CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL An Episcopal Community in the Heart of Houston, Texas
AUGUST 2016 CHRISTCHURCHCATHEDRAL.ORG
AFTER-HOURS EMERGENCY CARE LINE | 713-826-5332
Layering paints and prayers to produce iconography As frequent participants in the Iconography workshops offered by the Religion & the Arts Council, Jan Baker and Wick Rowland well understand that “writing” iconography is a spiritual process as well as an art form layered with symbolism. Workshop participants learn Russian-Byzantine iconography techniques developed in the 15th century. They work in egg-tempera, ground pigments, and 24-karat gold leaf. The thin layering of paint is accompanied by attention to iconographic canon and principles, including prayer and meditation. Although both women are artists, artistic ability is not necessary when participating in the workshop, which is offered at least twice a year and led by master iconographer Irene Pérez. Since the workshops meet for six full days, participation is a time commitment — one worth making, however, said several
Wick Roland at the iconography workshop.
participants at the summer session as they worked on the icon of Archangel Michael as
ICONOGRAPHY, page 6
The Angels of the At Risk Youth Program BY FRANCES KITTRELL
LEFT TO RIGHT: LINDA MURPHY, BARBARA MANLY, AND MARGOT CATER, THE THREE ORIGINAL ANGELS
Imagine you are weeks from high school graduation. Your classmates are worried about what to wear to the prom and who their dates will be, but you have more pressing concerns. You need to figure out how you will manage to stay in school until graduation. You live in a car; your single-parent, drug-addicted mother is in jail. If you can stay in school to graduate, you will be salutatorian of your class. This young woman needed an angel to step in
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Those with whom we travel The following is Dean Thompson’s reflection on the Cathedral Costa Rica Mission Trip, June 26–July 3. I’m not going to kid you: The little school in Estrada, Costa Rica, in which our Cathedral mission team worked, was hot. Add to the spiking outdoor temperature low ceilings, poor ventilation, fifty local kids, and our mission team, and the sum was an often sweltering hot box. THE VERY REV. Of course, Estrada’s BARKLEY THOMPSON children were accustomed to the heat, and our team made the best of it. But there were those in the little school who endured conditions even hotter. Each day when our team arrived at 8:30 a.m., two women — Angela and Nuria — were already in the small kitchen. They’d been there for some time, in fact. And in that space they labored each day until noon over a hot stove (yes, a hot stove on top of all other heat) chopping, mixing, stirring, and cooking the daily feast they would serve us for lunch. The menu always included freshlymade pico de gallo, rice and beans, mashed potatoes, and a different meat dish. Angela and Nuria went about their labor quietly and graciously. They never complained, and they never sought commendation. They are members of the Estrada church — volunteers — who set aside their own family duties (of which I know they had many) to extend the most incredible hospitality to us in the most inhospitable working conditions. I was awed by them, and on the last day in Estrada I did my best to use my awkward and limited Spanish to thank and bless them.
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Our Cathedral Family We celebrate with
EE New members: Howard and Karen Schneider, Traci Bennett. EE John Flanagan and Mark Shirey, who were married on May 28 in the Cathedral. EE Misty Goeddertz and Craig Rohden, who were married on July 9 in the Cathedral. EE Rachel and Warren Ellsworth on the birth of Isabel Antoinette Ellsworth on May 23.
We extend heartfelt sympathy to
EE The family of Glenn Moeller who died May 6 in Walcott, Iowa. He was the father of member William Moeller. EE The family of Marion Smith Hargrove who died June 24 in Houston, Texas. She was the mother of member Florence Hargrove Ray.
The flowers on the Cathedral Altar
EE on July 31 were given to the glory of God, in thanksgiving for Lighthouse, a special needs children’s ministry, and in honor of its faithful and loving ministers Martha Lewis, Kathy Welch, Mousumi Franks, Michelle Rosa, and Alma Triumfante by George Daponte and his family Tim, Ginnie, and Matthew. EE on August 7 are given to the glory of God in loving memory of Lee and Joe Pieringer, Steve Pieringer, Stan Pieringer, and Walter Heffler by the Pieringer family. EE on August 14 are given to the glory of God, in thanksgiving for Barbara Barnes on her birthday by Dean Barnes and Katie Barnes. EE on August 21 are given to the glory of God in loving memory of John’s mother, Martha Unger; and Kathy’s aunt, Elizabeth Doyle. EE on August 28 are given to the glory of God in thanksgiving for Dorothy Viktorin and in loving memory of Joe Viktorin and Nancy Viktorin.
