CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL An Episcopal Community in the Heart of Houston, Texas
NOVEMBER 2015 CHRISTCHURCHCATHEDRAL.ORG
AFTER-HOURS EMERGENCY CARE LINE | 713-826-5332
It’s all in the name “Then God said, ‘Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness.’ And God said to the man and the woman, ‘Be fruitful and multiply … and have stewardship over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living thing that moves on the earth.’” (Genesis 1:26, 28) Adam and Eve were THE VERY REV. the first stewards. God BARKLEY created them in God’s THOMPSON very image, and that means they were made, more than anything else, to love. It was for this purpose that God gave the first human beings stewardship over the creation. God loved what he had made, and God wanted the world to be in the care of someone who would love it with equal passion. But God was left with a quandary: Adam and Eve were brand new. How could they be taught to love what God loved? How could their passion to tend to the delicate things of earth be kindled? We find God’s answer in the next chapter: “So out of the ground the Lord God formed every animal of the field and every bird of the air, and brought them to the man to see what he would call them; and whatever the man called every living creature, that was its name.” (Genesis 2:19) God knew — and the first humans discovered — that once we have named something it becomes vital and real to us. Once something has been named, we can connect to it in love. I’ll never forget the first time I gazed upon my newborn son and called him “Griffin.” The next utterance from my mouth was “bone of my bone and flesh of my flesh” (again with allusion to Genesis). Once named, there was never any doubt Griffin would be the recipient of a powerful parental love.
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Extending a warm welcome
Newcomer and Welcome Team member John Craver greets people on Sunday morning at the church entrance.
You never know when a chance encounter will make a lasting impression. For a variety of newcomers to the Cathedral, friendly and supportive outreach from members, clergy, and staff proved exceptionally welcoming and warm — and led to active membership. Eleina Faber and Paul Wyatt, for example, aren’t just new to the Cathedral — they’re new to Episcopalian traditions entirely. Engaged and awaiting a late-2016 wedding, the 20-something couple came to the Cathedral from different faiths. (She was raised Methodist and he Catholic.) Now they’re involved in the 20s & 30s community and Wyatt attends
the dean’s early-morning study group. Faber, a nurse who works weekends, recalls how she first noticed the Cathedral when out driving with her father. Intrigued, she brought Wyatt to see the church mid-week. The Rev. Genevieve Razim, the church’s canon for welcome and evangelism, offered them a tour, which led the couple to attend a service, where many others welcomed them. “It’s not overwhelming to get to know the Cathedral, despite it being one of the larger churches in Houston. It feels like a small, tight-knit church community,” Faber said.
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Parish retreat offers piney woods getaway Every December, parishioners of Christ Church Cathedral gather together for a weekend of rest, relaxation, and fellowship. Camp Allen offers a stunning forest retreat just an hour away, amid the piney woods of Navasota. Our time there is perfect for relaxing outdoors, roasting marshmallows, embarking on a twilight hayride, or even just reading a good book. Families and
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Our Cathedral Family We celebrate with
EE The newly baptized: Michael Pfleger. EE New members: Doris Macsherry and Haley and Jordan Stage. EE Members Vivette and Lee Graham on the birth of Ethan Lee Graham on May 7. EE Members Jacqueline and Rodger Brown on the birth of Lillian Elizabeth Brown on August 29. EE Amy and Andrew McLaughlin on the birth of Vivienne Grace McLaughlin on September 10. EE Heather Flynn and Thomas Mace, who were married September 26 in the Cathedral. EE Cia Bearden and Benjamin Baze, who were married October 10 in the Cathedral.
Germany pilgrimage planned for Reformation anniversary In 1517, Augustinian priest and friar Martin Luther nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the church door in Wittenberg, Germany, protesting abuses by the Church and calling for a reformation of church practices and theology. Little did Luther know that through this act he would launch the Protestant Reformation, the effects of which would change the face of Europe and cross the English Channel to alter the shape of our own Anglican tradition. The year 2017 marks the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, and in June of that year, Dean Barkley Thompson will lead a
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We extend heartfelt sympathy to
EE The family of Beverly Draper, who died September 8 in Houston. She was the mother of member Laura Bellows. EE The family of Gladys Eagleton, who died September 14 in Houston. EE The family of Jennifer Elizabeth Cobb, who died September 22 in Concord, N.C. She was the daughter of member Mary Ann Cobb. EE The family of the Rev. John E. Binford, who died October 4. He was the husband of member Clara A. Binford. EE The family of Michael Owsley, who died October 9. He was the brother of member Steven Owsley and uncle of Mansfield Owsley, Luciana Owsley, and Finnian Owsley.
