CCGP Crossings: Pentecost Edition

C rossings

Pentecost 2023

A Prayer for our Seniors

Gracious God, we ask for your Spirit to be with a ll those who graduate at this time of year. Bless their lives from this day on with goodness and love. Help them to stay true to their dreams, to use their gifts wisely, and to walk into the future with faith,

Robbie Peabody Attending Rising Stars Academy.

Sophie Puzzuoli Attending Lindner College Of Business, University of Cincinnati.

Sophie Schuetze

Attending Michigan State University.

Melissa Graff

Attending Wayne State University School of Music.

Rowan O’Brien

Attending Miami University

Isabel Standish

Attending Dartmouth College.

Ava Carr

Attending the University of Pennsylvania.

Zora Edwards

Attending Kalamazoo College.

Geoffrey Everham

Attending Brown University.

Madison Duff

He `ōlelo i ku’u mau hoaloha (a word to my friends)

Fr. Drew

Iwas recently asked why Christ Church joined the “orange sign movement” against gun violence. The larger question, of course, was why does Christ Church, or any church for that matter, get involved in matters that seem more political than religious.

While orange lawn signs and white wooden crosses may appear to be a church’s primary political expression, they are only the most visible. In fact, whenever a church gathers for worship to proclaim God’s reign, or a preacher pronounces God’s love or laments an evil in society, we participate in one of the oldest forms of political speech – the declaration of God’s vision for human society. While the basic tenets of our faith – the grace and mercy of God, the unfailing hospitality and compassion of Jesus, and the generous inclusivity of the Spirit – exceed any particular political agenda, they have profound political implications.

The mercy of God challenges our understanding of justice in modern society.

The compassion of Jesus expands the reach of our hands and heart for the suffering in our society.

The unabashed inclusivity of the Spirit causes us to re-examine the foundational relationships of our society: who is my neighbor?

The risk, of course, is that we become simply partisan – advocating only for a particular politician or political party. To do so, would be to replace the politics of Jesus with the politics of the day or, even worse, the politician of my liking.

It’s a risk, however, that we must take, lest we relegate God to the hallowed halls of church or, worse yet, deny that Jesus is, in fact, our Lord. To proclaim Christ as Lord is to set the Way of Jesus as the pursuit of our lives – socially, economically, even politically. As a Church, to Christ as Lord is to proclaim the Way of Jesus as the hope for the world and the kin(g)dom of God as the truth of creation.

So, what does this mean for Christ Church?

It means

that we will boldly proclaim our call for an end to gun violence in American society. and that we must remember that any such call as this must be rooted in God’s enduring LOVE for us, our LOVE for God, and our LOVE for our neighbor.

Love, Love, Love,

Love one another as I have loved you.

(John 13:34)

The Science of Philanthropy: How Generosity Shapes Our World

By Colleen Fitzgerald

Philanthropy, derived from the Greek words “philos” meaning love and “anthropos” meaning humanity, has been a powerful force throughout history. It involves the act of giving, contributing resources, time, or expertise for the betterment of others. While the concept of philanthropy is rooted in compassion and empathy, the science behind it reveals a deeper understanding of its impact on individuals, societies, and even the givers themselves. In this article, we explore the science of philanthropy and how it shapes our world.

Research in psychology has shed light on the intrinsic motivations behind philanthropy. Studies consistently show that giving activates the brain’s reward centers, releasing dopamine and producing feelings of happiness and well-being. Moreover, studies suggest that individuals who engage in regular acts of generosity experience reduced stress levels, enhanced self-esteem, and increased overall life satisfaction. These findings support the notion that humans are hardwired to derive personal benefits from giving.

Philanthropy acts as a catalyst for building social connections and fostering a sense of community. The act of giving creates a shared purpose and bonds people together, whether through supporting a common cause or helping those in need. Scientific studies demonstrate that engaging in prosocial behavior, such as philanthropy, promotes a sense of belonging and strengthens

social ties. By cultivating empathy and understanding, philanthropy has the power to bridge gaps and create a more cohesive society.

Philanthropy is not just a singular act but a catalyst for a ripple effect that extends far beyond the initial act of giving. The science of philanthropy reveals that when individuals witness acts of generosity, they are more likely to engage in similar behavior themselves. This phenomenon,

strategically, and measure outcomes more accurately. This data-driven approach ensures that philanthropic endeavors are targeted and efficient, optimizing their potential to make a significant difference.

In recent years, philanthropy has become a key player in advancing sustainable development goals. By investing in education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and social justice, philanthropists are tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The science of philanthropy aids in identifying systemic issues, devising innovative solutions, and monitoring progress towards sustainable development objectives. It enables philanthropists to collaborate with governments, nonprofits, and other stakeholders to achieve lasting and meaningful change.

known as “moral elevation,” inspires others to follow suit, creating a chain reaction of giving. Through this ripple effect, philanthropy has the potential to create a collective impact and bring about positive change on a larger scale.

Advancements in technology and data analysis have revolutionized the field of philanthropy. Scientists and researchers are leveraging these tools to develop evidencebased approaches for maximizing the effectiveness of philanthropic efforts. Through rigorous analysis, they can identify the most impactful interventions, allocate resources

The science of philanthropy provides a fascinating perspective on the transformative power of giving. From the psychological benefits to the social connections and the ripple effect it generates, philanthropy has a profound impact on individuals and society as a whole. By embracing evidence-based approaches and leveraging technological advancements, philanthropy is poised to play an even more significant role in addressing global challenges and shaping a better future for all. As we continue to explore and understand the science behind philanthropy, we unlock new opportunities to create positive change and build a more compassionate and equitable world.

Birthdays & Anniversaries!

