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The Archangel Magazine – Fall 2026

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Volume XXXVIII, Issue III

the

Fall 2026 The Official Magazine for Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church

REVISIT OUR FOUR PILLARS TOGETHER

72 YEARS OF SAINT MICHAEL MEMORIES

STAY CONNECTED THIS FALL!

Look back on the Discipleship journey on page 12.

Reflect on the people, places, and vision that built our parish on page 16.

See Sunday classes, serving opportunities, and the parish calendar on pages 29 – 43.


Fall 2026 at Saint Michael Praying shapes believing. As we gather to pray, our common prayers shape our identity and who we will become. This fall, lift up your hearts to God in a new way that will guide us into the future.

SaintMichael.org/Fall

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Grand Opening & Dedication of the New Saint Michael Campus

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 FEAST OF SAINT MICHAEL Join us in the Atrium & Plaza!

10 AM Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony 10:15 AM – 1 PM Food, Fellowship, and Fun Join us for a joyful new chapter in the life of Saint Michael as we celebrate the grand opening of the new campus and dedicate these spaces built for worship and community—for now and generations to come.

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44 16 08 12 16 20 22 25 29 32 34

MESSAGE FROM THE RECTOR THE FOUR PILLARS OF DISCIPLESHIP 72 YEARS OF SAINT MICHAEL MEMORIES ALL ANGELS LEGACY THE MINISTRY OF LAY CHAPLAINCY STEPHEN MINISTRIES SUNDAY CLASSES SERVING OPPORTUNITIES PARISH CALENDAR

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52 42 44 48 52 54 56 58 61 63

STAFF NEWS WOMEN OF SAINT MICHAEL DISCOVERING GOD'S PURPOSE HELP AND HOPE FOR THE HILL COUNTRY RECIPES FROM THE FARMERS MARKET KIDS' STORY BIRTHS AND DEATHS PARISHIONER SPOTLIGHT PROJECT MOSES


SAINT MICHAEL STAFF Jazmin Agustince Assistant to Advancement Rob Baber Director of Finance The Rev. Nate Bostian Sunday Assistant Katherine Bowen Coordinator for Pastoral Care Dianne Boyd Coordinator for Worship Media The Rev. Kenneth H. Brannon Vice Rector Melisa Bray Special Projects Manager Justin Brooks Director of Contemporary Music Carter Bruey Graphic Designer Juan Cantera Sexton BJ Clark Receptionist Lindsay Coker Executive Assistant to the Vice Rector Susan Dixon Revenue Processing Specialist The Rev. David M. Faulkner Associate for Worship & Liturgy Sarah Fairweather Digital Marketing Manager Bonita Frederick Receptionist The Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata Rector Maliska Haba Advancement Manager Logan Herod Director of Early Childhood Music The Rev. Robin H. Hinkle Associate for Pastoral Care Meghan Houk Director of Children's Ministries Angelia Hunter Accountant Beth Igoe Coordinator for Formation Ministries Cydni Joubert Assistant Director of Children's Ministries Karen Krasovec Assistant to Worship & Liturgy The Rev. Dr. Sally Lombardo Assistant Priest and SMES Chaplain Harvey L. Marshall Director of Facilities Bhavnita Masih Executive Assistant to the Rector Susan Mills Operations Manager Samuel Moore Director of Youth Ministries Allison Nors Coordinator for Mission & Outreach Colleen O’Hara Interim Executive Director of Operations Marilu Ohl Senior Accountant Darla Osterhout Accountant Jenna Pitman Director of Communications Edgar Porras Sexton Marco Reyes Sexton Elsa SanJuan Sexton Catherine Seveney Coordinator for Music & Choristers Dr. Timothy M. Smith Director of Adult Ministries Rob Springer-Kyle Director of Mission & Outreach Celise Stephenson Coordinator for Membership Samuel Sweet Director of Music James Thomas Facilities Manager Brian Turner Manager of Audio, Video, & Lighting (AVL) Alma Vega-Rouse Executive Director of Advancement Tish Visinsky Director of Events The Rt. Rev. Dean E. Wolfe Bishop in Residence Mary Worthington Major Gifts Officer

SUNDAYS 7:30 AM: Holy Eucharist Rite I, Traditional 9 AM: Holy Eucharist Rite II, Traditional 9 AM: JOY! A Children’s Service 10 AM: Education Classes for All Ages 11 AM: Holy Eucharist Rite I, Traditional 11 AM: Holy Eucharist Rite II, Contemporary 5:30 PM: Holy Eucharist Rite II, Traditional

saintmichael.org/live

CONTACTS EMERGENCY PRIEST ON CALL (214) 363-5471

FULL-TIME CLERGY

Main Parish Number (214) 363-5471

The Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata, Rector The Rev. Kenneth H. Brannon, Vice Rector The Rev. David M. Faulkner, Associate for Worship & Liturgy The Rev. Robin H. Hinkle, Associate for Pastoral Care The Rev. Dr. Sally Lombardo, Assistant Priest and SMES Chaplain

All Angels Foundation (214) 363-5471 8011 Douglas Ave Dallas, TX 75225

ASSISTING CLERGY The Rt. Rev. Dean E. Wolfe, Bishop in Residence The Rev. Nate Bostian, Sunday Assistant

Saint Michael Episcopal School (214) 361-1224 4344 Colgate Ave Dallas, TX 75225 St. Michael’s Woman's Exchange (214) 521-3862 SMWE FAX (214) 522-1933 5 Highland Park Village Dallas, TX 75205 Episcopal Diocese of Dallas (214) 826-8310 Episcopal Diocese FAX (214) 826-5968 5100 Ross Ave Dallas, TX 75206

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the

The Archangel Newsletter (USPS 015-033) is published liturgically seasonally by Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to the Archangel, Saint Michael And All Angels Church, P.O. Box 12385, Dallas TX 75225-0385

CHIEF DESIGNER

Carter Bruey CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER

Jenna Pitman CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Ken Brannon Sarah Fairweather David Faulkner Chris Girata Robin Hinkle Bhavnita Masih Alma Vega-Rouse Tish Visinsky CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily Billingsley Maria D’Antoni Mary Anna Dennard Julia Denegre Chris Girata Robin Hinkle Brian Stock Tim Smith Meredith Turner Mary Worthington Alma Vega-Rouse PHOTOGRAPHERS

A&A Creative Carter Bruey Sarah Fairweather Jenna Pitman

Give the Gift of Flowers Each week, altar flowers grace our sanctuary and lift our worship. Perfect for: in memory of a loved one in thanksgiving for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and baptisms

PRINTER

Publication Printers 2001 S. Platte River Drive Denver, CO 80223

No part of this publication may be used without written permission. Every effort is made to avoid error, misspellings, and omissions. If an error comes to your attention, please accept our apologies and notify us.

saintmichael.org | (214) 363-5471 @smaadallas

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"We support the Altar Flower Fund because it’s a gift of love — to the church, to the congregation, to those in the community who receive any repurposed flowers, and to the memory of those who came before us." - Diane and Hervey Priddy

Scan the QR code or visit saintmichael.org/altarflowers to learn more. For questions, contact 214-365-3503 or giving@saintmichael.org.


2026 VESTRY Julie Allen Senior Warden Zoé Hart Junior Warden J. Puckett Warden-at-Large Becky Odlozil Treasurer Kelly Reddell Chancellor LaRee Stein Clerk

RECTOR’S BIBLE STUDY CHRIS GIRATA

Susan Barnicoat, Monique Black, Mark Cannata, James Carry, Jim Chambers, Terry Demler, Tom Fenton, Elizabeth Gambrell, Amanda Harris, Kathy Hayes, Jack Marshallsea, Stephen Miller

2026 DIOCESAN DELEGATE5 Exp 2026 Exp 2027 Exp 2028

David Hopson, Chris McClung Michael Cosby, Ryan Kneipper, Paul Talbot Lauren Parker, Kim Snyder, Kathleen Wallace

Exp 2026 Exp 2027 Exp 2028

Alternates: Amanda Harris (1) Joe Bumpas (1), Jack Sears (2) Matt Bomberger (1), Jack Rubarth (2)

ALL ANGELS FOUNDATION TRUSTEES Effective 01/01/2026 officers class Eric Conner 2026 President

GOSPEL OF MATTHEW Season 10

Resumes Wednesday, September 16! Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. Parish Hall South – New location! Matthew is unique for its strong emphasis on Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and as the long-awaited Jewish Messiah. Matthew contains extensive teaching sections, including the Sermon on the Mount, which places special focus on righteousness, discipleship, and the Kingdom of Heaven. Together, we will explore how Matthew’s Gospel not only reveals who Jesus is, but also challenges us to consider what it truly means to follow Him.

SAINTMICHAEL.ORG/RBS

Phil Ritter 2026 Vice President of Development Katharine Blachly 2026 Vice President of Communications Helen Holman 2026 Vice President of Grants Grady Schleier 2026 Treasurer Russell Weinberg 2026 Assistant Treasurer trustees class Emily Billingsley 2028 Tony Briggle 2027 Nita Clark 2027 Eric Conner 2027 Gregory Greene, Jr. 2028 Lee S. Hobson 2026 Helen Holman 2026 Stacey Malcolmson 2028 Katherine Blachly 2027 Grady Schleier 2028 Stuart Sikes 2026 Andy Smith 2026 Russell Weinberg 2027 Jeff Rice 2028 Phil Ritter 2026 ex officio The Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata, Rector Julie Allen, Senior Warden Monique Black, Vestry Representative Rob Baber, Director of Finance Alma Vega-Rouse, Executive Director of Advancement Rob Springer-Kyle, Director of Mission & Outreach George Baldwin, Mission & Outreach Chair

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Pray

A COMMITMENT TO PRAYER A Message from the Rector, The Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata

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his fall, we continue our emphasis on committing to discipleship. We will continue to ask for commitments to serve and give, and this year, we will ask you all to explicitly commit to a life of prayer. By explicit, I mean that we want you to be thoughtful about how you commit to structure your daily and weekly habits to make sure prayer is an intentional part of your life. I’m fond of saying that actions create habits and habits create identity. If you desire an identity rooted in Christ, taking intentional actions to create healthy, faithful habits are necessary for our good. We are in the third year of our four-year shift toward deeper discipleship commitments. At Saint Michael, we have identified four specific pillars of discipleship that help guide our development. By now, I hope you can rattle off the pillars: pray, learn, serve, and give. Two years ago, we emphasized giving. Last year, we emphasized serving. This year, our emphasis is on prayer.

selves going off track, succumbing to the temptations of the world. When we commit to discipleship in a community, the community can help us stick with the goals we set for ourselves. When we stick with our goals, set faithfully in response to God’s call, we grow in significant ways over time. Prayer is a way of life that shapes us and defines us over our lifetime, and it can become our deepest spiritual root. “Through prayer, we deepen our relationship with God as we engage with Him in our daily lives.” That’s the description you’ll find on the prayer page of our website. It’s a very simple introduction to a highly impactful way of life.

"When we commit to discipleship in a community, the community can help us stick with the goals we set for ourselves."

Each year, as we emphasize a new pillar, we also ask you to make a clear commitment. That commitment is meant to be as much an intentional gift to you and your development as it is a healthy part of our practice as a church community. A clear individual commitment gives us—the whole community— the opportunity to hold one another accountable to who we hope to become.

This year, I want you to make a commitment to pray. The commitment to prayer can look like many things and can theoretically be as unique as each one of us. That being said, there are some fundamental ways to commit to prayer that I’d like to suggest.

First, a commitment to prayer can be fully corporate. As Episcopalians, we believe in the power of corporate prayer. We have a saying: Praying shapes believing. From the very beginning, the Anglican reformation was anchored on the idea that worshipping communities should be able to worship in their own language. Thomas Cranmer was the Archbishop of Canterbury when the Church of England separated Put another way, God calls each of us to use our gifts in from Rome, and he is credited with authoring the very the world and to practice our faith in ways that help us first Book of Common Prayer in 1549. That first BCP deepen our discipleship. If left alone, we might find our- was an explicit English-language liturgy to replace the

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Latin liturgy of the Roman church. From the beginning, Anglicanism was rooted in the conviction that corporate worship was critical to our identity as followers of Jesus, and facilitating worship in the common language was a foundational step in the right direction. One way to make your own personal commitment to prayer this year is to commit to being present and participating fully in our corporate worship. You can define that commitment in many ways, but a simple way would be that you commit to being physically present in Sunday worship every week you can be. We like to say that attending worship can be easy: If you’re in town and not sick, show up. The second way to commit to prayer is individually. Prayer is always personal, but there is a different personal experience of prayer when you’re with a group than when you are alone. Individual prayer can be more meditative and unique. Every person is different, and that means that every person can resonate differently with different prayers. As meditation, prayer can separate you from the pressures of the world and help you to feel God’s presence and to hear God’s voice in powerful ways.

for you, but like any set of boundaries, once you know them well, you can bend them. The boundaries of our prayer tradition are not meant to hold you back, but rather they are meant to help you flourish. You have been created in God’s image, and you are called by God into a life-giving relationship. Trust that God is ready and waiting to connect with you and that prayer is one of the best ways to make that connection transformative. This year, in a booklet that will be mailed soon, you will be asked to deepen your commitment to your discipleship. We are growing together, and being nudged into a deeper way of being is good for all of us. I ask that you trust this community—trust your church—and allow God’s Spirit to work deeply in you and help you grow into the person God created you to be, one step at a time.

