All Souls’ Episcopal Church
The e-Rubric
July 2016 Volume 2, Issue 7
From the Rector: On Being Vulnerable by The Rev. Joseph J. Dirbas “Most people believe vulnerability is weakness. But really, vulnerability is courage. We must ask ourselves… are we willing to show up and be seen?” Brene Brown Last weekend I was amazed as my son stood on the stage at our talent show and sang the Lord’s Prayer in front of 60 people. He took a risk. He made himself vulnerable. I couldn’t have been prouder. A couple of weeks ago I made myself pretty vulnerable to all of you. I stood in the pulpit and shared with you many of the things that were on my mind. I could no longer sit back and watch the violence in our culture, country, and world continue to escalate without speaking out against it. I was nervous. I wasn’t sure how what I was saying was going to be received. I wasn’t sure if people would even hear me. I wasn’t sure what they might think of me afterward. I wasn’t sure if people would be upset for what I said or disappointed that I didn’t say enough. I wasn’t sure if I would get push back as to preaching politics from the pulpit. But I had to say something. The Spirit was urging me forward. I put my trust in God and took the leap. It was a risk I was willing to take because I felt I could take the risk. Trust allowed me to take that risk. As your rector, I am grateful that we continue to grow in relationship and that we are building trust with one another. A trust so deep that I can speak my mind knowing full well that not everyone shares the same opinions. I trust and love you enough that I am able to open myself up to you, to be willing to talk about topics that might be uncomfortable. For me, this is incredibly important. I believe God is in the midst of these conversations and the exchange of
Inside this issue From the Deacon’s Desk ................. 3 Welcome to the Garden Party ........ 5 Sea Sunday...................................... 8 A Look at our Finances .................... 11 Music at All Souls’ .......................... 12 Conversations with our Children..... 15 Youth Mission Trip .......................... 16
Special points of interest Forums Committee Updates Musings by Marlene Work Party Talent Show and Chili Cook-off
From the Rector, Cont. ideas. Whether we are in agreement or disagreement, being vulnerable allows us each to learn more about each other and grow deeper in relationship. Together, we challenge our thinking, we challenge the status quo, as we seek the truth and grow together as disciples of Jesus Christ. My hope and desire is that our community exhibits that level of trust. A trust that allows us all to be vulnerable. A trust that encourages us to be in those difficult conversations with each other with love and affection. As I trust you, I want you to be able to trust me. Let’s be honest, real, and available to each other, trusting one another because we trust in our Lord and savior. That’s really what this comes down to. We are willing be vulnerable with each other because we trust in God’s undying love for us and for all creation. A love so deep, so profound, that Jesus was vulnerable even to death on the cross. Allowing ourselves to be vulnerable with each other is a gift. It is welcoming. It is an
attitude that invites others into our community. It fosters ministry. It builds trust. It allows for the sharing of our stories and at the same time creates a safe space for others to share theirs. It elicits meaningful conversation where we can feel safe to share things that matter deeply to us. And it’s not always comfortable. We don’t know what might happen. We don’t know how things might change. We might find that things we hold very deeply are being challenged. We may discover that not everyone agrees with us. And that’s OK. You see, vulnerability means being willing to stretch and grow for the sake of God’s kingdom. It means offering ourselves, as Christ offered himself, in order to find truth. Being vulnerable means putting our trust in God and knowing that as we seek to do God’s will we are made stronger together, trusting together, growing together, learning together. It’s scary. But let’s trust each other. Let’s grow into the community Jesus dreams for us to be.
Healthy communication helps build a healthy community and can produce powerful ministry. Unhealthy communication can unravel us and keep us from being effective in our ministry to share Christ’s healing love with the world. As members of a parish community, we make a commitment to do our best to communicate in healthy, respectful ways and in so doing, strengthen us to do God’s work in the world. There are a few key rules which, when followed, maintain healthy communication. I offer them here in the hopes that as we all do our best to live into them, God will bless our efforts.
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If you have a problem or concern with someone, go to them directly (privately) If someone comes to you with a problem about someone else, send them to the other person. If they need some support, offer to go with them Be careful how you interpret others. It is easy to misinterpret intentions. Assume the best of others and ask if you have questions about their intentions. If it’s confidential, don’t tell. When in doubt, just say it. Our relationships with one another are the most important things so if you have a concern, speak up. And, most importantly, pray for one another. Lifting one another to God in prayer is how we learn to see each other with God’s eyes.
