Spiritus Gladius Summer 2024

SPIRITUS GLADIUS

A WORD FROM THE DEAN

Beloveds,

April 4 marked the 120th anniversary of St Paul's presence on the corner of 7th and Robinson, and we marked it exceptionally well!

We celebrate this milestone with profound gratitude and joy, knowing that it is not just the cathedral's achievement but also a testament to the unwavering faith and support of our surrounding community. For over a century, our cathedral has shone as a beacon of faith, hope, and connection, welcoming countless individuals through its doors to know Christ and to serve the world in His name.

Founded at the dawn of a new century, St Paul's has not only witnessed but also contributed to the very fabric of our city. Its stunning Gothic Revival architecture, visible from miles around, has become a symbol of spiritual guidance and sanctuary for the city, even amidst a skyline growing upward. Our cathedral, a testament to the craftsmanship and vision of its builders, is a source of pride for all of us.

Beyond its architectural significance, St. Paul's has played a pivotal role in the lives of parishioners and the city alike. Through various outreach programs and initiatives, from feeding the hungry to providing shelter during times of crisis, the cathedral has embodied the spirit of compassion and service, setting aside our own preferences for that of the greater good

As we look back on 120 years of worship, fell lives touched by the grace that flows from th celebrate our achievements, and look forwar Sacred Foundation, is poised to continue its Urban Horizon of Oklahoma City in 2024 an

Our call to remain faithful and steadfast is inspired by the enduring legacy of those who came before It is their legacy of adaptation and creativity that we are now called to carry upon our shoulders as we seek to share the Good News of Jesus Christ in an ever-changing world.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Dean Churchwell+ 15th Dean of St Paul's Cathedral

Drawing of Dean Churchwell completed by Edward Morris on a St. Paul’s

OUTREACH AND SERVING

EMPOWERING COMPASSION: REFLECTING ON OUR 2024 OUTREACH INITIATIVES

In the heart of every community lies a spirit of compassion, a driving force that unites individuals in acts of service and support. As we reflect on the first half of 2024, it's with immense pride and gratitude that we look back on the remarkable outreach efforts undertaken by our Cathedral Community This year has been marked by a profound commitment to serving those in need, exemplified by our hosting of a cold weather shelter, weekly Mobile Meals Ministry, and the continuation of monthly outreach drives.

It is undeniable that one of the most significant undertakings of the year was the establishment of a cold weather shelter, providing sanctuary for individuals experiencing homelessness during the harsh winter months. Recognizing the critical need for safe and warm refuge, we opened our doors, providing not only shelter but also essential resources and support. We're delighted to report the approval by the Oklahoma City Council of a Special Permit to host a Cold Weather Shelter at the Cathedral

Through the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of our community, we were able to offer a haven where individuals could find respite from the biting cold, along with hot meals, clothing, and connections to vital services Beyond meeting immediate needs, the shelter became a beacon of hope, embodying our collective commitment to fostering compassion

But our outreach efforts didn't end there.

Throughout the year, we continued to organize monthly drives aimed at addressing various pressing needs within our community. Each drive was a testament to the power of collective action. Together, we have demonstrated that even in the face of challenges, the power of empathy and action can transform lives and inspire hope. Here's to a future filled with even greater opportunities for outreach and service, guided by the unwavering belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every individual

Cold Weather Shelter in Dean Willey Hall, Pride Parade Events and Mobile Meals

STEWARDSHIP

SHARING TIME, TALENT, TREASURE AND SPACE

Alleluia! We are thrilled to report 226 pledges totaling $1,033,400.04 for the year 2024. The vitality of stewardship in the church hinges upon the collective sharing of time, talent, treasure, and space When individuals wholeheartedly embrace this call to stewardship, they not only sustain the life and ministries of the church but also experience the transformative power of God's grace in their own lives

At its core, stewardship in the church is not merely about managing resources but about cultivating a culture of gratitude, generosity, and service. It is a spiritual practice that calls upon individuals to recognize their interconnectedness within the body of Christ and to respond faithfully to God's abundant grace. When members share their time, talent, treasure, and space, they participate in the ongoing mission of the church to proclaim the gospel, nurture discipleship, and extend compassion and justice to all

Moreover, the act of sharing gifts fosters a sense of ownership and belonging within the community, empowering individuals to actively contribute to its vitality and mission. As each member embraces their role as stewards, they become co-creators in God's redemptive work, shaping a community where love, compassion, and justice reign supreme. As we journey together in faith, may we continue to nurture a culture of generosity, hospitality, and service, thereby bearing witness to the love of Christ in the world. Amen.

