All Souls’ Episcopal Church
July 2015 Volume 1, Issue 2
The e-Rubric From the Rector by The Rev. Joseph J. Dirbas Summer Time Re-Creation! School is out. Graduations have come and gone. The length of our days has peaked. The choir is on break. The temperatures are heating up. Yes, indeed, summer is upon us. Summer time is a wonderful time for rest and relaxation as we engage in recreational activities: going to the fair (Terry and I just took the kids to the fair last week), walks by the beach, afternoon barbeques, you name it. We relish in this time of recreation. It is restorative as we give thanks for the events of the past year and rest up, anticipating the events of the future. While the livin’ may be easy for some, the summer months are a time of planning and preparation for others. The beginning of this summer has been anything but restful in the church office as we continue to press on in planning for the fall and beyond. Rather than a time of recreation, these summer months are shaping up to be a time of recreation as we evaluate existing ministries and dream about expanding and growing them to enhance the missions and ministries of our parish. The creation story in the book of Genesis tells us that we are made in the image and likeness of God. One of the ways we demonstrate that likeness is in our creative powers. God has endowed us with reason and skill and calls us to use the gifts he has given us to further God’s kingdom. So, we dream, we imagine our place in the world and our work for the kingdom, and then we pool our energies to create programs that will engage in God’s mission. There are many programs at All Souls’ that are being re-created. I am excited to share our plans to expand our music program. Under the leadership of our new Music Director, Dr. Ruben Valenzuela, we will begin a Chorister program in the fall. This will be an afternoon program of music education for youth in our community and the Choristers will sing at worship at least once a month. In addition, the Sunday School leadership and teachers are planning for our next Sunday School year beginning in September. We continue to re-imagine ways
Inside this issue From the Pastoral Associate....... 2 Update on Finances .................... 5 Music at All Souls’ ...................... 6 Compass Committee ................... 11 Baptism, Confirmation, etc ......... 12 Stewardship ................................ 14 Parishioner Profile ...................... 16 Photos......................................... 19
Special points of interest The Colon Club Our Columbarium Upcoming Worship and Community Events Art around All Souls’
From the Rector, Cont. that our Children’s Chapel can be used to form our younger members in the tradition and cadence of our worship. Our Compass Committee continues to work on the long-range plan for All Souls’ as we begin to dream about the Goals and Objec-
tives for our parish over the next five years. Not to mention the continued work of the newly established Newcomers and Communication Committees. It is a busy time at All Souls’. I invite your participation in these efforts. If you feel called to re-create with us, please let me know. I also ask for your prayers as we continue to build for the future.
I leave you with this prayer For the Good Use of Leisure found on Pg. 825 of the BCP: O God, in the course of this busy life, give us times of refreshment and peace; and grant that we may so use our leisure to rebuild our bodies and renew our minds, that our spirits may be opened to the goodness of your creation; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
From the Pastoral Associate By The Very Rev. James E. Carroll “Prayer is the soul's sincere desire, unuttered and expressed” is how one wonderful hymn started, whose composer was Bates Burt, an early 20th Century hymn writer. Regrettably, the hymn was axed from the 1982 Hymnal. There was much truth in all verses. One theologian has written: “Prayer is no isolated devotional exercise but living relationship, it is not something that one does but, primarily something that is.” When we fret as our petitions and intercessions seem to bring no results (peace, healing, etc.) it's important to note that the eternal God, the Ground of All Being, knows our deepest desires as well as our heinous moments! Jesus taught us to “pray in secret,” to OUR Father. So individual, private prayer is done, but the Lord's Prayer is communal. It is the climactic moment ending the Eucharistic Prayer, Then comes the act of Communion. The Prayers of the People, which we do at every celebration of the Eucharist, are communal. They are the focus of Intercession: from “intercede,” which means, roughly, “to stand between.” Moses interceded, and God's people became the Exodus community. Jesus was raised from death and sits at the right hand of the Father where he lives to make intercession for us. The upshot of this biblical symbolism is that we are the successors to the Exodus community, and that we are the people of the Resurrection. We are liberated from the slavery of sin and made ready for the ultimate triumph of the New Creation. So when we pray for others, we join in Christ’s continual intercession as our Great High Priest. And when we pray for ourselves (“Go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret;”) we will be rewarded. What reward? To me, St. Paul wrote it: “Our lives are hid with Christ in God.” 2
A Central Holy Place by Scott Crispell Just before Brenda Outland’s funeral, I walked through our columbarium and was struck by the number of names I knew. Actually, I like to take that walk a couple times a year both to reflect on people and times gone by and to ask them to pray for the current and future All Souls’ family as we engage in worship, mission, and fellowship. Our columbarium is a central holy space. It contains the cremains of our parish family and is situated right in the middle of our campus.