From the Deacon’s Desk by The Rev. Pamela Rieger This last week, I was privileged to attend the Association of Episcopal Deacons’ Triennial Conference in Minneapolis. Since I haven’t been ordained all that long, this was my first opportunity to be with deacons from all across the country and also with deacons from Canada; the first time to be among “my tribe”. There were about 200 deacons at this assembly; our new archdeacon, Bob Nelson and I were the only deacons from the San Diego diocese. The theme of the Triennial was “Engaging God’s Mission: DIAKONIA.” God’s Mission was defined as the “five marks of mission” found in our Baptismal Covenant: Worship & Prayer: Teaching, baptizing and nurturing new believers. Repentance & Forgiveness: Resisting evil and safeguarding the integrity of creation. Evangelism: Proclaiming the Good News of God in Christ. Service: Responding to human need by loving service. Justice & Peace: Seeking to transform unjust structures of society and challenging violence. One of the workshops I attended was led by the Right Rev. Ian Douglas, Bishop of Connecticut. His workshop was about the role and function of the deacon in helping the Body of Christ to discover and live the mission of God in the neighborhood. He urged us to be able to tell people why we feel called to carry out God’s Mission in the world—and he gave us “a 100-word version” of what God’s Mission is, without a lot of “church jargon”—and why we are in a covenant with God through our Baptism as Christians that is understandable, quick and positive. So, I thought I’d share Bishop Douglas’ 100-word version with you all: God loved into creation- the universe, earth, humanity. It was diverse, and it was good. Human sin entered and distorted our relationship with God, one another, and creation. God yearns to make all whole again. This is God’s mission. God chose and liberated a people, sent the law and the prophets. God came in Jesus, fully human and fully divine. In Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection we are restored to unity with God and each other. God sent the Holy Spirit, empowering the Body of Christ. God co-missions us in baptism to participate in God’s mission of restoration and reconciliation. At All Souls’ we choose different ways to carry out God’s mission in the world; some choose evangelism, some choose outreach and service, some pastoral care, some choose education, some music. There is tremendous energy, love and commitment to live out our faith in the world at this parish. But as you and I start each day we should always remember why we are doing this and remember Who sends us. By telling God’s story, we will remember our own. Blessings, Deacon Pam 3
e-Vangelism! Let’s spread the good news of the missions and ministries of All Souls’ via social media!
All Souls’ Rummage Sale “One person’s trash is another’s treasure.” All Souls’ will be hosting a giant rummage sale on Saturday August 6, 2016. The proceeds will help fund the Youth Group’s mission trip to Belize in the summer of 2017.
Take a moment to ‘LIKE’ our Facebook presence in Cyberspace. All Souls’ Episcopal Church, Point Loma and Music at All Souls’ Church. Once there, you’ll enjoy a steady stream of exciting news and announcements, including the weekly music list, posted on the music ministry’s facebook page and links to sermons and Sunday forums. See you there!
Details will follow in the coming weeks as to where and when to drop off your “treasures.” For now, please comb through your belongings. Anything you are willing to part with would be greatly appreciated. NO item is too large or too small. Stay tuned for updates…we will likely accept donations beginning in mid-July. If you have any questions, please contact Terry Dirbas or Betsy Tecca or email youth@allsoulspointloma.org.
Bible Studies at All Souls’ Nextdoor is a great way to communicate to your neighbors and keep up to date on local happenings. All Souls’ posts events and services on Nextdoor. Share those posts with your neighbors! Invite your friends to join us!
Hey! The bishop follows us on twitter, you can, too, @AllSoulsPtLoma… and then retweet to your friends!
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Tuesday Evenings: We’re wrapping up our 12 part series on the Acts of the Apostles and will be taking a few weeks off for the summer. We’ll be starting up again soon, jumping into a study of the Book of Daniel. We just might even get into the apocryphal books which stand as additions to the book of Daniel: Prayer of Azariah, Susanna, and Bel and the Dragon. Stay tuned for the announcement of when we’ll start up and join us! We meet in the Sherman Room, Tuesday nights, at 7:00pm. Thursday Mornings: Our Thursday Morning group will continue to gather over the summer at 10:15 in the Sherman Room and will meet for 45 minutes. We’re wrapping up our time with John and will be looking into the epistles and pastoral letters of the Paul and other New Testament writers. All are welcome: read, study, share, learn!
Welcome to the Garden Party!
By Jayne Ricker What a tremendous response to the call of an All Souls’ Garden Committee! We welcomed long-time members and new parishioners of All Souls’ to this inspiring new offering! It all happened on June 18, our semi-annual parish work day. We wanted to begin small so we had two home-made raised garden beds ready for planting vegetables and then, with the vision and passion of Bill and Linda Cobb, a third garden bed was created and we are coming back on July 4 to complete a fourth garden bed…and we will not stop there. We have more plans for fruit trees, a children’s garden, a community garden and so much more!
The passion and vision of each of our Garden Party members is palpable. The entire committee understands that the garden is a doorway to experience God’s creation in a fresh way. Not only does it produce food for people, but the ebb and flow of seasons, the battle against pests and disease, the dependence on weather and the interaction between plants, insects and birds gives a picture of God’s continuous commitment to a vibrant life! Each member has committed their time and talent, passion, interest and ability in a joyful way, because they understand that no matter how small or seemingly insignificant a task may seem, their contribution can make a major impact on the lives of each of the members and, of course, the garden itself. We know, that as a newly formed committee and now within our core support group, is to make all members feel welcomed. It was inspiring to see our long-time members wrap their hearts around new members that they actually just met that morning; each encouraging each other to use their strengths within the scope of the garden project and finding roles for as many people as possible. We established a few roles that we feel will help with the administration and management of the garden. Mary Basile-Filler, one of our new parishioners, humbly accepted the role of Garden Coordinator. She will be a champion in establishing and maintaining communication and management of the garden. Jayne Ricker, our Garden Administrator, is ready and willing to handle all things administrative for the committee. And, of course, we are led spiritually by Fr. Joe! So…Stay tuned for more exciting news coming from the Garden Party Committee as we all bloom together in our church garden.
