Writing a refl ection for Advent or The Spirit Parish Staff...
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SAINT STEPHEN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH SPIRIT OCTOBER 16, 2016 TWENTY-SECOND SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST A weekly meditation Dog Love Earlier this fall, I took a dog-sitting gig for a neighbor whose family was taking a trip. Four dogs–an older beagle, a young lab-mix, and two bird dogs–made up the lovable crew. Admittedly, it was a big commitment, but my only real problem was not knowing which dog to pet first. This was decided for me, however, when I became the sole object of affection for one of the bird dogs, Morris. Morris, I’m sure, was many things: best friend, watcher, bird finder extraordinaire; but he was also a jumper. And no matter how hard I tried, I could not get him to stop jumping on me. Throughout the week, Morris tried desperately to get me to give him the most attention. If I petted one of the other dogs, Morris would be there in a heartbeat, either butting his head in, or putting his paws on me. I tried pushing him down, turning away, saying “No,” asking him to sit, and nothing worked. No sooner would his bottom hit the ground, and he’d pop right back up on his hind legs. His tongue made a continual lapping noise as he sought to make contact with my face, and his eyes were always straining to maintain eye contact. It was as if he felt like if he could just make this physical connection, I’d have no choice but to give in. This went on all week, but no matter how weary I got of him constantly jumping on me, I never tired of staring into his sweet eyes while I scratched his ears. It made me think that there was probably nothing I could do to make Morris dislike me, and how I wished that type of abundant, undying love was more present in my own life. I wanted to be more like this dog, sans the jumping. I wanted to love as generously as this dog was loving me. Even if I told Morris that he was being rather annoying, he’d still come back. He’d still gaze at me with eyes that were practically spilling over with love. I wanted to look at the world this way. Morris has been on my mind ever since, especially in light of all the pain in the world. There is nothing on this Earth that could take away God’s love for me. Time and time again, he will come back, and put his hands (or paws) on me to remind me of his presence. If I’m making the wrong decision, he will butt his head in to help me make the right one. All Morris wanted was give and receive love. And all I want when I seek God is love—that perfect, abundant love that fills my soul until it overflows and touches everything around me. SARAH-KEEL CREWS Science and religion: beyond the pseudo-debate SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 AT 9 A.M. “We’ve got to get him to come to St. Stephen’s!” were the first words Michael Sweeney and Sarah-Keel Crews exchanged after hearing Prof. Paul Wallace speak in Dallas last spring. Wallace, a pastor and physicist, guides listeners on an awesome journey, from the far reaches of the cosmos to the center of the human heart. Drawing heavily from the Book of Job and Carl Sagan, Wallace questions our assumptions about God and traces Job’s journey from a “God-concept” to the Living God, beyond ideas. The author of Stars Beneath Us holds a PhD in experimental nuclear physics from Duke and an MDiv from Candler School of Theology, and teaches physics and theology. The suggested donation for his talk is $25; register at ststephensRVA.org/wallace. His book is available in our bookshop. Prayer shawls blessed this morning This morning during the 9 services, we are asking God to bless the prayer shawls that have been knitted by volunteers from St. Stephen’s. (If you attend the 11:15 service, you will see the shawls still on display.) These shawls will then be ready for distribution to those in our com- munity who are ill, homebound, or for some other reason would ap- preciate this tangible expression of the parish’s love and prayers for them. If you would like to knit a prayer shawl, either at home or as part of a group that gathers on Wednesday evening, please be in touch with the Rev. Penny Nash in the parish office. INSIDE Today’s Forum // 2 Please return your pledge card by October 30 // 2 This week: parables from parenthood // 2 ‘Immortal Diamond’ group begins tomorrow // 3 Washington National Cathedral trip postponed // 3 Rob Bell and John Philip Newell to speak here next month // 4 We’re glad you’re here! Are you at St. Stephen’s for the first time? We’re so happy you’re here. Please stop by the Welcome Table outside the Fellowship Hall for a gift.
Transcript of Writing a refl ection for Advent or The Spirit Parish Staff...