One of the challenges of individual prayer is simply getting started. Sometimes individual prayer can feel like a blank page. You know you’re meant to write, but you just don’t know how to start. As simple as it sounds, the best way to start is to just start. We share a very rich prayer tradition, and if you feel a bit intimidated by individual prayer, I suggest you begin with one of the traditional prayers you know by heart, such as The Lord’s Prayer. Give yourself a gentle runway to begin your meditation with familiar words that will warm you up. I believe you will find that once you begin, you will feel more comfortable shifting into prayer in your own unique way. Which takes me to one of the secrets of individual prayer: you can pray your way! As Episcopalians, we can be lured into thinking that there is a right and proper way to pray, but the truth is that prayer is as unique as you. I hope you will rely on the gift of our Anglican tradition to help create a sure foundation

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the

ompline Choir

Sundays | 7 pm | Church

August 30 " Presence"

November 15 " Dawn"

Januar y 17 "Alleluia"

March 24 "Tenebrae"

April 25 "Arise"

August 29 "Foundations"

Learn More!

saintmichael.org/music 10 THE ARCHANGEL


The Greatest Gift is the People A few years ago, we entrusted Saint Michael Episcopal School with our children’s hearts and minds. They were surrounded by teachers who pour into them daily and walk alongside them far beyond the classroom. As our family’s chapter at this school draws to a close, we feel two things: profound gratitude for our years here—and envy for all those who have yet to experience the magic of SMES. — Arleen Thigpin SMES parent

APPLICATION OPENS SEPTEMBER 17. To learn more, visit www.smesdallas.org/apply to apply and tour our school

Cuatro and Parker Thigpin

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Discipleship

By Meredith Turner

A

few years ago, the Rev. Christopher D. Girata gathered the Saint Michael clergy and posed a simple but important question: “What does a healthy disciple look like at Saint Michael?” In other words: “How does that person live?” “What do they prioritize?” “What habits shape their faith?” The answers led to a deeper exploration of the Baptismal Covenant—the promises that anchor our identity as Christians. Through that work emerged what we now know as Saint Michael’s four pillars of discipleship: Pray, Learn, Serve, and Give. These pillars are not a program or a checklist. They are a framework for living out the transformation that begins in baptism and continues throughout a lifetime. They reflect both our Anglican tradition and the unique character of Saint Michael. “Jesus says, ‘Follow me’ far more often than He says, ‘Believe in me,’” Chris explains. “The doing of discipleship really matters.” Discipleship, then, is more than belief. It is a commitment—a commitment that requires intention, practice, and accountability. As we encourage one another in faith, we become more vulnerable, more honest, and more willing to let others help us stay true to the promises we have made to God. Over time, that kind of discipleship has the power to transform not only individuals, but entire communities. As Saint Michael opens its new building, the goal is not simply to create more space. It is to create a platform for deeper discipleship—one that equips people to live faithfully and inspires future generations to do the same.

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PRAY The first pillar, pray, lies at the heart of Anglican spirituality. Saint Michael embraces the Episcopal understanding that praying shapes believing—that the practices of prayer form and shape our faith over time. Through the richness of the Book of Common Prayer, worship, the Daily Office, and the Eucharist, we are invited into a rhythm of prayer that gradually becomes woven into the fabric of our lives. “Our prayer life shapes our identity,” Chris says. This formation happens slowly and steadily. Week after week, year after year, prayer grounds us in the promises of God and the hope of the resurrection. It gives language to our joys, our griefs, and our deepest longings. Over time, those prayers become part of who we are.

LEARN Learning has always been central to the Episcopal tradition, and Saint Michael is no exception. Faith invites us not only to love God with our hearts, but also with our minds. We study Scripture, theology, history, and spirituality because understanding deepens faith and equips us to live it more fully. Investing in education was a central focus for this historic building project, and that is in service of our discipleship being shaped by learning. It's not hard for us to understand how learning works as disciples of Jesus but making sure that we commit to learning is a shift that is taking place right now.


In recent years, Saint Michael has intentionally shifted from the one-off educational events toward steady, consistent, and intentional learning. As disciples, we are encouraged to engage in learning over time—returning week after week to wrestle with ideas, ask questions, and discover how faith intersects with daily life. That steady cycle allows learning to move from the head to the heart. As part of the new campus, significant space has been dedicated to education and learning, creating new opportunities for disciples of every age to gather, learn, and grow together.

SERVE Service has long been woven into the DNA of Saint Michael. From its earliest days, the parish has understood that those who have been given a lot, much is expected. Through generations of faithful leadership and volunteerism, Saint Michael has helped establish and support ministries that continue to strengthen our city and serve those in need. The idea that we give in support of others has become part of the culture of Saint Michael. The discipleship in this church is changing the community in meaningful ways.

giving as an essential part of discipleship. Not because the Church needs money, but because giving shapes the giver. Jesus spoke frequently about money because He understood its power over the human heart. The things we value most often reveal where our trust truly lies. Giving challenges that instinct. When we give, we release our grip on what the world tells us is most important and instead place our trust in God. Giving becomes a spiritual discipline that moves discipleship from theory into practice. “It is much more important that we give than that the church receives our giving,” Chris says. Of course, the resources entrusted to the Church enable ministry, outreach, worship, and formation. But the deeper purpose of giving is transformation. Through generosity, disciples learn to place Christ—not possessions, status, or security—at the center of their lives.

BUILDING A CULTURE OF DISCIPLESHIP But service is about more than financial support. “Money can only go so far,” Chris notes. “It can help The four pillars of Pray, Learn, Serve, and Give are ultifuel the good work that well-formed disciples can do mately not about programs, buildings, or initiatives. They in the world.” are about people. They are about becoming the disciples God created us to be. The deeper goal is to cultivate disciples who recognize their gifts and understand that those gifts are meant As Saint Michael enters a new chapter in its history, these to be shared. Whether serving through outreach min- pillars remain the foundation upon which the future will istries, volunteering in the community, or caring for a be built. The new spaces will support worship, learning, neighbor in need, service becomes a tangible expression fellowship, and outreach, but the true work of the Church of faith. While no single act of service can solve every will continue to be the formation of faithful disciples— problem, discipleship expressed through service chang- people whose lives are shaped by prayer, deepened by es lives—both for those who receive it and for those learning, expressed through service, and strengthened who offer it. through generosity.

GIVE

That vision has guided Saint Michael for generations, and it continues to point the way forward.

Perhaps no pillar is more countercultural than giving. This is the last article in a six-part series. The first through Many churches find it uncomfortable to talk about fifth articles were published in the previous five issues of The money, but Saint Michael has intentionally embraced Archangel, respectively.

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Bake Sale Tables BAKE SALE TABLES ARE OPEN 8:45 – 11 AM | CAFÉ

Sunday, September 13 | Fall Bake Sale Sunday, October 11 | Fall Bake Sale Sunday, October 25 | Halloween Bake Sale Sunday, November 8 | All Saints Bake Sale Sunday, November 22 | Thanksgiving Day Bake Sale Sunday, December 6 | Baking for Advent Festival in the Evening

AUGUST 26

FALL KICK-OFF LUNCH

Hosted by the Men of Saint Michael

North Parish Hall | Noon – 1 p.m.

MEN OF SAINT MICHAEL

SEPTEMBER 16

MEN WITH PURPOSE SPEAKER SERIES

Speaker: Darin Kinder, “Bury Me in a Dirty Suit”

North Parish Hall | 7:30 – 8:30 a.m.

SEPTEMBER 22 – OCTOBER 13

MEN’S FALL SHORT-TERM STUDY Room 204 | Tuesdays, 6 – 7 p.m.

OCTOBER 22

FALL COOKOUT The Home of James Carry | 6 – 8 p.m.

NOVEMBER 14

SMU VS. WAKE FOREST TAILGATE SMU Boulevard | Time TBA

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fall


VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL June 8 – 11

From the very first song to the final closing celebration, our VBS kids were fully immersed in a week of joy, learning, and hands‑on fun. They sang their favorite VBS songs, created glowing crafts like lava lamps, and raced through high‑energy games including freeze tag in the gym. Every day brought new moments of laughter, discovery, and connection.

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Learn

72 YEARS OF SAINT MICHAEL MEMORIES By Mary Anna Austin Dennard

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O

utside of my immediate family, Saint Michael and All Angels was my first community. My spiritual community. Let’s start at the very beginning (a very good place to start).

CHRISTENING I was christened in Saint Michael’s chapel when I was three months old. It was May 20, 1954. And the holy water was poured on my tiny, bald head by my own Godfather—because my Godfather was the first Rector at Saint Michael, and my father’s dear friend, Rev. A.A. Taliaferro. Yes, I was christened by my Godfather, “Tolly.” I often wonder if that same baptismal font is still somewhere in the Chapel. Father Taliaferro taught us that the soul enters the body at the first breath of life. I still believe that today. But our spiritual birth happens at baptism through a connection with the divine being of Christ. Therefore, 1954 was also the birthdate of my spiritual community. My father Jac Austin served on the vestry, and more importantly, had been appointed as the first (in its 104-year history) business manager of the Episcopal Diocese of Dallas in March of 1956 and had administrative oversight under the jurisdiction of Bishop Avery Mason’s office. At that time, Bishop Mason was the bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Dallas from 1946 until 1970. He succeeded Harry Tunis Moore who served from 1924 to 1946. Our intimate, serene Bishop Moore chapel is named after him. Daddy’s involvement in the diocese was an anchor for our family, and I felt the importance of the church connection from a very early age. But my very first real memory is circa 1958. I am 4 or 5 years old. It’s after church and I'm holding my mother’s hand in the “brand new” Parish Hall adjacent to the Chapel just off the parking lot. I remember very clearly there was much excitement from parishioners.

My parents were so proud of this new gathering space. It was the “everything space,” where we held meetings, classes, after-church coffee and donuts, and gatherings of every kind including choir practice. Children my age didn’t attend church. We were sent to Sunday School while our parents worshiped, but we joined up after church in that brand new parish hall. THE SAINT MICHAEL SCHOOL Nedra Niles was the first head of school. Mother said that Daddy “thought the children needed a school as well as a church.” And with the help of Tolly, the school was born in 1957. Right away it became so popular, that Daddy didn’t want to take any chances of my being accepted. So, he applied on my behalf the year I was born. I entered as a kindergartener in 1959. I remember Nedra as a tall, slender, gentle, and caring woman—just the kind of teacher any parent would want for their pre-K child. I sat next to Missy Gunn (Falchi) in those enormous wooden desks. We wore fancy petticoat dresses and smiled big grins for the photographer on class picture day. Nedra headed the school from 1950 until 1968 when she left to become the head of the Hockaday middle school. ST. MICHAEL’S WOMAN’S EXCHANGE In 1958, my mother and a group of her girlfriends got together and had the idea for the church to buy the “Woman’s Exchange” store from the Junior League. The purchase was for $1,500, and they founded the St. Michael’s Woman’s Exchange. The shop is still in its original location in the Highland Park Village. I used to volunteer in the back stock room as a young teen. I would take lunch breaks with the staff at the soda fountain next door at Skillern’s Drug Store. Still run today by Saint Michael volunteers, the shop proceeds go to those in need. Be sure you stop by and browse through a copy of True Blue: The Inspired Works of Anne Coke. (More on Anne Coke later.) CHOIR PRACTICE Every Tuesday after school we practiced our upcoming repertoire (in the multi-purpose parish hall) Cissy Humphrey will remember! Paul Lindsley Thomas taught us the value of spiritual music and the vocal techniques of choral singing. He was a wonderful, passionate teacher and choir director, and he challenged us. He also expected a lot from us in return. We rehearsed for hours and took our job seriously. The repertoire he chose was prolific. By 1961 we were performing full productions in the new “Big Church” FALL 2026

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sanctuary. The first was Noah’s Flood, by Benjamin Britten (correctly pronounced Noye’s Fludde as Thomas would remind us). All the young choir members were cast as animals. We entered from the narthex and proceeded down the aisle and on to the enormous wooden Ark that had been constructed in front of the altar. The next large-scale production I remember was the dramatic cantata, The Death of the Bishop of Brindisis. What glorious music we made in that new space. I remember Paul’s wife, Joyce Thomas’, soprano vibrato reverberating within the gorgeous marble and stained-glass walls. And those costumes! Anne Coke, Father Henry Coke’s wife, designed and made all our exquisite costumes. What an extraordinary gift of creativity and artistry she had. Read her book if you haven’t already (available at the St. Michael’s Woman’s Exchange). I still don’t know how on earth she did it! Choir was an enormous part of my spiritual life and the center of a joyous community for me. I sang in the choir for seven years and was very proud to wear those lush choir robes and caps, with James Avery medals on grosgrain ribbon worn around our necks, the color to represent our years of choir membership. We knew we were a part of something very special. Indeed, we were. CONFIRMATION When not wearing my choir cap, I wore a white lace handkerchief on my head. A head covering was de rigueur for every young lady in church at the time. Mother would help me bobby pin it in my hair as we ran out the door and headed to church service. By the time I was about 13 years old, I made my confirmation. Father C.V. Westapher (Father Wes) was my confirmation teacher. He was a man who believed fiercely in the traditions of the church. Cindy Creson Clendenen and I laugh during the relaxed chaos of the Joy Service in the Chapel thinking of how Fa-

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ther Wes might have disapproved! I had the utmost respect for him and he prepared me well for my confirmation. I was a serious student of the Rite I liturgy. (I still have a hard time with the modern one.) We met in a small group of about 10–12 students in the Saint Michael School classrooms on the first floor of the Northeast wing. This was a heady rite of passage for me. I was well aware that I had officially entered my sacramental adulthood at Saint Michael. Added bonus: I got a gorgeous new white dress and shoes too! And a beautiful white leather Holy Bible that I still have. THE PRIESTS In 1961 the church had a small staff. Tolly was Rector, of course, and Father McElyea (Father Mac) was Associate, and Father Cragon was Christian Education Director. I am reminded of this because it was printed on the Saint Michel letterhead in a February 8 missive that Tolly wrote to me about my upcoming 7th birthday. However, I have limited memory of Father Mac or Father Cragon. But I have vivid and fond memories of Fathers Coke, Comegys, Kempsell, and Blackmon. Also of Father Henning, our Rector, and the extraordinary teacher, Dr. Bill Power. But it is the dear Reverend Pam Theodore, whom I adored as a mentor and a friend, who I still miss today. ENTER FATHER MARK In 1996 Rev. Mark S. Anschutz became our sixth Rector. Wow, I have been influenced by six different rectors, where did the time go? Mark instigated the development of the Jubilee Center which became a wonderful volunteer community for me. He was unapologetically demanding of our time of service, and tithing. In other words, he inspired me. He loosened up some of our long-held (albeit outdated) traditions of the church and broke a few rules. God bless him! It seems innocent now, but he allowed a black spiritual group to sing at our mother’s funeral in the Chapel. (Father Wes would have not agreed to that, and re-


garded it as a bit too secular) Mark also allowed personal homilies, which for years had not been a part of our church memorial services. As another example, Mark reimagined the Nativity Pageant and truly took it to the next level with an elaborate production. This included having our daughter, Austin, make her dramatic entrance as Angel Gabriel standing on top of the pipe organ in the choir loft of the big church, as if her enormous costume wings were actually going to “lift her up if she falls.” (There were audible gasps from the audience.) That was the first and last time that was allowed! Mark could deliver a sermon like none other. Such intelligence, insight, and wit delivered with the voice of a true orator; articulate and elegant. Always full of compassion and love, Mark and our family went through a lot together. He was always there to guide us and give us strength. And his prayers were, and continue to be, famously inspiring, deeply personal, and comforting. Always with a beautiful reminder of God’s love. I still have many of his prayers saved, and refer to them often. FULL CIRCLE SPIRITUAL COMMUNITY A few years after Father Mark retired and he and Peggy returned to South Yarmouth, Massachusetts,

he graciously returned to Dallas just to christen our grandchildren. Oh, and did I mention that Father Taliaferro christened both of our daughters? This is the very definition of a full circle spiritual community! Mark and I had important discussions about how it was known that Tolly was a member of the Rosicrucian Order when he answered the call to lead Saint Michael as our first Rector. Bishop Mason was well aware, and his only ask was that Tolly refrain from using the “mystical” nomenclature when speaking from the Saint Michael pulpit. Tolly abided and never spoke of it during his role as our Rector. I had the profund opportunity for ongoing spiritual study under Tolly until his death in 1993. A COMMUNITY CONTINUUM What is the importance of my 72-year spiritual community? The memories that give me strength. The love that I can count on. The opportunity to live in God’s grace. A place to worship with others. It has given me the ultimate journey to discover the peace that passes understanding. Thanks for letting me share it with you.