From the Garden Coordinator
As a new parishioner I had wonderful experience on Saturday June 18th at the parish work party. I am part of the Garden Party Committee and I met wonderful people who work so hard and diligent as we launched our vegetable garden. I do not think I have ever worked on a committee that has such enthusiasm and expertise for a project. I went to water on Monday morning and I was pleasantly surprised how much they had grown. Please drop by our garden and say hello and talk to the vegetables as they grow. The vegetables enjoy hearing from us. As the new Garden Coordinator, I send out a whole-hearted ‘THANK YOU’ to the new garden party members who contributed so much to see the beginning of a garden that will bring many blessings, in many ways to many people. If you have any questions about our project or want to join in the fun, please feel free to ask me (ziamariab@icloud.com), Jayne, or anyone on the committee. Blessings. Mary Basile-Filler, Garden Coordinator
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Committees And Opportunities The Outreach Committee: Opportunities to Serve The outreach committee continues to be involved with several ministries around San Diego County and with ministries right in our own backyard. We are once again participating in the Back2School Bash with St. Mark’s City Heights. We’ve also begun exploratory conversations with St. Peter’s bythe-Sea Lutheran Church regarding the possibility of combining our resources to support and Interfaith Shelter Rotation. Our goal on the outreach committee is to provide a number of ways each member of All Souls’ can be in “hands on” ministry with our outreach partners. If you have a heart for outreach, let us know! .
Evangelism at All Souls’ The creative gears of our Evangelism Committee are turning. Beside our presence at the Point Loma Summer Concert Series we are dreaming about the possibilities of offering an Autumn Evening Forum Series on Ethics and Morals, hosting noon-time concerts in our church (although not original, we like the name “Bach’s Lunch”), and imagining ways to use our coffee corner and the Catalina Patio of Gooden Hall to be welcoming to members and strangers alike. Stay tuned! Worship at All Souls’ As we slide into the summer months we will worship without our choir (of course, they will be in the pews with us). Our Mass Setting will be David Hurd’s New Plainsong. There will be a few weekends where we will use alternative Eucharistic Prayers, Prayers C and D from the Book of Common Prayer and occasionally Rite 1 at the 8:00 service. Look forward to solemn masses observing the Feast of the Transfiguration and the Blessed Virgin Mary, August 6, 5:00 and August 15, 7pm, respectively.
PROPERTY
From the Property Committee: Thank you to all who participated in our most recent parish work day. Our team of volunteers accomplished some amazing things. The narthex has had some major work done. It has been cleaned and organized, and the wood screen between the narthex and the church was cleared of all nails, screws, and staples that accumulated over the years. It is now a welcoming site to visitors and long-time members, alike. Repairs were completed on several pews and usher kiosk is now in working order. The altar guild painstakingly removed all the wax from the pew cushions, tables, and other areas throughout the church. The sound system was “de-cluttered,” eliminating all extraneous equipment and removing the sound cables that dangled from the ceiling. The community garden was launched and quickly moved from Phase 1 to Phase 3 with the impulse building of a third garden bed with plans for a fourth and some fruit trees. The outside benches have had another coat of finish applied to keep them looking fresh and new. And, the privacy screen on the fence between us and the neighbor on Chatsworth is being replaced with fence slats – which, by the way, requires quite the effort. Finally, the shed in the parking lot was painted white to match the exterior of our buildings and, on this effort, we’d like to offer a special shout out to Master William Fosnaught… of course, not sure if he got more paint on himself than he did on the shed… no bother – he did a great job! Especially considering he is 5! Thanks again! 6
Adult Formation: Upcoming Sunday Forums We continue our forums series on “Exploring the Mysteries” in the first three weeks of July and then move into other topics for the remainder of the summer: July 3&10 Part 4: Enlighten the Eyes of Your Compassionate Heart: How Spiritual Perception Motivates Christian Service July 17 Part 5: The Holy Spirit - The third person of the Trinity
Dr. Elisabeth Koenig
July 24 July 31
Social Justice and Advocacy Part 1: Scripture and Tradition Part 2: Current Day Activities of the Church
Fr. Joe Fr. Joe
Aug 7 Aug 14
C.S. Lewis Part 1: Apologist for the Past C.S. Lewis Part 2: Prophet for the Future
D. McColl D. McColl
Aug 21 Aug 28 Sept 4 –
School For Ministry Part 3: Advocacy & Where are we called to engage? Music and Worship
Allisyn Thomas Fr. Joe Ruben Valenzuela
Mark Mann