It is never too late to make a pledge or share a gift with St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral! Scan the QR code or visit stpaulsokc org/give

Cathedral Stained Glass, Consecration Sunday Pledges, Easter Alleluias

THE GIFT OF SPACE PROPERTY NEWS

Caring for a property spanning 45,000 square feet, including four buildings and two acres, which celebrated its 120th anniversary this year, presents a dynamic and demanding responsibility.

Significant and varied maintenance efforts have been undertaken in and around St Paul's Episcopal Cathedral in the first half of 2024 We extend our heartfelt appreciation to both the volunteers and contracted vendors whose contributions have been invaluable in this endeavor

The recent removal of scaffolding along the west side of the Cathedral facing Robinson Avenue marks the completion of extensive work on the building's sides, walls, and overall structure. This comprehensive maintenance ensures not only the Cathedral's structural stability but also enhances its visual appeal.

A significant project has been initiated to replace the roof, ensuring vital protection from external elements. During the previous fall season, notable enhancements were made with the opening of the Memorial Garden and the complete restoration of the elevator in the Education Building. Along the altar, the completion of the Bishop's Seat, benches, and altar shelving enrich the worship environment.

Preceding Easter, Scout mothers and sons contributed by engaging in mulching and landscaping activities, revitalizing the exterior aesthetics of the cathedral Buzz, a cherished member, can often be seen meticulously cleaning the East Garden fountain with a pool net in hand

The Handy Saints, a dedicated group of volunteers under the leadership of our Junior Warden, Melissa Heuer, and Todd Olberding, meet for regular Saturday meetings to uphold the Cathedral’s maintenance. Through these efforts and numerous other contributors, a steadfast commitment to the preservation and care of the sacred space is demonstrated. These collaborative endeavors underscore a community deeply invested in the nurturing and improvement of our beloved Cathedral.

120 Years at 7th & Robinson, Cathedral Belltower brick work and the Memorial Garden

REFLECTIONS

CANON TIM SEAN YOUMANS +

The following is a reflection I recently wrote for the Iona School of Ministry Newsletter It overlaps with portions of what I shared on a recent Sunday in our scripture forum on the Jewish interpretive tradition of MIDRASH

The tradition of interpretation of sacred texts in Judaism is called Midrash and it has an actual shape. I mean that literally. There is an actual practice of taking a story or teaching from the scripture, placing that in the center of a page, and then having a series of conversations (arguments?) about what that story means.

This grasping at meaning is in ALL the ways. What did it mean to those who wrote it initially? What are the implications for those who are reading it now? Is it the same or different? And if so, in what ways, and why?

Those pieces of the argument are literally (again, in the actual sense of the word) written in the margins of that same page What you end up with is a page with a story in the middle and our efforts at what it means surrounding it

What a beautiful picture of the process of getting at the meaning of things! Said another way, a way of getting at the truths of God. It is hopefully a loving and generous argument (discussion?) about what the stories in scripture mean and how they are applied to the wide variety of contexts that are our lives.

But I also like how Midrash can be an abstraction in a larger sense, of what we each do with the stories of our lives. We shouldn’t be comfortable calling the stories of our lives “scripture ” But consider when something happens to you, most of us find someone we trust and do a version of Midrash with them “Let me tell you what just happened to me! What do you think it means? What are the implications? Help me figure this out.” I do this at the end of nearly every day with my spouse. When we spend time with a therapist, we are doing a kind of Midrash with those difficult and tender issues of our lives.

I suppose a therapist could, (again, literally) write our issues in the center of that pad they are taking notes on and in the margins write out the various ways it has meaning and significance. We are working it out, with the guidance of the Spirit of God.

In John’s Revelation on the island of Patmos he writes, “We overcome the accuser by the blood of the lamb and the power of our testimony (Rev 12) ” Understood another way, we overcome those things which seek to destroy us with Jesus’ redemptive work in our lives! Our stories! As we deepen our ability to interpret the work of God in scripture it builds the muscle of interpreting God’s work in our lives, and subsequently in the lives of the people we love. That is growing into the life of the Kingdom of heaven with Jesus the anointed one. Do Midrash! Build those muscles.