The flowers on the Cathedral Altar
EE On November 1 are given to the glory of God in loving memory of her brother, Joe Head, and their parents, Jane and Jack Head and Mary Louise and Robert Thurmond, by Julie and Bob Thurmond. EE On November 8 are given to the glory of God in honor of their grandchildren, Grace, Camille, and Lily Holland; Ann Greathouse; and Barrett Colvin, by Antha and Bill Holland. EE On November 15 are given to the glory of God in loving memory of Laura Randall Schweppe and Katherine Randall Schweppe by their family. EE On November 22 are given to the glory of God and in celebration for the life of Catherine McDonald by her family. EE On November 25 are given to the glory of God in loving memory of the departed members of the Altar Guild. EE On November 29 are given in loving memory of Margaret and Jim Elkins Jr. by their family.
The flowers in the Floor Vases
EE On November 1 are given to the glory of God in honor of their granddaughters, Abigail Nicole deAlba, Olivia Kay Hunt, Ava Mary Hunt, and their grandson, Maximus Gabriel Hunt, and in loving memory of their great grandmother, Adeline deAlba, and their aunt, Cynthia Gayle deAlba Kimmins, by Kay and Arthur deAlba.
The flowers at the Rood Screen and Book of Remembrance
EE On November 1 are given to the glory of God in loving memory of the members of the parish who have died in the past year by the Altar Guild. THE BULLETIN
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VESTRY NOMINATIONS
Accepted now through November 15 Submit to srwarden@christchurchcathedral.org
Update from the Cathedral Vestry
It’s been a few months since the last vestry report. While the summer is a time when activities slow down at the Cathedral, the vestry is kept busy with one of our most important tasks: our annual “Comfort Call” campaign. Once again, this opportunity to reach out to the membership of our parish proved fruitful in engaging our members in conversation about their hopes and ideas and in identifying critical pastoral needs. Early in September, the Mission and Ministry Committee of the vestry hosted a “Council of Councils.” This meeting brought together repreBILL MCKENZIE sentatives from each of the eleven councils at the Cathedral to share information on how the council system functions, best practices for creating and sustaining a healthy council, and guidance for working with all of the Cathedral ministry staff to ensure council events go off without a hitch. The Building and Grounds Committee continues to make progress on the Replacement Reserves Study, which should be complete very soon. We have also been successful in engaging with the City of Houston to remediate the sidewalk and parking area problems on both Texas and San Jacinto. Cathedral finances continue on a healthy, solid footing for 2015. This is mostly due to strong Every Member Canvass results and some early pledge payments. This strong commitment from Cathedral members has allowed us to pay for some unexpected expenses, such as helping the Beacon with additional security costs. Following our September meeting, members of the vestry had the opportunity to meet with Bishop Doyle at his invitation. The Bishop updated us on many of the issues and initiatives taking place in the wider Anglican Communion, as well as within our own diocese.
Blended cultures shape Day of the Dead celebration
Recognizing Beacon volunteers On Saturday, October 3, more than 80 Beacon volunteers gathered for an appreciation breakfast in recognition of their “superhero” dedication toward restoring dignity, self-respect, and hope to Houston’s homeless. The event took place in the Beacon Day Center, which was temporarily closed in October for facilities renovations. “We are very fortunate to have our volunteers,” said Operations Director Jonathan Holland. “It was time for us to give back to them because they give so much to our clients.”