Welcome Dr. Elisabeth Koenig Christians from ancient times to the present have believed that people can grow in their ability to perceive God through spiritual senses that are similar to, but also different from, our physical senses of taste, touch, vision, hearing, and smell. Inspired by the Song of Songs in the Old Testament, theologians as diverse as Origen (c. 185-254), Gregory of Nyssa (c. 332-395), and Teresa of Avila (1515-1582), have observed that believers who enjoy this sensory knowledge of God’s love and majesty inevitably express their joy and gratitude through service to others. Prayer, ascetic practices, worship, contemplation, and committed service all can develop further these heightened perceptions of God, even leading to existentially felt knowledge of doctrines, such as Incarnation and Resurrection. Come and learn what our ancestors taught about growth in spiritual perception, its manifestation in service, and what theologians are saying about these possibilities today. Elisabeth K. J. Koenig is Professor of Ascetical Theology, Emerita, of General Theological Seminary in New York City, where she taught courses in Christian Spirituality, Theology, Anglican Studies, and Ethics for twenty-five years. More recently she served as an adjunct professor at the University of San Diego, and taught in the Episcopal Diocesan School for Ministry. Dr. Koenig earned her Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and her Ph.D. from Columbia University and Union Seminary in New York City. She has functioned on the governing board of the Society for the Study of Christian Spirituality at the American Academy of Religion. She has given numerous clergy conferences, retreats, and lectures around the country, as well as in England and Italy. A specialist in discernment, she serves as a consultant to people in the church, academe, and the corporate world. Her many years of teaching spiritual directors in training through The Center for Christian Spirituality at General Seminary, deepened her understanding of spiritual direction, an art that she continues to practice. 7
Sea Sunday, July 10, 2016 On Sea Sunday churches all over the world come together to remember seafarers and pray for them, their families and those who support them. The Mission to Seafarers needs your prayers and support for all merchant crews and their families on Sea Sunday, to continue our vital work for those in need. The Mission to Seafarers is 160 years old this year. Since 1856 it has been an integral part of the outreach of the Church of England and of the whole Anglican Communion. 160 may not be one of the “big ones” in terms of anniversaries but it is a venerable age and a good time both to reflect on the past and look to the future. The Bible is packed with stories about people setting out on journeys. Abraham is called to leave his home and his people and set out on a journey to a new land. The story is full of hope and promise but the length and outcome of the journey are uncertain. Mary and Joseph set out for Bethlehem. The disciples are sent on a missionary adventure which involves leaving so much behind. “Take nothing for the journey, no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra tunic.” Jesus sets out for Jerusalem. None of these journeys would be easy but the promise behind all of them is of future hope and blessing.
The Gospel, for Sea Sunday is the Good Samaritan story found in Luke 1-25-37. It speaks of some of the perils of journeying and of the life-changing impact of hospitality and love shown by strangers to those far from home. We give thanks for the work and inspiration of The Mission to Seafarers and its founder, the Reverend John Ashley, and for all who have heard God’s call to build his kingdom amongst seafarers and who have stepped out in faith, not knowing quite where the journey might lead. They have all been integral to the Mission’s long story. They realized that it was a journey that would bring many difficulties and challenges, but they were clear that it was one inspired by the God who would travel with them. The Mission started in a small way with its work in the Bristol Channel but now delivers its ministry in over 200 ports in 50 countries. As in the parable of Jesus, the small “mustard seed” planted 160 years ago has become a tree in whose branches countless seafarers have been able to find shelter. The Mission’s famous “flying angel” logo, reminding us of our fundamental mission commitment to share the love of God revealed in Jesus across the world, is respected by seafarers everywhere. When the Mission set out in faith on its 160 year journey there was no knowing where it might end. We believe, however, that like so many of those earlier Bible journeys, it is one which has brought abundant life and blessing to generations of seafarers. All biblical travelers, from Abraham through to Paul and beyond, knew very well the perils and hardships of land and sea. Today we may travel very differently and usually in greater comfort, but
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many of the challenges are similar to those of long ago. Journeys often take us far from family and friends and from all that is familiar – they can be lonely. They can take us through, or to, remote and inhospitable places. They are often complicated by language and communication difficulties. Journeys will often involve uncertainty, discomfort, delay and even danger. The 160 year story of The Mission to Seafarers has been focused on one particular group of travelers who know all these things so well. There are around 1.5 million seafarers and many more if you include those involved in fishing. We are all absolutely dependent on their efforts, although so few of us these days seem aware of the fact that over 90% of those things that sustain our daily lives come by sea. Medicines, food, fuel, cars, machinery, furniture, computers, raw materials; all reach our shores by ship. Seafarers contact the Mission for many reasons. In many cases shipping contracts are very long– sometimes ten months or a year in duration. This means being separated from home and family for very significant periods of time. This reality can bring many stresses - and often feelings of intense isolation or powerlessness, particularly when crew members become aware of problems at home. It means spending most of your life at sea, with only brief time in ports, ports which will frequently be remote and sometimes hostile. In response, The Mission to Seafarers offers a warm welcome, a hospitable and safe Seafarers’ Centre facility (including