Happy 80th Birthday, Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church. Amen.

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Give

ALL ANGELS LEGACY Returning God's Gifts to the Altar

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or nearly four decades, Phil Ritter has and continues to deepen his faith, serve others, and form lasting connections at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church.

It’s a place where you experience life’s greatest joys and most prfound sorrows together, and you help each other through it.

"Saint Michael has brought me closer to God and to know Jesus Christ in a deep and profound way,” Phil said. "It’s a place where you experience life’s greatest joys and most profound sorrows together, and you help each other through it." Phil’s connection to Saint Michael began as a young adult through a fellowship group shepherded by the Rev. Tom Blackmon. He later joined a Bible study that became, in his words, “an anchor for spiritual growth, scriptural understanding, and fellowship.” Encouraged by mentors and fellow parishioners, Phil found opportunities to deepen his involvement in the life of the church. An elected trustee of the All Angels Foundation since 2024, he will assume its presidency in 2027. He also serves as a Verger, assisting in worship and supporting the parish community. As Phil’s faith and commitment to Saint Michael grew, so did his desire to support its future. What began with annual giving and a capital campaign contribution evolved into a legacy plan that includes Saint Michael as a beneficiary of his retirement account and estate. Phil and his wife, Kim, updated their estate plans together, and she also chose to leave a

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planned gift to Saint Michael. For them, legacy giving is a shared expression of faith, gratitude, and trust, and a way to extend faith beyond a single lifetime. “It’s about creating resources for the future of Saint Michael and building the kingdom of God that’s yet to come,” Kim said, envisioning generations who will benefit from ministries sustained by today’s commitments. Legacy planning underpins Saint Michael’s long-term ministry, regardless of economic shifts. Importantly, it invites every parishioner into the story, regardless of financial resources. “Giving is never about the amount, but about the spirit with which the gift is given,” Kim said. “Anyone can participate.” Legacy gifts to Saint Michael are stewarded by The All Angels Foundation, a separately chartered 501(c)(3) nonprofit overseen by Saint Michael parishioners. To learn more about making a legacy gift, contact Mary Worthington, Major Gifts Officer, at 214-365-3521 or mworthington@saintmichael.org.


BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS Sunday, October 4 | 4 p.m. | Plaza Special Music performed by the Saint Michael Choristers! From kittens to chickens, guppies to puppies, our clergy will be blessing all pets great and small. This free event celebrating the Feast of St. Francis is open to the entire community. A short liturgy will be led by the clergy followed by individual pet blessings. Each pet will receive a Saint Francis medallion for their collar. Refreshments for pets and their humans will be served.

SaintMichael.org/PetBlessing

HONOR OUR HEROES On Sunday, November 8, Saint Michael will host its annual Veterans Day Worship Service. As we prepare a special tribute to recognize veterans, we invite you to submit the names of your loved ones by Sunday, October 25. Submit names of individuals who are: • Active duty • Serving in the reserves • Military veterans • Or veterans who have passed away

FALL PARISH M EETI NG Sunday, October 18 10:10 a.m. in the Church Plan to join us for the Fall Parish Meeting! We will elect our new parish leaders and discuss the future of our church.

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Serve

"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11

My dear frien ds, One of the benefits of being a second career priest is that I have had significant life experience before ordination, including walking through trials in life alongside beautiful Christians who helped to add light to some of my dark times. I have been the recipient of the prayers and the pastoral presence of fellow laypeople. I am so thankful for the blessings I received, and this experience has deeply formed me for ministry and the way I approach trials and tribulations and the ups and downs of life with all of you. This ministry of pastoral presence is therefore one that I am happy to be expanding in our congregation at Saint Michael. I am therefore delighted to share with you in this issue of the Archangel, two very special ministries. The first one is our Lay Chaplain Ministry that we started in September. We have a team of six spiritually grounded, wonderful members who are helping me cover all the hospital, rehab and senior facility visits that a church of this size requires. The second group is our Stephen Ministry which has been ongoing for many years. These faithful members of our congregation are extensively trained to walk one-on-one with our dear people through all types of crises. If you have any questions about either of these ministries or ever are in need of pastoral care from a priest, please do not hesitate to call me. We are all in this together with our Lord lighting our way. Blessings of peace,

The Rev. Robin Hinkle,

Associate for Pastoral Care

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THE MINISTRY OF LAY CHAPLAINCY Reflections From the Bedside By Brian Stock, Lay Chaplain

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hen I first answered the call to serve as a lay chaplain at Saint Michael and All Angels, I carried with me a carefully curated mental checklist. I had my Book of Common Prayer, a stack of handwritten cards, and a repertoire of comforting things to say. I thought my job was to bring the answers. But as I have navigated the hallways of Dallas’s hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and hospice units over these past few months, I have learned a humbling lesson: the most important thing I bring is not in my pockets or my backpack. It is the willingness to simply be. In a city like ours, we are conditioned to be fixers and problem solvers. When someone we love is hurting, we naturally want to offer a solution, a platitude, or a timeline for recovery. However, in the quiet of a hospital room or the hushed intensity of a hospice suite, fixing is rarely an option. Instead, the work of a lay chaplain is the ministry of presence.

ness, the conversation shifts to what truly matters. We talk about family, about legacy, and about where God is in the midst of the struggle. I recall a recent visit with a gentleman in hospice. He didn’t want a formal liturgy or a theological discussion. He wanted to talk about his garden and the way the light looks through the stained glass in our Church during the 9 a.m. service. In that moment, sharing a laugh over a memory was as much a sacrament as any formal prayer. It was a reminder that God is present in the joy of a life lived, even as that life prepares for its next journey. One of the greatest challenges I faced was learning to be comfortable with silence. In our Episcopal tradition, we have beautiful, structured prayers for the sick and the dying. They are anchors in the storm. But I have learned that sometimes, the most profound prayer is the silence shared between two people when words fail.

In the rehab units, where progress is often measured in inches and frustration can run high, my role is often just to be a witness to the struggle. To say, "I see you, and you are not alone," is a reflection of Christ’s own walk with us. We are the Body of Christ, and when one member suffers, we all do. Bringing a piece of Saint Michael—the warmth of our community—to the bedside Yet, in those spaces, something extraordinary happens. is a way of reminding our members that they are still When the noise of the world—the emails, the busy daily woven into the fabric of our parish, no matter how far routine, the social obligations—is stripped away by ill- they are from the altar. People often ask how I feel during these visits. To be honest, they can be heavy. I have sat with those as they await daunting test results, and I have held the hands of lifelong parishioners in rehab centers as they struggle to regain the simple independence of walking.

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I began this work thinking I was the one bringing the light to others. I was wrong. More often than not, I am the one who leaves the hospital feeling filled. I see the fierce devotion of spouses, the tireless care of nurses, and the incredible resilience of the human spirit. These visits have changed the way I sit in the pews on Sunday morning. When we pray the Prayers of the People, those names aren't just abstractions to me anymore; they are faces, stories, and sacred encounters. "For I was sick and you visited me." (Matthew 25:36) This work is vital because it ensures that the walls of Saint Michael and All Angels extend far beyond Douglas Ave. As I continue this journey, I am reminded that while I may walk into a room as a representative of our church, I walk out having seen the face of God in the courage of my neighbors.

Let us celebrate and remember your loved one during the All Souls service. Commemorations will be recognized on November 2 in the Evensong bulletin. Scan the QR code to subit a name.

We look not at what can be seen but at what cannot be seen, for what can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18

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For questions, contact giving@saintmichael.org or call 214-365-3503.


STEPHEN MINISTRIES By Julia Denegre, Member of Stephen Ministries

Stephen Ministries Organization In 1974, Dr. Kenneth Haught founded Stephen Ministries—an independent, not-for-profit Christian educational organization—in St. Louis, Missouri. Dr. Haught, a pastor and clinical psychologist, recognized that no one person could alone provide all the care that the people in his congregation and community needed. He developed the Stephen Ministry system to “equip the saints for the work of ministry.” (Ephesians 4:12)

about an hour, and the caring relationship lasts for as long as the care-receiver’s need persists. Over 80,000 people have been trained as Stephen Leaders and they, in turn, have trained more than 600,000 laypersons as Stephen Ministers in more than 14,000 congregations or organizations in 190 Christian denominations in the United States, 10 Canadian provinces, and 30 other countries. Stephen Ministers have formally cared for one and a-half million people.

Dr. Haught named the ministry after Stephen, who Acts 6:5 describes as “a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.” Stephen was a faithful believer, with great love and commitment to Jesus, who cared for people who were suffering and in need. Since Jesus’ time, caring ministries have been a hallmark of the Christian faith community. Stephen Leaders are lay leaders, church staff, and pastors trained by Stephen Ministries St. Louis to direct their congregations’ Stephen Ministries programs. The Leader training course consists of 10 two and a half-hour concen- Stephen Ministries at Saint Michael In 2008, then Rector Bob Dannals recruited the Rev. trated training segments. Patty Willett Rhyne to the clergy staff to expand pastoral Stephen Ministers, also known as care-givers, are lay con- care. Patty asked Harriet Cousins to head Stephen Mingregation members who go through an intensive 50-hour istries at Saint Michael. Under Harriet’s inspiring leadtraining course to learn to provide high-quality, one-to- ership, Bill McGannon, Charlie Smith, Katherine Penn, one Christ-centered care to others and then undergo con- and Frank Guenther participated in the Stephen Leader’s tinuing education. Care-givers come from all walks of life, training and, in turn, trained 15 or more Stephen Minisbut they all share a compassionate heart, empathy, and a ters. I was one of those initial trainees. desire to bring Christ’s love and care to people during a Since 2008, additional Stephen Ministers have undertime of need. gone training at Saint Michael and at other congregations Care-receivers are individuals in the congregation or com- in the Dallas area. Mary Kardell is currently head of Stemunity experiencing grief from the death of a loved one, phen Ministries at Saint Michael. Mary noted that “the chronic or terminal illness, divorce, professional challeng- intense training required by the national organization to es, or any other painful difficulty. Potential care-receivers be both a Stephen Leader and a Stephen Minister, as well first meet with a pastor or Stephen Leader, who assesses as the requisite on-going continuing education training, their needs for care and matches them with a Stephen help the ministry maintain its integrity and consistency.” Minister. A Stephen Minister typically has one care-re- Bill McGannon, a founding Leader, reflected on the qualceiver at a time, meets with that person once a week for ities of a Stephen Minister as those who are “non-judg

680,000PEOPLE

14,000CONGREGATIONS

190DENOMINATIONS

32COUNTRIES

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mental, caring, compassionate, kind, humble and active lis- give service to others in a time of need. “As Christians we are teners.” Stephen Ministers “understand the concept of loving asked to be disciples and I think Stephen Ministers are those their neighbors and that it is not about you … it is about hav- that are actively living as disciples.” ing the willingness to give time and listen to another person.” Care-receivers are grateful for this beautiful, small minThat you have not heard of Stephen Ministry at Saint Mi- istry at Saint Michael. chael is not surprising because it is a ministry whose foremost mission is to protect and safeguard confidential care-giver A care-receiver communicated that, “Stephen Ministry and care-receiver relationships. Julie Smith, who trained as came into my life during a very difficult season, and I’m truly a Stephen Minister in 2020 and who is a Stephen Ministry grateful for the guidance and support I received. Through Leader, explained that “confidentiality is a key component of wisdom, encouragement, and compassionate listening, my Stephen Ministry and part of building the trusting relation- Stephen Minster helped me sort through issues I was strugship with your care-receiver. We are diligent with regard to gling with and brought clarity and peace during a challengnever identifying care-receivers by name or other factors.” ing time. The ministry made a meaningful impact on my life, and I deeply appreciate the care and faith-centered supStephen Ministers are called to this wonderful ministry port I was provided.” in many ways. A care-receiver expressed that having their Stephen Minister, Robert Smith, also an initial 2008 trainee, joined because “it “means everything to me and helps me not to feel alone. I feel aligned with my interests.” Robert continued, that the min- heard. I have not felt heard my whole life. I have become more istry “works best by actively listening and hearing the cries accepting and forgiving of myself. This ministry is profound that are not always spoken” and it’s “confidentiality promotes and is needed all over.” trust, thought and openness.” Another care-receiver expressed that “knowing [my care-givJulie shared that she became involved with this ministry, “af- er is] there and knowing we can connect at any time has been ter a tremendous loss in my life many years ago, someone be- proof that God is still watching out for me in spite of this gan to send me the four Stephen Ministry booklets ‘Journey tragedy. Stephen Ministries and [my care-receiver] have been Through Grief.’ They were exactly what I needed at the right a God-send for me. I’m not ready yet but I sure hope someday time. Those little books were a powerful conversation link with I can help others in the same way I’ve been helped.” other family members who were sharing in our grief. I knew these books were part of the Stephen Ministry but I did not In addition to taking the initial intensive training, Stephen think any more about the ministry. Many years later, during a Ministers organize and participate in ongoing continuing edsermon at Saint Michael, the priest highlighted Stephen Min- ucation, coordinated and led by Julie Smith. istry as one of the ways we can live out the call to serve. The connection was instantaneous and it just hit me that I needed For example, in 2025, Saint Michael’s Stephen Ministries arto investigate Stephen Ministry at Saint Michael.” ranged for Dr. Robert Fine to present a continuing education program for Stephen Ministers on palliative care. Dr. Robert Elizabeth Lang, a Stephen Leader, was a Stephen Minister at Fine is a Hospice and Palliative Medicine Specialist and clina previous parish. She shared that, “what impresses me about ical ethics specialist at Baylor, a leader of the Texas Advanced this ministry is the insistence on thorough, lengthy training, Directives Coalition, who participated in the passage of the which is reinforced in supervisory meetings. The level of edu- Texas Advanced Directives Act. cation and commitment maintains high standards, reinforces the importance of confidentiality, and reminds Stephen In addition, Carol Goglia, a former Vestry member at Saint Ministers of the spirituality as well as the skills practiced in Michael, recently presented a continuing education program the ministry.” on “The Change Cycle: Navigating Changes in Life,” during which Carol demonstrated to Stephen Ministers how they Stephen Ministry resonated with Mark Demler at his former can help care-receivers go through transitions. Learn more church as a way to increase his faith and to help others. Mark about the Stephen Ministry program at Saint Michael at trained as a Stephen Minister in 2011 at Saint Michael to saintmichael.org/support-groups.