9 Amy Clark

Tim & Sally Whims 10 Collin Peabody

Patrick Mansfield

Sara Waller

Jim & Stephanie Flom, Jr

11 William Utley

12 Christine Alcantara

Sandra Platt

13 Betsy Creedon

14 Laila Hakim

15 Madeline Whims

Thom & Laura Nealssohn

16 Dominic Bennett

Lori Varas

17 Amy Hermon

Cathryn Skedel

Luca Young

Ed & Colleen Fitzgerald

Geoffrey & Amber Everham 18 Karyn Weir Adam & Rema Waugh Jeff Smith

Grosfield

27 C. Katherine Moran

29

Joan Mattila

Katherine Kogel

Margaret Lally

Susan Kaler

30 David Redfield

Donald Sweeny

31 Andrew Cornwall

August

1 Albert Minetola

Ann Yeamans

2 Douglas Cowan

John Gillooly

Chad & Stephanie Johnson

3 Jeffrey & Abi Peck

Michael & Paula Labadie

Adam & Stephanie Beattie

4 Robert Peabody

5 Sara Tennyson

James & Amy Hermon

6 Alexandra Ostrowski

Amber Ritchie

Jon Deimel

Julia Hartnett

7 Blair Ott

Daphne Felix

Paige Peabody

8 Christian Redding

Mary Johnson

Dave & Maureen Martin

9 Jeanette Powers

Kendall Moorhead

Marilyn Richardson

Scott Durkee

Ken & Sandra Walters

Jim & Kathleen Kastner

10 Joel Anyim

Karen Kienbaum

Lisa Baruah

Robert Moorhead

Simon Stallings

11 Stephanie Flom

Ed & Elsie MacKethan, III

12 Christian Martin

John Benson

Susan Swickard

13 Hadley Hermon

Matthew Hurley

14 Ainsley Hagan

Gerald Cannon

Thomas Nealssohn

William Albrecht

Lee Anderson

17 Gerald Tokman

James Grabowski

18 Charlotte Peabody

H. Welling French

Victoria Blaine

Ted & Nancy McConnell

19 Charles Turner

20 Laura Bradley

Richie Barnwell

George & Nancy Nicholson, III

Frank & Lisa Niscoromni

21 Maxwell Hakim

Richard Best

Ursula Persidskis

Katherine & Frank Moran

22 Frank Stellingwerf

Judith Gaffrey

Martha Henkel

Nancy Nicholson

David & Lynne Cameron

23 Lisa Armentrout

Stephen & May Jean Chan

24 Brendan & Nancy Ross

25 Madeline Wrubel

Brendan & Kelly Walsh

26 Kathryn Johnson

27 Ainsley Allard

Gregory Heald

Eric & Catherine Ash

61 Grosse Pointe Boulevard Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236

Church Office (Hours: 9 am–5 pm) Phone: 313-885-4841 | Fax: 313-885-7019

www.christchurchgp.org

Pastoral Emergencies: 313-885-4841, ext. 4

The Rev’d Andrew Van Culin, Rector dvanculin@christchurchgp.org

313-885-4842

The Rev’d Maureen L. Martin, Associate for Parish Life & Community Engagement mmartin@christchurchgp.org

313-885-4841 ext. 116

Joseph D. Daniel, Executive Assistant to the Rector rectorsoffice@christchurchgp.org

313-884-4842

Jessica Van Culin, Interim Director of Children and Family Ministries jvanculin@christchurchgp.org

313-885-4841 ext. 104

28

Alison Dirkse

Kathryn Reck

Martha Stott

Ronald Solterisch

Richard & Judy Thoma

Jerry & Heather Tokman

29 Abygail Nealssohn

Katherine Fridholm

Margaret Garbarino

Patrick & Theresa Spain

Henry & Monica Hubbard

Scott Hanoian, Associate for Worship and Liturgy, Director of Music and Organist shanoian@christchurchgp.org

313-885-4841 ext. 102

Jackson Merrill, Assistant Director of Music and Organist jmerrill@christchurchgp.org

313-885-4841 ext. 103

Diane Ward, Associate for Finance and Administration dward@christchurchgp.org

313-885-4841 ext. 111

30

Laura Green

31 Lillian Irby

Roy Ritchie

Gerhard Heinen

Thelma Marshall

Nancy Railey

Colleen Fitzgerald, Member Engagement Coordinator cfitzgerald@christchurchgp.org

313-885-4841 ext. 115

Our Newcomer Experience

by Beth Bright Wood

My husband, Tim Wood and our children, Lachlan and Brynn, officially became members of Christ Church Grosse Pointe in March after first attending last summer. We were invited by another family in the congregation who are our neighbors and friends. Over the last few months, we came to realize that this was the faith community we had been seeking since we moved to the area. We’d like to share a bit about our journey as a new family here.

There was so much that we enjoyed from the outset: the beautiful building with its gothic architecture and stained-glass windows, the gorgeous flower arrangements, and even the orderliness and cleanliness of the facility. Then there was the warm and welcoming congregation, coloring books for our young children to enjoy during services, Fr. Drew’s and Mtr. Maureen’s insightful and relatable sermons, and of course, the gorgeous music. As professional musicians ourselves, this aspect of Sunday worship really resonated. While all these first impressions were impactful, even more meaningful are the reasons we kept coming back, stayed, and eventually why we became members.

A Culture of Respect

Shortly after we started attending regularly, we went to our first Rector’s Forum. I don’t remember the topic because I was struck by Fr. Drew’s passing phrase: “Our Jewish and Muslim neighbors”. This stood out to me because of the respect with which he said it. I have participated in numerous other churches and

Christian traditions over the last four decades, and this was the first time I had heard a pastor or rector publicly afford equity and respect to the faithful of other religions. Having moved here from New York City, where we lived in proximity to so many diverse cultures and creeds, this wording especially spoke to me personally and helped me to feel at home.

Women in Spiritual Leadership

Our children seeing and experiencing a woman in ministry leadership is an important family value. To allude to a recent Rector’s Forum on “Women in the Priesthood”, having Mtr. Maureen within our church is not only just but is further an opportunity for us to witness more of the feminine in God, and to therefore experience more of the completeness of God. Separately, we love Mtr. Maureen for who she is and for all that she brings to Christ Church. These are two key reasons we

feel comfortable here.