Meet our PB-Elect On June 23, the House of Bishops elected The Rt. Rev. Michael Bruce Curry as the 27th Presiding
Eric Livingstone and I work together to care for this area of our parish. Though, truth be told, Eric does 99.99% of the work! We have researched three other Episcopal parishes in the diocese that also have columbaria and discovered that the pricing we offer is quite reasonable. One full niche will accommodate the cremains of four individuals, one half of a niche would hold two, and one quarter would hold cremains of one person.
Bishop of the Episcopal
Funeral and burial plans are often difficult issues to face and discuss with loved ones. It makes perfect sense, however, to have these details taken care of before a time of stress so that the wishes of all are taken into consideration. It could be very appealing to have one’s cremains right in the middle of our parish life---as parishioners come to worship, have Pentecost picnics, or go to meetings and organ recitals.
Katharine Jefferts Schori on
If you are considering having your earthly remains interred at All Souls’ and would like more information concerning which niches are available, please feel free to ask Eric or Scott and they will be willing to sit with you, show you the map we have that shows available spaces and also discuss how you can secure your place. Is this central holy space at All Souls’ the right place for you?
Church. Bishop Curry won election on the first ballot with 80% of the vote. The house of deputies confirmed the election shortly thereafter. Bishop Curry will take over the role of Presiding Bishop from The Rt. Rev. November 1, 2015. The Presiding Bishop is the Chief Pastor and Primate of the Episcopal Church with executive responsibility for all departments of the church's work and serves a term of 9 years. As “Chief Pastor,” the Presiding Bishop is charged with initiating and developing church policy and strategy, speaking God's Word to the church and the world, and visiting every diocese of the church.
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The Way of Cash by Cynthia Fleri Have you ever wondered On deposit day, one of three what happens to the money volunteers comes to help you put in the offering plate Jayne Ricker prepare the deeach Sunday? Who collects, posit. These dedicated womcounts, protects, records and en are Selma Vassall, Susan deposits it into the church’s McColl and Nancy Changnonbank account? Join me as I Baron who share the official trace its path and identify all title of Weekly Receipts Rethe people who volunteer corder. The Recorder collects their time to safeguard and the money from the lock accurately record your genbox, confirms the cash totals erous donations. and opens the pledge envelopes. She records the First of all, you place your amounts given on a pledge cash, check or pledge envetally sheet that has pledgers’ lope in the offering plate as names and envelope numthe usher presents it to you. bers laid out in numerical The ushers bring the offerorder. Extra giving, such as ings to the altar for a blessflower donations, is also recing. The offerings remain on the altar during the Eucharis- orded by giver’s name on this sheet. Once the Recordtic prayer until the acolyte er completes the pledgers’ moves the plates to the credonations, Jayne adds the dence table behind the pulother types of income we pit where they stay throughreceive (for example: rent out the rest of the service. income or bread sales) to the After the service, two extally sheet. The two of them isting or past Vestry memthen hold their breath to see bers, the Tellers, (I bet you were always wondering what if the sum of all the cash and checks adds up to the total the heck a Teller was) collect recorded on the tally sheet. the plates from behind the pulpit and take them into the Once the deposit balances, the Recorder takes all the Altar Guild room to process. checks and cash to the bank The Tellers count the cash, record the amount, and then for deposit. place the cash, checks and pledge envelopes in a lock box. 4
But wait, we aren’t done yet with our money path. Now it is time for our Pledge Re-
corder, Molly Bodeen, to volunteer her expertise. Molly uses the pledge tally sheet prepared by Selma, Susan or Nancy to record your donation into our computerized Offering System. This program keeps track of the amount you pledged and your contributions towards that pledge, as well as any other donations you may give to the church. Every quarter, Molly prepares a report showing all of your contributions so you can confirm that our records are correct. Here endeth our path. Please join me in thanking all those volunteers: ushers, acolytes, tellers, receipt recorders, and the pledge recorder who play a part in honoring, protecting and tracking your gifts to the church and its missions. Blessings from your Treasurer, Cynthia Fleri
An Update on Our Finances The All Souls’ Finance Committee is pleased to report that our finances to date are in good order and we are operating within expectations. Over the last few months, pledge income has fallen a bit behind forecast income. The tables below provide a quick look at our actual vs. budgeted income and expenses for the First Quarter and April. INCOME
1st Quarter Apr 2015 Total
May 2015
Year to Date Total
Income Budget
$ 121,409
$ 45,278
$ 36,378
$ 203,065
Income Actual
$131,915
$ 41,696
$ 30,830
$ 204,441
Difference
$ 10,506
($ 3,582)
($ 5,548)
$ 1,376
EXPENSE
1st Quarter Apr 2015 Total
May 2015
Year to Date Total
Expense Budget
$ 122,040
$ 44,788
$ 34,292
$ 201,120
Expense Actual
$111,202
$ 48,084
$ 38,732
$ 198,018
($ 10,838)
$ 3,296
$ 4,440
($ 3,102)
Difference
Cumulative to Date Did you know? Over the last 10 years inflation has increased 26%. During those 10 years income, from all sources, at All Souls’ has remained flat.