the internet access which is so important). We arrange transport, enabling seafarers to access Centers and, where possible, to connect with local church communities. Maybe there is a medical issue or the need for a visit to the pharmacy. And, of course, we ensure access to a place of worship, to a service on board and to personal prayer wherever and whenever that is appropriate. Life at sea is a hidden life and in the more unpleasant corners of the world crews still all too frequently are victims of abuse, neglect and exploitation. Seafarers can be the victims of piracy or face unjust imprisonment. And life at sea remains a dangerous one. Mission chaplains are always quick to respond to an emergency and deal with seafarers who have been injured, taken ill or, tragically, deal with the aftermath of bereavement. Much of the early work of The Mission to Seafarers was conducted from dedicated small ships which would enable Chaplains to access crews while they were out at anchor. In some of our ports such work continues today. On one occasion, in the 1880s, a pastoral call was made in the midst of a storm by the Reverend Thomas Treanor. The descriptions of this visit suggest that it was extremely hazardous. As the chaplain climbed a swinging rope, in the midst of a howling gale, a seafarer at the rail above was heard to say, “There must be something in religion!” Behind all Mission work lies that a deep sense of Christian purpose, such purpose as drove our founder the Reverend John Ashley forward, a man who had visited more than 14,000 ships during his lifetime. Behind all Mission work lies that gospel imperative to recognize and aid a neighbor in every human being. 9
Evangelism made Fun and Easy The Point Loma Summer Concerts begin on Friday July 8th at Point Loma Park. All Souls’ will once again be offering our parking lot to concert goers and a shuttle bus will pick them up from the steps of the church on Catalina and whisk them off to the park. Our Evangelism Committee has determined that we can be more present in our community than simply a stop on a bus line. So, this year a group from All Souls’ will be at the concerts, enjoying fellowship with one another and the church in the world. All are invited. If you want to join us, simply head over to the park and look for the All Souls’ balloons… yup, that’s right… All Souls’ balloons! Come and be part of evangelism on Friday, July 8, 15, 22, 29, and August 5! The fun begins at 5:00pm and… it’s free! For more information about the concert series, visit www.plconcerts.org.
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Legacy Circle and Stewardship by Scott Cripsell The Stewardship Committee inaugurated the All Souls’ Legacy Circle on Friday evening, June 17, 2016. Following a dinner provided by Kathleen Hare and Daryl Ferguson at the home of Diane Holnback-Sooy and Richard Sooy, the charter members were thanked for their thoughtfulness in remembering All Souls’ in the estate planning. Each person was given a lapel pin to wear as an outward symbol of this commitment. Are you interested in remembering our parish in your estate planning? There is no minimum amount and can easily be a certain percentage of an estate. This fall we are planning to have a day or two when lawyers will be present at All Souls’ to facilitate any questions you may have in estate planning. If you were not invited to this gathering, PLEASE see Scott Crispell. We took names from those on previous pledge cards who indicated that they had made this bequest, but we may have missed someone.
Save the Date Please save Saturday, Oct. 1, for a dinner and sock-hop at All Souls’ sponsored by the Stewardship Committee. Our own Diane Holnback-Sooy is a member of a musical group who will provide the entertainment. It will be a fun event for ALL ages and will kickoff the 2017 pledge drive.
An Update on Our Finances Our income for the month of May exceeded expectations while our expenses continued to come into line with budgeted expenses. As a result, we have narrowed the gap between expense overages. We continue to seek ways to reduce expenses and will be conducting a midyear re-plan of our budget to get a more accurate projection through year end.
INCOME
Q1 Total
Apr 2016
May 2016
Jun 2016
YTD
Income Budget
$ 141,445
$ 44,665
$ 38,290
-
$ 224,400
Income Actual
$ 142,989
$ 45,012
$ 51,874
-
$ 239,875
$ 1,544
$ 347
$ 13,584
Difference EXPENSE
Q1 Total
Apr 2016
May 2016
$ 15,475 Jun 2016
YTD
Expense Budget
$ 148,428
$ 46,557
$ 42,199
-
$ 237,044
Expense Actual
$ 154,818
$ 49,881
$ 44,785
-
$ 249,454
($ 6,530)
($ 3,324)
($ 2,586)
Difference
Cumulative to Date
($ 12,440)
Did you know? Our most recent electrical bills are showing a nearly $500 savings in monthly electrical costs. This is largely due to the new LED lights in the church and wiser use of our lights around campus. We are hopeful that those costs will continue to decline and expect further savings.
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Music at All Souls’ EVENSONG July 17, 2016 at 5pm ‘The day thou gavest, Lord, is ended’ During the choir’s summer recess, Evensong continues and is led musically by YOU, the congregation. You’ll have the opportunity to not only sing the appointed hymns, but also lead the Psalm, Canticles, and other service music. Plan now to join us! THANK YOU TO THE CHOIRS OF ALL SOULS’ ‘I will sing with the Spirit and the Understanding’ A word of thanks to the Parish Choir and Choristers for a wonderful choral season in support of our worship. During this season, we saw the founding of the chorister program which flourished beyond all expectation. Additionally, the Parish Choir expanded its repertoire and worked hard to elevate the standard of our musical offerings. THANK YOU to all who form part of this important ministry, and enjoy a well deserved summer recess!