The flowers in the Floor Vases
EE on July 31 were given to the glory of God and in honor of their son, Matt, graduating from law school, by Bilinda and Brian Matusek. EE on August 14 are given to the glory of God in honor of the birthdays of Murray Air and Joaquin Solares. EE on August 21 are given to the glory of God in loving memory of Wyatt and Lyman Paden, Margaret and David Flowers, and George Johnson, by the Paden family. EE on August 28 are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of her parents and grandparents by Vicki Cawley. RISK, from cover
RISK, from cover
and help — and that’s exactly what happened. The young woman graduated as salutatorian, attended the University of Houston on a full scholarship, and earned an accounting degree. Now, the part about the intervention of angels: The first Angel was a Communities in Schools volunteer who learned of the student’s struggle. The second Angel chaired the Cathedral’s Mission Outreach Council. The first Angel asked if the Council had funds to help the student, but the Council had limited money and no mechanism to move quickly enough. Perhaps these two angels were the original donors, but they didn’t stop there. THE BULLETIN
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Sunday School registration is now open KariAnn Lessner has a reminder for you: “Just as you are starting to think about the millions (okay SLIGHT exaggeration there) of back-to-school forms you’ll need to fill out in September, we’ve got a plan to get you ahead! Get it done early when it comes to Sunday School! Sign up online now at christchurchcathedral.org or come to Rally Day on Sunday, August 28 at 10 a.m. and stop by the Children’s Ministry Council. You’ll be glad you did, and we’ll be happy to see you.”
The two Angels approached acting-Dean Paul Fromberg. Could they design a ministry to help in situations like this where a little money could be dispensed quickly, money that could make a huge impact to help families with children? He told them, “Go for it.” Thus, At Risk Youth was born. Angels #1 and #2 recruited Angel #3 to break any tie decisions. All cases are referrals from experienced caseworkers and are evaluated for merit. Within one week of a request, one-time funds help families avoid eviction, keep the utilities turned on, purchase food or clothing, provide the safety net to keep crisis from leading to homelessness. Hundreds of cases later, there are six Angels
administering the At Risk Youth program. The majority of the approximately $40,000 granted each year is raised from foundations and individuals like you and me. At Risk Youth operates under the Cathedral’s 501(3)c designation. Every donated dollar is tax deductible and helps someone in need; there are no overhead costs. There is no shortage of need. If you’d like to learn more about At Risk Youth, the Angels are: Margot Cater, 713-439-0909; Barbara Manly, 713-467-1834; Linda Murphy, 713-782-1434; Margaret Gwynne, 713-668-6683; Amanda Powell, 504-669-2498; Susan Taylor, 713-855-3295
Quarterly update from the Vestry Thus far, the lazy days of summer have been anything but that at Christ Church Cathedral. Even before summer began, our May Fete celebration was, again, a huge success. Jim Hudson and the Community Life Council made a wise and swift decision to move May Fete indoors to avoid the threatening weather that was on its way. But the weather did not dampen the Spirit SENIOR WARDEN WAYNE CLAWATER or the good times inside. Thanks to Jim and all the volunteers for their work on May Fete 2016. Spring Gatherings, the Christ Church Cathedral open house events hosted by parishioners in various neighborhoods throughout Houston, occurred on four dates and in four different locations. This spring had 153 people attend for fun and fellowship. We are deeply grateful to the Spring Gathering hosts who opened their homes to their fellow parishioners. The Cathedral was well represented in a mission trip to Costa Rica. Twenty six high school students and adults (including Dean Thompson!) spent the last week of June hard at work bringing aid in construction and conducting Vacation Bible School. We are so proud of them for their good work and sacrifice for people in need. July started with a bang, even before the 4th! On July 1, the Cathedral hosted the annual preEpiscopal Night at the Ballpark with a cookout and beverages before the Astros/White Sox game. Late game heroics by the Astros brought home a huge win for our surging hometown team. Thanks to all the volunteers who helped make the night so much fun for all. The Community Life Council had another treat for Cathedral members this summer, a Learn to Play Bridge course to supplement the monthly bridge-playing group that meets at the Cathedral. Community Life is hosting a series of three sessions throughout the summer, one of which is still available, to teach this challenging and fun card game. Parishioners are encouraged to attend the next session this August 3. The Cathedral’s Building and Grounds Committee remains hard at work preserving, protecting, and beautifying our wonderful campus. In that regard, you will notice the new paint job, window treatment, and wall fabric