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Music at All Souls’ - Exciting Future Ahead Info on General Convention
by Dr. Ruben Valenzuela
The 78th General Convention of the Episcopal Church has completed their work. Deputies and Bishops from all over the world assembled to discuss issues regarding church governance, the church’s position on social issues, theology, liturgy, and to elect a new presiding bishop. The current governance of the church mirrors the bicameral representative government of the United States (no doubt because the two entities began within years of each other). There were hundreds of resolutions set before the
“For the Episcopal Church, liturgy and music has often been one of the first things in our ‘shop window’, with the great capacity to draw people in, and to form better disciples of Christ.” Summer months for a church’s music program can be perceived as dormant, particularly due to the absence of the choir on Sunday morning. Yes, the choir is indeed off during the summer, however, beneath this quietness there is a buzz of energy and excitement building around the groundwork that is being laid as Music at All Souls' Church begins to take shape.
several great resources
The importance of a comprehensive church music program, and one that aims for a high standard for excellence, cannot be underestimated. To quote a colleague, “For the Episcopal Church, liturgy and music has often been one of the first things in our ‘shop window,’ with the great capacity to draw people in, and to form better disciples of Christ.”
which help with the details:
So you ask...what's all the excitement about?
two houses. It’s hard to keep track of them all and how they all may affect us in our parish life. There are
The Episcopal News Service episcopaldigitalnet work.com/ens Episcopal Café episcopalcafe.com, And the Gen Con Website generalconvention.org
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CHILDREN’S MUSIC Plans are now being made to kick off a Chorister Program this fall under the auspices of the Royal School of Church Music (America) following the “Voice for Life” curriculum. This program will be open to girls and boys (boys of unchanged voice), ages 818. This choir will be a treble choir formed in the English tradition along the lines of the great cathedral and collegiate
choirs. This program will introduce young singers to great choral literature of the past to the present day, instruction in music theory, basic musicianship, church history and liturgy, and the building of teamwork and leadership skills. For information on the Royal School of Church Music, America, visit rscmamerica.org. More details to follow in the August e-Rubric. PARISH CHOIR The building up of the Parish Choir will continue this fall. The music offerings of the Parish Choir are numerous as they provide the musical support for the Choral Eucharist every Sunday morning, as well as offering Choral Evensong once a month. In doing so, there is a large amount of repertoire that is introduced, learned, and offered. In order to give musical support to the choir to facilitate this week to week process it is vital that the choir include section leaders in each of the voice parts. This support is key to the success and growth of the Parish Choir as it looks to expand its repertoire next season. Keep an eye out this fall as I introduce our section leaders to the parish. We are already fortunate to have soprano AnneMarie Dicce among our ranks. MUSIC LIBRARY The success of any music program is directly tied to the organization and infrastructure behind it. At present, the music library is undergoing a complete make-over and re-cataloging to ensure that all choir members consistently have all of the materials needed to keep the week to week music in order. In addition to the overhaul of the music library, a new library system and music librarian will be appointed to keep the system running smoothly. ..and there’s lots more! Stay tuned for the August e-Rubric.
Outreach at All Souls’: RefugeeNet RefugeeNet is an outreach program of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego supported by All Souls’. RefugeeNet provides assistance to refugees from Sudan, Iraq, Myanmar and other countries by offering help in applying for government funding, acquiring household goods and furniture, filling in school enrollment forms, mastering English language skills, twice weekly tutoring sessions for school age children, obtaining a driver’s license, assisting with translation at doctors’ appointments. There are many ways to get involved to support this wonderful program. For several years now, All Souls’, along with many other churches in the diocese, have offered support to the RefugeeNet’s Back2School Bash, providing school backpacks, school supplies, shoes, and clothing to refugee families. 7
A Request for Help: The Colon Club by Tom Marsilje Earlier this month I felt like the most blessed guy in the world. As one of the (12) National Spokespeople & patient advocates for young age colorectal cancer (CRC) in 2016, we were brought together in Tennessee a few weeks ago. The Colondar 2.0 annual magazine’s CRC patient retreat, interview and photoshoot was quite simply one of the absolutely most amazing experiences I have ever had. It was truly a life-changing event. Inspiring, invigorating, emotional, empowering… I was so blessed to be able to participate in it… 12 young people, all stricken with CRC early in our lives before the age that screening normally begins, met each other for the first time in the Nashville airport. What unfolded then was truly magical. The week was filled to the brim with activities, including plenty of time to get to know each other 1-on-1. The time spent talking individually, in groups and during planned activities was inspiring, invigorating, emotional, empowering, and even ironically some of the most laugh-out-loud funniest moments I have ever experienced. Since we all shared the common thread of young CRC, we could let our emotional guard down, allowing us to bond as soon as we met. Most importantly, I simply have never met such a concentrated group of truly amazing people in my entire life. I don’t say that lightly. Take a close look at those faces. They are the faces of early onset CRC. The people in this photo have endured incredible amounts of surgical, radiological and/or chemotherapy treatments and they are all SURVIVORS. I have quite simply never met so many people in one place who have not only endured incredible levels of hardship but have THRIVED – filled with hope, humor, heart, zest for life and strength beyond anything I can convey in words. I wish I could tell you each story behind each & every smiling vibrant face – you would be breathless upon hearing them – you’ll have a chance to read all about them when the 2016 Colondar 2.0 is published next March!