An Affirming Community

What a joy and relief it is to feel confident discussing our church experiences with my LGBTQ family and friends. We want to belong to a church in which everyone who walks through the door feels welcomed and supported as we pursue God together. We have found that community here.

Formation for All Children

Our youngest was newly six years old when we first began attending. She can be reserved, especially having missed some key periods of social development in 2020 and 2021. Between the bear hugs of another six-year-old CCGP member, and Mrs. Jessica’s warm welcome to Godly Play, she is now right at home. It’s astounding to see how much scripture she has absorbed and retained through participating in the Godly

Play lessons twice a week. Our oldest child is neurodivergent. We have learned to hold our commitments loosely to accommodate his needs on a given day because it can sometimes be difficult for him to participate. The moment I absolutely knew this was the place for us is the day that he dressed head to toe as a ninja, replete with a balaclava and black gloves, and insisted on wearing his outfit to the Enriching the Sacraments class. Mtr. Maureen did not miss a beat. “Come on, ninja. Let’s go learn about God.” I exhaled.

Adult Formation

How refreshing to be in a spiritual community that values and encourages exploration and questions. My first Adult Formation class in Christ Church was the group study of Rachel Held Evans’s Inspired: Slaying Gian ts, Walking on Water, and Loving the Bible Again. It was a multi-generational group discussion, tackling difficult issues of faith. This class allowed an intellectually and spiritually safe space to touch on both the positive and shadow sides of our diverse faith journeys. By their example, both Fr. Drew and Mtr. Maureen called us to respond to our questions and hurts with integrity and respect. Also, on a very practical level, the provided childcare meant that I could readily participate. Our family greatly appreciated this!

Hospitality

There is no need to say this, but truly, the hospitality here is next level! There is always coffee, tea, and water available. As a mom on the go, this is a kindness that I deeply enjoy.

One of our family’s hurdles is dietary challenges. We are accustomed to bringing our own food most places so that we can eat safely at gatherings. When I asked Colleen Fitzgerald, the

Member Engagement Coordinator if I could bring our own cookies on Sundays, she kindly offered to purchase the types our family can eat and to have them available each week. This has developed into always providing safe meals (and desserts!) for us at Thursday evening

Service

Loving its broader community well is a way Christ Church Grosse Pointe shines, and this has certainly made an impression on us. Outreach that is socially aware and practically impactful is one of many ways that what is preached is practiced. We appreciate that there are age-appropriate ways for everyone in our family to serve.

Our very first Sunday here, Lachlan and Brynn were invited to participate in packing Summer Starters for Crossroads. Immediately, they were welcomed and had a confidence boost as they were given an important task well within their capacity. Our kids were also able to help prepare Christmas gifts for students at Carsten’s Academy including selecting and wrapping winter coats, hats, and gloves. Both activities opened a conversation with our children about the needs of others and how God calls us to love them.

Community Dinners and special food for them at holiday gatherings. We have felt seen and valued as our children are thoughtfully included here.

Speaking of Community Dinners, they have become a welcome mainstay in our family’s busy weekly schedule. They are delicious, thoughtfully balanced nutritionally, safe for our special diet, and such a blessing during the week. All children in attendance are supervised and assisted, providing a rare opportunity for Tim and me to meaningfully converse with other adults without worrying about our children, cooking, and washing dishes

Our children are seeing faith practiced and are actively participating. As they become a bit older, I look forward to going as a family to serve meals at Crossroads. This has been a hope of mine since before our children were born. How wonderful that they can grow up in a faith community in which these values are being lived out.

Tim and I are grateful to finally have plugged into Christ Church Grosse Pointe, where we encounter God as we are seen, supported, challenged, and loved. We are hopeful other families find their spiritual home here, too.

Toward Godliness The 6th Sunday of Easter

By: The Rev’d Maureen Martin

Happy Mother’s Day! I hope that all of you have something beautiful planned to honor the women in your lives today. I know some who say that Mother’s Day is just an opportunity for Hallmark to sell more cards and the restaurant industry to rake it in, but I am here to tell you that the intention of the founders of Mother’s Day, which has been around far longer than Hallmark, Red Lobster, and Sander’s was much more noble and the history of this day is worthy of our attention.

Mother’s Day in the US was the creation of two women. Julia Ward Howe was the author of the Battle Hymn Republic, but maybe more importantly, she was the author of the Mother’s Day Proclamation in 1870. She called upon mothers of all nationalities to band together to promote the “amicable settlement of international questions, the great and general interests of peace,” which is 1870s language for, “y’all need to get it together.” She speaks the ageless battle hymn of Motherhood. “Stop fighting. We are tired of losing our sons and daughters.” Alongside her stands Anna Jarvis. A peace activist, who 40 years after the Mother’s Day Proclamation founded Mother’s Day to commemorate her mother’s death and to honor all the world’s women. In her words, a mother is “the person who has done more for you than anyone in the world.”

Now, it is true that Hallmark jumped on the bandwagon early on selling cards, and carnation growers and candy companies were not far behind in commercializing the day. That’s okay, because the original intent has lived on. The intent to honor women

and recognize the roles that women have played quite naturally in the quest for a peaceful world and the building up of community.

We ought not to forget the many, many brave women who said enough is enough to the violence of the Civil War, the lack of care for the poor and needy, and the rights of women to vote and hold public office. In honoring mothers today we honor the women of the past who laid the foundations for the freedoms women enjoy today. We honor them when we continue to challenge ourselves to make the world a better, safer, and more peaceful place for all people.

Motherliness is not for the weak hearted. I use that word purposefully because I think the very word,

motherliness, makes people uncomfortable. I think it is on that list of words the American public does not want to hear spoken aloud. Some people are still uncomfortable with the full personhood of women and what that says about the freedom of all people to live fully into what God has intended for them.

While we remember our moms for the cool touch of their hand on a feverish forehead and the ability to fix anything with a Band-Aid and a kiss, we also must acknowledge that Motherliness is not just a characteristic of those leading estrogen-drenched lives but the character of the strong living in an awareness of the God-drenched community.