Musings by Marlene Wisdom acknowledges we will never have all the answers; this would be simplistic. Even when we’re intellectually curious, we may be using only 10% of our brain’s capacity. We will never know enough totally to satisfy our curiosity, or be able to put all the pieces of the puzzle together. Life is a mystery. We can only have faith. Our senses inform us, as do our intelligence and our intuition. How do we commune with the divine? Is it through mystical experiences of unity with the universe? There is a sacred, peaceful union with the source of spiritual rapture. But inner peace comes only when we accept the unknown, the mystery that transcends our human knowledge. Within this mystery is that every hu12
man being in uniquely gifted, uniquely qualified to transcend the common, ordinariness of everyday existence. We are all a mystery, just as life is. And when we try to put meaning to everything, we may be subtracting from the pure exaltation of our experience. Living in the light of pure existence, mystery, intrigue of the moments out of time lets us enjoy the questions, the questions, not always needing the answers. We need to relish the mystery.
Why a Music Program at All Souls’ is Important
by J. Patrick Ford
I wish to express my strong support for the music program at All Souls’ Church because it is one of the benefits that I find in attending the Sunday services. When I first attended this parish in 1957, we had an electronic organ and an active choir and girls choir. When the new building was constructed, the organ and choir were put into the rear loft. The choir was not pleased with being removed from the congregation, so they eventually moved down onto the main floor about the time that the new baroque pipe organ was installed.
the Bible by the lector rather than a prayer book ritual. When I became an Episcopalian, I was 30 years old, was baptized and later confirmed by the Bishop of Los Angeles when All Souls’ was in that diocese, so my focus on the traditional service was I have always enjoyed singing the hymns and having more on the music and the full power of the organ backing up the choir and social relationship. congregation. I was fortunate in the fifth grade to The music program at All Souls’ has been greatly have a good music program at my grammar school enhanced under the leadership of our music directhat taught me how to read music and participate tor, Ruben Valenzuela. I’m especially pleased that in special music events at the school. That’s why I he has reinstated the chorister group for the young continue to enjoy singing and don’t understand why people and expanded the adult choir, both enhancmany of the congregation sitting near me do not ing the music program for the services, especially join in. Maybe they didn’t have the advantage of on festival days. learning to read music? The treasure of the parish is the organ. Well-known Why is this important to me? I grew up in a differ- musicians come here to perform on it. We are forent religious environment than the traditional Epis- tunate to have an endowment to support an excopalian liturgy. I attended the Christian Science tended music program. Historically music in church church and Sunday school with my grandparents services has been a tradition for centuries. All Souls’ where the focus was more on the interpretation of is keeping that tradition.
Vacation Bible School: August 1—August 5: Registration Open! All Souls’ Vacation Bible School registration is open! Parents/ guardians may pick up registration forms in the church office, on the Narthex Table, at Coffee Hour, and at the Coffee Corner. Registration is also available on line at www.allsoulspointloma.org. . We already have amazing volunteers and welcome additional youth and adults to volunteer in many fun areas including crafts, snacks, bible stories, games, small group leader, registration, photography and decorations! If interested, please contact the church office. Kids ages 5 through 5th grade, will be invited to celebrate their faith and plunge into the incredible experience of knowing God. Kids will enjoy beach–themed music, crafts, games, Bible stories and more, learning to become fully equipped to live out God’s mission in their lives. 13
Back to School Bash
by Nan Hardison supplies wholesale for about $30 per backpack. She isn’t able to buy the backpacks, however, so we are asking parishioners to contribute either $30 for supplies or to purchase an (empty) backpack for a grade school student or a high school student. We are hoping you all will be generous! St. Mark’s hopes to give out 300 backpacks!!!
We at All Souls’ are participating in the Diocesanwide Back to School Bash. For several years St. Mark’s City Heights and St. John’s Fallbrook have provided children whose families need help with full backpacks for the next school year. We help the St. Mark’s program. In years past we have asked for full backpacks, shoes and underwear for specific children. These backpacks cost each generous parishioner-shopper about $150. However, Heather Smith at St. Mark’s can purchase
The students receiving the backpacks are from the tutoring programs at St. Mark’s and St. Alban’s churches. Many of the children are also members of refugee families helped by the Refugee Net (formerly the Episcopal Refugee Network). Volunteers from Episcopal churches help fill the backpacks and distribute them on the big day when they are given out. As soon as we are sure of the dates we will post them in a call for volunteers – helping is great fun and not a very big time commitment.
Talent Show and Chili Cook-off by Terry Dirbas All Souls’ Got Talent, indeed! On June 25, we held our first annual Chili Cook-Off and Talent Show, and what a great night it was! So many people came out for this event that we couldn’t take an accurate count, but we know there were at least 60. The energy in the room was incredible and a good time was had by all. We began the evening with a chance to taste ten different kinds of homemade chili from our parishioners, and we were reminded, once again, how many incredible cooks we have in our community. Though it was hard to choose among so many delicious options, everyone voted and Billie Wilson’s black bean and beef chili was the clear winner! Look for her recipe in the upcoming All Souls’ Soup Cookbook. After dinner, Bill Cobb hosted a great lineup of performances from parishioners of all ages. Choristers Landyn Mercer, Zoe Steers, Emma Taylor, Sophie Taylor, and Helen Walter all showed off their talents for music and dance. Bill Cobb, Nick Bonacker, and Eric and Ian Livingstone entertained us with humor and great music. And Father Joe showed that he has more than a metaphorical talent for juggling. Some of our little ones also spontaneously joined the show, including some dance moves by choristers and little Ramona Lubsen, and chanting of the Lord’s Prayer by George Dirbas. 14
Talent and Chili, Cont. There were so many people taking video of these great acts that it looked as if the paparazzi were visiting All Souls’! If you have footage of some of these performances you’d be willing to share with us, please email them to youth@allsoulspointloma.org. Thank you to all the performers, volunteers, and chili chefs who made this event so much fun. Thank you, also, to our youth mission team for hosting the evening and serving delicious dessert, and to all who made donations to their mission fund. Together we raised almost $500 for their trip to Belize next summer—all while having a fabulous time!