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The Colon Club , Cont. I walked into the Nashville airport nervous and unsure what to expect. When we left the Nashville airport 4 short days later – it was with very long and tear-filled hugs goodbye of no longer strangers but now close friends being physically forced back apart. Tears to be honest that lasted for days afterward – tears of missing my new family but also of gratitude & joy. Since my return, I am still filled with energy & joy – irreversibly reinvigorated by the incredible experience which I believe was guided by the Holy Spirit! Finally, I want to ask for your help. Why am I asking for your financial help? To support the Colon Club in their many important activities, including: 1.) Spreading awareness that yes, CRC happens to young people under 50 2.) Providing resources promoting screening/early diagnosis – earlier diagnoses = cures 3.) Providing the patient online forum “Colon Talk” where patients
(including myself!) can gather to give each other essential help, support and advice. 4.) Publishing the annual Colondar 2.0 magazine. Why is the annual Colondar 2.0 magazine important? 1.) By showing the faces of young CRC – which is essential because in most areas, a young CRC patient has probably never seen or met another fellow young CRC patient so he/she often feels alone and lost… At least until seeing another face from their own generation in the Colondar 2.0! 2.) By giving inspiring stories to read of fellow patients not only surviving but THRIVING for emotional support and HOPE 3.) By providing many articles of important guidance for young CRC patients and those at risk – guidance they may have had trouble finding elsewhere.
I ask you to please donate to this important cause. The Colon Club has incredibly changed my life for the better and I know it has & will for others as well! Your donation is tax-deductible and it will directly support all of the activities I have mentioned above (and more!). Once again, I ask you to please support this incredible organization! You can give a donation in my honor either by giving me a check made out to the “Colon Club” or via this website: http://www.youcaring.com/ the-colon-club-376111 On behalf of myself, my 11 new sisters and brothers in the 2016 Colondar 2.0 and on behalf of the millions of living Americans either diagnosed with CRC or who have CRC which remains unfortunately undiagnosed for now, thank you!
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A Balancing Act, Indeed! by Jayne Ricker As we all know, All Souls’ is glad to extend the use of our facilities to outside organizations for meetings and social gatherings. With our stunningly beautiful church and great facilities, All Souls’ can easily become an iconic cultural landmark in Point Loma. As the Facility Manager of All Souls’, however, a lesson is being learned, which I have penned a ‘balancing act’ and here’s why. A manager’s mind is often times consumed with facility use policies, certificates of insurance, ensuring that outside groups are following guidelines, generating income from under-used space, establishing a cost structure for different parts of the property, and attempting to find a wide range of community associations, businesses, musical choirs who would be interested in facility use. However, I am realizing that no amount of technical administrative skills can make up for lack of nobility of personal character in developing relationships with those who use the facilities; thus, my balancing act. Intertwined with all the facility use policies and all that go along with that notion, is stewardship, providing hospitality, and evangelistic opportunities…all of which result in relationships. Ahhh…those relationships. Strong relationships with the community can bring a wealth of expertise, skills, resources, ideas, and goodwill to All Souls’. And, relationships and friendships are paramount to obtain a solid understanding of the organizations and individuals in them. No doubt Jesus had this in mind when he spoke of the church as a “city set on a hill” (Matthew 5:14). He said that people would know who we are by our love for one another. “If you love each other, everyone will know that you are my disciples” (John 13:35). Yes, organization and policies must be complied with but dare I say that, perhaps, policies are actually subservient to community and relationships? Ultimately, the message of God, God’s love and God’s forgiveness should be conveyed to those who utilize our facilities. You see, there is also personal side to being a Facility Manager; indeed, my personal balancing act. I am experiencing first hand these developing relationships that Jesus talks about with many of the folks in the organizations that are using our facilities. Lunch invitations have taken place, recent recognition and thanks was surprisingly found in choir leaflets with choral groups who have recently performed at All Souls’ and deep friendships are forming with teachers and directors in those who use our facilities for their children’s program. Hopefully, a profile is developing within the community that All Souls’ is a community-oriented church.