Ministering to veterans at “The End of War” Each week in the Prayers of the People we pray for “those who have died in service of their country and for all who have died in war-torn areas of the world.” But what about those who live on after their experience of war is over? THE END OF WAR As we develop theologies November 6–8 and philosophies to justify the existence of war and the human price that we pay, can we adequately console those who have violated their own moral codes in support of our just cause? How do we effectively minister to the conflicted after the conflict is over? On November 6–8, the weekend before Veterans Day, Christ Church Cathedral will join with Houston-area veterans’ support communities for a symposium to address these and other issues. National, regional, and local thinkers and care providers will join us for three days of learning and engagement. Robert Meagher, a veterans’ advocate and classics professor at Hampshire College, will offer a Friday-night keynote lecture drawn from his research on just war theory and moral injury for the 2014 book “Killing from the Inside Out.” On Saturday morning, representatives from several area veteran-engagement ministries will gather with symposium participants to explore new and creative ways to help warriors as they seek to return home. Then on Sunday morning, retired army chaplain, memoirist, and nationally-recognized preacher David W. Peters will join us
for worship and the Dean’s Class. Finally that evening, artists from the Houston Grand Opera’s HGOco program will present music from the “Veterans Songbook” in Sanders Hall as a fitting conclusion to our weekend. You may register for any or all of the weekend events through the Cathedral website or by calling the church office. Seating is limited for some sessions. Childcare is available throughout the weekend, as is free parking in the Cathedral garage.
The celebration of the Day of the Dead originates in the ancient indigenous cultures of the Aztecs, Mayas, Purepecha, Nahua, and Totonacas in the region of what is now Mexico. Long before the Spaniards arrived in the New World, the people of these cultures performed rituals dedicated to their departed. In these ancient rituals, death and renaissance were symbolized in skulls. The festivities were presided over by the god Mictecacihuatl, known as “Lady Death.” (In modern Mexican culture, her influence can be seen in the figure of “La Catrina,” represented as an elegantly-attired skeleton.) Children, ancestors, and fallen warriors were remembered through altars adorned with clay images and personal belongings of the departed, candles, and offerings of food and drink. For these ancient civilizations, the Day of the Dead was a serious religious tradition that spoke not only of their affections for their beloved ones but also of their philosophical approach to death and life. In the 16th century, Spanish Catholic priests saw commonalities between these indigenous practices and those of the Christian tradition of All Souls’ Day. By moving the Aztec celebration from summer to fall, they hoped to increase understanding and
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Find gifts with a purpose at alternative market
The Alternative Giving Market on Sunday, these agencies to support important service November 22, provides a way to express the programs. true meaning of Christ’s birth this holiday Cathedral member Tracey Cabral stresses season. At the AGM, you can find unique the deeper meaning of gifts given through the Christmas presents for family and friends AGM. “I participate in the Alternative Givthat will be appreciated the whole ing Market because on Maundy year long. Instead of buying gift ALTERNATIVE Thursday, Christ commanded us cards, ties, or bath salts, why not pur- GIVING MARKET to love one another as he loves chase a meal or groceries for a family Sunday, November 22 us, and this is one way to live his commandment,” she said. in need? 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. If you are a parent, the AGM Better yet, the AGM allows you can help you to instill in your children a lifeshare in the long history of charitable giving long habit of giving to others. To that end, here at Christ Church. Most of the agencies each of the agencies will offer a $1 gift idea invited to participate in the AGM have a conthat should capture the interest of every child. nection to the Cathedral. The Beacon, CatheAvoid the crowds at the mall or hours spent dral Missions, At-Risk Youth, Kids Hope, and shopping online. Look in your mailbox for an Sheltering Arms all began or operate here. AGM brochure, then stop by Reynolds Hall Another important aspect of the AGM on Sunday, November 22, to meet personally is that most of the participating agencies are small, with limited fundraising capaci- with representatives from each agency who ties. All of the money raised is returned to will be glad to answer all your questions. PAGE 3
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Blessing of the Animals, Fiestas Patrias, EMC Kickoff, and more
IN PICTURES
Above left: The Fiestas Patrias celebration on September 19 highlighted the diverse food, costumes, and cultures of Latin America. Above right: Animals large and small were blessed at the October 4 service in honor of St. Francis of Assisi. Right: The panel of celebrity judges assessed performances for “Cathedral’s Got Talent” as part of the Every Member Canvass kickoff dinner on September 27.
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Below left: Author and pastor Nadia Bolz-Weber spoke to a large audience on September 30. Below right: Musician Justin Roberts performed a special concert for Cathedral families on October 3.