The Reverend Canon Tim Sean Youmans

STAFF TRANSITIONS

As Senior Warden and Dean, we write you with news that marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for our treasured Cathedral

As you probably know, Father Omar’s curacy will conclude at the end of June We are immensely grateful for his dedication and the blessings he has brought to our community. His presence will be missed, and we wish him God's richest blessings as he makes his way to Christ Church in Tulsa. Be ready to celebrate Fr. Omar on June 30th, his last Sunday with us.

With his departure, Dean Churchwell will be our only full-time clergy member, as Canon Tim Sean and Deacons Tracy, Gerald, and MR serve at the cathedral in non-stipendiary and part-time capacities

he Vestry has discussed this situation and expressed a concern that, given the size of our church, the activities we have in place, and the programs we want to implement, one priest is insufficient. After thoughtful discussion and prayerful consideration, our Vestry has decided to call a new Canon/Senior Associate Priest. This decision was made with the present reality and future of St. Paul's in mind, reflecting our commitment to growth and spiritual leadership, realizing our congregation’s needs for pastoral care, spiritual formation, and diversity in worship experiences. We hope to have our new priest in place over the summer.

As we prepare to welcome a new member to our clerical team, we recognize that this decision to expand our staff comes when our financial resources are particularly stretched Our current pledging state requires us to approach this opportunity with faith and fiscal responsibility. The Cathedral congregation has shown that challenge is almost always viewed as an opportunity, and the needs are more than satisfied through collective support.

With that in mind, we ask that you consider increasing your pledge to the best of your ability Our annual pledge revenue is the source for responsibly financing ongoing activities, and a new clergy member needs to be resourced sustainably

Moreover, as we search for a new priest, we encourage you to pray for the individual who will soon become a part of our spiritual community. Pray that God guides us to a priest who will not only lead with grace and passion but will also resonate with the spirit and needs of our community. We've been blessed in years past with amazing clergy, and our next Canon/Senior Associate Priest should reflect the caliber of clergy to which we are accustomed

We are hopeful and excited about the future, trusting in God’s provision and the support of each member of our Cathedral Together, we can continue to make St Paul’s a beacon of faith, hope, and love in our community, where all are invited and all are welcome.

Thank you for your continued faithfulness and generous spirit.

May the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Faithfully yours,

Tim Fischer, Senior Warden

Katie Churchwell, Dean

Tim Fischer, Senior Warden

WHAT’S NEXT IN CAPITAL CAMPAIGN DISCERNMENT?

Your presence and engagement at the Capital Campaign Discernment Listening Sessions in February (Cottage Meetings) brought forth a wealth of beautiful and insightful ideas, shaping a landscape of dreams that inspire and resonate with the vision of our Cathedral community. It is through the collective sharing of perspectives, aspirations, and wisdom that we are able to navigate toward a future filled with purpose and possibility.

Your thoughtful reflections and imaginative dreaming have provided us with a rich tapestry of concepts and priorities These ideas will serve as the foundation for our efforts in compiling a list of capital projects that align harmoniously with our cathedral's ethos and mission

Scan the QR code to read the culmination of our collective dreaming a reflection of the passion and creativity that flourished within our discussions.

We encourage you to peruse these ideas and insights, as they represent the collective voice of our community. They have not been edited, and all ideas and thoughts have been included. These comments will aid in creating a formalized list of projects to potentially be funded through a future capital campaign.

Once again, thank you for your unwavering dedication and commitment to our Cathedral family Your contributions are deeply appreciated and instrumental in shaping the path forward as we continue to strive for excellence and fulfillment in our shared endeavors Stay tuned!

St. Nicholas Chapel and Creation Windows

VESTRY SPOTLIGHT

HILLARY BURKHOLDER

We welcome Hillary Burkholder, a recent addition to the vestry at St. Paul’s. She was elected in January 2024 and will hold this position until 2027. Hillary grew up Episcopalian in Southeast Oklahoma, getting to spend a few summers at St. Crispin’s. In college she minored in Religious Studies, learning about many other religions and finding a newfound gratefulness for the openness present within the Episcopal faith.

When she met her husband, Matt, 11 years ago she began joining him at the Cathedral, his childhood church home. They are parents to Ben, who will be joining Casady School next year as a first grader. They love watching him discover his passions and, for now, basketball tops this list.