This November we will be hosting the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego’s convention. The Bach Collegium San Diego along with the Peninsula Singers have asked for All Souls’ to be its ‘home base’ and we already are booking up our facilities for 2016! Yes, policies must be enforced and reminded of but it seems as though there will be more opportunities to build relationships as time moves on. Hopefully, at the end of the day, instead of hearing someone say, “All Souls’ Church? Who are they?” our positive reputation may elicit a different response: “Oh, All Souls’ Church! I’ve heard good things about them!” 10
Compass Committee Update
by Eric Spore
When I first received the call from Ward Fleri asking me to join the Compass Committee I had no idea what to expect. I was told I would be helping plan the future for All Souls’. Little did I know that I would be part of large group with extraordinary people doing incredible work. We first met back on March 14th, and with the help of our facilitators Allan and Suzanne we were able to establish a few goals. One of our objectives is to come up with All Souls’ core values, the value statements, and our vision and mission statements. Another objective is to identify All Souls’ strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT). After several all day workshops, and many more sub-group meetings, I believe we're well on our way to achieving these goals. I realize we have more goals to tackle and a lot more work to accomplish, but I truly find our effort to be invigorating, challenging and extremely rewarding.
Values, Vision, and Mission Statements The Compass Committee presented their work on the Values, Vision, and Mission of All Souls’ to the vestry at our June Meeting. The Vestry has accepted and Endorsed these statements. Below you will find the Vi-
Know, too, that the work being done should not be limited to those of us on the committee. It is imperative that every parishioner of All Souls’ participate in this project. Please, when you have the chance to complete a survey or attend a dinner or forum update, use this opportunity to voice your opinion. Your input is valuable and necessary to the process. All Souls' cannot continue to grow and prosper without everyone's generous stewardship in this regard. I'm sure you'll feel as much satisfaction as I have throughout the entire experience.
sion and Mission Statements. Value Statements follow and continue on Page 13.
VISION STATEMENT: To be a vibrant and joy-filled congregation that serves as the community hub for Christ’s transformative love.
MISSION STATEMENT: We invite all to grow in faith with us as we embody and courageously share God’s love in the world.
VALUE STATEMENTS: CHRIST CENTERED We are guided by the Holy Spirit and the example of
“Special Thanks to all those who have completed their SWOT Survey. We’re looking forward to analyzing the results once the survey is closed.”
Jesus Christ in our prayer, worship, discipleship, and service to others, as we share the Good News. (Continued on Page 13.)
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Baptism, Confirmation, and the Laying on of Hands On Sunday, November 1, All Souls’ will welcome Bishop James Mathes as we celebrate All Saints’ Day. The bishop’s visitation is always an important event in the life of the parish, as his presence reminds us of our connection to congregations throughout the Diocese of San Diego and the wider Church. By virtue of apostolic succession (the laying on of hands by other bishops, tracing back to the apostles), the bishop’s ministry among us also recalls our connection to Christians across generations. What good fortune to have Bishop Mathes with us on the feast of All Saints, when we celebrate the joy of the faithful who committed their lives to Christ! On this occasion, each of us has an opportunity to make a commitment to Christ in our own way. At all services, we as a congregation will renew our baptismal covenant, proclaiming once again our faith in God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and promising to lead a Christian life, with God’s help. Many find that this corporate remembrance reinvigorates their commitment to our common belief and mission. But for others, the bishop’s visit is the occasion of a more personal public commitment to Christ. Those who were baptized as infants or small children may desire to make a mature affirmation of faith, claiming responsibility for the promises that were made on their behalf when they were young. In the sacrament of confirmation, the bishop lays hands on these individuals, and prays for the Holy Spirit to strengthen them as they continue in their Christian life and witness. The laying on of hands is the outward and visible sign of the inward and spiritual grace of the presence of the Holy Spirit.
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Sometimes people come to the Episcopal Church from another denomination in which they have already been confirmed or made a similar mature affirmation of faith. In this case, the bishop receives them into the membership of the church and prays for God’s blessing upon them. Although not necessary to participate fully in the life of the congregation, the rite of reception is a powerful way for newcomers to formalize their relationship with the Episcopal Church. Still others may have been confirmed or received in the Episcopal Church in the past, but have experienced a significant change in their spiritual life. They might have weathered a crisis of faith, returned to active worship after a period away, or sensed a call to a new type of ministry. For these and a number of other reasons, a person might wish to make a public reaffirmation of faith at the bishop’s visitation, after which the bishop will pray for the Holy Spirit to continue to guide them in this new spiritual path. If you are curious about confirmation, reception, or reaffirmation of faith, we encourage you to attend the Sunday Forums in the fall. During these sessions, long-time Episcopalians and newcomers alike will have an opportunity to learn about the history and tradition of the Episcopal Church, and how these rites of commitment might enhance their own spiritual lives. On All Saints’ Day, Bishop Mathes will baptize an adult member of our congregation. And since she’s an adult making a mature affirmation of her faith, with the laying on of the bishop’s hands, she won’t need to be confirmed next year! If you’d like to join her in a public affirmation of faith of any kind, contact Father Joe.