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WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE A PART OF THIS WONDERFUL MINISTRY? It is truly a life-transforming experience—an opportunity to serve God, help others, and grow in faith. Contact Mary Kardell at mary.kardell@sbcglobal.net or Robin Hinkle at rhinkle@saintmichael.org.

ARE YOU IN NEED OF A CONFIDENTIAL STEPHEN MINISTER? Let us walk beside you if you are facing any crisis or difficulty. Contact Mary Kardell at mary.kardell@sbcglobal.net or Robin Hinkle at rhinkle@saintmichael.org.

Learn more about the Stephen Ministry program at Saint Michael at saintmichael.org/support-groups/.

the

ompline Choir “PRESENCE”

AUGUST 30 | 7 PM | CHURCH Dwell in the sacred breath of God, who comes to us like wind and flame—unseen yet deeply felt. This service is a rich mosaic of diverse choral music, beautifully weaving together the spirit of community and the power of connection. Following the service, guests are warmly invited to a reception to learn more about the vision, impact, and future of the Music Ministry at Saint Michael, and how sacred music continues to shape the spiritual life of our parish. Join us for an evening that celebrates the beauty of music and invites its future! SAIN T MICHAE L.O RG/CO MPLIN E

CONFIDENTIAL

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YOUTH MISSION WEEK June 1 – 5

During Youth Mission Week, Saint Michael Youth dedicated their time and energy to serving others while growing together in faith and fellowship. Throughout the week at Foster Elementary, they participated in impactful service projects while they built new friendships, strengthened existing ones, and discovered the joy that comes from putting their faith into action. It was a week filled with hard work, laughter, meaningful conversations, and countless reminders that even small acts of service can make a lasting impact on our community and on the lives of those who served.

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SUNDAY EDUCATION

10 a.m. 2nd Floor

GODLY PLAY

Pre-K, Room 213 Kinder, Room 211 1st Grade, Room 218 Godly Play is a Montessori-style curriculum that helps children create spiritual meaning through story, wonder, and play. Children will explore various stories of the Bible and the wonder about the mystery of God as they continue to build their faith. This class focuses on creating a calm and quiet environment for children who prefer to work independently.

ONE FAITH ONE FAMILY

2nd – 3rd Grade, Room 209 This class invites children to explore the beauty and richness of our Anglican faith while nurturing their spiritual growth. Through engaging lessons on Baptism, mission, worship, and the meaning of the Eucharist, children will deepen their understanding of what it means to follow Christ. The class culminates in Solemn Communion in the spring. Parent participation is an essential part of the journey and is expected throughout the year.

LAUNCH 45

4th – 5th Grade, Room 207 This class is designed to help pre-teens grow in their faith through engaging lessons, meaningful discussions, fun games, and videos that deepen their knowledge of the word of God. Students explore the whole of Scripture – from Genesis to Revelation – learning how God’s love is woven throughout.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

6th – 7th Grade Youth Center, Classroom A Join us as we gather over donuts for a Bible study focused on growing in relationship with God and with one another.

HIGH SCHOOL

9th – 12th Grade Youth Center, Classroom B Each Sunday, our high school students meet to discuss the Bible and the ways it applies to our lives. Focusing on navigating the world through a lens of faith, this class is a great place to ask questions and grow in discipleship as we prepare for what’s next. REGISTRATION CLOSES SEPTEMBER 1

YOUTH CONFIRMATION 8th Grade

Sunday Participation: 10 a.m. in the Youth Center Retreat: January 15 – 17, 2027 Wednesday Class: January 20 – February 17, 2027 6:30 – 8 p.m. | Youth Center Confirmation is an opportunity for 8th grade students to take the next step in their faith journey. Through engaging discussions, meaningful relationships, and spiritual growth, students will deepen their understanding of God, explore the heart of the Christian faith, and discover what it means to live as a disciple of Jesus. The confirmation process will look a little different, with the confirmation year beginning in the fall and the formal retreat taking place in January. Advanced registration is required. To learn more about Confirmation and register, visit saintmichael.org/youth.

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ENGAGING THE WORD

CLASS FOR PARENTS

August 16 – September 20

August 16 – October 11

Room 203

TESTIMONY TO GRACE

Saint Michael Chapel Led by Dr. Tim Smith Paul’s letter to the Romans is a monumental testimony to the faith and practice of the early church. It has inspired Christians throughout the ages and has also elicited a number of theological questions and controversies. In this series, we will explore the various themes and images Paul uses to unfold his account of the gospel of Christ and look at some paradigmatic examples from the history of the church of how others have engaged Paul’s work. What we discover in this class will enable us to grow both in understanding and in our lived experience of the fullness of grace Paul describes. October 4 –11

HOW TO READ THE BIBLE

Led by the Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata Join us for an engaging class on how to read the Bible with confidence, understanding, and spiritual depth. Together we will explore the different types of writing found in Scripture, learn how historical context shapes interpretation, and discover faithful ways Christians have read the Bible throughout history. Whether you are new to Scripture or have studied it for years, this class will provide helpful tools for reading the Bible thoughtfully, prayerfully, and faithfully in everyday life. October 25 – November 22

EVERYTHING FROM NOTHING

Led by the Rev. David M. Faulkner This class will explore the doctrine of creation from biblical perspectives. Beginning with the creation narratives, we will explore what the Bible teaches about how we are to understand the Creator, the creation, and our unique place as stewards and the pinnacle of creation. We will discover what it means to be lovingly created in God's image and how we are to live into that identity through the lens of Scriptural teaching.

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Room 212

NEVER ENOUGH: WHEN ACHIEVEMENT CULTURE BECOMES TOXIC AND WHAT WE CAN DO ABOUT IT

Led by Clergy, Staff, and Lay Leaders In the ever more competitive race to secure the best possible future, today’s students face unprecedented pressure to succeed. They jam-pack their schedules with AP classes, fill every waking hour with resume-padding activities, and even sabotage relationships with friends to “get ahead.” Family schedules and incomes are stretched to the breaking point, leading to skyrocketing rates of anxiety, depression, and even self-harm. Children are increasingly absorbing the message that they have no value outside of their accomplishments, a message that is reinforced by the media and greater culture at large and is counter to the Gospel. How can we teach our kids to strive towards excellence without crushing them? As a parent, you’ll learn what you truly want for your kids, and why, and what you can do to help them, while maintaining balance. October 25 – December 21

THE TOTAL FAMILY MAKEOVER

Led by Clergy, Staff, and Lay Leaders A recent study in the Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion, examining 16,548 respondents, found that the strongest predictor of adult religious engagement was not childhood attendance, but the frequency of conversations about faith with parents. In other words, discipling your children at home. God calls us as parents to be key disciple-makers in our children’s lives. But if we’re honest, some days it’s a battle just to get them dressed and ready for school on time. How can you mold their hearts when sometimes you can’t even find their shoes? In Total Family Makeover, author Melissa Spoelstra gives parents a way to disciple your children through eight key habits of growth. Disciples are made, not born. Fulfilling Jesus’ command to make disciples starts at home with you! Join us as we discover a practical approach to helping your children learn what it means to be a follower of Jesus.


FAITH AND PRACTICE Room 201

August 16 – 30

RECLAIMING EVANGELISM IN THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH

Led by the Rev. Kenneth H. Brannon and the Rev. Cn. Carrie Headington “Evangelism” means sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with our neighbors. We have seen plenty of ways this can be done poorly. But an Anglican understanding of who God is and how God works in the world can lead to expressions of evangelism that are authentic, peacefilled, and life-giving. Join us as we explore the biblical and theological foundations of evangelism and imagine what a “redeemed” evangelism could look like right here in Dallas.

September 20

THE ANGLICAN COMMUNION TODAY

Led by the Rev. Kenneth H. Brannon Anglicanism is not just a historical reality. Anglicanism continues to shape the world today. In this final part of a three-part series, we will look at the Anglican “Instruments of Communion” (Anglican Consultative Council, Archbishop of Canterbury, Primates Meeting, and Lambeth Conference), explore their unique contributions to our Anglican identity, and hear about new proposals that would reimagine how these instruments function in a rapidly changing world. October 4 – 25

BENEDICTINE SPIRITUALITY

Led by the Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata Discover the history, theology, and lasting impact of the Anglican Reformation. Together we will explore how the Church of England emerged, the key figures and events that shaped Anglican identity, and how The Episcopal Church continues to balance scripture, tradition, and reason today. Whether you are new to Anglicanism or seeking a deeper understanding of its roots, this class offers an accessible perspective on our Anglican tradition.

Led by the Rev. Sally Lombardo Anglicanism is a tradition profoundly shaped by the spirituality and wisdom of Benedictine monasticism: our liturgy and worship, our approach to prayer, and our understanding of the relationship between faith and daily life have all been influenced by the Benedictine tradition. This series will explore the connections between Benedictine spirituality and Anglican faith and practice, chiefly for the purpose of helping us recognize ways Benedictine spirituality can help us experience faith more fully in daily life and deepen our relationship with God and others.

September 13

November 1 – 22

Led by the Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata Discover the worldwide mission and ministry of the Anglican Communion in this inspiring class. Together we will examine how Anglicans around the world serve their communities through evangelism, education, justice, compassion, and cross-cultural partnership. Join us as we learn what it means to participate in God’s mission both locally and globally through the rich diversity of the Anglican tradition.

Led by the Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata Journey through the foundational biblical covenants of Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David. Together we will explore how these covenant relationships reveal God’s promises, faithfulness, and plan for humanity, culminating in the Messianic covenant that defines us as disciples. Through study and discussion, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how these ancient covenants continue to shape the Christian faith today.

September 6

ANGLICAN REFORMATION

ANGLICAN GLOBAL MISSION

COVENANT

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SERVICE IS A TRANSFORMATIVE PART OF OUR DISCIPLESHIP.

Serve this Season

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AUGUST 1 – 10 NOW-FORWARD: BACK-TO-SCHOOL DISTRIBUTIONS Invite friends or family to join you in helping DISD students get ready for the school year by distributing supplies and uniforms. Volunteer in two-hour shifts to distribute: SCHOOL SUPPLIES August 1 & 8, from 7:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. UNIFORMS August 3, 5, & 7, from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. August 4, 6, & 10, from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

SUNDAYS AND SERVICES ACOLYTE Acolytes lead processions, assist at the altar, and support the flow of the liturgy by carrying the cross, holding torches, or helping during communion. Children, youth, and adults are invited to participate. GREETER If you are looking to connect at Saint Michael, serving as a greeter is a great way to help welcome, inform, connect people, and build friendships. WELCOME LIAISON Help create a warm, relational culture at Saint Michael by connecting with visitors, guests, and parishioners you may not know. Welcome Liaisons take time for conversation, helping people feel at home and discover ways to grow in faith and community. USHER Ushers are the friendly faces who welcome worshippers, hand out programs, assist with seating, manage offerings, and guide people during communion. Join the Usher Corps and help make every service warm, welcoming, and orderly. For more information, email Kathy Hayes at khayes@mail.smu.edu. CHOIR We offer singing opportunities for all ages from Pre-K through adults. To learn how to get involved, contact Catherine Seveney at cseveney@saintmichael.org.

ONGOING OPPORTUNITIES BECOME A GOOD SHEPHERD Care for parish households in your area. Good Shepherds connect neighbors, respond to needs, and build meaningful relationships—living out the call to be “neighbor helping neighbor.” ANGEL FOOD COOKS Provide a meal to parishioners who are going through a challenging time or celebrating the birth of a child. CARD MINISTRY Stay in touch with parishioners by writing cards after the deaths of loved ones, to the homebound, and in celebration of birthdays or holidays. FRIENDS IN CHRIST Provide your friendship and a listening ear to parishioners who are unable to attend church but desire to stay in touch with our parish. INTERCESSORY PRAYER MINISTRY (DAILY) Offer daily prayers from the online prayer requests. Contact Terry Demler, tsdemler@gmail.com. SAINT MICHAEL FOOD BANK SUPER TEAM This team visits different food banks or closets throughout the month to make a difference in the lives of those in need. SPIRITUAL DIRECTION Upon completion of training, provide emotional and spiritual care for those who are facing life’s challenges. Contact Elizabeth Lang, langelizabeth66@gmail.com. STEPHEN MINISTRY Provide one-on-one care to those who are facing life’s challenges. Contact Mary Kardell at mary.kardell@ sbcglobal.net and visit stephenministries.org.


AUSTIN STREET CENTER Cook and serve a meal for the homeless community. COOKING TEAM Tuesday before the First Wednesday 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Westminster Presbyterian Church SERVING TEAM First Wednesday of the month 5:30 – 7 p.m. | Austin Street Center JUBILEE PARK AND COMMUNITY CENTER BOOK BUDDIES Monday – Thursday | September – Winter Break 30-minute time slots between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. Jubilee Park and Community Center Oran M. Roberts Elementary School Mount Auburn STEAM Academy Join Jubilee Park as a tutor for its reading support program, Book Buddies, to provide additional reading instruction to students with need. Volunteers will spend 30 minutes once a week reading with their Book Buddy beginning in September and lasting until winter break. Orientation and training dates provided following signups. Learn more at saintmichael.org/jubileepark. Scan the QR code to sign up to be a book buddy.

GLOBAL MISSIONS

By participating in a mission trip, there is an opportunity to partner with churches and organizations across the globe, working collectively to extend the Kingdom of God to the ends of the earth.

NOVEMBER 20 – 23 YOUTH WITH A MISSION: HOMES OF HOPE COSTA RICA MISSION TRIP In 2026, Saint Michael will offer families the opportunity to join a special Youth With a Mission (YWAM) Homes of Hope trip to Costa Rica. This trip is designed for families with children in middle school and older. Over a long weekend, our team will join other Dallas families in constructing a two-room house from the ground up, working alongside the receiving family and completing the fully furnished home by Sunday evening. We are delighted to offer this transformative experience and look forward to the blessings it will bring to our families and our new friends in Costa Rica. For more information, contact Kathryn Francis at kwf@kewdrilling.com.