SAINT STEPHEN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
SPIR
IT
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church6000 Grove AvenueRichmond, Virginia 23226www.ststephensRVA.org
OCTOBER 16, 2016TWENTY-SECOND SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
A weekly meditationDog Love
Earlier this fall, I took a dog-sitting gig for a neighbor whose family was taking a trip. Four dogs–an older beagle, a young lab-mix, and two bird dogs–made up the lovable crew. Admittedly, it was a big commitment, but my only real problem was not knowing which dog to pet fi rst. This was decided for me, however, when I became the sole object of affection for one of the bird dogs, Morris.Morris, I’m sure, was many things: best friend, watcher, bird fi nder extraordinaire; but he was also a jumper. And no matter how hard I tried, I could not get him to stop jumping on me. Throughout the week, Morris tried desperately to get me to give him the most attention. If I petted one of the other dogs, Morris would be there in a heartbeat, either butting his head in, or putting his paws on me. I tried pushing him down, turning away, saying “No,” asking him to sit, and nothing worked. No sooner would his bottom hit the ground, and he’d pop right back up on his hind legs. His tongue made a continual lapping noise as he sought to make contact with my face, and his eyes were always straining to maintain eye contact. It was as if he felt like if he could just make this physical connection, I’d have no choice but to give in.This went on all week, but no matter how weary I got of him constantly jumping on me, I never tired of staring into his sweet eyes while I scratched his ears. It made me think that there was probably nothing I could do to make Morris dislike me, and how I wished that type of abundant, undying love was more present in my own life. I wanted to be more like this dog, sans the jumping. I wanted to love as generously as this dog was loving me. Even if I told Morris that he was being rather annoying, he’d still come back. He’d still gaze at me with eyes that were practically spilling over with love. I wanted to look at the world this way.Morris has been on my mind ever since, especially in light of all the pain in the world. There is nothing on this Earth that could take away God’s love for me. Time and time again, he will come back, and put his hands (or paws) on me to remind me of his presence. If I’m making the wrong decision, he will butt his head in to help me make the right one. All Morris wanted was give and receive love. And all I want when I seek God is love—that perfect, abundant love that fi lls my soul until it overfl ows and touches everything around me.
SARAH-KEEL CREWS
Science and religion: beyond the pseudo-debateSATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 AT 9 A.M.
“We’ve got to get him to come to St. Stephen’s!” were the fi rst words Michael Sweeney and Sarah-Keel Crews exchanged after hearing Prof. Paul Wallace speak in Dallas last spring. Wallace, a pastor and physicist, guides listeners on an awesome journey, from the far reaches of the cosmos to the center of the human heart. Drawing heavily from the Book of Job and Carl Sagan, Wallace questions our assumptions about God and traces Job’s journey from a “God-concept” to the Living God, beyond ideas. The author of Stars Beneath Us holds a PhD in experimental nuclear physics from Duke and an MDiv from Candler School of Theology, and teaches physics and theology. The suggested donation for his talk is $25; register at ststephensRVA.org/wallace. His book is available in our bookshop.
Prayer shawls blessed this morningThis morning during the 9 services, we are asking God to bless the prayer shawls that have been knitted by volunteers from St. Stephen’s. (If you attend the 11:15 service, you will see the shawls still on display.)These shawls will then be ready for distribution to those in our com-munity who are ill, homebound, or for some other reason would ap-preciate this tangible expression of the parish’s love and prayers for them. If you would like to knit a prayer shawl, either at home or as part of a group that gathers on Wednesday evening, please be in touch with the Rev. Penny Nash in the parish offi ce.
INSIDE Today’s Forum // 2
Please return your pledge card by October 30 // 2
This week: parables from parenthood // 2‘Immortal Diamond’ group begins tomorrow // 3Washington National Cathedral trip postponed // 3Rob Bell and John Philip Newell to speak here next month // 4
We’re glad you’re here!Are you at St. Stephen’s for the fi rst time? We’re so happy you’re here. Please stop by the Welcome Table outside the Fellowship Hall for a gift.
Janet S. Allen (jallen), Associate for Development & OperationsStan Barnett (sbarnett), Coordinator of Kitchen MinistrySarah R. Bartenstein (sbartenstein), Director of CommunicationMarion S. Chenault (mchenault), Preschool Director (288-6401)Dawn Childs (dchilds), Assistant for Children’s Music MinistryDonald Clements, SextonSarah-Keel Crews (skcrews), Youth Ministry CoordinatorKerry Court, Interim Director of Virginia Girls Choir and Virginia Boys ChoirSean Dobb, SextonKyle Dosier (farmersmarket), Assistant Market ManagerChris Edwards, Interim Director of St. Stephen’s ChoirMelissa Hipes (mhipes), Finance ManagerChris Holman, SextonThe Rev. Gary D. Jones (gjones), Rector Greta Kidd (gkidd), Wedding CoordinatorDeborah Lawrence (dlawrence), Director of OutreachThe Rev. Gene LeCouteur (glecouteur), Associate RectorBetsy Lee (blee), Offi ce Manager & Pastoral Care AssistantBecky Lehman (blehman), Assistant for Hospitality & CommunicationJan Locher (jlocher), Lead CatechistThe Rev. Weston Mathews (wmathews), Associate RectorChristi McFadden (cmcfadden), Finance AssistantThe Rev. Claudia Merritt (cmerritt), Priest AssociateThe Rev. Penny A. Nash (pnash), Associate RectorBen Nelson (bnelson), Sexton, Pressman, Sunday Community Supper chefSun Ho Nuon, SextonMatthew Oltmann, SextonPaige Reisenfeld (madmin), Music AssistantKate Ruby (farmersmarket), Market ManagerThe Rev. William L. Sachs (bsachs), Priest AssociateAllison Seay (aseay), Associate for Religion & the Arts Steven Simon (ssimon), Facilities ManagerMichael Simpson, Director of Celtic Service MusiciansLamonté Smith, SextonMichael E. Sweeney (msweeney), Director of Family MinistriesGreg Vick, Principal Organist
VestryTerm expires 2017: Kathryn Angus, Beth Brubaker, John Crowder, Register; Debbie Dunlap, Mac Hines, Mike LocherTerm expires 2018: John Barr, JB Burtch, Senior Warden; Mac Purrington, Taylor Raquet, Laurie Rogers, Junior Warden; Beth SmithTerm Expires 2019: John Bates, Judy Buchanan, Marie Carter, Calle Luke, Mac McElroy, David WisePeter Pastore, Treasurer; Bill Armstrong, Assistant Treasurer
Parish StaffSt. Stephen’s parish staff is just a phone call or email away. To reach a staff member, call 804.288.2867. To send an email to a member of the staff, use the initial and name provided in parentheses, with @ststephensRVA.org. (If no email is listed, it means that the staff member does not have a St. Stephen’s email address.)