Deck your halls, support the choir The Cathedral Choir’s annual wreath Northwest and will be available for pickand greenery sale began years ago to help up at the Cathedral in early December. finance the very first choir trip to Europe You can also make arrangements for direct in 1997. Since that time the Choir has re- shipment, guaranteed to arrive within two turned to England for a number weeks after Thanksgiving. of summer residencies, the next CHOIR WREATH SALE Download a product brochure of which will, in 2016, take them Through November 8 and order through the Cathedral to Durham, Bristol, and London. website, or stop by the cloister taThe sale, which continues through No- ble on Sundays. There you can see a sample vember 8, offers Cathedral members an op- wreath, ask questions, and place your order portunity to support the choir while bring- directly with a choir volunteer. You’ll get ing holiday cheer to friends, family, and top-notch decorations for the holidays, cut your gift list down to size, and support the business associates. The greens are fresh from the Pacific Cathedral Choir, all at the same time.
Mandalas reflect divinity, natural order
Going within is a sacred practice where bodies and the movements of the sun, moon, we can find the true essence of our Chris- and stars in their seasons. Colors, too, take tianity. Physical centering activities such on meaning, representing different virtues. This spiritual art form has paralas walking the labyrinth, yoga, and lels in the Christian monastic trathe creation of mandalas help us to dition. St. Hildegard of Bingen, an remember Jesus Christ by slowing 11th-century Benedictine abbess down and feeling his teachings in a and Christian mystic, supervised kinetic, intentional way. the creation of mandala-style paintMandala is a Sanskrit word for a ings based on her spiritual visions. circle, and it is a spiritual symbol in JENNIFER St. Hildegard began having spiritual many ancient traditions representing the universe and connection. BUERGERMEISTER experiences at a very young age, and was admitted into a convent when It has become a generic term for many artistic diagrams, charts, and geomet- she was eight. There she learned hermetic ric patterns that symbolize a microcosm of devotion and meditation. Mosaic artist and scholar Lillian Sizethe universe. For instance, many Celtic patterns and rose windows can be described as more has studied St. Hildegard’s work. “Central to her mandala paintings is the mandalas. Rings in the mandala represent levels of understanding of a ‘cosmic equilibrium’ consciousness, and symbols represent cos- and a reverence for all life,” she writes. “In mic patterns such as the orbits of celestial her use of ‘quartering of the circle’ we recognize the four elements — fire, air, water, and earth.” Sizemore continues: “Her concept of Viriditas, the Greening, was a precursor to our ecology movement. She described this power as the agent of the God, a divine vitality that was the animating life-force within all creation. This ‘greenness’ was the very expression of divine power on earth.” Mandalas remind us of the manifestation of sanctity in the universe. By creating them, we see a little more clearly our connection to the divinity and beauty found in the natural world. Jennifer Buergermeister is the director of programming for the Hines “Cultivating the Cosmic Tree” is one of the many mandala-like paintings created from the visions of St. Hildegard of Bingen. Center for Spirituality and Prayer.
GERMANY, from page 2 10-day Cathedral pilgrimage through Martin Luther’s Germany. The pilgrimage will begin in Berlin and visit such crucial Reformation sites as Wittenberg, Erfurt, Eisenach, Mainz, Worms, and Heidelberg. While in Mainz, pilPILGRIMAGE INFO SESSION grims will enjoy Sunday, November 15, 2 p.m. a Rhine River day cruise. The final portion of the pilgrimage will shift its emphasis from the Reformation to the Holocaust. Pilgrims will spend three nights in Munich studying the causes and effects of the Holocaust and will visit the site of the Dachau concentration camp. The final day of pilgrimage will be spent in the heart of Bavaria, with a trip to Neuschwanstein Castle and an aerial gondola ride through the Alps. The pilgrimage is limited to 35 participants. In addition to adult pilgrims, families with mature teenagers are invited to apply for the pilgrimage. Dean Thompson will host an information and registration session in Sanders Hall at 2 p.m. on Sunday, November 15. Last summer’s Ireland pilgrimage filled very quickly, and Dean Thompson strongly advises those who are interested in the Reformation pilgrimage to attend the information session. PAGE 5
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RETREAT, from cover
friends, newcomers and lifelong Episcopalians, members both young and old share laughs, swap stories, and build communal bonds that can last a lifetime. This year on December 4–6, you too can join in the fun. The retreat weekend kicks off on Friday night with our tenth annual chili cook-off. Bring along your prepared “masterpiece” chili and compete for the coveted silver ladle. PARISH RETREAT On Saturday morning, get to know Canon Missioner Simón BauDecember 4–6 tista as he leads the adult education session, while children and youth spend quality time talking about the power of prayer. In the afternoon, you’ll have time to experience favorite activities such as horseback riding, canoeing, and more. The weekend program also includes spiritual reflection and a Sunday-morning Eucharist service. There are a variety of accommodations — from cabins to campsites to hotel rooms — that can fit singles, couples, and families. The cost of the retreat includes rooms, up to three Saturday activities, and meals. If you can’t make the entire weekend, a daytrip option is available for those interested in the Saturday education session and lunch. Rooms fill up fast and some quantities are limited, so sign up early. Register online today or sign up in the cloister on Sundays through November 9.