Where Have All The Flowers Gone? (With apologies to Peter, Paul and Mary) by Rosemary Barnes
Values, Vision, and Mission (cont .)
I love flowers and I am sure most of you reading this also love colorful, beautiful flowers decorating the church and other locations around the parish. Flowers enhance the beauty of our worship space and are a testament to God’s gift of beauty to us.
LOVE
Have you noticed the flower chart on the wall in the narthex? This is where parishioners of All Souls’ can “reserve” Sundays to give flowers in memory of someone dear, in thanksgiving for an anniversary or birth or baptism, in gratitude, in remembrance for world events, or any other occasion. Just the other day, I looked at the chart and noted of the 52 Sundays on the chart, we only had 10 Sundays reserved. After checking with Jayne, I discovered there are gifts given to support the flowers (which, by the way, are so beautifully arranged by the talented altar guild members) where the donor does not actually write their name on the flower chart.
every person, valuing our
It’s easy to celebrate or remember a person or event. Just follow the steps: Think about donating flowers on one Sunday. Place your donation in the white Flower Donation Envelopes available at the flower chart stand in the narthex. Write your name and the purpose of the donation on the envelope. Place the envelope in the collection plate or bring it to the church office. Enjoy the beauty. Thank you.
We are in loving relationship with God, each other, and our community, embracing all individuals and families wherever they are in their journeys. RESPECT We honor the dignity of differences, as we grow in Christ and learn from each other. STEWARDSHIP We recognize that all we have comes from God, and with gratitude we generously share these abundant gifts, caring for all of God’s creation. CREATIVITY We celebrate God’s gifts of liturgy, music, and art as a window to experiencing the Divine. The Compass Committee thanks you for your participation, prayers, and support as they continue discerning the future of All Souls’.
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Events in our Community
Creativity Corner: The Christ Banner
Tartuffe
As you enter the narthex of the church and turn to your left, you will reach the oratory. In the oratory, you will find a batik banner created and given as gift by The Rev. Ralph Carskadden, a former rector of All Souls’. The fabric is silk, the gold overlay is kid leather. The theme is Christ the Teacher. The design of the banner is based on a Russian Orthodox icon. Ralph brought to this parish, among many other things, an awareness of Christianity’s rich heritage from the Eastern Church. (Source: Soli deo Gloria)
Raymond and Patricia Lynch are hard at work with the Coronado Playhouse’s production of Moliere’s Tartuffe. The show, which is the 19th annual free classic series, will run from July 24th to August 16th. Show times are 8:00pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and 2:00pm on Sundays. Let’s head to the theater and show our support to our fellow parishioners!
Concerts in the Park Point Loma Concerts in the Park for 2015 begin on Friday, July 10! Bands include: Detroit Underground, Deserado, Pop Vinyl, Wild Nights, and Jumping Jack Flash. Concerts start at around 5:30. Let’s have an All Souls’ presence at the Park! Bodhie Tree Concert We’re looking forward to the next Bodhie Tree Concert on July 12, 2015!. Stay tuned for details.
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Stewardship: For Whom the Cell Towers Toll All Souls’ leaders in the late 1990s had a vision that leasing space on our property for cell towers might be good stewardship of our campus and buildings. They determined that any cell tower income would not go into the operating budget but would be used to launch new ministries and to support capital needs like building renovations. Cell tower contracts were signed and in the early 2000s hidden cell towers soon were installed in various places around the campus. Unfortunately at about that same time church attendance at All Souls’ was declining as a number of parishioners of that “Great Generation” were dying. Those parishioner “giants” on whose shoulders we stand today were model generous stewards who gave their time, talent, and treasure for All Souls’ mission and ministries. The loss of so many committed parishioners is still felt in 2015. The practical effect: In eight years total pledging dropped from a high of $440,000 in 2005 to a low two years ago of $293,840, mainly due to age-related losses of parishioners. Altogether this was a 32% reduction in pledges.