Writing a refl ection for Advent or The SpiritEach week in this newsletter, we publish a refl ection from a parishioner or staff member who writes about the spiritual in everyday life. Would you like to write a refl ection for The Spirit? Please send an email to Sarah Bartenstein, director of communications, [email protected], to request submission guidelines. In addition, during the Advent season, St. Stephen’s distributes daily meditations by email to any who wish to subscribe. If you would like to write an Advent refl ection, please ask Sarah for those guidelines as well. The deadline for submission of Advent meditations will be November 10.
Coming soon: John Philip Newell and Rob BellMONDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2016, 7 P.M.
Two of the most signifi cant and infl uential voices in Christianity in the 21st century will be at St. Stephen’s Church soon. John Philip Newell, known for his teaching, writing, and preaching about Celtic spirituality, both its ancient roots and its fresh expressions, will return to St. Stephen’s on Sunday, November 13 to refl ect at the Celtic service; he’ll also speak after the service.The next evening, Monday, November 14, he and Rob Bell will speak here. Rob is known for his writing, fi lms, teaching, and preaching that re-envision Christianity for our time. His books include Love Wins, What We Talk About When We Talk About God, and his latest, How to be Here. His Nooma fi lm series has been used here in various groups and classes. Books by both men are available in our bookshop.We expect a large crowd at this event, so we are issuing tickets to ensure that everyone has a seat. You can pick up tickets in the parish offi ce, or reserve them online at ststephensRVA.org/bellnewell. The suggested donation is $25.
‘I was in prison and you visited me’MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 6:30 P.M.
Are you interested in becoming a volunteer chaplain to men and women at the Richmond City Jail, or simply want to learn more about this vital and growing ministry? Come to a training and orientation session in Palmer Hall on October 24. All prospective chaplains are required to attend the training. Additional training sessions will be scheduled as the need arises. For questions or more information, please contact Deb Lawrence, 804.288.2867 or [email protected].
NEWS SIGN UP FOR WEEKLY EMAILS AT STSTEPHENSRVA.ORG/EMAIL
In today’s Forum: “How can we know the way?”The third session in Gary Jones’ series “Buried Treasure” is about one of the most challenging aspects of the Christian life: spiritual discernment. Once we have a sense of God, once we’ve come to ourselves and we can see how we tend to go astray from time to time, what should we do? What is our unique mission, our “calling,” our purpose in life? How can we know that it is God’s call we are hearing? How can we know we are doing God’s will? We’ll consider how faithful people think about the presence and activity of God in their lives, and how we seek to be in a living relationship with God, how we co-operate with God and co-author our lives with God. This session is held in the Large Fellowship Hall at 10:10 a.m.; no registration is required.
Two additional Sunday offeringsIn addition to the Sunday Forum, adults have the following options during the Christian education hour, neither requiring registration: in Room 14, “Many Parents, One Vine,” especially for parents; in the Somerset Room (the former vestry room), Bible study led by the Rev. Penny Nash.
An offering to GodEach of us has the opportunity to take our everyday lives and place them before God as an offering–a form of thanksgiving for all we have received from God. There is so much to be done, and none of us can do it alone. Through the church, we do God’s work together. As a pledging member of St. Stephen’s Church, you take part in a remarkable community of faith that provides the “hands and feet” of God in Richmond and beyond. Packets with information and pledge cards have been distributed to all on our parish mailing list. If you are not on the mailing list but want to take part, please do! Many people who are not members of St. Stephen’s (including those who are members of other churches) are eager to support our ministries. You may use our online pledge form, or stop by any of the Welcome Tables to pick up a pledge card. The leadership of our annual giving campaign asks that you make your pledge by October 30.
