Comforter was that they must rent to the elderly only, and continue the Section 8 program. Briggs has been at the parish for over 25 years. He has been a major contributor to the success of Holy Comforter over the years, and recently, along with Fr. Garcia, helping to move the church from mission to parish status. His affection for the church is evident, and when asked why he is a member of Holy Comforter and why he has been there so long, he explains the instructions he received a long time ago. “They (Holy Comforter) sent me to Cursillo. During that time, the Rector said ‘go back and help your church,’“ he recalled. “I took it literally, and I’ve been here ever since. It’s like an obsession. I cannot look away.”

Reverend Rafael Garcia, who was an Assistant Priest to the congregation at St. Philips in Coral Gables, before being called to Holy Comforter, says it’s a close-knit group. “I’m adjusting well to the community of Holy Comforter. Everyone (senior housing, day care, etc.) is like close family. I am happy to serve.” Father Garcia seems to bring a sunny disposition to the task at hand. Parishioners say he is “always happy,” which makes for a positive environment.

After being a “mission status” church for five of the last eight years, in September of 2011, Holy Comforter required no additional financial assis-

Holy Comforter welcomes you!

tance from the diocese. In 2012 they were declared “parish status,” much to the joy of the entire congregation and family of Holy Comforter. Leaders say the reason for the success is all moving parts (senior housing, church, daycare, food service) working together as a family. It is with the dedication and income of all entities that Holy Comforter was able to stand on its own.

Holy Comforter is located in the South Dade Deanery: 150 SW 13th Ave-

Attend one of the convenient services.

nue, Miami, 33135. The services are held every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. in English, and 12:30 p.m. in Spanish. Food is also distributed to those who need assistance during a morning Spanish prayer service every Wednesday at 9 a.m.

For additional stories about Holy Comforter, as well as a video profile, log on to the following sources: www. diosefnews.blogspot.com - (Summer Service on the beach); youtube.com/ SouthFloridaDiocese (about Holy Comforter).

Summer 2013

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Presents:

The Third Annual Women’s Conference “Woman to Woman” Connecting through Fun, Relaxation and Spirituality Friday, Aug. 23, 5 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 24, 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.

August 23 - Dinner Wine & Cheese, Vendors, Shopping, Essential Oil Class and Quiet Room August 24 - B’fast, Lunch Some of the classes offered: Yoga, Tai Chi, Your Belief System and You, Living a Magical Life, Meditation, The Ennegram, Women of the Bible, etc.

Stay Overnight or Commute For more info call 561-496-4130 or sign-up online at www.duncancenter.org Duncan Conference Center 15820 S. Military Trail Delray Beach, FL 33484

CALENDAR September 3–5 Clergy Conference Duncan Conference Center Delray Beach 7 South Dade Convocation St. Matthew’s; 9:30 a.m.

11 Broward Convocation Location TBA; 6:30 p.m.

24 Proposed Resolutions Deadline Diocesan Convention Booklet 28 North Palm Convocation Location TBA; 9:30 a.m.

12 North Dade Convocation St. Kevin’s; 6:30 p.m.

October 1 Convention Booklet Information Deadline (Reports/Nominations/Biographies)

14 Keys Convocation St. James the Fisherman; 9:30 a.m.

25 - 27 Happening #32 St. Thomas, Coral Gables

UBE Annual Convention Jacksonville, Florida

The 45th Annual Meeting of the Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE) was held June 30 – July 1, 2013, in Jacksonville, Florida. The Diocese of Southeast Florida’s Theodore R. Gibson chapter was represented by eleven members; including Archdeacon for Social Justice, The Venerable J. Fritz Bazin, the Southern Regional Director, Ms. Kathleen Walker, and the national treasurer, Mr. Richard Miller.

The convention welcomed approximately 225 members from across the country for workshops, plenary sessions, and Eucharist. The mission of UBE is to unify the diverse cultures, concerns, and gifts of black Episcopalians by providing preparation and encouragement for living the Baptismal Covenant and fully participating in the mission and governance of the Episcopal Church.

To see photos from the entire conference, log on to: http://tinyurl.com/mnhl4z7.