VESTRY, page 6
Photographs of homeless people and the items they carry with them will be displayed at the EDOT Gallery at the Diocesan Center at 1225 Texas St., through August. The items pictured belong to Ricky. In his statement, Ricky said he was born and raised Photographs of homeless people and thethat itemshethey carry with them will be displayed at the EDOT Gallery at the in Kansas, worked construction and enjoys Diocesan Center at 1225 Texas St., across the street from the Cathedral, through August. The items pictured wood working and electronics. The photographs and belong to Ricky. In his statement, Ricky said he was born and raised in Kansas, worked construction and that he portraits were doneand by Todd Parker.TheEDOT Gallery is enjoys wood working electronics. photographs and portraits were done by Todd Parker. EDOT Gallery is open Mondaythrough throughFriday, Friday, 9 a.m. 5 p.m. open Monday 9 a.m. to 5top.m.
The humanity of the homeless The homeless are an enigma to most of homeless. A number of Cathedral memus. We don’t understand those mysterious bers participate in this ministry not only people who stand on the street corners, financially, but also by helping prepare and sleep on the sidewalks, or beg for money at serve the noon meal, working in the launthe gas pumps of the corner store. dry, and assisting registration. They are the ones we don’t want to I often urge our guests (clients) see, hear, or even smell as we move to worship at the Cathedral. Many about town. To attempt to underof them return to tell me how welstand them, we resort to stereotypicome the felt and how much they cal identifiers such as addicts, alcoenjoyed the services. In my daily holics, under-educated, or mentally meditations, I often say that the ill. However, many street people THE REV. JIM Cathedral’s support of The Beacon MORGAN defy such over-simplified labels. CHAPLAIN Many are articulate people who AT THE BEACON and the members’ participation in the daily activities are outward and could hold their own at social gathvisible signs of God’s love and care erings anywhere in the city. Some for the homeless men, women, and chilare published authors, musicians, artists, or athletes. A few are veterans who are unable dren who come to The Beacon. to navigate that system. They all have hopes As we view the homeless on our streets, and dreams, likes and dislikes. They enjoy let us not forget the words of Jesus in John happiness and sorrow. A great many ex- 13:34, “I give you a new commandment, press a profound sense of grief over the loss that you love one another” — even those of family and friends. Some are full of great puzzling people of the streets. faith, while others voice anger at God and faith systems. As diverse as this population This year’s Come to the Table gala event on might be, we can affirm one truth about all Thursday, September 22, at The Beacon will of them: they are all children of God and feature dinner prepared by a dazzling array our sisters and brothers in Christ. of Houston culinary talent. Event co-chairs Our Baptismal Covenant urges us to Judy and Charles Tate have planned an respect the dignity of every human being and to seek and serve Christ in all people, amazing evening including a cocktail reserving our neighbor as ourselves. At The ception, a live auction, and a seated fourBeacon, we try to do that through our mul- course dinner prepared in the very kitchen tiple programs. Christ Church Cathedral that serves hundreds of Houston’s homeless manifests a passion for outreach through each day. Last year’s event sold out quickthe sponsorship of this place of refuge, ly. Tickets and tables are available now at safety, service, and provision for Houston’s www.beaconhomeless.org. PAGE 3
THE BULLETIN
Vigil of Lament and Hope, Pride Parade, Costa Rica Mission Trip, and more
IN PICTURES
Above: Integrity Houston and the Episcopal Church in the Pride Parade. Right: Summer Shade working at the Houston Furniture Bank.
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Right: The Rt. deacons, he
Below:
. Rev. C Andrew Doyle at the ordination of nine eld at Christ Church Cathedral; photo by Mark Johnson Photography
: At the Vigil of Lament and Hope following the Orlando shootings; photo by Kelsey Johnson.