VNA MEALS ON WHEELS DELIVERY DRIVERS Weekdays, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Make a difference in the lives of homebound seniors in the Dallas area! Deliver based on your availability—monthly or as a substitute—and you can choose the route that is most convenient for you. Contact Phillip Wylie, pwylie@wylielegalgroup.com. CALL FOR TUTORS AT FOSTER ELEMENTARY Weekdays, starting in September Stephen C. Foster Elementary School, 3700 Clover Lane Come be a part of our ministry! We will resume tutoring students in kindergarten through 5th grade in September. As a tutor, you will support students in foundational education skills – particularly reading. The ability to speak Spanish is not required, but dual language tutors are needed. Scheduling is flexible throughout the school day; however, we would like volunteers to commit to a time slot one day a week, as you will be assigned specific students. Contact Allison Nors at anors@saintmichael.org with any questions. FALL 2026

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PARISH CALENDAR AUGUST 2 – NOVEMBER 8

PARISH WIDE THURSDAY, AUGUST 6 FEAST OF THE TRANSFIGURATION 6 p.m. | Chapel Incense will be used at this service Join us for Holy Eucharist on the Feast of Transfiguration, which commemorates the manifestation of God’s glory through Jesus while in the presence of Peter, James, and John on the Mountaintop. SUNDAY, AUGUST 30 COMPLINE SERVICE: PRESENCE 7 p.m. | Church Presence is a Compline service that invites us to dwell in the sacred breath of God, who comes to us like wind and flame-unseen yet deeply felt. This service is a rich mosaic of diverse choral music, beautifully weaving together the spirit of community and the power of connection. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 ST. MARY'S GUILD FALL BAKE SALE 8:45 – 11 a.m. | Café SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 FEAST OF SAINT MICHAEL & NEW BUILDING DEDICATION AND CELEBRATION 10 a.m. | Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony 10:15 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Food, Fellowship, and Fun Atrium & Plaza Join us for a joyful new chapter in the life of Saint Michael as we celebrate the grand opening of the new campus and dedicate these spaces built for worship and community—for now and generations to come.

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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 EPISCOPAL SCHOOLS CELEBRATION 9 a.m. | Church On this, the 40th anniversary of Episcopal education on Saint Michael’s campus, we celebrate the distinctives of the Episcopal educational tradition and the formative difference it makes in the lives of children at Saint Michael and in our community. Students and families from Saint Michael Episcopal School will be with us to participate in the service as we give thanks to God for all the lives touched through Episcopal education here on the Saint Michael campus. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS 4 p.m. | Plaza From kittens to chickens, guppies to puppies, our clergy will be blessing all pets great and small. This free event celebrating the Feast of St. Francis is open to the entire community, so come and enjoy this wonderful annual Saint Michael and All Angels tradition. A short liturgy will be led by the clergy featuring special music led by the Saint Michael Choristers, followed by individual pet blessings. Each pet will receive a lovely St. Francis medallion for their pet collar. Refreshments for pets and their humans will be served. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11 ST. MARY’S GUILD FALL BAKE SALE 8:45 – 11 a.m. | Café SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18 FALL PARISH MEETING 10:10 a.m. | Church Please join us for the Fall Parish Meeting where we will elect our new parish leaders and continue to discuss the future of our church.


SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25 ST. MARY’S GUILD HALLOWEEN BAKE SALE 8:45 – 11 a.m. | Café SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1 ALL SAINTS' SUNDAY WITH THE RT. REV. N.T. WRIGHT, FORMER BISHOP OF DURHAM Regular service schedule Join us for our regular worship schedule as we celebrate all of the Saints of God, known and unknown, who we remember as examples of heroic faith and the lights of the world in their generations. At 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. in the Church, we are honored to welcome Bishop Tom Wright as our guest preacher. Many of you know and love his commentaries and other writings that have helped translate biblical scholarship to a wider audience. Join us for this rare and special opportunity! SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1 ALL SOULS EVENSONG 4 p.m. | Church Join us for this beautiful, annual service in which we remember those whom we love but see no more. The Saint Michael Choir will offer transcendent music to inspire hope, reflection, and healing. A special feature of this service is an opportunity to light a candle on the altar in memory of a loved one.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8 VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION 4 p.m. | Church Join us for our annual Veterans Day service followed immediately by a festive reception in our new Plaza. This event is open to everyone. Invite your friends, family, and neighbors as we come together to honor and thank the men and women who have faithfully served our nation. Veterans will have reserved seating at the front of the Church. During the service, our organists will perform the traditional military medley as the branch flags process down the aisle. Veterans are warmly invited to join the procession by lining up behind their branch’s flag and coming forward to the altar for our annual group photo—a meaningful tradition that celebrates their service and sacrifice. We hope you will join us for this special afternoon of gratitude, remembrance, and community.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8 ST. MARY’S GUILD ALL SAINTS BAKE SALE 8:45 – 11 a.m. | Café

CHILDREN

Meghan Houk, Director of Children's Ministries mhouk@saintmichael.org Cydni Joubert, Assistant Director of Children's Ministries, cjoubert@saintmichael.org Beth Igoe, Coordinator for Formation Ministries, bigoe@saintmichael.org SUNDAYS EARLY CHILDHOOD MINISTRY: NURSERY 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Childcare North: 0–18 months old Childcare South: 2–3 years old Our early childhood offerings provide a warm and welcoming environment and will build your child’s faith foundation from the earliest age. Children play enriching games, sing spiritual songs, and hear an age-appropriate Bible story. Children may be picked up at any time. SUNDAYS CHILDREN’S CHAPEL 9 a.m. | Traditional Service | Church Children ages 3–8 are invited to join us on Sunday mornings during the 9 a.m. Traditional Service. Children will be led to the new Parish Hall to visit JOY! A Children’s Service for the Bible story and sing songs before returning to their families during the Peace/Announcements. No registration is required. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 CHORISTER KICKOFF 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. | Chorister Rehearsal | New Music Suite 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Parent Meeting | New Music Suite Come be a part of something special, make new friends, and grow in faith through music. This dynamic music program is open to all children and students in 3rd through 8th grade— no prior experience needed, just a love for singing and learning! Contact Catherine Seveney, cseveney@saintmichael.org for more information about the Chorister program.

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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

FEAST OF SAINT MICHAEL & NEW BUILDING DEDICATION AND CELEBRATION 10 a.m. Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony | 10:15 a.m. – 1 p.m. Food, Fellowship, and Fun | Atrium & Plaza

SUNDAYS, OCTOBER 18 & 25 NATIVITY PAGEANT AUDITIONS 12:30 – 2 p.m. | Music Suite Calling all 3rd–8th graders! Sign up to audition for this year’s Nativity pageant and be part of this wonderful tradition to share the story of Jesus’ birth! Children ages 3–2nd grade will be able to sign up to participate in late November and will be assigned a role based on their age or grade. WEDNESDAYS CHERUB CHOIR 2:45 – 3:45 p.m. | SMES Students: PreK- Kinder 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. | PreK- 2nd Grade Children are offered a chance to get their feet wet with singing basics in this first level of the Saint Michael Chorister program. Children will hear Bible stories, participate in faith-based activities, learn to sing various songs, and engage in music and movement-based games. Participants will sing in worship services on certain Sunday mornings throughout the year.

YOUTH

Samuel Moore, Director of Youth Ministries smoore@saintmichael.org Beth Igoe, Coordinator for Formation Ministries, bigoe@saintmichael.org WEDNESDAYS WEDNESDAY NIGHT LIVE! YOUTH GROUP 6:30 – 8 p.m. | Youth Center Join other students to share a meal, gather for a time of worship, play games, and talk about what it means to live

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out our faith in every-day ways, both in large group and grade-specific settings. This is the best place where your students can learn, grow, and connect with their friends throughout the school year. WEDNESDAYS SAINT MICHAEL CHOIR REHEARSAL Begins August 19 7 p.m. | Music Suite High School-aged singers are invited to join the Saint Michael Choir for the upcoming program year! The choir offers young people the opportunity to grow as musicians, serve in worship, and build lasting friendships through a vibrant choral community. New singers are always welcome. For questions or more information, please contact Catherine Seveney at cseveney@saintmichael.org WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28 YOUTH HALLOWEEN PARTY 6:30 – 8 p.m. | Youth Center It’s spooky season! Come in your best costume and bring a friend for a spook-tacular night of food and games!


ADULTS

Dr. Tim M. Smith, Director of Adult Ministries tsmith@saintmichael.org Beth Igoe, Coordinator for Formation Ministries, bigoe@saintmichael.org WEDNESDAYS, SEPTEMBER 2 – 30 5-WEEK GRIEF RECOVERY SMALL GROUP 6:30 – 8 p.m. | Room 204 Led by the Rev. Robin Hinkle The Rev. Robin Hinkle will lead this confidential small group for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one. We will prayerfully walk through this time together as we ground our grief in our faith. We will also share practical information and practices regarding grief and our response. Contact the Rev. Robin Hinkle, rhinkle@saintmichael.org with questions. As registration is required, please register with Katherine Bowen, kbowen@saintmichael.org by Tuesday, September 1. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 & 20 BAPTISM CLASSES 10:15 a.m. | Room 205 In keeping with both the Book of Common Prayer and the Canons of the Episcopal Church, all candidates for baptism and their sponsors (parents, Godparents, etc.) are required to attend preparation classes before candidates will be eligible to receive baptism. The purpose of these classes is to help candidates and their sponsors become familiar with the meaning of baptism, the commitments and responsibilities associated with baptism, and the way baptism informs the life of faith. It is necessary for candidates and sponsors to complete preparation classes before scheduling their baptism. SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 ADULT CHOIR BOOTCAMP 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Music Suite Attention all singers! Whether you're a prospective choir member or just someone who loves to sing, report for duty at Saint Michael Choir Bootcamp. You’ll learn the basics of choral singing, run some fun vocal drills, and enjoy camaraderie with the seasoned “veterans” of the Saint Michael Choir. No prior training required—just bring your voice and enthusiasm. Fall in line and sing out! Lunch will be served. Contact Catherine Seveney, cseveney@saintmichael.org for more information.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 28 BLOOD DRIVE 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Coke Room 201 The Parish Nurse Ministry, in partnership with the American Red Cross, will sponsor a blood drive this summer. To schedule an appointment, scan the QR code, enter 75225 in the red "Find a Blood Drive" box at the top right of the screen, press the arrow, and scroll down to find the Saint Michael blood drive dates. On the day of your donation, please bring your driver’s license, your Red Cross card, or use the Red Cross app. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11 PREPARATION OF MARRIAGE ONE-DAY RETREAT 1 – 5 p.m. | Room 212 For those preparing to be married, we have reimagined our preparation course to be a one-day retreat on Sunday afternoon. This retreat, led by lay couples in our parish, is a required part of marriage preparation at Saint Michael. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16 – SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 UNITED ADORATION SONGWRITING RETREAT Music Suite Come cultivate your songwriting gifts in a welcoming environment of worship, prayer, and creative collaboration. Whether you are a professional songwriter, or have never written a song before, songwriters of all ages and experience levels are encouraged to participate! This in-person retreat is designed as a safe, quiet, and reflective space for artists to connect and collaborate with their Creator and creative community. Dozens of new songs for the Church and beyond are written at this retreat every year. Join us for this incredibly enriching time! For more information, contact Justin Brooks at jbrooks@saintmichael.org.

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WEEKDAY CLASSES MONDAYS UNENDING CONVERSATION GROUP Begins October 5 9:30 – 11 a.m. | Location TBD Led by Linda Westerburg and Nancy West The fall program will focus on ways to follow Jesus in our collective and personal lives to help the poor, heal the sick, feed the hungry, and welcome the stranger. Contact Linda Westerburg at lindawesterburg@gmail.com or Nancy Jones West at nancyjw@me.com. MONDAYS CARE GIVERS SUPPORT GROUP 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Room 206 Led by Gayl Braymer Providing care for a loved one can be isolating and overwhelming. Our group provides confidential and loving support to those involved in caregiving. We seek to give emotional support and resource suggestions to those in need. Contact Gayl Braymer at gaylbraymer@gmail.com, to participate or ask questions. FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH PRAYER SHAWL KNITTING MINISTRY Resumes October 6 1 – 3 p.m. | Room 210 Led by Peggy Carr To date, the Saint Michael Prayer Shawl Ministry volunteers have knitted and distributed 2,996 shawls, extending love to parishioners who are hurting or ill. Each of these shawls is tagged with a label that identifies it as being knit with love at Saint Michael, and a healing prayer is added. Every shawl is blessed by the clergy and by the entire congregation prior to distribution. Join us for camaraderie, prayers, and the joy of knitting a message of love. Contact Peggy Carr, peggy.carr@sbcglobal.net with questions. To arrange a time to pick up a prayer shawl, please contact Katherine Bowen, kbowen@saintmichael.org.

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TUESDAYS EDUCATION FOR MINISTRY Begins September 8 Classic: 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. or 6:30 – 9 p.m. Wide Angle: 2 – 4 p.m. Room 200 Led by Dr. Elizabeth Lang Join us for Education for Ministry (EfM) at Saint Michael. Choose between the one-year “Wide Angle” overview of Scripture and Christianity, or the four-year “Classic” course for deeper faith exploration. Classes meet Tuesdays (morning, afternoon, or evening), cost $377 per year (scholarships available), and are offered through the University of the South’s School of Theology. Registration required. For details or to sign up, contact Elizabeth Lang, langelizabeth66@gmail.com, or 682-429-3360. TUESDAYS BROWN BAG BIBLE STUDY 11 a.m. – Noon | Room 203 Led by Peggy Carr This bible study is for women who seek to grow in their faith and to do so in the community and support of others. The study for the fall is Forgiveness: Making Peace with the Past, by Douglas Connelly. Jesus calls us to forgive as we have been forgiven. You’ll discover forgiveness anew and learn how to deal with the anger and resentment we feel when hurt by others and how to restore broken relationships. Zoom is also available for those unable to meet in person. For questions or the Zoom link, please contact Peggy Carr, peggy.carr@sbcglobal.net. TUESDAYS, AUGUST 25 – MAY 18 DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY 6 – 8:30 p.m. | Room 203 Led by Dr. Tim Smith “Disciple” is a transformative journey through the Bible—from Genesis to Revelation—designed to deepen your understanding of God, your relationship with Jesus, and what it means to follow Him. Along the way, you’ll explore the Bible’s major themes in a supportive, discussion-based setting, reading more than 80% of Scripture by the end of the course. Daily readings average about 30 minutes. Because relationships and continuity matter, participants are asked to make a strong commitment to the group, missing no more than five sessions. Cost: $45 for the study manual. Sign up at saintmichael.org/disciplestudy.