Motherliness looks to the horizon for those who are lost. Motherliness gathers those who are defenseless and protects them under the pinions of her wings, to quote Psalm 91. Yes, there is a verse which equates God with chickens! There are even chicken icons of Jesus as the Mother Hen. (Of course, you know I have one, somewhere.)

“Motherliness is a path toward godliness”

Mothers nurture, mothers build up. Mothers cheer us on and tell us not to give up, not to let the mean girls win. Mothers are at the heart of every community.

In our language here at Christ Church mothers Excel in Love. We don’t have the backs of only our

children, but the backs of any and every child. Mothers create a culture that has the power to become and stay community focused now and for a long time to come. It is what we do, and in a world that needs a lot more than a cool hand on its forehead, a Band-Aid, and a kiss, that is where we start.

If memory serves me right, 29 years ago when David faced the changing of his first poopy diaper I may have said, “You know, I was born with the ovaries in this household, it is true, but I was not born knowing how to change a diaper. That, I learned” All are called to the nurturing and building up of our community. Motherliness is a path toward godliness and all are invited to participate in God’s dream for our world.

Summer Starters Success!

Food and housing insecurity often go hand in hand. While we do not know the stories of every child we are feeding this summer through Crossroads of Michigan, providing a consistent source of nutrition for kids that is portable, nutritious, and shelf stable is helping to ensure that the families who rely on Crossroads to keep their kids healthy and well fed have one less source of anxiety in their lives.

Every week we are providing 420 breakfasts. As of today we will have delivered 1,340 pounds of food and by

summer’s end we will have delivered 4,320 pounds of food directly to families in need. This generosity is support in two ways. One, your financial gifts to the children offering every week helps to cover the cost of each bag - just $17.81 for a week’s worth of breakfasts. And two, taking the time to visit our Amazon wish list (scan the QR code on the right) and make a purchase. For more information or to volunteer to deliver the bags to Crossroads, contact Colleen Fitzgerald at cfitzgerald@christchurchgp. org.

The Heart of the Father The 3rd Sunday after Pentecost

By: The Rev’d Andrew Van Culin

There’s much to be said today, and as fathers come to church with the hope for a long-winded ser-mon, just settle in.

No, there are just two things to say. One, a very brief thought on this morning’s reading from Romans – what a wonderful beautiful reflection Paul offers on the very heart of our faith. I encourage you to just look at it again. And if you want a more modern retelling of it, you might give a listen to George Strait’s Love Without End. Amen. It’s an old country classic and a simple, effective song re-flecting the heart of God as Paul reminds us. So, give this little passage a second read and give George Strait a little listen.

Now, to my second thing.

Today is a wonderfully important day in our life, and while I want to talk to everyone, I want to speak particularly to the men in our congregation this morning. For today is Father’s Day, and we must remember how important the role of men is in the world. Several weeks ago, on a similar day as this, Mtr. Maureen introduced to us an uncomfortable word, motherliness.

She reminded us so beautifully and brilliantly of the remarkable gift of motherliness in our world and in our lives. Those women, not just biological mothers, but those women

who tend to us with nur-ture and care and compassion; those women who remind us to stand strong in places of adversity and difficulty; those women who have the remarkable ability to care, not just for their own children, but for any child in their midst. In our family, we have a little joke. Who’s in charge? Mom. Then who? Grandma. Then? Aunt Tori.

I want to pick up there because Jesus reminds us very pointedly that God is also Father; that father-liness is equally an expression of God. If there is a fallacy about patriarchy, it is that we get all the gifts of men wrong as they approach and reflect God. So often when we speak of God in masculine imagery, we speak of power, dominion, lordship and kingship, and strength; as if one’s physical prowess, one’s ability on the battlefield, one’s ability to earn and to make a living is what godliness is about.

Yet we’re reminded that fatherliness is not simply buying a house, paying for college, or saving for retirement. Jesus reminds us that fatherliness, God the Father, cares with a human and tender heart. Let’s look at this lesson that we just heard from Matthew. Jesus is surrounded by the crowds. He’s gone from town to town. And what is his response to the brokenness and suffering, to this harassed and helpless world? His response is not despair. It is not judgment, or condescension or dismay.

Jesus response is compassion. He has compassion, a father’s compassion, for the world.

And then? Any woman nearby! Eventually you might find me, but women have this remarkable ability, Mtr. Maureen re-minded us, to wrap their arms around a community to care and to raise it up.

And she reminded us that that gift of motherliness is a gift of godliness.

And what has Jesus been doing?

What has he been modeling of God’s presence in the world? On each journey of his from town to town, he has gone about doing what we so often attribute to a mother’s work: he has been healing the sick; he has been going out and gathering in all of those who have been cast off and forgotten

by the society and community about them; he has been the one feeding the hungry. He has been the one tending to the demoniacs and those who are cast off. He has been the one stooping down and drawing in little children for an embrace.

You see, Jesus is reminding us that what is godly about masculinity is not strength and might, but tenderness and compassion. The willingness to stand when standing is necessary, but far more often the willingness to open oneself up to

draw others in. And he reminds us that this is the father’s heart of God.

Friends, our world is harassed and helpless still today. We hear about

our elders. But the work which is so desperately needed today is not simply the work of our women and our mothers.

What is Godly about masculinity . . .

it all the time, from the anxiety of our children to the loneliness of

This is God’s work for the men of our community as wellto be involved in the healing of the world, to be involved in the care of the world, not just of our children, but of our community, and our society.

We speak often about a masculine God but let us remember that the heart of God is that of a tender and compassionate father for a broken and struggling world. Amen.

Help us collect nonperishable food to stock the emergency food pantry at Crossroads. Bring a grocery bag filled with your donation to the display in the Nave during the month of July. Grocery bags and shopping lists are available at reception and all entrances!