Opportunities to help in the East EndWould you like to be part of the success story of our East End mission partners? Students are thriving at the Anna Julia Cooper Episcopal School and Peter Paul Development Center. Fairfi eld Court El-ementary School is fully accredited again this year. There are opportunities to serve as a classroom as-sistant, “room parent,” tutor, mentor, or reader with all three partners. Peter Paul also has a new tutor-ing opportunity available; the Monday-Thursday, 6:15-7:00 p.m. time slots are attractive to students and professionals alike. Information: Deb Lawrence, 804.288.2867 or [email protected].
Parables from parenthood THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 7:00 P.M. , PALMER HALL
Prepare to laugh, cry, and be inspired! Valerie Abbott, Courtney Ferrell, Erin Mahone, and Michael Sweeney will each share a 10-minute story from parenthood. Refreshments, including wine and cheese, will be served. All proceeds from the $10 suggested donation will be used to support the Ahmadis—the family of refugees from Afghanistan living here in Richmond whom St. Stephen’s sponsors. Reserva-tions are encouraged at ststephensRVA.org/parents or http://tinyurl.com/parenthoodparables.
Flower Guild offers demonstrationFRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 10:30 A.M.
Local fl oral designer extraordinaire Loretta Miller will provide a demonstration for St. Stephen’s Flower Guild this Friday in the church. A light soup and salad lunch will follow. Anyone interested in getting involved with the Flower Guild is welcome to attend. Please let us know if you are coming by sending an email to ststephensfl [email protected].
Blessing of kneelers next SundayDuring next Sunday’s 11:15 a.m. service, we will bless the most recently-completed batch of needle-point canvasses before they are sent off to be blocked and attached to kneeling cushions for the cathe-dral chairs in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit.
‘Immortal Diamond’ book group begins tomorrow
MONDAYS, 7-8:30 P.M., OCTOBER 17-NOVEMBER 14In the quiet moments of our lives, all of us wonder: if others knew me the way I know myself, would they still love me? What about God? What does God see when God gazes on me? These are ques-tions that noted Franciscan author and spiritual guide Richard Rohr explores in his book, Immortal Diamond. Rohr refl ects on our essen-tial goodness and how our egos interfere with our awareness of God, one another, and our own self-understanding. Join Claudia Merritt and others for this fi ve-week discussion group. Copies of the book are available in the Bookshop @ St. Stephen’s. You can sign up at the table outside Palmer Hall, or at ststephensRVA.org/groups.
Are you interested in being a chalice bearer?SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22, 10 A.M.
Current and prospective chalice bearers are asked to attend the second of two training opportunities this Saturday. If you attended the earlier orientation, this training is Part 2. Even if you missed Part 1, please plan to attend this hands-on session. Questions: the Rev. Penny Nash, 804.288.2867, [email protected].
Needlepoint Guild trip postponedThe planned trip to Washington National Cathedral for October 31 has been postponed until the spring.
‘I was hungry and you gave me something to eat’Bringing a can or box of food to church each Sunday, along with your monetary offering, is a weekly practice we encourage. Your contributions to our food pantry help us respond to the large number of people coming to us for groceries each Monday. Please bring nutritious foods, including proteins such as tuna and peanut butter. A list of current needs is published every week in the eSpirit, our email newsletter.
Bible study for moms and dadsFATHERS: TUESDAYS, 7 A.M.; MOTHERS: WEDNESDAYS, 9:30 A.M.
Two Bible study groups especially for parents meet each week at St. Stephen’s, both in the Library at St. Stephen’s. Fathers meet from 7:00 until 8:00 a.m. for Bible study, prayer, and fellowship. Email Michael Sweeney ([email protected]) to be sure the group is meeting, as it will occasionally break for a holiday. Mothers meet on Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. for Bible study, prayer, and fellowship. Childcare is available. Questions: Sarah Moyar-Thacker ([email protected]). No registration is required.
‘Encountering Difference’ group cancelledThe small group led by Aleta Richards and Bill Sachs studying Bill’s book Encountering Difference, originally scheduled to begin tomorrow, has been cancelled.