How did All Souls’ weather this $146,160 decline in pledge income? The Vestry had to make some difficult decisions. For the first time in decades All Souls’ does not have an assistant or associate rector. But thank goodness for those cell tower contracts which have made all the difference for All Souls’. As the annual pledges fell, more and more of the cell tower revenue was allocated to fill the growing gap in pledges. Today all of the annual cell tower funds--almost $100,000 a year--go to balance the operating budget. The cell revenue--about 17% of our budget--is more than the salary and benefits for the rector. Take away the cell tower revenue and All Souls’ couldn’t afford to continue its ministries. Although losing the tower revenue is not likely in the near future, All Souls’ could lose this income some day. The cell phone companies might decide to remove their towers. Or a change in technology could make the cell towers of today outmoded. The good news is that after eight years of declining pledges, more parishioners are stepping up. Almost 75% of households pledge. Total pledging for the past two years is going up. More people are actively engaged, volunteering in ministries like the Ocean Beach Dinners and Blessings in a Bag. Fr. Joe Dirbas’ arrival has brought new growth, including an expanded Sunday School program, a full-time music director, a choir that is growing, two new monthly worship services, Compline and Evensong, and the Showers of Blessings ministry. Now, with pledges increasing, we are at a point where the cell tower revenue might soon be allocated for its intended uses. The Stewardship Commission estimates that if every household increased its pledge by $5, $10, or $15 a week our reliance on cell tower revenue would decrease. We also know that we can address this issue through evangelism, as we share our faith with friends and neighbors. In doing so, we invite more into ministry, more into God’s mission, and likely increase our pledge totals. Parishioners, what are your thoughts on how to grow our membership? Please share them with Fr. Joe, the Wardens or a member of the Vestry. Don’t forget, pledging is only one part of stewardship. A popular definition of stewardship is: “all that I do, with all that I have, after I say, ‘I believe.’” Stewardship includes being involved in the life of the parish. Stay involved. There’s much to do.
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Parishioner Profile by Rosemary Barnes We see people in church, but do we really know them and their story? This is a first in a series of interviews of members of All Souls’…some long time, some here a shorter time, and some in-between. Here are a few clues to this month’s All Souls’ personality: Born in Goshen, Alabama; loves blue and white; was the 3rd of 6 children; is gifted with plants and flowers; has a French garden in progress in her back yard; has been a member of All Souls’ since 1956; is a member of the DAR; loved riding horses as a girl, and still speaks (firmly at times) with a soft Southern accent. Who do you think this person is? It’s Annie Lou Crane! Annie Lou’s family was Baptist, in Goshen and Union Springs, Alabama. She says there were only two churches there – Baptist and Methodist. But at a young age she became fascinated with Catholicism, studied it, and was baptized at St. Dominic’s in Panama City, FL. Her parents and her grandmother played very positive roles in her life. She describes her grandmother as the “go to” person for intellectual information. As a young girl she loved going to church with her grandmother and then spending the afternoon with her aunts and uncles, listening to them talk. When she was a high school senior, her parents moved to Lynn Haven, Florida. She stayed with her high school class of 30 people and then went to live with her parents following graduation. She was accepted in nursing school, but the class was full. While she waited, the local school principal recognized her potential and offered her a teaching position (“I’ll teach anything but math”) where she was able to gather cred16
its for a certificate. World War II was brewing. After a year, she began working in Panama City, FL at a shipyard learning an early form of machinery that evolved into the computers we know today. One evening in January, while visiting her cousin, Annie Lou was invited to supper and cards. Her hostess had another guest who then invited her son. Annie Lou met Bill. It was a whirlwind courtship. Bill proposed marriage 3 months later. They were married in the chapel of Christ Church in Pensacola, FL. On August 21, 1948 as Bill was an Episcopalian. Bill was in the Navy and loved what he did for the Navy. Their first child was born in 1949, closely followed by orders for Bill to go to Guam. Annie Lou lived with her mother-in-law for 10 months until housing was ready in Guam. It was hot and humid there with very little fresh food available. While living with her mother-in-law she learned to cook. A skill that she greatly appreciates today. Son Will was born on Guam in 1953, and daughter Katheryn in Texas in 1954. Annie Lou has always attended church. She appreciated the foundation of the Baptist church but kept searching. When they moved to San Diego in 1955 she began attending first Trinity Parish in Ocean Beach but later the family attended All Souls’ with their children.
In April 1986 she was confirmed an Episcopalian at All Souls’ by Bishop Morton sponsored by the Rev. Steve Strane. She has been active with Home Tour, baking pies, and tending to the gardens around All Souls’. She says All Souls’ is her church home. Annie Lou has four grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren (both girls). And there is one more (a boy) due this fall. Her favorite hymn is “Jesus Lover of My Soul” – tune by Simeon B. Marsh; loves “Ave Maria” by Shubert, and “Meditation” by Jules Massenet, from the opera Thais. When asked what words of wisdom she would leave for those at All Souls’ fifty years from now, Annie Lou said, “Be friendly, welcoming, and incorporate people in the life of the church.” She also said, “We will never always agree, but we can come to an understanding.” In October she will celebrate her 91st birthday. She said, “I always wanted to be on the Altar Guild.” Her Big Life Lesson: “I learn every day. I love listening to people and learning about their lives. I love music and nature.” She has a number of mementos of All Souls’, the church in Florida and other places. Ask her about them.