For more information contact Colleen Fitzgerald, cfitzgerald@christchurchgp.org

To Excel in Love

By: Diane Ward

To Excel in Love is our fiveyear strategic plan and investment in the future of Christ Church. To fund the current and future mission and vision of Christ Church, the Vestry established an ambitious goal of raising $6 million to grow our endowments. Not only will these funds help support the expansion of our ministry in the near-term and they will provide vital stability of our programs for future generations.

Following the lead of the generations before us who established the Christ Church endowments, it is our time to lend our support in a meaningful way.

Thank You

Dave & Becca Anderson

Anonymous

Joel Anyim

Barbara Arrigo

Eric & Catherine Ash

Len & Betsy Azzaro

Martha Bangs*

Sandy & Lisa Baruah

Richard Baumgarten & Cheryl Wesen

Dominic & Marisa Bennett

Richard & Jill Best

Mike & Sarah Bowe

Jerry Brackett & Karen Kienbaum

Libby Candler

Dave & Sue Chaklos

Bill & Deb Champion, III

Lauren Clune

Jon & Anne-Mason Colman

Betsy Creedon

William Cudlip*

Hank Darlington

Herman & Carladenise Edwards

Ed & Colleen Fitzgerald

Dave Gaskin

John & Ebony Gillooly

Scott & Meredith Hanoian

Mike & Eliza Hix

Henry & Monica Hubbard

Matt & Mil Hurley

Lynnette Iannace

Ned & Liz Johnson, Jr

Ian & Cynthia Jones

Bob Kingscott & Sue Mara

Gar & Scottie Knight, III

Michael & Paula Labadie

Mark & Susan Lorenger

Gwen Mann

Michael Marsh

Dave & Maureen Martin

Peggy Maycock

Jackson & Allison Merrill

Thom & Laura Nealssohn

George & Nancy Nicholson, III

Peter & Barbara Nickles

Frank & Lisa Niscoromni

Northern Trust

Blair & Nancy Osborn

Dave & Jean Redfield

Brendan & Nancy Ross

Gregg & Brittany Russell

Lynn & Jack Schneider

Leonard & Nancy Smith

Carol & Graham Smith

The Smith Family

The Smith Family Foundation

John Snyder*

Frank & Sharon Stellingwerf

George & Julie Sutton

Amie Sweeney

Sarah Teachey

Dick & Mary Trost

Edward Turner

Jud & Lorna Utley

Drew & Jessica Van Culin*

Sam Van Culin

John & Amy Van Osdol

Alex & Lori Varas

Jeff von Schwarz

Bev Walsh

Brendan & Kelly Walsh

Diane Ward

Adam & Rema Waugh

Karyn Weir

Kathy Williams

Margaret Woodford

*Includes Legacy Commitments

A Special Thanks to our Campaign Leadership!

...

The vision of our Vestry who helped solidify the vision and approved the investment not only in our campaign but in our vision and mission!

The commitment of our Campaign Ambassadors, Richard Best, Betsy Creedon, Amie Sweeney, and Brendan Walsh, who have advocated for our ministry and invited so many to join the campaign!

The generosity of George and Nancy Nicholson, “Our First Family,” who encouraged us to build the plan and have led the way with generosity and faith!

And, of course, the steadfast leadership of our Campaign Chair, Lisa Vallee-Smith, whose friendship and attentiveness has kept us on task with humor, generosity, and efficiency!

Campaign Status

Our campaign would not have been possible without

Staff ChangesRestructuring: to Better Serve our Members and Mission

By The Rev’d Drew Van Culin

While the Endowment Campaign has received the greatest attention, the primary goal of the To Excel in Love strategic plan is the expansion of our ministry staff to better lead our ministry and expand our reach within the community.

Last fall, we took our first steps with the employment of Colleen Fitzgerald as our Membership Engagement Coordinator and Jackson Merrill as our full-time Assistant Director of Music and Organist.

We are in the process of taking the next steps with the appointment of an Associate for Christian Formation and, subsequently, the appointment of either a part-time Church School Coordinator or Youth Minister. The Vestry’s significant increase in our financial investment in our formation ministry, with a particular eye on our ministry to children, youth, and their families, is a critical commitment to our families and to our community. Admittedly, even with the help of a ministry search firm, we have found this position much harder to fill than we had hoped or planned. We continue, however, to spread the word and interview potential candidates, and I remain hopeful that I will be able to appoint a wonderful new member to our leadership team by summer’s end.

The Vestry has also committed to improve the stewardship of our facilities with the addition of a part time Maintenance Supervisor. This individual will work with our outside vendors to ensure that the infrastructure of Christ Church is well cared for today and wellpreserved for generations to come.

Of course, in addition to this expansion, Diane Ward shared last spring her intention to retire this summer. Consequently, we used the spring to reassess the responsibilities of her office and to consider ways to improve our management of the facilities whle providing better support to our ministries.

The consequence of this review is three-fold:

To begin, Diane Ward has agreed to extend her work with Christ Church until June of 2024. Following the appointment of her successor, Diane will provide transitional coaching,

Supported by our sextons, the Verger’s office will be responsible for the order and upkeep of Christ Church, including the care of the church buildings, its furnishings and sacred objects, as well as assisting with the preparations for services, events and concerts. At the end of the day, Joseph and his team will be responsible for ensuring that Christ Church is well presented at all times, and that all services and events are organized and executed to the highest possible standard.

To ensure adequate support for our programs we are looking to employ 1 to 2 part-time sextons to be present during ministry events such as Sunday morning and Thursday evening, while partnering with Zeppelin Cleaning Services to see to our ordinary janitorial needs.

All of this, of course, means a change is coming to my office as well. In order create the position of Rector’s Verger, I have had to reduce the position of the Executive Assistant to the Rector from full- to parttime. While this will be a technical reduction in support, I am confident that, with the addition of the Rector’s Verger, not only my office, but the entire organization and ministry of Christ Church will improve.

counsel, and support to ensure a successful transition.