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acceptance of the observance among Christians. The celebration of the Day of the Dead as it is known here in the United States is primarily representative of the Mexican tradition. Elsewhere in Latin America, the observance looks very different, depending on the region. Many will simply visit church on All Souls’ Day and pray for the departed. Some will light a candle and place a glass of water in front of a photo on a small altar in the home. Others will spend the day at the cemetery, cleaning and caring for the tombs of their relatives. When we display an altar of the dead here at the Cathedral, we are not making a religious or spiritual statement on behalf of the entire Latino community. Rather, we are inviting you to share in a cultural tradition and experience the faithfulness of a people that hold fast to a connection with their ancestors. We invite you to stop by our altar de los muertos on All Saints’ Day, November 1.
Partnership with Amazing Place offers elder care support At some point in our lives, we all will experience caring for a loved one. This type of care requires time, attention, and patience. Caring for a family member who suffers from memory loss adds a higher level of stress and often specialized care for all involved. This is one of the main reasons the pastoral care office has included the Amazing Place adult day center as a resource option for our members. The mission of Amazing Place is to provide
fellowship, memory care, and wellness for adults with mild to moderate memory loss, as well as to provide support to families and the community. Christ WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S Church Cathedral serves as a sponSaturday, November 7 soring church for Amazing Place, which allows our members to arrange programs and services for their loved ones, to volunteer at the center, or to attend
New title for November Book Club Due to the unavailability of its original selection for the month of November, the Dean’s Book Club has chosen to read another title by the same author. The club meets in the McGehee Conference Room from 6:30–8 p.m. All are welcome.
Wednesday, November 11 “Jayber Crow” by Wendell Berry The award-winning novel tells the story of Jayber Crow, a barber in Port William, Ky., who also moonlights as the church gravedigger. A born observer, he spends 50 years learning the town’s citizens by heart.
The Cathedral Bookstore is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays from 8:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Call 713-222-0286 for information and special orders. THE BULLETIN
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special caregiver events and classes. On the morning of Saturday, November 7, the Houston chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association will host its annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Please join our Cathedral pastoral care ministries at this walk as we support Amazing Place and provide an awareness of the disease and how it affects our community. Visit www.alztex.org or contact Canon Como at 713-590-3319 to learn more.
NAME, from cover We are in the middle of our Every Member Canvass at Christ Church. We share in Adam and Eve’s role as stewards of God’s good creation through ministry of the Cathedral. We have a budget that funds our ministries, maintains our campus, and pays our staff. But budgets can be abstract. As you and your family pray about your own stewardship pledge for 2016, I ask that you name the things you love about Christ Church. In naming, your passion for this place and its Gospel work will be kindled. • Name the ministries you cherish. • Name the ways that Christ Church reaches out to the community. • Name the times your heart has been pricked and your life transformed here. • Name the people you love here. • Name the ways the Cathedral has walked with you in difficult times. After you’ve given name to all the things that you love about Christ Church, I pray you’ll return your pledge card and make your commitment to the Cathedral for 2016 as a steward of God’s love.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS Visit www.christchurchcathedral.org or call 713-222-2593 to learn more about these and other events at the Cathedral. Registration recommended
Registration required NOVEMBER 8
NOVEMBER
NOVEMBER 1 SUN All Saints’ Day Celebrating the saints and remembering the departed. Organ Recital and Evensong 4:15 and 5 p.m., in the Cathedral. Recital by organist Christopher Holman and Choral Evensong. NOVEMBER 1
Registration closed
SUN
SUN
Childcare available (3 mo. to 12 yrs.)