Before taking on her current role at Aetna Better Health of Oklahoma in Community Outreach, Hillary dedicated nearly 20 years to working in the social service sector, with roles in government and nonprofits.

Most recently, she served as the CEO of Palomar, OKC’s family justice center that supports victims of domestic violence. Hillary feels called to community service and currently serves on the advisory board of Magdalene House OKC. The newly opened Magdalene House, OKC, with the support of The Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma, is committed to creating a home for women survivors, transforming trauma into healing, wholeness, and love. Hillary has also been a board member for the Public Health Institute of Oklahoma and The University of Oklahoma's Board of Visitors for the College of Arts and Sciences, in addition to various young professional boards

St Paul's is incredibly fortunate to have Hillary Burkholder (and her family!) as cherished members and as one of our newest Vestry members! When you see her at Sunday worship services, be sure to introduce yourself to her.

Hillary Burkholder

CATHEDRAL LIFE

ASHLEY OZAN, CATHEDRAL LIFE MINISTER

Throughout the past year, the Cathedral has organized numerous activities for fellowship and community building. These events have included family days at the pumpkin patch, swim parties, dinners, game nights, and a community favorite, SINGO! This summer, we have planned several fun activities for both families and adults. We will visit the Oklahoma City Museum of Art for the special exhibit featuring Edith Head. Additionally, we have scheduled a garden tea party and a game night. Our community is very supportive of our LGBT+ neighbors, and we have several events planned to celebrate the diversity of our Cathedral

Our children and families are eagerly anticipating this summer Many Cathedral families have been attending St. Crispin for over 50 years since its establishment. Kids of all ages enjoy the great outdoors and the sense of community at this ever-changing camp. St. Crispin’s holds a special place in the hearts of many of our parishioners. As Bishop Poulson often says, St. Crispin's is a "thin place" for so many of our parishioners.

Mark your calendar for these great events! Email aozan@stpaulsokc.org for all details.

Sat., June 1 - 10:30 am GARDEN TEA @ the Home of Ann Baer

Wed., June 5 - 6:30 pm SINGO @ OK Cider Company (All Ages)

Wed., June 12 - 6 pm BOARD GAME NIGHT @ the Cathedral (All Ages)

Wed., July 3 - 7pm RED WHITE & BOOM

Meet @ Spark, Scissortail Park

Sun , July 14 - 1:30pm EDITH HEAD ART EXHIBIT

@ OKC Museum of Art

Sun , July 28-6:30pm MOVIE: MY NAME IS PAULI @ the Cathedral

Fri , Aug 9 - 6pm OKC DODGERS EPISCOPAL NIGHT

PRIDE 2024: Let’s unite, embrace, and soar! Celebrate infinite pride with St Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral, a fully affirming and inclusive community where all are welcome and all are invited.

Sun., June 2 - OKC Pride on 39th Parade Fri., June 21 - Zoo Pride Stroll (Adults Only)

Sun., June 23 - Pride Poster Making

Sun., June 30 - OKC Pride Alliance Parade

Members of St Paul’s gather in the East Garden for fellowship.

MUSIC NOTES

CANON PRECENTOR AND DIRECTOR OF MUSIC

JOSEPH RIPKA

Experience the joy of music this summer at Cathedral Summer Music Events! Join our Summer Choir during the 10 a.m. services on June 23, July 21, and August 18. All are welcome to try out the choir; simply meet us in the choir room at 9:15 a.m. on those Sundays to learn a short anthem and lead worship. Don't miss our Saturday Feast Days at the 5:00 p m service with Choir and Organ, celebrating St Peter & Paul on June 29 and St Bartholomew on August 24 The Patriotic Ice Cream Social will take place on July 6 at 4 p m , featuring a concert of patriotic music by our Canon Precentor & Organist, followed by ice cream in the courtyard We also will have Summer Sunday Concerts at 11:30 a m on June 9, July 7, and August 11, following the 10 a m service

As we reflect on the ‘23-’24 music season at St Paul's Episcopal Cathedral, we are filled with gratitude for the rich tapestry of musical experiences that have enriched our worship and community life. From the angelic voices of our Cherub Choir to the powerful harmonies of our Cathedral Choir, every ensemble has contributed to the scope of our musical offerings.