FIRST, THIRD, AND FIFTH TUESDAYS OF THE MONTH WOMEN WORD WORK Begins September 1 6:30 – 7:45 p.m. | Room 205 Led by Blair Shaw, Libby Flory and Laree Stein Join us to discuss a book and enjoy light snacks. Our first book this fall is Waiting Isn't a Waste by Mark Vroegop who calls believers to resist the human urge for control and instead lean on Christ for comfort while we wait for the uncertainties of life to unfold. He explores what it means to wait on God through six important characteristics than will lead to wisdom from God and the gift of peace. For questions or more information, please contact Blair Shaw, blairwshaw@gmail.com; Libby Flory, libbyflory@mac.com; or LaRee Stein, laree.stein@gmail.com. WEDNESDAYS M.O.M.S. (MINISTRY OF MOMS SHARING) Begins September 16 8:45 – 10 a.m. | Room 201 Led by Erin Osborne, Debbie Hayhurst, and Meghan Houk Join us this semester for fellowship, encouragement, and support in the ministry of motherhood! We will work our way through the book I Just Wish I Had a Bigger Kitchen (and Other Lies I Think Will Make Me Happy) by Kate Strickler. In our time together we will look at simple mindset shifts to love the life you already have, especially in the thinking of raising children! For more information contact Meghan Houk, mhouk@saintmichael.org. WEDNESDAYS IMAGING THE WORD LECTIONARY BIBLE STUDY Begins September 9 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. | Room 200 Led by Karen Wiley The Bible and the arts are inherently and historically linked. Since the 4th century in the Christian era, congregations have been guided by the lectionary's imaginative and disciplined journey through the Bible. Using these readings, the liturgy, music, colors, movements, and celebrations of the church year, the Bible and the arts are brought together in a significant way. Imaging the Word is a resource providing visual arts, music, photography, prose, poetry, prayers, and commentary based on each Sunday's lectionary readings. The class is open to everyone at any time. For questions and the Zoom link for those unable to attend in person, please contact Karen Wiley kkwiley@sbcglobal.net.

THURSDAYS BIBLE STUDY FELLOWSHIP (BSF) Begins September 17 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. | Room 205 Led by Kimberly Colonnetta Bible Study Fellowship will be studying from the book of Romans this year, a book that speaks to our deepest struggles – doubt, pride, fear, and guilt – and leads us to God’s grace. Written for ordinary people, it offers real hope for real life. Call Kimberly Colonnetta at 214-683-1259 for more information. THURSDAYS COMMUNITY BIBLE STUDY 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. | Room 200 Led by Brady Millican This fall we are taking a deep dive into Rowan Williams’ book, Resurrection: Interpreting the Easter Gospels. We will spend 16 Thursdays strengthening our relationship with Christ and each other, with the goal of living lives that invite all whom we meet to join us as “Easter people,” building God’s new creation, both here on earth and in heaven. The study requires the purchase of Williams’ book, available on Amazon in either paperback or Kindle. For more information and a detailed class schedule that will allow you to get a head start for our exploration, contact Brady Millican at bradymillican1828@gmail.com. THIRD SATURDAY OF THE MONTH WRITER’S RETREAT 10 a.m. – Noon Led by Cynthia Sample at her home Writing for publication, spiritual work, therapeutic journaling, or even just for the fun of it can be enhanced by community. Our meetings begin with a short introduction, then one of our facilitators will offer a few writing prompts. After an hour, writers will have the opportunity to share their work and solicit comments. This is pressure-free environment is designed for all skill levels, and all genres are welcome. For more information, contact Cynthia at cynthia@cynthiacsample.com.

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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1

CHORISTER KICKOFF

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS

ALL SOULS' EVENSONG

New Music Suite

4 p.m. | Plaza

SATURDAYS BROTHERHOOD OF ST. ANDREW First and third Saturdays of the month 8:30 – 10 a.m. | Room 203 Led by Kyle Moore The Brotherhood of Saint Andrew is a welcoming group of men from all stages of adult life. Each gathering centers around fellowship, prayer for those in need, and meaningful conversations about faith. We will continue the discussions on our current book, Fly into the Wind: How to Harness Faith and Fearlessness on Your Ascent to Greatness by Lt. Colonel Dan Rooney through November 17. If you're interested in learning more, please contact either Kyle Moore at 214-675-9264 or kyle_moore@yahoo.com or Mark Demler at 214-912-9331 or mdemler51@gmail.com. WOMEN OF SAINT MICHAEL Learn more and sign up at womenofsaintmichael.com. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7 DEEPENING WORLDLY RELATIONSHIPS IN OUR NEW PARISH HALL 5 – 7 p.m. | Parish Hall As Saint Michael enters an exciting new chapter with the opening of our expanded campus, the Women of Saint Michael are thrilled to welcome three-time bestselling author, nationally recognized speaker, and leadership expert Tommy Spaulding for a special church-wide evening in our brand new Parish Hall. MEN OF SAINT MICHAEL Learn more and sign up at saintmichael.org/mosm.

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4 p.m. | Church

TUESDAYS FATHERS AND FELLOWSHIP Begins September 15 8 – 8:45 a.m. | Room 204 Led by Dr. Tim Smith and others Join other dads who in studying and discussing the Book of John. We’ll explore Scripture together, dig deeper into God's Word, and connect with other fathers navigating life and faith. This is a great opportunity to grow spiritually, support one another, and strengthen your walk with Christ. To sign up or make inquiries, contact Michael Massad at michaelmmassad@gmail.com or Tom Fenton at thomas.henry.fenton@gmail.com. TUESDAYS MEN’S SMALL GROUP Begins September 15 8 – 9 a.m. | Room 208 Led by Eric Gilmour and Adriean Bower Get together with other men for a collective journey of growing in faith and discussing and appliying God’s Word to present day-life. To sign up or make inquiries, contact Eric Gilmour eric.andrew.gilmour@gmail.com or Adrian Bower adrianbower@yahoo.com. TUESDAYS R.O.B.S (RETIRED OLD BOYS) 10 – 11 a.m. | Room 204 This men’s group for retirees will focus on the Gospel lesson for the coming Sunday’s worship. Come get to know other men, laugh, and grow in your faith while making good friends, all in the pursuit of following Jesus more closely. To sign up or make inquiries, contact Dr. Tim Smith, at tsmith@saintmichael.org.


WEDNESDAYS THE SEEKERS 7 – 8 a.m. | Room 203 Led by Dr. Tim Smith Join us on September 16 at 7:30 a.m. for a special morning with Secret Service Agent Darin Kinder, who was inside World Trade Center Building 7 on September 11, 2001, and at the base of the South Tower when it collapsed. Darin will share his firsthand account of that day, his journey through pain and healing, and how he discovered God’s purpose in the aftermath. Be inspired to reflect on your own purpose, your own “why,” and to live with courage and conviction.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 PRIMETIMERS SEPTEMBER LUNCHEON True Crime and Cold Case Investigations 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. | North Parish Hall Speaker: Leighton D’Antoni, Assistant District Attorney, Cold Case Division Chief Long cold criminal cases are being solved by talented investigators in the District Attorney’s Cold Case Division. These crimes are often heinous, complex, and overlooked for years. Leighton D’Antoni will explain their process and describe some true crime cold cases his team solved. Lunch priced at $18 for online registration and $20 at the door.

THURSDAYS MEN’S LECTIONARY BIBLE STUDY 7 – 8 a.m. | ZOOM Led by Various Members This group discusses the Lectionary’s Scripture for the current week, exploring ways the passages speak to everyday life and our own spiritual journey. Lessons are emailed each week to enable participants to be familiarized with the material. Several participants rotate facilitation of the discussion of the lessons and other available information on the subject. For questions or the Zoom link, please contact Bill McGannon at bill@mcgs.com or David Cowling at davidcowling0100@gmail.com.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1 PRIME TIMERS OCTOBER LUNCHEON The Vision of Ray and Patsy Nasher, and the Sculpture Center 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. | North Parish Hall Speaker: Lynda Wilbur, Senior Manager of Access and Outreach, Nasher Sculpture Center Ray and Patsy Nasher were legendary collectors of some of the most important art of the 20th century. They believed that art should enhance everyday environments as we can see by the art at NorthPark Center and the Nasher Sculpture Center. Their biography, vision, and approach to collecting art will be highlighted in this program. Lunch priced at $18 for online registration and $20 at the door.

THURSDAYS A MEN’S BIBLE STUDY 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. | Room 200 Led by Phil Ritter This Bible study is based on the Lectionary readings for the coming Sunday and meets throughout the year. Advance preparation is not required. There are no attendance expectations other than to come when you can and as often as you are able. The group is led by lay members of the group and occasionally clergy. For more information, contact Phil Ritter at pjritter@mac.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5 PRIME TIMERS NOVEMBER LUNCHEON Half the Man, Twice the Faith: The Rick Salewske Story 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Noth Parish Hall Speaker: Rick Salewske, Author Join us to hear the life story and extreme weight loss journey of Rick Salewske. His transformation by losing almost 300 pounds eventually led to his appearance on national television programs such as Oprah’s show. Rick, who is a parishioner of Saint Michael, will tell “the unvarnished truth” about his journey and its ups and downs.

THURSDAYS PRIME TIMERS Prime Timers is a welcoming community for senior adults offering fellowship, spiritual encouragement, and service opportunities. Gatherings include time to connect with others, enjoy an engaging speaker, and share lunch. Learn more and sign up at saintmichael.org/primetimers or contact Shelly Mathis at smathis25a@gmail.com.

THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH PRIME TIMERS GAME DAY Begins September 17 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. | North Parish Hall Game on! Join the Prime Timers for an afternoon of fun, fellowship, games, and a light dessert. This is a great opportunity to invite friends and introduce them to the Prime Timers. Contact Jeanie Thedford at jjmadeley@gmail.com for more information.

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STAFF UPDATES JAMES R. THOMAS Facilities Manager Saint Michael is thrilled to welcome James R. Thomas as the new Facilities Manager. James will assist the Director of Facilities in managing the physical operations of our campus, including personnel and systems that provide for the safety, comfort, security, maintenance, cleaning, and setup/takedown for staff and parishioners. James brings more than 26 years of experience in public education, operational leadership, and organizational management, most recently serving as Chief Operations Officer for a public K-12 school district. Beyond his professional accomplishments, James serves as a Past Master of Goodwill Lodge No. 313. He has led numerous charitable and community outreach efforts, including annual Thanksgiving food drives that have helped provide meals to hundreds of families across North Texas. James is a proud father of three adult daughters and the loving grandfather of five grandchildren. Some of his greatest joys come from gathering

PROMOTIONS COLLEEN O'HARA (left) Interim Executive Director of Operations

ALMA VEGA-ROUSE (right) Executive Director of Advancement

At Saint Michael, we are excited to begin the transition into a new organizational structure that will allow us to better support our mission of “building disciples for a transformed community.” As part of this reorganization, we are pleased to announce that Alma Vega-Rouse will assume the role of Executive Director of Advancement and Colleen O’Hara will serve as Interim Executive Director of Operations. Both Alma and Colleen have faithfully served Saint Michael, offering dedicated leadership and a hopeful vision for the future of our parish.

JENNA PITMAN Director of Communications We are thrilled to announce our very own Jenna Pitman as the new Director of Communications effective June 11, 2026. In 2020, Jenna joined Saint Michael as a graphic designer where she has elevated our brand, reimagined the design of The Archangel, and inspired our communications materials through thoughtful design. She was the chief designer of both the Building our Future capital campaign and Building the Kingdom stewardship campaign. In 2024, Jenna was promoted to Assistant Director of Communications because of her leadership qualities, embodiment of the core values, and effective use of design as a communications tool. She is a natural fit to take on the role of Director where she will lead the Communications team, inform and implement the strategic communications strategy while continuing to create, safeguard, and advance Saint Michael’s brand standards.

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SAMUEL K. SWEET Director of Music Sammy Sweet has been a faithful presence in our music program for more than a decade, serving as a staff singer, composer, director of our Compline Choir, and most recently as Assistant Director of Music. He has distinguished himself in each of those roles, and his gifts as both a musician and minister will be a tremendous blessing. Sammy’s studies at the University of North Texas, where he earned degrees in Choral Music Education, Choral Conducting and Vocal Pedagogy, brought him into collaboration with conductors and choirs across North America and Europe. In addition to his experience as a conductor and educator, he is an active, published composer. Most importantly, Sammy has proven himself to be a truly gifted leader and faithful minister in our church. He is grateful to continue his journey at Saint Michael in this new capacity.

DEPARTURES THE REV. DR. ANDREW GROSSO, Senior Associate for Discipleship

Andrew has accepted a call to serve as Vice Rector at Saint Martin’s Episcopal Church in Houston. Andrew has strengthened our parish with exceptional teaching, compelling preaching, sensitive pastoral care, and deep biblical and theological expertise. He has challenged us to think seriously about the call to discipleship and the commitments necessary to live into that call. Andrew will be deeply missed. Please join us in wishing Andrew the very best in his new ministry and praying for Saint Michael during this time of transition and discernment.

MEREDITH TURNER, Director of Communications After nearly three years of faithful service, Meredith Turner stepped down as Director of Communications at Saint Michael on June 10 to dedicate more time to her family. After much prayer and thoughtful consideration, she has accepted a role at her family’s home church, Incarnation. During her time on staff, Meredith brought greater clarity and consistency to parish communications, guided messaging throughout a significant season of construction, developed a comprehensive communications strategy, reimagined the Annual Report, and elevated The Archangel. We are delighted that Meredith still lives and works close by. ROBERT AUGUST, Assistant Director of Music and Organist The investment in the growth of our music ministries has required organizational changes. Specifically, the elimination of the position of Associate Director of Music and Organist in order to establish the Principal Organist and Organ Scholar roles. As a result, we have said goodbye to Dr. Robert August, a faithful member of our music staff for the last four years. We wish Robert all the best in the future. TOM HAMMOND-DAVIES is no longer employed at Saint Michael. KAHLA JACKSON is no longer employed at Saint Michael.

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WOMEN OF SAINT MICHAEL By Emily Billingsley, Women of Saint Michael President

“ALONE WE CAN DO SO LITTLE; TOGETHER WE CAN DO SO MUCH." -HELEN KELLER

T

he purpose of the Women of Saint Michael (WOSM) is to serve as an extension of Christ’s Kingdom by uniting the women of our parish. Through decades of volunteering, serving, and convening, WOSM has provided a forum for creating profound impact in our community and the world while deepening relationships with one another. By curating a seasonal offering of speaker events, volunteer opportunities, and social moments, WOSM aims to bring together our community in meaningful and measurable ways. A committee of women have come together to create an unforgettable year ahead. We kick things off each fall with a new theme, and this year we also kick things off with our new spaces. This Year, We Gather as the Women Of Saint Michael Around a Shared Goal: Becoming Better Equipped—Together. Over the course of our programming, we will be guided by Colossians 1:9: “We continually ask God to fill us with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives.” We begin the year with our first speaker series, and we wrap with our always sold-out Spring Luncheon. Let’s dive in!