NOVEMBER 20–21
FRI–SAT
Youth Service Day 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Treehouse. We’ll serve Blackshear Elementary in the Third Ward.
Pre-Advent Retreat Reynolds Hall. Reflecting on Advent with Canon Bautista and Rev. O’Brien. ($)
NOVEMBER 10
NOVEMBER 20–22
TUE
FRI–SUN
Fall Neighborhood Gathering 6–7:30 p.m., home of Charlie and Mimi Prioleau.
YES and Happening Camp Allen. Diocesan spiritual retreats for 6–8th and 9–12th graders. ($)
NOVEMBER 11
NOVEMBER 22
WED
Dean’s Book Club 6:30–8 p.m., McGehee Conference Room. “Jayber Crow” by Wendell Berry. Buscando la Luz 6:30–8 p.m., Bride’s Room. Spanishlanguage discussion group. NOVEMBER 13
FRI
Game Night: Playing at Faith 6:30–9 p.m., Mellinger Room.
Speaking of Faith 6:30–8 p.m., Honeymoon Cafe, 300 Main. Downtown community discussion group on Krista Tippett’s “On Being.”
Alternative Giving Market 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Reynolds Hall. Donate in the name of loved ones to various charities and outreach programs.
WEDNESDAYS
NOVEMBER 25
Bilingual Eucharist 6–6:30 p.m., Golding Chapel. No service on Nov. 25.
WED
NOVEMBER 26–27
Bridge Night 6–9 p.m., McGehee Conference Room. Bring a dish for the potluck social. NOVEMBER 7
THU–FRI
Thanksgiving Holidays Cathedral and offices are closed.
SAT
Cathedral 20s & 30s 6:30–8 p.m., Mellinger Room. Discussion group and social gathering of young adults. Does not meet Nov. 4 or 25. Women’s Lunch Bible Study 12–1 p.m., Jeffers Conference Room. Men’s Lunch Study Group (Biweekly) 12:15–1:15 p.m., Jeffers Conference Room.
NOVEMBER 14 SAT Pub Trivia 6:30–8:30 p.m., Reynolds Hall. Enjoy a lively group trivia challenge and pub fare at this all-ages event. NOVEMBER 14
20s & 30s Brunch 10:30 a.m. Pondicheri, 2800 Kirby. ($)
20s & 30s Outing 6:30–10:30 p.m., Group outing to see HGO production of “Eugene Onegin.” ($)
Youth Saturday Hangout 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Ice at the Galleria. Skating, lunch, and shopping. ($) NOVEMBER 15
FRIDAYS Men’s Early Morning Study Group (Second and fourth Fridays) 7–8 a.m., Jeffers Conference Room.
SAT
Walk to End Alzheimer’s 9:30 a.m., Minute Maid Park.
SUN
Bishop’s Visit to Confirm Bishop Doyle will confirm new members at the 11 o’clock service.
NOVEMBER 8 SUN HGOco Veterans Songbook 7:30 p.m. Stories of Houston veterans. Conclusion to “The End of War.”
Women’s Morning Bible Study 9:30–11 a.m., Jeffers Conference Room. Does not meet Nov. 25.
THURSDAYS
FRI
Cloister Gallery Opening Reception 6–8 p.m., Reynolds Hall. Featuring photographer Alan Montgomery.
TUESDAYS
Lord of the Streets Service Day 6:15 a.m., Trinity Episcopal Church. Help cook eggs, meat and grits during a twohour breakfast shift.
NOVEMBER 6–8
NOVEMBER 6
Bible “By the Glass” 6:30–8 p.m., OKRA, 924 Congress. Fellowship and Bible study for those living and working in the urban context.
SUN
End of Daylight Saving Time Turn your clocks back one hour for fall. The End of War Weekend-long speaker series exploring theological, moral, and pastoral implications of war and war-fighting. ($)
MONDAYS (cont.)
Hebrews, James, and John(s) 7–8:15 a.m., Mellinger Room. Co-ed Bible study with Canon Art Callaham.