CALENDAR MORE AT STSTEPHENSRVA.ORG/CALENDAR
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16–PENTECOST 22Holy Eucharist: Rite One, 8 a.m.Holy Eucharist: Rite Two, with Prayer Shawl Blessings, 9 a.m.*Sunday school, Forum, parent group, Bible study, 10:10 a.m.*Holy Eucharist: Rite Two, 11:15 a.m.*, followed by receptionCeltic Service, 5:30 p.m.*Sunday Community Supper, 6:30 p.m.Compline, 8 p.m. MONDAY, OCTOBER 17Morning Prayer and Communion, 8:10 a.m., coffee, fellowship followFruit Ministry, 9 a.m.Chair Yoga, 11 a.m.Food pantry distribution, 1-3 p.m.Evensong, 5:30 p.m.Guided meditation, 6 p.m.Immortal Diamond book group begins, 7 p.m.TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18Morning Prayer and Communion, 8:10 a.m., coffee, fellowship followContemplative Prayer, 8:45 a.m.Guided meditation, noonVestry, 4:30 p.m.Evensong, 5:30 p.m.WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19Morning Prayer and Communion, 8:10 a.m., coffee, fellowship followVery Gentle Yoga, 9:30 a.m.; Beginner Flow Yoga, 9:30 a.m.Chair Yoga, 11 a.m.Evensong, 5:30 p.m. with the Virginia Girls ChoirWonderful Wednesdays supper, 5:45-6:30 p.m.THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20Morning Prayer and Communion, 8:10 a.m., coffee, fellowship followYoga for the Heart, 9 a.m.Bible Study, 10:30 a.m.Evensong, 5:30 p.m.Chi Kung, 6 p.m.Parables from Parenthood, 7:00 p.m.FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21Morning Prayer and Communion, 8:10 a.m., coffee, fellowship followStitchers groups, 9 a.m. Evensong, 5:30 p.m.SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22Chalice bearers training, 10 a.m.Farmers Market, 9 a.m.-noonHoly Eucharist: Rite Two, 5:30 p.m. in Palmer HallSUNDAY, OCTOBER 23–PENTECOST 23Holy Eucharist: Rite One, 8 a.m.Youth trip to Busch GardensHoly Eucharist: Rite Two, in Palmer Hall and main church, 9 a.m.*Sunday school, Forum, parent group, Bible study, 10:10 a.m.*Holy Eucharist: Rite Two, 11:15 a.m.*, followed by receptionCeltic Service, 5:30 p.m.*Sunday Community Supper, 6:30 p.m.Compline, 8 p.m. *denotes child care available up to age 5
NEWS SIGN UP FOR WEEKLY EMAILS AT STSTEPHENSRVA.ORG/EMAIL
In today’s Forum: “How can we know the way?”The third session in Gary Jones’ series “Buried Treasure” is about one of the most challenging aspects of the Christian life: spiritual discernment. Once we have a sense of God, once we’ve come to ourselves and we can see how we tend to go astray from time to time, what should we do? What is our unique mission, our “calling,” our purpose in life? How can we know that it is God’s call we are hearing? How can we know we are doing God’s will? We’ll consider how faithful people think about the presence and activity of God in their lives, and how we seek to be in a living relationship with God, how we co-operate with God and co-author our lives with God. This session is held in the Large Fellowship Hall at 10:10 a.m.; no registration is required.
Two additional Sunday offeringsIn addition to the Sunday Forum, adults have the following options during the Christian education hour, neither requiring registration: in Room 14, “Many Parents, One Vine,” especially for parents; in the Somerset Room (the former vestry room), Bible study led by the Rev. Penny Nash.
An offering to GodEach of us has the opportunity to take our everyday lives and place them before God as an offering–a form of thanksgiving for all we have received from God. There is so much to be done, and none of us can do it alone. Through the church, we do God’s work together. As a pledging member of St. Stephen’s Church, you take part in a remarkable community of faith that provides the “hands and feet” of God in Richmond and beyond. Packets with information and pledge cards have been distributed to all on our parish mailing list. If you are not on the mailing list but want to take part, please do! Many people who are not members of St. Stephen’s (including those who are members of other churches) are eager to support our ministries. You may use our online pledge form, or stop by any of the Welcome Tables to pick up a pledge card. The leadership of our annual giving campaign asks that you make your pledge by October 30.
Opportunities to help in the East EndWould you like to be part of the success story of our East End mission partners? Students are thriving at the Anna Julia Cooper Episcopal School and Peter Paul Development Center. Fairfi eld Court El-ementary School is fully accredited again this year. There are opportunities to serve as a classroom as-sistant, “room parent,” tutor, mentor, or reader with all three partners. Peter Paul also has a new tutor-ing opportunity available; the Monday-Thursday, 6:15-7:00 p.m. time slots are attractive to students and professionals alike. Information: Deb Lawrence, 804.288.2867 or [email protected].
Parables from parenthood THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 7:00 P.M. , PALMER HALL
Prepare to laugh, cry, and be inspired! Valerie Abbott, Courtney Ferrell, Erin Mahone, and Michael Sweeney will each share a 10-minute story from parenthood. Refreshments, including wine and cheese, will be served. All proceeds from the $10 suggested donation will be used to support the Ahmadis—the family of refugees from Afghanistan living here in Richmond whom St. Stephen’s sponsors. Reserva-tions are encouraged at ststephensRVA.org/parents or http://tinyurl.com/parenthoodparables.