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Learn Deepening Worldly Relationships in our New Parish Hall: The Women of Saint Michael Offer a Church-Wide Evening With Tommy Spaulding

Equipping Our Minds and Hearts: Annual Speaker Series

Erin Osborne, our WOSM Programming Chair, is busy securing additional impactful speakers for our series centered around this year’s theme. Attending one event or the entire series is the perfect way to dive into the WOSM community and take away timely content and new friendships. Dates and more information may be found on our website, saintmichael.org/women, which is the perfect landing page to secure your season Known for his bestselling books It's Not Just Who You tickets now! Know, The Heart-Led Leader, and The Gift of Influence, Equipping our Need for Community: Tommy has inspired audiences around the world with a powerful message about relationships, influence, purWOSM Mardi Gras Fête pose, and living a life that matters. In a culture that often celebrates power, position, and achievement, Tommy Mark your calendars for Thursday, February 4. This teaches that true influence is rooted in service, humility, year, we are thrilled to transform our Parish Hall into genuine care for one another, and a commitment to show Orleans Parish! Dueling pianos will bring the vibe and up faithfully in the lives of those around us. the sounds—start building out your request list. The Spirit of New Orleans can be found in the city's food, The evening will begin with a reception featuring bever- music, beauty, and charm, but most of all in its people. ages, light bites, and an opportunity to gather in fellow- This event is all about convening our congregation to ship before Tommy's presentation. build on our relationships. As Saint Michael enters an exciting new chapter with the opening of our expanded campus, the Women of Saint Michael are thrilled to welcome three-time bestselling author, nationally recognized speaker, and leadership expert Tommy Spaulding for a special church-wide evening on October 7, from 5–7 p.m., in our brand new Parish Hall.

Tommy's message beautifully complements the Women Equipping Our Calling to Use our of Saint Michael's 2026–2027 theme, “Equipping WomTime, Treasure & Talents for Good: en with Spiritual Wisdom for Today’s World,” inspired St. Michael’s Woman’s Exchange by Colossians 1:9. Throughout the year, we will explore how God equips us with wisdom, understanding, and Since 1958, the St. Michael’s Woman’s Exchange has purpose to navigate relationships, strengthen families, served as a shopping destination for the entire city. Dolserve others, and lead meaningful lives. lars raised are poured directly back into local charities vetted by our Gifts Committee, highlighted in the folTommy's message will inspire us to remember that the lowing paragraph. Our elegant and recently refreshed most important growth happens within us—through gift shop occupies #5 Highland Park Village and is an genuine relationships, deeper faith, and a renewed com- institution in the shopping center. WOSM volunteers mitment to living with purpose and intention. serve as buyers, display artists, salespeople, cashiers, gift wrappers, department chairs, governing board, and acJoin us as we gather for an evening of fellowship, inspira- counting and advertising team—it takes 130 volunteers tion, and learning as we begin a year of equipping, connec- to be exact and we always seek to invite new volunteers. tion, and growth together. Before October 7, engage online Please think of The Exchange for all of your gift needs: with Tuesdays with Tommy, tommyspaulding.com/blog/, women, men, children, and home! to begin our journey to equip! Gifts Committee

SECURE YOUR TICKETS TO THIS EVENT

Each year, a committee of over 20 WOSM volunteers convene over several weeks to formally diligence over one hundred 501(c)3 grant applicants. From diagnosing cash flows to meeting on site with staff then evaluating

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board composition, these women give their time to put our hard-earned treasure into the most deserving and equipped hands to help our most vulnerable community members. Beyond vetting the financial health and integrity of each grant recipient, our process is guided by the spirit of giving expressed in Matthew 25:35–36.

for queens (and princesses!). The Mother/Daughter tea brings together one of our most loved communities for a joy-filled day.

St. Mary’s Guild

The WOSM calendar culminates with our much-anticipated Spring Luncheon. In addition to celebrating the hard work of all of the WOSM, this is where we announce “the number”: the amount this army of women has raised through The Exchange, fundraising, and more. As mentioned above, these dollars are given right back into charities in our community. The checks are presented to 75–80 organizations. We hear from our final, highly anticipated speaker of the series, and we toast the year over a lovely luncheon. Tickets go on sale early spring, and we hope you will join!

The beloved St. Mary's Guild has long brought our congregation together through the simple joy of homemade treats and fellowship. On the second and fourth Sundays from September through April, WOSM volunteers provide home-baked goodies and help staff the Guild's bake sale table in the new café. Proceeds from the annual bake sale support local charities, extending the Guild's spirit of generosity far beyond our parish. Altar Guild

We Equip Each Other with Thanks and Celebrate this Community’s Accomplishments: Spring Luncheon

Equipping You With Confidence to Join the WOSM Each week, WOSM volunteers assist the clergy and serve the Parish by preparing the sacraments and maintaining all supplies necessary for the worship services. This ‘be- In addition to the traditions above, the WOSM comhind-the-scenes’ volunteer group is mission critical to our mittee provides new and unique social and volunteer opportunities each year. Shopping socials, holiday church services. gatherings, serving at the Saint Michael’s Farmers Market—there is always something around the corDay of Service ner with WOSM. This year, we are introducing three On January 22, 2027, the WOSM come together to serve seasonal evening socials, “WOSM Wednesdays,” at the as one. We will volunteer at Jubilee Community Center church. Complete with childcare and bites+bevs, these in southeast Dallas to freshen spaces and further its mis- evenings are meant to foster relationships over Mahsion. Look out for signups and grab some friends! jong in a casual setting. Jubilee Mother/Daughter Tea

In closing, we hope you feel the calling to equip yourself by leaning into the Women of Saint Michael. We need On March 6, 2027, WOSM volunteers will transform volunteers along the way, and we desire to bring each and the Jubilee Community Center into a tea room built every woman into the fold.

Follow us on Instagram! @womenofsaintmichael

Keep a lookout for our communication both in print and on our webpage through the church website and reach out if you are not sure how best to dive in—do not be bashful. Let us all equip ourselves for this worldly walk: better, together—see you this fall!

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@womenofsaintmichael

Follow

Women of Saint Michael Scan the QR code to follow us on Instagram @womenofsaintmichael to stay up to date!

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Learn

DAREN KINDER: DISCOVERING GOD'S PURPOSE In the Aftermath of 9/11

By Dr. Tim Smith, Director of Adult Ministries

48 THE ARCHANGEL


MEN PURPOSE

S

eptember 11, 2001, is a day that changed everything. All of us can remember where we were when we heard the news. At 8:46 a.m., American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower with a horrific explosion, causing debris to fall to the ground. In shock and disbelief, we were then informed that United Airlines Flight 175 had crashed into the South Tower at 9:03 a.m. It was a day that stunned America, who once considered herself invulnerable. It was unthinkable that we would be attacked. Now the war on terror, previously limited to overseas, had come home. Under the intense heat of the burning jet fuel, the South Tower’s steel girders started to fail and soon began to snap, sounding like a machine gun firing round after round. The South Tower collapsed at 9:59 a.m. As grey ash descended and permeated every crevice of the streets, it became like nighttime. The North Tower soon followed and collapsed at 10:25 a.m. and again followed by more ash and darkness as evil enveloped everything. We were frightened, almost paralyzed by fear, as our country was sent into disbelief and mourning. Two thousand nine hundred seventy-seven people died in the Twin Towers. In addition, another 184 people lost their lives at the Pentagon. On that day, Secret Service Agent Darin Kinder, who was 27 years old at the time, had just finished his workout in the World Trade Center Building 7 and was changing clothes when he heard the news. He hurriedly threw everything on and ran out of the building and into the chaos and confusion of the disaster. He was in such a rush, he forgot his gun. Darin was near the base of the South Tower when it collapsed. What followed was a harrowing fight for survival and helping others survive as well—one filled with courage, sacrifice, and purpose. Without a doubt, Darin knows God saved him on 9/11. But as a result of his experience that day, a different kind of war began in his soul: a war of purpose lost. Over the next 10 years, Darin wrestled with his experience on

9/11 and even more so with God’s calling on his life. He knew God saved him that terrible day. But why? Darin begged God for his “marching orders,” but for years he only heard silence in return. Kinder’s journey wasn’t easy. For years, he grappled with the trauma of 9/11, hesitant to share his story due to the weight of his memories. “I struggled mightily,” he admitted. “It haunted me.” Throughout this period, he searched the scriptures and found himself clinging to Psalm 27:1, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" and John 16:33, “I have said this to you so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution, but take courage: I have conquered the world!” It wasn’t until the 10th anniversary, encouraged by trusted confidants, that Darin began sharing his story, and in doing so, he started to find healing in sharing. It was then that the real restorative work of God began in his life as he channeled his pain into purpose. After years of prayer, study, and revelation from God, Darin is finally fulfilling his God-given mission, one small step at a time. His mission? To boldly speak about the love of Christ and His saving grace. To share his story and inspire and equip men and women to live godly lives of integrity, courage, and compassion. From the darkness of 9/11, Darin experienced and now proclaims the light of Christ. As our nation remembers the 25th anniversary of 9/11, all are invited, men and women, to hear Darin Kinder in the new Saint Michael North Parish Hall on Wednesday, September 16 at 7:30 a.m.. Breakfast will be served. The cost is $20. Darin will share his eyewitness account of 9/11, his journey after and his heartfelt exploration of what it means to discover God’s purpose for your life. He will share how to live with unwavering resolve, no matter what you have experienced. You will be challenged to consider your own purpose, your own “why,” and to rise up, stand firm, and live for something bigger than yourself. Please join us!

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2ND ANNUAL HALLELUJAH HOOTENANNY BLUEGRASS HYMN SING Thursday, April 23

An unforgettable evening of bluegrass music, lighthearted comedy, and heartfelt worship. The night was filled with joyful entertainment, laughter, and inspiration for all who attended.

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CONNECTING

SUBSCRIBE TO THE YOUTH NEWSLETTER

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Saturday, October 31 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | West Parking Lot Wear Your Costume • Tent or Treat • Balloon Artists Face Painters • All Your Favorite Market Vendors Station 27 Fire Truck • Fun for the Whole Family!

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Pray

HELP AND HOPE FOR THE HILL COUNTRY Who Are Our Neighbors? By Maria D'Antoni

I

n the gospel of Luke, Chapter 10, Jesus tells the story of the Good Samaritan and defines a “good neighbor” as one who shows mercy. Through Saint Michael’s Easter and Christmas plate offerings we have recently shown mercy to our neighbors in the Texas Hill Country following the devastating floods of July 4, 2025.

They quickly became the cornerstone for these community recovery efforts and partnered with the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, Episcopal Relief and Development and the Diocese of West Texas. They went into action to restore safe, stable housing for flood victims. Monies received from churches throughout the country, including ours, helped to fund this work.

Reported as the sixth deadliest freshwater flood in US history, the July 2025 flood took 130 lives and resulted St. Peters is a strong and close-knit community of parishin countless destruction of property. Saint Michael had ioners that was able to quickly assess its needs. Crucial families from whom were directly or indirectly impacted. to this process was the ability to listen and discern. It became apparent as the work progressed that the needs Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Saint Michael’s of the community would evolve, moving from the obviMission and Outreach committee continues to seek the ous physical needs to long-term pastoral care and mental health care needed for grief support and trauma care. 130 right path of service for these neighbors. families are being assisted on their pathway to recovery. We have been inspired by the immediate, boots-on-the- The task force established four pillars on which their ground action of St. Peter’s Episcopal church in Kerrville. work would proceed. They are: They quickly formed a task force which went to work to serve their community. This task force became Help and Immediate response Hope for the Hill Country, one of this year’s recipients of Case management Saint Michael’s Easter Plate offerings. As a result of your Mental health and healing generosity, they will be receiving $9,457. Formation of The Help and Hope Village

52 THE ARCHANGEL


Immediate response included the distribution of supplies (plywood, ATVs, box cutters, ice generators, and gift cards). In the second week, they initiated the distribution of 207 emergency relief checks for $2,500 each. These monies were used for food, clothing, and temporary shelter. This was made possible through the support of the Diocese of West Texas and churches across the country, including Saint Michael.

Help and Hope Village was formed, consisting of the Hunt Chapel (the preexisting Hunt Pavilion), a pop-up chapel, and trailers and RVs, which serve as the recovery hub for the area. The Hunt Chapel has become a center of community healing activity, hosting Sunday services, healing circles, healing events utilizing art and music, and community social events.

The work here is constantly evolving and long-term. Help Local clergy were called to an intense level of pastoral care and Hope for the Hill Country (HHHC) is well-orgasecondary to the effects of profound trauma, dealing with nized and efficient, but as Jesus is quoted in Matthew families facing reunification, loss, sudden death, funerals, 9:35: “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.” and post-traumatic mental health issues. Workers can burn out, and resources can be limited. When people lost their homes and vehicles in the flood, they also lost many beloved items. Help and Hope for Help and Hope for the Hill Country welcomes missionthe Hill Country partnered with a Facebook group, aries wanting to work with them. They also welcome othFound on the Guadalupe, to organize found items along er volunteer assistance opportunities such as Equestrian the river and help get them back to their owners. Through opportunities and group art and music activities. One the power of community and social media, thousands of church group from Virginia came to plant trees along the items have been reunited with owners. river to replace those lost in the flood. Another group, Healing on the Fly, came to offer flyfishing experiences Grief lingers along the Guadelupe. Grief recovery is not and companionship. The opportunity to walk along those short-term nor transactional. According to a rapid mental in pain and recovery is there for those who hear the call. health assessment reported by Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute in December 2025, up to seven thousand Saint Michael is blessed with many generous and talpeople in the area have been identified with Post Trau- ented people: musicians, artists, equestrians, teachers, matic Stress Disorder (PTSD). To address these prob- therapists, and good listeners. Plans are being made to lems, long-term affiliations have been established with the take Saint Michael’s mission team to the Hill Country. Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas in San Should that still, small voice be speakAntonio and the Institute for Spirituality and Health ing to you to “be with them,” please at the Texas Medical Center in Houston. contact Allison Nors, CoordinaFour case workers managed 130 cases tor for Mission and Outreach and 236 individuals were served by at anors@saintmichael.org. the Children’s Bereavement Center. The number of case managers has grown to 30.