Above: Christ Church Cathedral Mission Trip missioners at the church in Estrada. Left: Meredith Canada and Shirley Bludau at the pre-game cookout for Episcopal Night at the Ballpark. PAGE 5
THE BULLETIN
ICONOGRAPHY, from cover
the Angel of Revelation. While Baker and Rowland are recurring participants who continue their icon-writing beyond the workshop, first-timer Sonia Kurian took a few days off from her job as a business analyst to attend. Long fascinated by iconography, she wanted to learn more of its depth and meaning as well as how to write one. Baker, an artist who typically works in oils, has written nearly a dozen icons since attending her first workshop here about eight years ago. Her first exposure to iconography was 30 years ago when she experienced an exhibition at the Cathedral by a Russian priest. She sought out master instructor Pérez, who follows the Prosopon School of Iconology, as does Baker. Rowland, meanwhile, came to iconography
having been handed a flyer eight years ago. “I tried it and found I just had to keep doing it.” The pursuit has also included her learning more about Orthodoxy. Her iconography has become something she writes on commission as well as for personal satisfaction. “It’s a contemplative activity. Your head has to be in the right place to work on it,” she said. A “liturgical art form,” iconography uses a “system of symbolic language to reveal the Truth expressed in the Gospels,” according to Pérez on her artistry website www.iconarts.com.
Instruction and introspection Workshops at the Cathedral begin each day with a “Prayer Before Writing an Icon.” Its verses seek cleansing of the soul, forgiveness, and protection, and ask for guidance to “worthily and perfectly portray” the icon and
saints “for the glory, joy, and adornment” of the Church. Orthodox liturgy acknowledges iconography in the church as the physical presence of the saints they represent, Pérez explained. This is unlike their more decorative role in non-Orthodox churches or in homes. Regardless, each image’s components have symbolic meanings. In layering the halo, for example, the process begins with a thin application of clay beneath the gold leaf to convey both humanity and divinity. Color choices also convey meanings. Red is divine life. Blue is human life. Messengers have wings, and so forth. Thus, icons are written and can be read as well as appreciated for their beauty. Rowland said the semantics of “writing” vs. “painting” an icon are due to translation from Greek as well as the art form’s tradition. During the most recent workshop, Pérez worked individually with some of the participants on the process of a spiral in the image, which represents the movement of an angelic mind toward the center. The icon writers learned that creating the image’s spiral required them to stop their linear thinking, concentrate, and refocus on the core — as in “cut things unimportant out of your life,” she said. When she cut corners, the icon gained bursts of light, expressed as luminous facets of a glowing, underlying layer. Different religions and denominations vary on their use and acceptance of imagery in church, Rowland said. She is coordinator of the icon program, offered by the Religion & the Arts Council, which explores ways in which the arts, music, and worship touch the human spirit. “We offer these workshops to provide a creative outlet that is spiritual, practical, and beautiful,” she said. The next Icongraphy workshop will be in the fall.
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Explore new worlds on Rally Day Rally Day at the Cathedral is just around the corner. Join us on Sunday, August 28, during the 10 o’clock hour in Reynolds Hall to explore how God might be calling to you to learn and grow in faith in the coming year. This year’s theme is “Destinations.” Each of the more than 30 ministries will represent a country for you to visit – and we will have a passport to make it fun. No TSA or jetlag, we promise. Volunteers will be able to connect you with helpful information, treats, and neat activities. Register for Sunday School, pick up calendars for youth ministry, and learn about new initiatives and programs that will help you deepen your engagement with your faith and your community. THE BULLETIN
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in Reynolds Hall. In addition, the installation of the Cathedral’s new fire protection/sprinkler system is scheduled to be completed by the end of July. Charlie Prioleau and the rest of the B&G Committee are to be commended for their hard work and dedication. Summer Place happens every Sunday between the 9 o’clock and 11 o’clock services. Vicki Cawley continues her amazing work heading up the Mission and Ministry Committee to make this and so many other things possible. Thanks to Vicki for all she does in service to the Cathedral. Have a great summer and see you at Rally Day — August 28!