Flower Guild offers demonstrationFRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 10:30 A.M.
Local fl oral designer extraordinaire Loretta Miller will provide a demonstration for St. Stephen’s Flower Guild this Friday in the church. A light soup and salad lunch will follow. Anyone interested in getting involved with the Flower Guild is welcome to attend. Please let us know if you are coming by sending an email to ststephensfl [email protected].
Blessing of kneelers next SundayDuring next Sunday’s 11:15 a.m. service, we will bless the most recently-completed batch of needle-point canvasses before they are sent off to be blocked and attached to kneeling cushions for the cathe-dral chairs in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit.
‘Immortal Diamond’ book group begins tomorrow
MONDAYS, 7-8:30 P.M., OCTOBER 17-NOVEMBER 14In the quiet moments of our lives, all of us wonder: if others knew me the way I know myself, would they still love me? What about God? What does God see when God gazes on me? These are ques-tions that noted Franciscan author and spiritual guide Richard Rohr explores in his book, Immortal Diamond. Rohr refl ects on our essen-tial goodness and how our egos interfere with our awareness of God, one another, and our own self-understanding. Join Claudia Merritt and others for this fi ve-week discussion group. Copies of the book are available in the Bookshop @ St. Stephen’s. You can sign up at the table outside Palmer Hall, or at ststephensRVA.org/groups.
Are you interested in being a chalice bearer?SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22, 10 A.M.
Current and prospective chalice bearers are asked to attend the second of two training opportunities this Saturday. If you attended the earlier orientation, this training is Part 2. Even if you missed Part 1, please plan to attend this hands-on session. Questions: the Rev. Penny Nash, 804.288.2867, [email protected].
Needlepoint Guild trip postponedThe planned trip to Washington National Cathedral for October 31 has been postponed until the spring.
‘I was hungry and you gave me something to eat’Bringing a can or box of food to church each Sunday, along with your monetary offering, is a weekly practice we encourage. Your contributions to our food pantry help us respond to the large number of people coming to us for groceries each Monday. Please bring nutritious foods, including proteins such as tuna and peanut butter. A list of current needs is published every week in the eSpirit, our email newsletter.
Bible study for moms and dadsFATHERS: TUESDAYS, 7 A.M.; MOTHERS: WEDNESDAYS, 9:30 A.M.
Two Bible study groups especially for parents meet each week at St. Stephen’s, both in the Library at St. Stephen’s. Fathers meet from 7:00 until 8:00 a.m. for Bible study, prayer, and fellowship. Email Michael Sweeney ([email protected]) to be sure the group is meeting, as it will occasionally break for a holiday. Mothers meet on Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. for Bible study, prayer, and fellowship. Childcare is available. Questions: Sarah Moyar-Thacker ([email protected]). No registration is required.
‘Encountering Difference’ group cancelledThe small group led by Aleta Richards and Bill Sachs studying Bill’s book Encountering Difference, originally scheduled to begin tomorrow, has been cancelled.
CALENDAR MORE AT STSTEPHENSRVA.ORG/CALENDAR
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16–PENTECOST 22Holy Eucharist: Rite One, 8 a.m.Holy Eucharist: Rite Two, with Prayer Shawl Blessings, 9 a.m.*Sunday school, Forum, parent group, Bible study, 10:10 a.m.*Holy Eucharist: Rite Two, 11:15 a.m.*, followed by receptionCeltic Service, 5:30 p.m.*Sunday Community Supper, 6:30 p.m.Compline, 8 p.m. MONDAY, OCTOBER 17Morning Prayer and Communion, 8:10 a.m., coffee, fellowship followFruit Ministry, 9 a.m.Chair Yoga, 11 a.m.Food pantry distribution, 1-3 p.m.Evensong, 5:30 p.m.Guided meditation, 6 p.m.Immortal Diamond book group begins, 7 p.m.TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18Morning Prayer and Communion, 8:10 a.m., coffee, fellowship followContemplative Prayer, 8:45 a.m.Guided meditation, noonVestry, 4:30 p.m.Evensong, 5:30 p.m.WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19Morning Prayer and Communion, 8:10 a.m., coffee, fellowship followVery Gentle Yoga, 9:30 a.m.; Beginner Flow Yoga, 9:30 a.m.Chair Yoga, 11 a.m.Evensong, 5:30 p.m. with the Virginia Girls ChoirWonderful Wednesdays supper, 5:45-6:30 p.m.THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20Morning Prayer and Communion, 8:10 a.m., coffee, fellowship followYoga for the Heart, 9 a.m.Bible Study, 10:30 a.m.Evensong, 5:30 p.m.Chi Kung, 6 p.m.Parables from Parenthood, 7:00 p.m.FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21Morning Prayer and Communion, 8:10 a.m., coffee, fellowship followStitchers groups, 9 a.m. Evensong, 5:30 p.m.SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22Chalice bearers training, 10 a.m.Farmers Market, 9 a.m.-noonHoly Eucharist: Rite Two, 5:30 p.m. in Palmer HallSUNDAY, OCTOBER 23–PENTECOST 23Holy Eucharist: Rite One, 8 a.m.Youth trip to Busch GardensHoly Eucharist: Rite Two, in Palmer Hall and main church, 9 a.m.*Sunday school, Forum, parent group, Bible study, 10:10 a.m.*Holy Eucharist: Rite Two, 11:15 a.m.*, followed by receptionCeltic Service, 5:30 p.m.*Sunday Community Supper, 6:30 p.m.Compline, 8 p.m. *denotes child care available up to age 5