We are also re-organizing how we provide critical support to our ministries. While he will continue to work closely with me, I have asked Joseph Daniel to assume a new role as my Rector’s Verger.

Finally, to ensure a successful transition, we are gradually shifting Joseph’s responsibilities from the Rector’s Executive Assistant to the Rector’s Verger with the hope and expectation that this transition will be complete by fall!

That’s a lot of change. But it’s being done not only with great attention, but with one singular purpose – to help us as a community Excel in Love

Amajor component of the To Excel in Love campaign is an investment to provide greater support to our common life and ministry together. Even as the we embark on the Endowment Campaign, the Vestry has also boldly committed to investing in this vision now, ensuring that the vision we have long held in our hearts has the leadership it needs to become a reality today.

New and Open Positions Maintenance Supervisor

(part time)

At almost 100 years old, our beloved church requires a lot of care and maintenance. We’re looking for a part-time Maintenance Supervisor to help with the stewardship of the building, helping to ensure that the buildings and grounds of Christ Church are maintained and preserved at the highest level.

Associate

for Christian

Formation (Priest or Lay Person)

Originally established as an outpost for Christian Education, Christian Formation remains at the heart of our life. The Associate for Christian Formation will provide critical leadership in our parish community, developing, shaping, and shepherding a vibrant formation program for all

Christ Church is Hiring To Excel in Love . . . Next Steps

By The Rev’d Drew Van Culin

ages. A priest associate will share in the full liturgical, pastoral, and priestly ministry of Christ Church.

Associate for Finance and Administration

At upwards of $2mm in annual aperational expenses, Christ Church requires excellend financial and administrative leadership. The Associate for Finance and Administration joins the senior leadership team to provide strategic leadership and management for all business and administrative affairs necessary to support the ministry of Christ Church Grosse Pointe. Primary areas of responsibility include: finances, human resources, stewardship of all buildings and grounds, financial stewardship leadership and support, and IT and office administration.

This position is ideal for someone with executive level experience in business or not-for-profit organizations, and proven leadership experience and management skills. The successful candidate will possess strong financial and administrative skills, impeccable integrity, strategic vision, and obvious leadership capacity.

Staff Accountant (part time)

Responsible for managing the day-to-day bookkeeping entries,

the Accountant provides essential support for the accurate maintenance of all financial records of the Parish (and ancillary ministries) in conjunction with the Associate for Finance and Administration and Treasurer.

Executive Assistant to the Rector (part time)

With Joseph Daniel assuming the new role as Rector’s Verger, we will be seeking a new Executive Assistant to the Rector to provide administrative and organizational support to Fr. Drew to further the broad ministry of Christ Church.

Recent Appointments

Diane Ward, Consultant

We’re pleased to announce that while Diane announced her retirement date (June 1) at the Annual Meeting, she has agreed to stay on for (up to) 12 months as a consultant to support our search, oversee daily financial and administrative operations, and to train her replacement. We’re extremely grateful to Diane for giving us this bonus year.

Journey of Generosity

Pledging is an act of worship – thanking God for all God has done for us.

Pledging is an act of love – sharing our abundance to help others experience the joy and love of Christ. Pledging is an act of faith – reminding ourselves that our greatest joy is found not in our wealth, but in God’s love for us and for all.

Thank you to all who have made a pledge to support God’s ministry at Christ Church. Thank you for joining us in our worship, love, and faith!

Mr. & Mrs Dave Anderson

Ms. Lynn Anslow

Mr. Joel Anyim

Mrs. Barbara Arrigo

Mr. & Mrs. Rodney Arroyo

Dr. & Dr. Eric Ash

Mr. & Mrs. Len Azzaro

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Bamford

Ms. Martha Bangs

Mr. & Mrs. Sandy Baruah

Dr. Richard Baumgarten & Dr. Cheryl Wesen

Mr & Mrs John Benson

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Best

Mr. & Mrs. Brad Blaine

Ms. Antoinete Book

Miss Terry Book

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Bowe

Dr. Jerry Bracket & Ms. Karen Kienbaum

Ms. Libby Candler

Mr. & Mrs. David Chaklos

Ms. Lauren Clune

Mrs. Betsy Creedon

Mr. William Cudlip

Mr. Henry Darlington

Mr. Michael DeFillipi & Mr. David Gerdis

Mr. & Mrs. Peter Durand

Mr. & Mrs. Edward Evans, III

Mr. Steven Fehniger

Mr. & Mrs. Peter Ferrara

Mr. & Mrs. Ed Fitzgerald

Mrs. Hadley French

Mr. & Mrs. Scott Hanoian

Mrs. Elizabeth Hardwick

Mr. & Mrs. John Harwood

Mr. Mark Higbie & Mrs. Gretchen Knoell

Mr. & Mrs. Henry Hubbard

Mr. & Mrs. Peter Huebner

Mr. & Mrs. Matthew Hurley

Ms. Terri Lyn Huston

Ms. Lynnette Iannace

Dr. & Mrs. Edward Jeffries

Mr. & Mrs. Edward Johnson, Jr

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Johnson

Mrs. Heather Jones

Mr. & Mrs. Ian Jones

Ms. Barbara Kennedy

Mr. Robert Kingscott & Mrs. Susan Mara

Mr. & Ms. Garland Knight, III

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Labadie

Mrs. Ann Lesesne

Mr. & Mrs. Mark Lorenger

Mr. & Mrs. Terrance Lynch

Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Magee

Dr. Harold Marsh

Mr. David Martin & The Rev’d Maureen Martin

Mr. & Mrs. Roger Mason

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Mathews

Ms. Nadine Mathews

Mrs. Margaret Maycock

Mr. & Mrs. John McCormick

Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth McIntyre

Mrs. Helen McKnight

Mrs. Lucinda McMahon

Mr. & Mrs. James McMillan, II

Mr. & Mrs. George Nicholson, III

Dr. & Mrs. Peter Nickles

Mr. & Mrs. Frank Niscoromni

Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Partridge

Mr. & Mrs. Brian Peabody

Mr. & Mrs. Eric Pietsch

Mr. & Mrs. Tedmund Pryor

Mr. & Mrs. David Redfield

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Reich

Mrs. Nancy Renick

Mr. & Mrs. Alfred Reuther, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. Brendan Ross