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
THIS MONTH AUGUST 3
WED
Learn to Play Bridge 6:30–8:30 p.m., McGehee Conference Room. Learn the basics on how to play bridge. AUGUST 5
FRI
20s & 30s Lunch 12 p.m. at The Shops at Houston Center, 1200 McKinney St. Cloister Gallery Opening Reception 6–8 p.m., Reynolds Hall. Featuring City ArtWorks instructor works on view until Tuesday, August 16. Bridge Night 6–9 p.m., McGehee Conference Room. Bring a dish for the potluck social. AUGUST 6
SAT
Picnic en el Parque 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., The Fannin Pavilion in Hermann Park. Say hello, play games, and enjoy the “parrillada” (barbecue).
Registration closed
Costa Rica Fundraiser Luncheon 1 p.m., Reynolds Hall. To benefit Mission Santiago, where our missioners worked in Costa Rica. $5 AUGUST 18
SAT
20s & 30s Outing 6–9 p.m., Market Square. Blanket Bingo. AUGUST 19
AUGUST 12
SUN
Compline and Pajamas 7:30–8:30 p.m., Terry Hershey Park. A series of evening prayers invites families to come together and experience some of the city’s natural world attractions. AUGUST 13
SAT
Entrenamiento de Acólitos Laico, Lectores 9—11:30 a.m., Cathedral. Entrenamiento y actividades para la toda la familia. AUGUST 14
SUN
20s & 30s Brunch 1 p.m., Weights and Measures, 2808 Caroline St.
Bilingual Wednesday Eucharist 6–6:30 p.m., Golding Chapel. FRIDAYS Men’s Early Morning Study Group (Second and fourth Fridays) 7–8 a.m., Jeffers Conference Room.
Integrity Service 7–9 p.m., Golding Chapel and McGehee Conference Room. AUGUST 28
Lord of the Streets (LOTS) 6:15 a.m., Trinity Episcopal Church,1015 Holman St. Cook/serve breakfast to people who attend LOTS Episcopal Church.
WEEKLY SUNDAYS
Historia e Identidad 3–4 p.m., McGehee Conference Room. Un curso para todos que quisieran profundizar su entendimiento de la iglesia.
SEPTEMBER 4 SUN Popsicles and Pop-Up Practices 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Reynolds Hall. Take five minutes to refresh, relax, re-center, and reconnect.
Women’s Bible Study (First and third Wednesdays) 9:30–11 a.m., Jeffers Conference Room.
Sunday School Classes Begin 10 a.m. Christian education classes begin for children and youth.
SEPTEMBER 7
WED
THURSDAY
Mourner’s Path 6:30–8 p.m., Mellinger Room. First class of weekly workshop to offer longterm spiritual comfort for those who mourn. SEPTEMBER 16
FRI
St. Martin-in-the-FieldsConcert 7:30 p.m., Cathedral. Choral concert by St. Martin’s Voices. SEPTEMBER 18
UPCOMING
SUN
J. Pittman McGehee, guest preacher 9 and 11 a.m. services.
Dean’s Book Club 6:30–8 p.m., McGehee Conference Room. The Map that Changed the World by Simon Winchester.
Invitation Sunday Welcome your neighbors, friends, and loved ones to church.
SEPTEMBER 9–11
Come to the Table Annual fundraiser and gala dinner in support of The Beacon featuring Houston’s top chefs. Tickets and underwriting opportunities are now available. ($)
FRI–SUN
YES and Happening Camp Allen. Diocesan spiritual retreats for 6–8th and 9–12th graders. ($)
SEPTEMBER 22
SEPTEMBER 25
THU
SUN
EMC Kickoff Dinner Save the date for our annual Every Member Canvass dinner and performance. Tickets go on sale in September. ($)
Centering Prayer 11:15 a.m. to noon, Mellinger Room.
WEDNESDAYS
Guest Preacher 8, 9, 11 a.m. services. The Rev. Daniel P. Matthews, Rector Emeritus at Trinity Wall St. in New York, will preach on the 15th anniversary of 9/11.
SEPTEMBER 15
MONDAYS
Bible “By the Glass” 6:30–8 p.m., OKRA, 924 Congress. Bible study for those living and working in the urban context. No prior knowledge or experience required.
SUN
EYC (Episcopal Youth Community) 4–6 p.m., Ballard Youth Center.