SAINT STEPHEN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
SPIR
ITSt. Stephen’s Episcopal Church6000 Grove AvenueRichmond, Virginia 23226www.ststephensRVA.org
OCTOBER 16, 2016TWENTY-SECOND SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
A weekly meditationDog Love
Earlier this fall, I took a dog-sitting gig for a neighbor whose family was taking a trip. Four dogs–an older beagle, a young lab-mix, and two bird dogs–made up the lovable crew. Admittedly, it was a big commitment, but my only real problem was not knowing which dog to pet fi rst. This was decided for me, however, when I became the sole object of affection for one of the bird dogs, Morris.Morris, I’m sure, was many things: best friend, watcher, bird fi nder extraordinaire; but he was also a jumper. And no matter how hard I tried, I could not get him to stop jumping on me. Throughout the week, Morris tried desperately to get me to give him the most attention. If I petted one of the other dogs, Morris would be there in a heartbeat, either butting his head in, or putting his paws on me. I tried pushing him down, turning away, saying “No,” asking him to sit, and nothing worked. No sooner would his bottom hit the ground, and he’d pop right back up on his hind legs. His tongue made a continual lapping noise as he sought to make contact with my face, and his eyes were always straining to maintain eye contact. It was as if he felt like if he could just make this physical connection, I’d have no choice but to give in.This went on all week, but no matter how weary I got of him constantly jumping on me, I never tired of staring into his sweet eyes while I scratched his ears. It made me think that there was probably nothing I could do to make Morris dislike me, and how I wished that type of abundant, undying love was more present in my own life. I wanted to be more like this dog, sans the jumping. I wanted to love as generously as this dog was loving me. Even if I told Morris that he was being rather annoying, he’d still come back. He’d still gaze at me with eyes that were practically spilling over with love. I wanted to look at the world this way.Morris has been on my mind ever since, especially in light of all the pain in the world. There is nothing on this Earth that could take away God’s love for me. Time and time again, he will come back, and put his hands (or paws) on me to remind me of his presence. If I’m making the wrong decision, he will butt his head in to help me make the right one. All Morris wanted was give and receive love. And all I want when I seek God is love—that perfect, abundant love that fi lls my soul until it overfl ows and touches everything around me.
SARAH-KEEL CREWS
Science and religion: beyond the pseudo-debateSATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 AT 9 A.M.
“We’ve got to get him to come to St. Stephen’s!” were the fi rst words Michael Sweeney and Sarah-Keel Crews exchanged after hearing Prof. Paul Wallace speak in Dallas last spring. Wallace, a pastor and physicist, guides listeners on an awesome journey, from the far reaches of the cosmos to the center of the human heart. Drawing heavily from the Book of Job and Carl Sagan, Wallace questions our assumptions about God and traces Job’s journey from a “God-concept” to the Living God, beyond ideas. The author of Stars Beneath Us holds a PhD in experimental nuclear physics from Duke and an MDiv from Candler School of Theology, and teaches physics and theology. The suggested donation for his talk is $25; register at ststephensRVA.org/wallace. His book is available in our bookshop.
Prayer shawls blessed this morningThis morning during the 9 services, we are asking God to bless the prayer shawls that have been knitted by volunteers from St. Stephen’s. (If you attend the 11:15 service, you will see the shawls still on display.)These shawls will then be ready for distribution to those in our com-munity who are ill, homebound, or for some other reason would ap-preciate this tangible expression of the parish’s love and prayers for them. If you would like to knit a prayer shawl, either at home or as part of a group that gathers on Wednesday evening, please be in touch with the Rev. Penny Nash in the parish offi ce.
INSIDE Today’s Forum // 2
Please return your pledge card by October 30 // 2
This week: parables from parenthood // 2‘Immortal Diamond’ group begins tomorrow // 3Washington National Cathedral trip postponed // 3Rob Bell and John Philip Newell to speak here next month // 4
We’re glad you’re here!Are you at St. Stephen’s for the fi rst time? We’re so happy you’re here. Please stop by the Welcome Table outside the Fellowship Hall for a gift.