Conversations with our Children by Terry Dirbas When confronted with violent events, we often ask ourselves, “Where is God in all this?” Integrating the possibility of terrible suffering into our understanding of a God of boundless love is a lifelong process, one that is often filled with more questions than answers. Most of us are left living in the gray area of holding fast to God’s love, despite not being able to explain the grief and pain that we still experience in this life. As adults, and as Episcopalians in particular, most of us generally accept those gray areas in our faith. We learn, through the sacraments, that there are mysteries of God’s love and transformation that defy explanation. Conversely, we also recognize that there is tragedy and sorrow in this imperfect human existence, and we may not always be able to explain those low points, either.
But what about our children? What happens when they ask the same questions of us that we are asking ourselves? Depending on their stage of development, children generally have more of a “black and white” perspective on life. Though they may embrace the gray areas as they age, at the moment they may seek more concrete answers than we feel we can provide. In the wake of violent events, psychologists often share advice about how to speak to our children about their questions and their fears. For example, they suggest having conversation while engaged in some activity—coloring together, driving in the car, walking the dog—to decrease the intensity and make it easier for the child to open up. The primary goal of this conversation is assuring children that such events are very, very rare, and that their parents, teachers, and other adults will do everything they can to keep them safe. As helpful as these articles can be, they rarely delve into the spiritual question that looms in the background for children as much as for adults—why? Why do bad things happen to good people? Why didn’t God stop the bad guys? Children rarely initiate the conversation, but just because they aren’t asking us directly, that does not mean they aren’t thinking about it. As parents, grandparents, Godparents, and teachers, it’s our responsibility to talk to our young people about uncomfortable topics. If, out of fear, we don’t say anything, we cede the conversation to whoever is willing to do the talking… and there’s no guarantee that that person will share our values. (Continued on page 17)
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Update on the Youth Mission Trip by Terry Dirbas Though youth programs typically take a pause during the summer, at All Souls’ our youth are busy planning and preparing for next summer’s mission trip to Belize. The dates are set, the itinerary is being planned, and fundraising is in full swing! Here are a few key details about our trip: June 30 – July 10, 2017 Holy Cross Anglican School, San Pedro, Belize (Island of Ambergris Caye) Holy Cross Anglican School is a Pre-K through 8th grade program that provides education and support services to children from the poor neighborhood of San Mateo. This community is just minutes away from white sand beaches to which tourists flock, though most visitors to the island are not aware that such poverty even exists. Holy Cross was founded in 2006 by Francis and Vernon Wilson, Episcopal missionaries from Virginia. It now serves 500 students, and has had to turn away 200 more for the coming academic year due to inadequate space and resources. This trip promises to be a formative experience for our youth, and we are excited to offer this opportunity for them to experience a different culture, make Christian friendships in another context, and wrestle with big questions about poverty and mission. Our plan is to travel to Belize on Friday, June 30, and spend the weekend exploring the island of Ambergris Caye, including worshiping in a local congregation, spending time with Belizean teenagers, and, of course, snorkeling and enjoying those beautiful beaches! From Monday, July 3, through Friday, July 7, we will serve at Holy Cross, offering a Vacation Bible School program in the morning, and rolling up our sleeves to tackle beautification and maintenance projects in the afternoon. Once our week of service is complete, we will head over to Belize City, on the mainland, for our final weekend, where we will see Mayan ruins, go on some outdoor adventures, and worship at St. John’s Anglican Cathedral on Sunday. The total cost of the trip will depend on the number of youth attending (which impacts lodging options) and the price of airfare, but we are estimating between $1300 and $1500 per person. Families will contribute up to half that amount, and the mission team will earn the rest. Our fundraising efforts are already off to a great start, but you will be hearing much more from us in the near future! If you know a young person who would be interested in joining the trip, please contact Terry Dirbas at youth@allsoulspointloma.org. Initial deposits will be due in mid-September, and our monthly teambuilding meetings will begin October 2. 16
Conversations, Cont. (Continued from page 15)