SUN
Rally Day 10–11 a.m., Reynolds Hall. Fun activities for all ages as we celebrate and explore the Cathedral’s ministries.
Bring a friend!
SEPTEMBER 11
FRI
Summer Place 10 a.m., Reynolds Hall. Fellowship hour with refreshments hosted by ministries and councils of the Cathedral. Aug. 7, Children’s Ministry Council; Aug. 14, Jerusalem Peace Builders and Mission Outreach Council/Episcopal Relief & Development; Aug. 21, The Hines Center. AUGUST 10 WED Summer Documentary Night 6–8:30 p.m. A viewing of “For the Bible Tells Me So.” This awardwinning film explores the spiritual conflict some LGBT persons experience within the context of their own religious beliefs.
Childcare available (3 mo. to 10 yrs.)
SEPTEMBER 11 SUN New Celtic Contemplative Eucharist, “The Well,” Premiere 5 p.m., Cathedral. Drawing inspiration and music from the Celtic tradition, this new worship service focuses on prayer, silence, meditation and grace. The Well is an initiative of our Vision Action Plan, “A Future Filled with Hope.”
During the summer
THE CATHEDRAL BOOKSTORE will be closed on weekdays and open on Sundays from 8:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
SEPT. 11 TO OCT. 9 SUNDAYS Fiestas Patrias Cathedral. Will spotlight different dance groups, music, and organizations starting at the 1 p.m. service in Spanish on Sept. 11 and 18 and Oct. 2 and 9. The latter concludes with a dance party of varied music, featuring Alfredo Mendez and his group. PAGE 7
THE BULLETIN
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1117 Texas Avenue Houston, Texas 77002-3183
PERMIT No. 6404
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.
Connect with the Cathedral — right in your neighborhood in Terry Hershey Park The people of Christ Church Cathedral have PICNIC EN EL on August 12th, which done an amazing job of PARQUE provides a time for embodying the verse, Saturday, people of all ages to en“God is in the midst of August 6 counter a contemplathe city” (Psalm 46:5). Hermann Park tive connection with And while the cathethe city around them. dral’s campus is thriving On Saturday, October COMPLINE & and vibrant with numer- PAJAMAS 1, spend an afternoon ous opportunities for without electronics in a Friday, activity and engagement, August 12 neighborhood near you there is still an increas- Terry Hershey Park as part of the upcoming ing effort to bring people program: Cathedral UNtogether where they live and help PLUGGED. And of course, don’t them experience God outside the forget to keep an eye on the mail walls of the church. The Cathedral already has for your invitation to this year’s developed several ways to par- Fall Gatherings, intimate dinners ticipate in God’s work in the com- in Cathedral members’ homes — munity. Get outdoors with Latin all throughout Houston. Have an idea to bring the Cacongregation members in Hermann Park as they host Picnic thedral into your own neighboren el Parque on Saturday, August hood? Get in touch with Karen 6th. Join Compline and Pajamas Kraycirik at 713-590-3338. THE BULLETIN
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In the Cloister Gallery: Annual City ArtWorks Show
through August 16 This year’s show will feature the diverse artwork of the City ArtWorks’ instructors. City ArtWorks, a nonprofit arts education organization founded in 1982, annually provides after-school art classes.
TRAVEL, from cover On the first night of our mission trip, I offered Matthew 10:5–14 as a meditation for our mission team. The passage tells of Jesus sending the disciples out into the Galilean countryside to spread the Good News. Jesus counsels the disciples not to encumber their travel with things like money, extra clothes, and other extraneous items. Jesus also tells the disciples not to worry overly much about what they accomplish. Rather, the disciples’ emphasis is to be upon those with whom they travel, upon their companionship with one another as well as those they meet along the way. Jesus’ counsel to his disciples is also apt for the Cathedral Costa Rica mission team. Surely, we did good work. The Estrada school now has a concrete sidewalk and septic system as the tangible fruits of our labor. But much more importantly, our missioners walked along side one another in faith. On our last evening together in Costa Rica, I overheard one missioner say to another, “I love you, because you’re my brother-in-Christ.” Indeed. I also love two saints in an overheated Estrada kitchen, alongside whom we traveled for a week, and who showed us with quiet grace, in actions and through sumptuous food, the Good News of Jesus Christ.