Janet S. Allen (jallen), Associate for Development & OperationsStan Barnett (sbarnett), Coordinator of Kitchen MinistrySarah R. Bartenstein (sbartenstein), Director of CommunicationMarion S. Chenault (mchenault), Preschool Director (288-6401)Dawn Childs (dchilds), Assistant for Children’s Music MinistryDonald Clements, SextonSarah-Keel Crews (skcrews), Youth Ministry CoordinatorKerry Court, Interim Director of Virginia Girls Choir and Virginia Boys ChoirSean Dobb, SextonKyle Dosier (farmersmarket), Assistant Market ManagerChris Edwards, Interim Director of St. Stephen’s ChoirMelissa Hipes (mhipes), Finance ManagerChris Holman, SextonThe Rev. Gary D. Jones (gjones), Rector Greta Kidd (gkidd), Wedding CoordinatorDeborah Lawrence (dlawrence), Director of OutreachThe Rev. Gene LeCouteur (glecouteur), Associate RectorBetsy Lee (blee), Offi ce Manager & Pastoral Care AssistantBecky Lehman (blehman), Assistant for Hospitality & CommunicationJan Locher (jlocher), Lead CatechistThe Rev. Weston Mathews (wmathews), Associate RectorChristi McFadden (cmcfadden), Finance AssistantThe Rev. Claudia Merritt (cmerritt), Priest AssociateThe Rev. Penny A. Nash (pnash), Associate RectorBen Nelson (bnelson), Sexton, Pressman, Sunday Community Supper chefSun Ho Nuon, SextonMatthew Oltmann, SextonPaige Reisenfeld (madmin), Music AssistantKate Ruby (farmersmarket), Market ManagerThe Rev. William L. Sachs (bsachs), Priest AssociateAllison Seay (aseay), Associate for Religion & the Arts Steven Simon (ssimon), Facilities ManagerMichael Simpson, Director of Celtic Service MusiciansLamonté Smith, SextonMichael E. Sweeney (msweeney), Director of Family MinistriesGreg Vick, Principal Organist
VestryTerm expires 2017: Kathryn Angus, Beth Brubaker, John Crowder, Register; Debbie Dunlap, Mac Hines, Mike LocherTerm expires 2018: John Barr, JB Burtch, Senior Warden; Mac Purrington, Taylor Raquet, Laurie Rogers, Junior Warden; Beth SmithTerm Expires 2019: John Bates, Judy Buchanan, Marie Carter, Calle Luke, Mac McElroy, David WisePeter Pastore, Treasurer; Bill Armstrong, Assistant Treasurer
Parish StaffSt. Stephen’s parish staff is just a phone call or email away. To reach a staff member, call 804.288.2867. To send an email to a member of the staff, use the initial and name provided in parentheses, with @ststephensRVA.org. (If no email is listed, it means that the staff member does not have a St. Stephen’s email address.)
Writing a refl ection for Advent or The SpiritEach week in this newsletter, we publish a refl ection from a parishioner or staff member who writes about the spiritual in everyday life. Would you like to write a refl ection for The Spirit? Please send an email to Sarah Bartenstein, director of communications, [email protected], to request submission guidelines. In addition, during the Advent season, St. Stephen’s distributes daily meditations by email to any who wish to subscribe. If you would like to write an Advent refl ection, please ask Sarah for those guidelines as well. The deadline for submission of Advent meditations will be November 10.
Coming soon: John Philip Newell and Rob BellMONDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2016, 7 P.M.
Two of the most signifi cant and infl uential voices in Christianity in the 21st century will be at St. Stephen’s Church soon. John Philip Newell, known for his teaching, writing, and preaching about Celtic spirituality, both its ancient roots and its fresh expressions, will return to St. Stephen’s on Sunday, November 13 to refl ect at the Celtic service; he’ll also speak after the service.The next evening, Monday, November 14, he and Rob Bell will speak here. Rob is known for his writing, fi lms, teaching, and preaching that re-envision Christianity for our time. His books include Love Wins, What We Talk About When We Talk About God, and his latest, How to be Here. His Nooma fi lm series has been used here in various groups and classes. Books by both men are available in our bookshop.We expect a large crowd at this event, so we are issuing tickets to ensure that everyone has a seat. You can pick up tickets in the parish offi ce, or reserve them online at ststephensRVA.org/bellnewell. The suggested donation is $25.
‘I was in prison and you visited me’MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 6:30 P.M.
Are you interested in becoming a volunteer chaplain to men and women at the Richmond City Jail, or simply want to learn more about this vital and growing ministry? Come to a training and orientation session in Palmer Hall on October 24. All prospective chaplains are required to attend the training. Additional training sessions will be scheduled as the need arises. For questions or more information, please contact Deb Lawrence, 804.288.2867 or [email protected].