Upcoming Worship at All Souls’ COMPLINE: Sunday, 12 July at 7:30pm Join us for a contemplative candlelight compline service. This service provides a quiet repose at the end of the day and allows us to prepare for the week to come with quiet meditation.
FEAST OF THE TRANSFIGURATION: Thursday, August 6 at 7:00pm It’s not too soon to mark your calendar for the Feast of the Transfiguration on August 6th. We’ll observe this feast day with a Solemn Mass including the use of incense followed by a festive reception in the parish hall.
EVENSONG: Sunday, 26 July at 5pm Join us for our monthly sung Divine Office (Evening Prayer), culminating with the singing of the appointed Psalm and Canticles (Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis). A festive sherry reception to follow. 17
Adult Formation Series on Ethics The Adult Formation Committee has assembled some wonderful guest speakers to present a series on
Looking Ahead at All Souls’ Point Loma Arts Academy, July 6-24, 2015 The Point Loma Arts Academy is back at All Souls’. This year’s program will offer morning visual arts sessions and afternoon drama programs. For more information visit www.plartsacademy.com.
Christian Ethics and moral issues at our Sunday Morn-
Parish Work Day: July 11, 9:00am—2:00pm
ing Forums. Join us as we
Mark your calendars for a time of fellowship and service with your All Souls’ family. On July 11 we will gather as a community to beautify our campus. The Property Committee has put together a list of work projects we can take on together. Some of these projects will require some physical exertion—like weeding or cleaning the front doors of the church. Others will be less intense and easier for both the young and old alike. Sign up today… in the church or call the office! A light breakfast and a delicious lunch will be provided!
welcome Dr. Mark Mann of Point Loma Nazarene University, Dr. David Moseley of USD and The Bishop’s School, and Mr. Philip Petri of St. Paul’s Cathedral. The Forums schedule is as follows:
Episcopalians for Pride, July 18, 10:00am
July 12 - Introduction to
This year the Episcopal contingent will be at the front of the PRIDE parade along with the mayor of San Diego. Together we can show God’s love to more than 300,000 onlookers, many of whom are millennials and young families. Join the fun, Saturday, July 18 at 10 am at St. Paul’s Cathedral. The parade ends at Balboa Park where St. Paul’s throws a BBQ for everyone!
Ethical Systems - Dr. Mark Mann, PLNU July 19 - The Ethics of Social Justice - Dr. David Moseley, USD July 26 - The Ethics of War, Dr. Mark Mann, PLNU August 2 - Environmental Ethics: Following Jesus into a Sustainable Future - Mr. Phil Petrie, St. Paul's Cathedral August 9 and 16—TBA. Come ready to learn and bring your questions.
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Take Me Out to the Ball Game: July 17, 2015 Episcopal Night at the Padres is July 17, 2015. Scott Crispell and Eric Spore sold 26 tickets to All Souls’ parishioners. Let’s wear our All Souls’ gear! If you don’t have an All Souls’ shirt, see Dave Latham, I’m sure our youth group would love to sell you one!
New e-Rubric Article Coming! Do you have a burning liturgical or church question that you’ve been wondering about, but just can’t quite bring yourself to ask it? Well, now’s your chance. You can e-mail your questions to DearAbbey@allsoulspointloma.org Certain questions will be selected for publication.
Pictures from Pentecost! Courtesy of Gary Payne Photography
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All Souls’ Episcopal Church All Souls’ is a vibrant Episcopal congregation in the heart of Point Loma. All ages are welcome; infants and children enliven this service. To learn more about membership, please contact the church office or visit us on-line. Visit our website at www.allsoulspointloma.org Listen to our sermons on-line at allsouls.sermon.net
Reach us by e-mail at office@allsoulspointloma.org Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/allsoulspointloma Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/allsoulspointloma
All Souls’ Episcopal Church
Sunday Services
1475 Catalina Blvd. San Diego, CA 92107 619-223-6394
Holy Eucharist: 8am and 10.15am Nursery Care from 8.30am – 12.30pm (infants - 3 years old) Sunday School (all ages): 9:10am Children’s Chapel: 10.15am except 4th Sunday of each month Compline Service – 2nd Sunday @ 7.30pm Family Eucharist – 4th Sunday @ 10.15am Choral Evensong – 4th Sunday @ 5pm
In the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego The Rt. Rev. James R. Mathes, Bishop
Staff The Rev. Joseph J. Dirbas, Rector The Very Rev. James E. Carroll, Associate Ruben Valenzuela, Director of the Music Jayne Ricker, Facilities and Office Manager Betty Nork, Nursery Assistant
Weekday Services: Tuesday Morning Prayer: 7am Thursday Holy Eucharist: 9.30am Saturday Celtic Eucharist: 5pm