So what do we say? In trying to talk to George and Jeannie recently, I have often wished I had a script. Unfortunately there is no simple answer, as every child and family is different and will have different concerns. However, we should all start with the basics from the psychologists. Conversation about spirituality will only be productive if our children already feel safe, secure, and loved. Once those emotional concerns have been addressed, our approach to faith discussions should match our approach to the questions of safety. The youngest children probably won’t need much information or explanation. We might transition into spiritual talk by simply saying, “And even when we’re scared, or when we’re really sad, God is always there with us. God is very sad when people hurt each other, too.” Older children may ask more questions, and it’s important to honor those. “That’s a great question,” or, “Lots of adults are wondering that, too, right now.” Even if we don’t have answers, we can teach them that questions are a healthy part of a life of faith. Elementary age children respond well to narratives about “good guys” and “bad guys.” It may help to remind kids that on Good Friday, everyone was very sad and believed the bad guys won, but on Easter, God showed the world that good always wins in the end. It’s very sad when people get hurt, but it won’t be the end of the story. It’s ok to let them know that we can’t explain everything, but that we are certain that God loves us, and that God’s love is stronger than violence. We might point out the outpourings of love and support from people all over the world. We might even ask our children if they want to do something to show love, whether by making a card or saying a prayer or some idea of their own. With adolescents, the discussion becomes more complex. Just as they are ready to process more details of the crimes themselves, they are also ready to process greater theological questions. We might start a conversation by asking what their friends are saying about the situation, or if their teachers bring it up in the classroom. Conflict can be a great catalyst for discussion, too—”Have you heard anyone say anything you thought was totally wrong or out of line?” Once they are talking, we should listen to their thoughts and let them work out their ideas as they speak. We are often our own best teachers, and teenagers are no different. If they ask a tough question, it’s often more effective to first ask them, “What do you think?” When we do share our thoughts, it’s completely ok to admit that we don’t have all the answers, or that we’re struggling too. Follow that with an affirmation of what we do still know—that God loves us, that we are all God’s children, that there is always hope… whatever is authentic to you. Sometimes with youth, the best witness to the faith we can give is being faithful throughout times of confusion or doubt. That lets them know that even when they have doubts, they’re still faithful, too. It’s never easy to have these discussions, but it’s important that we have a voice in the conversation to help guide our young people in difficult and confusing times such as these. My prayer is that for now, we will all have the courage to speak and the courage to act, and that our children might grow up to create a world in which this senseless violence no longer plagues our communities. 17
Looking Ahead at All Souls’ July 1, 7:40pm: Episcopal Night at the Padres Members of All Souls’ and other churches throughout the diocese will be together to watch the Padres take on the Yankees
July 4: Independence Day Enjoy our nations birthday with the beautiful fireworks in the harbor and OB. As a reminder, the office will be closed.
July 8, 15, 22, 29: Point Loma Summer Concert Join the Evangelism Committee and other members of our parish family as we enjoy the free concert in Point Loma Park. We’ll be sitting as a group, enjoying the music, and being part of our community.
July 11—29: Point Loma Arts Academy Once again, the students, teachers, and staff of the Point Loma Arts Academy will be at All Souls’ for the three weeks following July 4. Please be prepared for a very busy campus during that time.
July 16 9:00am- 12:00pm: Lay Eucharistic Visitor Training The diocese will be offering training for Lay Eucharistic Visitors at All Souls’. If you feel called to take communion from our Sunday worship to those who weren’t able to be with us on Sunday, please see Fr. Joe or e-mail him at jdirbas@allsoulspointloma.org
July 17: Family Sunday and Evensong
August 1-5: Vacation Bible School All Souls’ is hosting VBS. Registration is open. Tell your families and neighbors.
August 6: Rummage Sale August 6. 5:00pm: Solemn Mass for the Feast of the Transfiguration Our Celtic service will skip a week as we celebrate a mass with smells and bells and full choir. Following the mass, you are welcome to join us for a pot-luck supper in Gooden Hall.
Upcoming Worship at All Souls’ WEDNESDAY EUCHARIST: July 6, 13, 20, 27 at 7:00am Worship with us in the chapel. Stop by on your way to work or before that first cup of morning coffee. THURSDAY EUCHARIST: July 7, 14, 21, 28 at 9:30am Join us in the chapel for a quiet service of Holy Eucharist. (Prayers for Healing on 1st Thursday) “THE BROTHERHOOD” MEN’S GROUP EUCHARIST: Saturday, July 9 at 8:00am Join us for the celebration of Holy Eucharist and breakfast afterwards at the Red Sails Inn. EVENSONG: July 17 at 5:00pm Come and close your day with the Divine Office as the congregation joins in singing the Canticles, Psalm, and Hymns. 18
Talent Show, Chili, and Work Day
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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 our worship. 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: 8:00 am and 10:15 am Nursery Care from 8:30 am – 12:30 pm (infants - 3 years old) Kids’ Club and Godly Play: No Kid’s Club or Godly Play in the summer months! Small Souls Worship: 10:15 am except 3rd Sunday of each month Family Eucharist – 3rd Sunday @ 10:15 am Choral Evensong – 3rd Sunday @ 5:00 pm
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 The Rev. Pamela Rieger, Deacon Ruben Valenzuela, Director of the Music Jayne Ricker, Facilities and Office Manager Betty Nork, Nursery Assistant Vanessa Hiday, Office Assistant
Weekday Services: Wednesday Holy Eucharist: 7:00 am Thursday Holy Eucharist: 9:30 am Saturday Celtic Eucharist: 5:00 pm