Thanksgiving Eve Services 6:30 p.m. in the Cathedral. With choir. 7 p.m., 1206 King St. In Spanish.
FRI–SUN
Bring a friend!
NOVEMBER 29 Advent Wreath-Making 10 a.m., Reynolds Hall.
SUN
WEEKLY SUNDAYS
Loyalty Sunday Turn in your pledge cards for 2016!
Episcopal Youth Community (EYC) 4–6 p.m., BYC. Gathering of youth for dinner, games, teaching, movies, and worship.
Germany Pilgrimage Info Session 2 p.m., Sanders Hall. Learn more about the planned 2017 trip.
The Anglican Way 6–7:30 p.m., Dean’s Conference Room. Through Nov. 8.
NOVEMBER 18
MONDAYS
Faith and Society Seminar 6:30–8 p.m., Reynolds Hall.
WED
Centering Prayer 11:15 a.m. to noon, Mellinger Room.
UPCOMING DECEMBER 4–6
FRI–SUN
Annual Parish Retreat Camp Allen. Fun and relaxing weekend for all ages. Speaker: Canon Missioner Simón Bautista. ($) DECEMBER 5
SAT
Houston Early Music Concert 7:30 p.m. in the Cathedral. The ensemble Chatham Baroque performs “Cantadas de Navidad.” ($) DECEMBER 12
SAT
Christmas at the Cathedral 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Reynolds Hall. The Cathedral family opens its doors to those in need, serving hot meals and giving gifts. PAGE 7
THE BULLETIN
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Did you know you can read The Bulletin on our website? If you’d like to go “online-only,” contact Anne Shepard at ashepard@christchurchcathedral.org or call her at 713-590-3301.
WELCOME, from cover
“And it’s easy to get to know the people. They’re so friendly that it doesn’t feel like you don’t know them.”
Spiritual Home Having sampled Episcopal services around Houston, Mousumi Franks found the Cathedral a spiritual home for her family “from the first step inside.” Churchless for the past eight years, they have fully embraced their new spiritual community. The Cathedral is a quality experience and inclusive, said Franks, a middle-school science teacher. “Everything is well done. Every program is well done. [Everyone] made us feel like they wanted us to give the Cathedral a shot.” Thus, the Franks jumped in. They pursued confirmation in the Episcopal faith, volunteered in the Lighthouse Classroom for children with special needs, and participated in Bible studies and Christian education classes. The annual parish retreat at Camp Allen was especially effective in connecting them to the community, Franks said. “You get to know people a little bit amid the weekend’s low-key structure. And it was fun. Everything we do here is always fun.” Franks now belongs to the Sunday-morning THE BULLETIN
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Welcome Team and urges fellow congregants to befriend those around them — particularly those they do not yet know. Earlier this year, Houston newcomer Doris Macsherry was looking for a church community when she ventured downtown to the Cathedral. While the teachings and preaching deeply appealed to her, she really noticed and appreciated the inclusiveness of the church, as shown in its broad spectrum of programs, offerings, and forums. As she sampled various services and activities, Macsherry met friendly, encouraging parishioners. The community is quickly becoming a second family, she said. Having recently transferred her membership from a Mississippi church, she has lately been seeking a niche where she can serve.
Just Start With Hello University of Houston student John Craver knew Dean Barkley Thompson through his church in his hometown of Chapel Hill, N.C. When he moved to Houston, the dean reached out to him, inviting him to experience the Cathedral. “I was immediately drawn in,” Craver recalls. “It astounded me how welcoming and encouraging everyone was for me to get involved.”
He now serves on the Welcome Team, as an usher, and as a member of the Welcome & Evangelism Council. Still relatively new to the congregation, Craver said he can’t always determine who’s new and who’s not. But that gives him an easy opening line to get to know those he meets. He encourages all church members to notice those around them and to reach out. “To be curious about someone else and why they are here can be a wonderful first day for a Cathedral visitor,” he said. And to newcomers, Canon Razim advises: “Make your faith a priority in your life and schedule. Individuals who become involved in at least one activity or area of ministry have a deeper connection with the church community. It is through active participation that we grow in faith and connection with God and with others.”
In the Cloister Gallery: Vocation/Avocation Houston photographer Alan Montgomery leaves the comfort of his studio behind and heads outdoors to create this series of images of the natural world.