Throughout the year, our choristers, Schola Cantorum, and Cathedral Choir have lent their talents to a myriad of services, including Compline and Evensong, infusing these sacred moments with transcendent melodies and harmonies These services, along with numerous other notable worship events, have provided moments of spiritual reflection and inspiration for our congregation

Beyond our regular services, the music season has been punctuated by special events and collaborations. In February, we delighted in the return of Wine, Chocolate & Jazz at the Hampton Home, a fundraiser for the Cathedral Music Society that showcased the talents of our musicians while indulging our sweet tooth. Additionally, we were honored to host the Oklahoma Baroque Orchestra for multiple concerts, further enriching our space with the timeless beauty of Baroque music.

We'd also be remiss not to mention the St. Cecelia Choir, whose addition of music to the Draw Near Contemplative Service brought a new depth and richness to this sacred gathering Furthermore, we are immensely grateful for the contributions of the incredibly skilled Mary Reynolds, whose musical talents added a unique and soul-stirring dimension to the entire year ' s musical journey

Behind the scenes, our choir rooms have been abuzz with activity, serving as the backdrop for countless rehearsals and music lessons Week after week, our dedicated musicians and vocalists have poured their hearts and souls into perfecting their craft, devoting multiple days each week to practice and preparation.

As we look back on the past year, we are reminded of the power of music to uplift, inspire, and unite us in worship and community. We are grateful for the dedication and talent of all who have contributed to our musical ministry at St. Paul's, and we look forward to the continued harmony and joy that the coming year will bring.

The Cathedral Choirs and Choristers under the direction of Canon Precentor Joseph Ripka

MEET THE MEMBER!

PROFILE OF A NEWER MEMBER OF ST. PAUL’S EPISCOPAL CATHEDRAL

Please join us in congratulating Linsey & JD Weiss, who were married here at St Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral on Memorial Day! Linsey shares her journey of discovery and belonging at St. Paul's Episcopal Cathedral: Originally from Texas, Linsey's introduction to the church came through her then-fiancé, JD, who invited her to experience its rich traditions. Despite her initial unfamiliarity with Episcopalian worship Linsey found herself

For Linsey, the heart of St. Paul's lies in its unwavering embrace of love and inclusivity. She sees the church as a beacon of God's love, where all are welcomed without exception. This ethos resonates deeply with Linsey's own values, reinforcing her sense of pride in being a part of such a compassionate community

Looking to the future, Linsey's excitement stems from the prospect of witnessing the continued growth and impact of St. Paul's within its community. She harbors no specific expectations, content in the knowledge that as long as the church remains a place of love and acceptance, she is blessed to be a part of its journey.

If you spot Linsey at Sunday services or around the Cathedral, feel free to say hi and introduce yourself!

FALL PREVIEW

A NEW YEAR OF WORSHIP, FELLOWSHIP AND LEARNING BEGIN THIS FALL!

Save the Date! Sunday, August 25th will mark the Feast Day of Saint David Pendleton Oakerhater, a day of reverence and celebration in our Cathedral Community. Join us for a special Rite II worship service at 10:00 am, beginning in the East Garden. Saint David Pendleton Oakerhater holds a special place in our hearts as the first Native American ordained deacon in the Episcopal Church His remarkable life of service and devotion continues to inspire us

Saint Oakerhater served and worshipped right here at St Paul's Episcopal Cathedral in Oklahoma City, leaving an indelible mark on our community. As we gather to honor his memory, let us reflect on his legacy of faith, resilience, and compassion. Don't miss this meaningful Oakerhater Sunday as we come together in prayer and reflection, inspired by the life and teachings of Saint David Pendleton Oakerhater.

Get ready for an exhilarating start to our new formation year with Rally Day on Sunday, September 8th! This dynamic event marks the kickoff of our ministry sign-ups, where you can explore exciting opportunities to get involved and make a difference in our vibrant community. Amidst the festivities, enjoy live music, food, and inflatables for the young and young at heart Whether you ' re a longtime member or new to our Cathedral family, Rally Day promises fun and fellowship as we bid farewell to summer

Formation for adults, children, and youth resumes on Sunday, September 15th! Grab a coffee and pastry and join us for Adult Formation in Dean Willey Hall, every Sunday at 10:10 am. We'll cover various topics, from 'Ask the Dean' to Bible Study and Scripture Study, and more. All are welcome. Children's Formation (through Grade 12) runs concurrently in the same building.

Oakerhater Sunday, Children’s Chapel and Bishop’s Visit