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SWEET POTATO SALAD

PUMPKIN TORTILLA SOUP

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 Roasted Sweet Potatoes

• 4 medium tomatoes

• Tahini Dressing

• 1 small yellow onion, cut into quarters

• 4 cups arugula

• 3 whole garlic cloves, unpeeled

•

1

/c3 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1 dried pasilla, guajillo, or chipotle chile, stemmed and seeded

• 1 avocado, sliced

• 5 corn tortillas, divided

• Lemon wedge, for squeezing

• ½ teaspoon sea salt, more to taste

• 3 tablespoons toasted pepitas

• 2 ½ cups vegetable broth

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 1 teaspoon dried cumin

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat the oven to 425°F and line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper. Toss the sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper and spread evenly onto the baking sheets. Roast for 25 minutes or until the edges are browned.

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano • 2 heaping cups cubed pumpkin or butternut squash • 1 ½ cups cooked black beans, drained and rinsed • Lime slices, for serving • Freshly ground pepper

Prepare the Tahini Dressing.

Toppings

Assemble the salad on a large platter with the arugula, a drizzle of dressing, the sweet potatoes, and feta. Top with the avocado slices and squeeze a little lemon juice over the avocado. Drizzle with more dressing and top with the pepitas. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve.

• Sliced avocado

TAHINI DRESSING • ¼ cup smooth tahini* • 3 tablespoons water, plus more if needed • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 1 tablespoon maple syrup • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil • 1 small garlic clove, grated • ¼ teaspoon sea salt In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, water, lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup, sesame oil, garlic, and salt until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, add more water, ½ tablespoon at a time, until it’s a drizzleable consistency. Recipe from Love and Lemons (loveandlemons.com).

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• 3 radishes, thinly sliced • 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced • ½ cup chopped cilantro

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat the oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the whole tomatoes, onions, and garlic on a baking sheet and roast until the skins of the tomatoes and the edges of the onions are charred (20–25 minutes). Soak the dried chile in hot water until soft (about 10 minutes). In a blender, combine the tomatoes, onion, peeled garlic, 1 torn tortilla, the softened dried chile, salt, and 1 cup of the vegetable broth. Blend until smooth but not entirely pureed. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add cumin and oregano and stir until fragrant (30 seconds). Add the blended tomato mixture, 1 ½ cups additional broth, cubed pumpkin, and black beans. Simmer until the pumpkin is tender (25 minutes). Reduce the oven heat to 300°F. Slice the remaining 4 tortillas into thin strips and spread on a baking sheet. Toss in olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bake until crispy (8–14 minutes). Serve the soup with the crispy tortilla strips, avocado, radishes, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime slices. Recipe from Love and Lemons (loveandlemons.com).


BUTTERNUT SQUASH BITES

WHOLE30 GREEK LAMB MEATBALLS WITH TZATZIKI

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS FOR TZATZIKI SAUCE

• Butternut Squash

• 1 cup Homemade Mayo (or Primal Kitchens)

• Bacon

• ½ cup peeled, seeded, and diced cucumber

• Garlic Powder

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• Chili Powder

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

INSTRUCTIONS Preheat the oven to 375°F. Soak about 32 toothpicks in a small bowl of water to prevent them from burning in the oven.

• 2 cloves garlic • 1 heaping tablespoon freshly chopped mint • 1 tablespoon freshly chopped dill • kosher salt, to taste • black pepper, to taste

Cut off both ends of the squash. Peel the squash with a vegetable peeler, cut in half, and remove the seeds with a spoon. Dice the squash into approximately 1-inch cubes.

INGREDIENTS FOR MEATBALLS

Cut the bacon down the middle in half. Wrap one strip of bacon around a butternut squash cube. Secure the bacon with a toothpick and place on baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining squash and bacon.

• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano

In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder and chili powder. Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over the butternut squash. Bake for 30 minutes until the bacon is crispy. Serve warm and enjoy! Recipe from The Defined Dish (thedefineddish.com).

• 2 lbs. ground lamb • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1 heaping tablespoon finely chopped mint • 1 heaping tablespoon finely chopped parsley • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes • kosher salt, to taste • black pepper, to taste • ½ zest of a lemon • 2 tablespoon olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS

For the Tzatziki sauce, combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender, pulse until ingredients are blended but the sauce still has a little bit of texture to it. Refrigerate until ready to use. Combine all of the meatball ingredients, except the olive oil, in a large bowl. Season your meat generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or cast iron over medium-high heat. When skillet is hot, but not smoking, drop meatballs in to the oil and then reduce the heat down to medium. Brown the top and the bottom of the meatball (about 4 minutes per side). Next, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet and continue to cook until the meatballs are cooked all the way through, shaking the skillet every few minutes so that the meatballs cook evenly. This should take around 10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove meatballs from the skillet and place onto paper towels to soak up excess grease. Recipe from The Defined Dish (thedefineddish.com).

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The Little Girl Do you know what a leader of a synagogue

said, “Jesus, look at the people! Everybody’s

does? He makes sure the Torah has been

touching you!” Jesus said, “No, someone

prepared, placed, and ready to be read.

touched me. I felt the power come out of

He also makes sure the place is clean, and

me.” He turned around and saw the lady

when the Sabbath comes, that the doors are

who was now scared. She got on her knees

open. He is a well-respected person.

and said, “Jesus, I touched you. I felt the power coming from you, and I’m healed!

One day, the leader of the synagogue heard

Thank you, Jesus!” He blessed her and

Jesus was about, so he ran to him, got on his

moved on to the house of the leader of the

knees, and said, “Jesus, my daughter—she’s

synagogue. There were people lined up

dying! She’s very sick. Please, please, please

on the first floor of that house who were

come to my house! Lay your hands on her.

crying, weeping, and wailing. Jesus turned

Heal her and pray for her.” Jesus said, “Yes,

to them and said, “Why are you weeping?

I will go.”

She’s not dead. She’s sleeping.”

The streets were very narrow. When Jesus

Well, can you imagine when they heard

and the apostles went down the road, the

that? They laughed, pointed fingers at him,

people wanted to follow him to see what

and said he was crazy.

was happening. All around, people were bumping into Jesus, and in the midst of

Jesus left them, went upstairs, and looked

this crowd, there was an old woman who

in this young girl’s room. Mom and dad

had been sick for 12 years. She had been

had their arms around her, weeping and

going to all the doctors who’d given her oils

holding her dead body. He came into the

and medicines, but nothing ever helped.

room, and mother and father stepped away.

She heard about Jesus, and when he walked

Jesus said, “Do not weep.” He took the girl

right by her, she got in close, reached out,

by the hands and said, “Little girl, get up!”

and touched the bottom of his garment.

She sat up in the bed and looked at Jesus. He held her hand and blessed her.

Jesus felt power coming out of him, and he turned around and said, “Who touched

Then the parents grabbed her, hugged her,

me?” Peter, James, and John were there and

and kissed her—they didn’t know what to

56 THE ARCHANGEL


say. Jesus hugged her, too. She was alive! He said, “Friends, go downstairs, and give her something to eat.” They took her down, and those people who laughed at Jesus, stopped. Some begged forgiveness for laughing at him, and tears were in their eyes. Some brought flowers to celebrate the event, others held out their hands, and others prayed. They all said, “Hallelujah, Jesus!” What a friend we have in Jesus.

Amen. May God bless you.

This story comes from Stories From The Bible: From Creation To Pentecost a collection of stories told by Father Michael Harmuth during Saint Michael's Joy! A Children’s Service. Illustrated by Travis Harvey.

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GRANT THEM ETERNAL REST

May the souls of these faithful departed rest in peace

Nick Maucelli

Mary Katherine Kellam "Katy" Davis

Michael Patrick Bozza

Mary Kay Mauldin Story

March 29, Kitty Galvin (cousin) and Larry (cousin-in-law) March 31, Kitty Galvin (sister) and Larry (brother-in-law)

Katie Pritchett Harris

April 5, Pressley Peters (daughter), Jamey (son-in-law), Julia Gray, Christopher, Margaret, and Arthur (grandchildren)

Roland Carl Anderson

May 13, John Davis (husband)

May 13, Sam Mauldin (sister-in-law), Tish Visinsky (niece), Matthew (nephew-in-law), Madison and Harper (great-nieces)

Carolyn Bacon Dickson

May 16, Robert “Bob” Dickson (husband), Stephanie Walker (stepdaughter) and Stuart (stepson-in-law)

April 17, Christian Love (daughter), Matt (son-in-law), John and Anne Elise (grandchildren)

John D. Hundley, Sr.

Susan Debra Moore

Henry Leslie Hill, Jr.

Jean Rinker Fuller

Imogene "Tish" Evans

April 24, Dr. Melissa Carry (sister) and James (brother-in-law) April 25, Dr. Dale Fuller (husband), Cathy Walker (daughter), Denton (son-in-law), Annie and Babe (grandchildren)

Dr. Claude "Stuart" Phillips

May 4, Mary Kardell (sister-in-law), Steve (brother-in-law), Amanda Delaney (niece), Peter (nephew-in-law), Claire and Elizabeth (great-nieces), Ben Kardell (nephew), Katie (niece-inlaw), Wiley (great-niece), Benjamin and Teddy (great-nephews)

Timothy Carr Forrest

May 8, Joel Forrest (son), Bella and Barlow (granddaughters)

Maragaret Jane Cox Rose

May 8, Katherine Bowen (niece), Tracy (nephew-in-law), Adam and Wesley (great-nephews)

Terri Denise Blake

May 11, Dr. Tim Smith (brother) and Giovanna (sister-in-law)

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May 23, Harvey Marshall (nephew) and Rhonda (niece-in-law) May 29, Carol Hill (wife)

June 9, Lindsay Coker (granddaughter), Kyle (grandson-in-law), Collins and Myer (great-grandchildren)

George Henry "Hank" Nichols, III

June 11, Kathy Nichols & David Pimentel (Cousin and Cousinin-law), Bill Nichols and Sheila (Cousin and Cousin-in-law)

Tyler Rankin

June 12, Julie Albert (aunt-in-law) and Isabella (cousin-in-law)

Carolyn Diane Wilks-Marshall

June 21, Harvey Marshall (brother) and Rhonda (sister-in-law)


BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS Joey Glen Kyle

Peter Scott Moore

Bowen Bonner

Jaime Hernandez

Wednesday, April 29, 2026 Parents: Beatrice and Andrew Kyle Grandparents: Tom Kyle and Rob Springer-Kyle

Sunday, May 17, 2026 Parents: Caitlin and Blake Bonner Older Sisters: Lila, Scarlett, and Wynn

Monday, June 15, 2026 Parents: Elaine and Samuel Moore

Friday, June 19, 2026 Parents: Jazmin Agustince and Oscar Hernandez

Parker June Pitman

Saturday, June 13, 2026 Parents: Jenna and Josh Pitman Big Brother: Fletcher

*Births and Deaths as of: 6/21/2026 FALL 2026

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STEWARDSHIP 2027

SMES

Worship Children

& Family

Parish L ife

Ministry

More FACES.More More SPACE.More WAYS TO SERVE. As we prepare for the exciting growth ahead in our new building, every pledge helps Saint Michael welcome, gather, worship, learn, and serve more fully.

f en o Wom Music Min

istry

S

M aint

ys

el

Sunda

icha

Mission &

Outreach

MAKE YOUR PLEDGE TODAY Scan the QR code to pledge or call 214.365.3503 or email giving@saintmichael.org.

60 THE ARCHANGEL

Fulfill your pledge through recurring giving online, check, stock, or gifts of securities.


FATHERS, FAITH, AND GENEROSITY

Parishioner Spotlight

MEET GREGORY, LILLIAN, ELEANOR, LOUISA, HATTIE, AND CHARLES GREENE!

F

or Gregory and Lillian Greene, Saint Michael is the place where family, faith, and belonging come together. They are raising their four children, Eleanor, Louisa, Hattie, and Charles, in the same parish that helped shape Gregory’s own life of faith. Gregory has known Saint Michael since childhood. Now, as a husband, father, and Stewardship Committee Chair, he sees the church through a new lens: as a community that forms people across generations and invites families to help sustain that work for the future. “It’s a good place for them to learn from people of all different ages and how to integrate faith into everyday life,” Gregory said. For Gregory, that formation is part of why giving matters. Stewardship is not simply about funding a budget; it is about sustaining the worship, formation, pastoral care, and community that help Saint Michael feel like home. “There’s a lot of momentum now with the new facilities,” Gregory said. “I’m hoping that with the building being finished, we can grow even more.” The Greenes have also noticed something distinctive at Saint Michael: fathers are present. Dads bring children to worship, attend formation, and participate in parish life with consistency. That presence matters because it shows children that faith belongs to the whole family.

For younger families especially, Gregory and Lillian understand that generosity is not only about the size of the gift. It is about creating a habit of participation and recognizing that every family has a role in sustaining the life of the parish. “People in their 30s and even their late 20s hear stewardship and think, ‘I can’t give a large gift, so that’s not for me,’” Lillian said. “But it’s not like that. Just give what feels right. Your stewardship matters.” For the Greenes, generosity is one way of showing up for a church that is helping faith be lived, shared, and passed on.

Stewardship is not simply about funding a budget; it is about sustaining the worship, formation, pastoral care, and community that help Saint Michael feel like home. — Gregory Greene, Jr.

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All Souls Evensong Sunday, November 1 4 p.m. | Church *incense may be used at this service

Lessons & Carols ADVENT

Sunday, December 6 | 4 p.m. | Church

Celebrate the beginning of Advent at this remarkable service of Scripture and song that prepares our hearts for Christmas. Through readings and music, we reflect on God’s promises and the hope fulfilled in Christ’s birth. S A I N T M I C H A E L . O R G /A D V E N T L C

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10

10 Years of Leading Survivors Toward Light, Hope, & Advocacy

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10 YEARS OF SUPPORTING SURVIVORS

For a decade, Project Moses at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church has worked to shine light on the reality of human trafficking through: – Education & Awareness – Advocacy & Outreach – Survivor Support – Community Partnerships Together, our devoted parishioners have helped bring compassion, dignity, and hope to survivors while also growing our community’s understanding of this critical issue.

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF MINISTRY Thank you to every volunteer, advocate, donor, and prayer partner who has helped carry this mission forward. Every Gift Matters: Support Project Moses Scan the QR code to learn more. FALL 2026

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the The liturgically seasonal publication of Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church 8011 Douglas Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75225- 0385

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 | 5PM Save the date for our reimagined Advent Festival! You won’t want to miss this community celebration, complete with a tree-lighting, festive music, and refreshments directly following our Advent Lessons and Carols service.


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The Archangel Magazine – Fall 2026 by Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church - Issuu