Mr. Charles Ruifrok

Mr. & Mrs. Gregg Russell

Ms. Helen Santiz

Mrs. Carol Schrashun

Mrs. Penelope Slough

Ms. Carol Smith

Mr. Jeffrey Smith & Mrs. Lisa Vallee Smith

Mr. & Mrs. Frank Stellingwerf

Mr. & Mrs. George Sutton

Ms. Amie Sweeney

Mrs. Emily Tennyson

Mr. & Mrs. David Tobbe

Mr. & Mrs. Allan Torp

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Trost

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Turner

The Rev’d & Mrs. Andrew Van Culin

Mr. Christopher Van Tol

Mrs. Charlene Vickers

Mrs. Barbara Wachter

Mrs. Beverly Walsh

Dr. & Mrs. Kenneth Walters

Mr. & Mrs. John Warren, Jr

Mr. & Mrs. Adam Waugh

Ms. Karyn Weir

Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Whims

Ms. Kathy Williams

Mrs. Margaret Woodford

Mr. John Woodhouse & Ms. Susan Vercruysse

Why God?

Prayers from the Meet the Saints Class

Siena Bennett, Molly Hanoian, Catherine Van Culin & Charlotte Walsh

Why, God?

Why God did you give people who don’t have a house and no food and no warmth?

Oh yeah.

He gives us food, hugs, homes and happiness

Thanks.

Thank you God for family friends and Love

Why, God?

Why are there wars? Wars make me sad. Why can’t you help them feel happy and loved?

Oh yeah.

You gave us a good life to live, and u gave us joy and peace.

Thanks!

Thank you for giving us peace and love.

Why, God?

Why God is there exclusion, lies, and loneliness? Why is there sadness, sorrow and fear?

Oh yeah

But, you gave us, friends, family and warmth, happiness, and cookies.

Thanks

Thank you God for every sunshiny bird chirping day

Why, God?

God, why did you give us separation, loneliness, and pain?

Oh yeah. God gave us love, humor and happiness, God gave us family and friends.

Thanks.

Thank you, God, for beauty, kindness, and concentration. (and hugs)

The Meet the Saints class consisted of 5th-6th graders Siena Bennett, Molly Hanoian, Catherine Van Culin and Charlotte Walsh. During Lent, they wrote Prayers of Lament using the prompts “Why, God? Thanks! and Oh yeah!

Choir is More than Music

by Ava Carr, Head Chorister

When I was ten years old, I decided that I was missing out on something, sitting in the pews watching the choir sing every Sunday. I wanted to know what it was like to be a chorister, with fancy ribbons and beautiful music, so I decided to find out. My mind was awash in visions of elaborate recitals, and I was so excited to receive my robes and jump headfirst into performing.

However, I quickly discovered that choir is about far more than just rehearsals and performances. It is, first and foremost, an educational experience, and I was taught how to interpret time and key signatures long before I ever opened a hymnal. At the time, this frustrated me, because I had all the patience of a ten year old (that is to say none) and all the excitement of one, too.

Looking back, though, I am beyond thankful for those early days of music theory in the choir room, writing out notes on the white board and counting out intervals on laminated piano sheets. I didn’t realize it then, but it was during that time that I began to truly understand music. Music is its own language, and knowing the names of the notes and clefs isn’t enough to truly understand it.

Music is not just words on a page or notes on a piano: it is an experience made of rests, rythmns, and the occasional mistake. So that’s one thing choir taught me: how to love music.

When I look back on the last seven years, I remember far more than just music: I remember Cedar Point

trips, visiting the farm at choir camp, making gingerbread houses at Christmas time, and playing Sardines at the annual lockin. I remember laughing with my friends at the end of the year barbeque, stealing extra dessert at Thursday night dinners, and making funny faces across the aisle during sermons (I’m sorry Fr. Drew!).

I remember movie nights, laser tag, and weekly Head Chorister meetings with Mr. Hanoian. In short, I remember finding a community here, one that is loud, chaotic, and overflowing with joy.

One of the many memories that embody my experience as a chorister occurred on Christmas Eve. Normally, choristers sing the eight o’clock service and the midnight mass. But this past year, things looked different: we sang the earliest service, went home, and then came back later that night for a reception and the midnight mass. I would say that the middle, eight o’clock service is no longer on our schedule, but that’s not entirely true. Instead, the eight o’clock service has become part of our futures as an alumni service. This new tradition meant that the reception before midnight was full of familiar faces: close friends who have since left for college, former head choristers who helped introduce me to choir, and, of course, current

choristers, running around playing games and taste testing all the desserts. The room was loud, bright, happy, and I felt at home.

This past Christmas Eve was a reminder that I have had a place in choir through every stage of my life so far, and that I will continue to have a place here long after I turn in my folder and put away my robes.

It’s a place I look forward to coming back to, year after year, because it’s a place that houses so many happy memories.

Grateful for My Time Here

by Rowan O’Brien, Head Chorister

About seven years ago, my parents drove me to Christ Church Grosse Pointe for the beginning of what would be the best experience of my life so far.

Looking back on my time as a chorister now, it would be easy to say that I have always cherished choir for the wonderful thing that it is. Although, I will admit that I had my challenges along the way. However, throughout my struggles in school, with my peers, and even within choir, just getting to come to Christ Church and sing three times a week cheered me up through every challenge I faced.

My coming to Christ Church was completely by chance. My family were not members, but someone heard me sing one day and decided that I would’ve made a great fit.

saw that I was capable of doing what was asked of me.

In reality, I could not tell you if I really was underestimated, or if I simply overestimated myself, but I am extremely grateful that I stuck it out and never gave up.

When I was in my first year of choir, I heard an older chorister sing the well-loved Allegri Miserere Mei for the first time. I loved listening to the way her voice moved so easily through the notes, reaching so high to what I didn’t even know it was possible for one’s voice to do at the time.

Ever since that day, I have known one thing. I want to sing that someday. There have been points in time when I thought I’d never make it.

Still, to this day, I do not know who recommended me, but I am and always will be grateful to them.

However, when I first joined, I was not so pleased. I wasn’t timid and shy as many other choristers will say they were. On the contrary, I was overconfident in myself, and was upset that none of the older choristers

During the pandemic, I thought I might never get the opportunity to sing as a part of the choir again. But about a month ago, we held our annual Tenebrae service, and as we do every year, the same piece was sung. But this time, instead of being a member of the chorus, I had earned the opportunity to sing the first soprano part in the quartet.

Finally, the goal that I had in my mind since I was young had come to fruition. I am extremely proud of myself for the growth I’ve done to make it to that point, and I couldn’t have done it without the support of my friends in choir.

The Stewardship of Food

by The Rev’d. Maureen Martin

The Feast of the Ascension was a double feast and a delight to our taste buds. A number of people have asked for recipes and I am happy to share them, in normal proportions, of course! That said, if you would like to make 2 gallons of pineapple salsa along with 40 pounds of tenderloin, just ask. Not only will I assist you in the process I would enjoy the holy friendship of cooking together as well.

I am pleased to say that our meal was completely gluten and dairy free, (except for the key lime pie) as well as completely made from scratch, and from the heart, from start to finish.

We received a lot of requests for the recipe for our Pineapple Salsa. There are many recipes online, but here is the basic pattern.

Pineapple Salsa

1 ripe pineapple. Peeled, cored and chopped small

1/2 - 1 red bell pepper, finely diced

1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, minced (Add more or less, depending on your own taste)

1/2 cup minced red onion

1 cup minced cilantro

1/4 cup of fresh lime juice

Salt to taste

Mix all ingredients together and serve fresh. Here is a helpful hint. If you arrive at the store and all the pineapples are green replace the

pineapple with a mix of 2/3 mango and 1/3 cucumber. My mango of preference in terms of flavor is the smaller yellow mango known as ataúlfo mango. They are less fibrous, making them easier to deal with and somewhat wrinkly when ripe. If the mangoes frozen mango can be used in their place. If you strike out with both the pineapple and the mango use all cucumber and tell everyone it is Thai cucumber salad and that you have taken up fusion cooking!

Island Pork Tenderloin

Variations of this recipe can be found online, so we used this basic recipe: https://www.cookingclassy.com/ island-pork-tenderloin/ We made a few modifications for our purposes, which meant that one change led to another, which led to another. I hope that others might find it helpful to see behind the scenes of our process and how we made this recipe our very own.

(Note that the amounts listed in this recipe have all been scaled back for a single 2- 2 1/2 lb tenderloin.)

To begin with, I jazzed up the rub by adding 1 tsp of curry powder and used ancho chili powder in place of generic chili powder. As an aside, I never know in recipes what is meant by the term chili powder. Do they really mean super stale chili powder from the grocery aisle? I hope not! When recipes call for chili powder my default is ancho. It is deep red and has a rich and chocolatey taste without much heat. It blends well with lots of other flavors and smooths out any harshness from other spices. It is a go to in my spice cupboard. Another helpful tip for adding flavor to foods is to grind as many of the spices yourself as you can. As an example, I always start with cumin seed rather than preground cumin, and I have a cheap coffee grinder that is set aside just for the purpose of grinding spices. Another modification of this recipe was cooking it with a sous vide rather than browning and roasting. So I added the olive oil to the rub, which we applied to the meat the day before to maximize the absorption of flavor into the meat.

In order to make such a large quantity of meat we set up a cooler with two sous vides, eliminating any concerns we might have had for timing or consistency in the finished product. Having made that modification I knew we needed to change how the sauce was made. I wanted to make sure that we got as much umami in our flavor as we could and so I refashioned the sauce by sautéing 1/4 cup of minced shallots in olive oil until they caramelized, added 1/2 cup

chopped pineapple, let it simmer, then added the brown sugar and sriracha, along with 1-2 T of rice wine vinegar, a splash of soy sauce and a bit of the rub.

Once the meat was cooked to the exact temperature we wanted (138.5 degrees. Don’t ask where the .5 came from!) we seared the exterior, added the cooking liquid to the sauce from the sous vide bags, warmed the sauce through, sliced the meat and ladled the sauce over the top. Try it at home and let me know how it turns out! Also, if you would like to suggest a new name for the recipe, I would love your submissions!

The Table Top

The last “menu” item that caught people’s attention wasn’t food at all, it was the changes we have made to our disposable tableware. We are moving towards using compostable products at all church events and are currently in a phase of trying various products to see how we like them. According to reports that came out last year plastic is successfully recycled at a rate of less than 5%.

In keeping with our commitment to the stewardship and care our planet we are replacing plastic items as much as we can with alternative products that will breakdown quickly in landfills and also can be composted. We have

The Stewardship of Food cont’d

consulted with the owners of local commercial composting companies to get their recommendations for reliable products and have been very happy with our new products and will continue to phase out recyclable products as much as we can as we move to a system that is more single stream in nature. Along this line we have also eliminated the use of single serve coffee creamers and replaced them with real half n half, as well

has replacing plastic stir sticks with bamboo.

Paper plates and bowls have been replaced with products made from fallen palm leaves or by-products of the sugar cane industry that would otherwise end up in the landfill or burned. The new products are unbleached and un-waxed and breakdown more quickly, as well as being sturdy and stylish. So, when you are at our next event, do not worry about what goes in which kind of receptacle at the end of the meal, or whether or not the extra sturdy plate in your hand seems wasteful as a single use tableware. Enjoy the meal, enjoy the fellowship, and know that we are thoughtfully moving forward in our stewardship of the food we prepare knowing that our attentiveness to all things is a joyful part of participation in God’s dream for all of Creation.