December 2012 Prayer & Action

CATHEDRAL OUTREACH I THEOLOGY ON TAP I FROM THE DEACON

Prayer & Action Making Room for Christ

www.ccclex.org

ADVENT & CHRISTMAS 2012 A full listing of all events during the Advent and Christmas seasons

DECEMBER/12

Christ Church Cathedral 覺 Lexington, Kentucky

A PICTURE OF THE HEAVENLY BANQUET Stewardship recaps the Gatherings and Harvest Dinner

A Parish of

Prayer & Action Prayer & Action I December 2012 Dean & Rector ɪ The Very Rev. Carol L. Wade > cwade@ccclex.org Associate Dean ɪ The Rev. Brent Owens > bowens@ccclex.org Curate ɪ The Rev. Joe Mitchell > jmitchell@ccclex.org Deacon ɪ The Rev. Paula L. Ott > paula@ccclex.org Canon Musician ɪ Canon Erich Balling > eballing@ccclex.org Music Assistant ɪ Kathleen Balling > kballing@ccclex.org Assistant Organist ɪ Lisa Hall > lhall@ccclex.org Minister of Christian Formation ɪ Dr. Elizabeth Conrad > elizabeth@ccclex.org Youth Ministry Coordinator ɪ Amanda Musterman-Kiser > amusterman@ccclex.org Nursery Coordinator ɪ Michelle Dunlap > mdunlap@ccclex.org

The Ordination of

WILLIAM DOUGLAS HAHN as the Seventh Bishop of the

EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF LEXINGTON Saturday, the Fifteenth of December In the Year of Our Lord Two thousand twelve Eleven o’clock in the morning

CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY

A light reception to follow in the Great Hall.

Parish Administrator ɪ Lesa Schoner Wehrle > lschoner@ccclex.org Financial Assistant ɪ Bob Lancaster > blancaster@ccclex.org Parish Secretary ɪ Margaret Christensen > mchristensen@ccclex.org Publications Coordinator & Webmaster ɪ Ashley Goodrich > agoodrich@ccclex.org Facilities Manager ɪ John Hodgman > jhodgman@ccclex.org Sexton ɪ Brownell Haddix Vestry C.B. Baize ɪ Chuck Baldecchi ɪ Nancy Bogue ɪ John Brice, Junior Warden ɪ Cissy Collins ɪ Sherry Ferguson ɪ Doug Geddes ɪ Tom Howard ɪ Diane Milburn ɪ Gary Stewart ɪ Carolyn Ware ɪ Jim Ware, Senior Warden ɪ Marc Mathews, Treasurer

WANT TO WRITE FOR US? GREAT! Prayer & Action is published

by Christ Church Cathedral seasonally throughout the year. DEADLINES: For the January issue, the deadline for announcements, photos and articles is December 15 at noon. Email is preferred.

TO SUBSCRIBE If you wish to receive this publication via email, or to unsubscribe from church publications, please email agoodrich@ccclex.org. To sign up to receive Prayer & Action by mail, please call 254-4497, Ext. 106.

INQUIRIES? Please address correspondence to Ashley Goodrich, c/o Christ Church Cathedral, 166 Market Street, Lexington, Kentucky 40507 or email agoodrich@ ccclex.org.

DECEMBER PRAYER God of all hope and joy, prepare us in heart and mind for the coming of our Savior; make us eager with expectation as we await the fulfillment of your promise. Grant that we may be ready, and this prayer be on our lips: Come, Lord Jesus. In Christ’s name we pray.

NEED PRAYER? Contact Margaret Christensen, Parish Secretary, at the church if you or a family member is admitted to the hospital or in need of congregational care. For the Prayer Chain, call Loys Mather, 299-8569, or the church office.

ABOUT THE COVER The choir sings at Christmas Eve 2011.

THE MISSION OF CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL To restore all persons to unity with God and one another in Christ Jesus, through prayer, worship, proclamation of the Gospel, and the promotion of Justice, Peace and Love.

OFFICE HOURS Monday - Friday

8:30am - 4:30pm

PASTORAL EMERGENCY 494-5609

166 Market Street Lexington, Kentucky 40507 www.ccclex.org 859-254-4497

CONTENTS

December 12 / ccclex.org

Making Room for Christ

4

Stewardship

6

Theology on Tap

8

From the Associate Dean

9

Art at the Cathedral

10

Music Notes

11

Advent & Christmas 2012

12

Episcopal Campus Ministry

14

From the Deacon

15

Cathedral Outreach

17

Theology on Tap

18

Cathedral Kidz

19

Cathedral Outreach

20

Music Notes

21

Bulletin Board

22

Birthdays

23

Making Room for Christ

By The Very Reverend Carol L. Wade

H

ow will you make room for Christ?

Preparation, expectation and hope are the themes of Advent, the four weeks leading to Christmas. John the Baptist, who foretells the coming of the Messiah, cries out to prepare the way for the Lord. Mary’s visitation by the Angel Gabriel creates an air of expectancy. When Mary learns that she will bear the Christ child, her “yes” is our yes to make room for Christ’s presence in our lives and God’s hope for healing in our world.

For some of us, this season is a time of joy. We eagerly anticipate festive gatherings with family and friends, sharing gifts and time away from our daily routine. For others it is a time of disquiet. We anxiously anticipate a first Christmas without a loved one, or worry about our ability to buy gifts or provide comfort for those in sickness or need. Whatever our situation, the season of Advent affords a time to make room for God’s humble coming among us in the gift of Christ.

When Christ makes his humble home in our hearts, we are also called to make room for others.

The gift of Advent is a call to explore the inner chambers of our lives and the shared spaces of our world as a way of making room for Christ to come among us. We anticipate the wonder of God being birthed more deeply into our lives, and we hope for the coming of God’s reign of peace and justice as we meet Christ among those whom we serve daily in our world.

In a season where expectation can turn to frenzy, a practice of daily prayer is never more needed.

We can create space to begin our day in prayer, even if it is only enough time to pause and say, “Thank you, God, I am grateful for the very

air I breathe today.” Perhaps you can slow down enough to read a bit of scripture, or some short devotional material, or just sit quietly in the presence of God. Then commit to carrying one blessed thought into the day. When our hearts are shaped by quiet gratitude, there is always room for Christ.

The season of Advent at Christ Church Cathedral is shaped to create abundant room for God with us. There is beloved music, meaningful worship and quiet days for contemplation. There are opportunities for friendship

Invite a friend to experience the beauty of Christmas Eve at Christ Church Cathedral.

and service with others, and learning and growing in Christ. Most of all, Advent at Christ Church is time to be one with God, each other and the world God so loves as we prepare to celebrate the Nativity of Christ.

One of the truly significant ways in which we can make room for Christ this year is by inviting a friend or neighbor to attend a Christmas Eve service at Christ Church Cathedral. When Christ makes his humble home in our hearts, we are also called to make room for others.

To invite someone to experience the joy and holiness of Christma Eve is to give a gift beyond compare.

In fact, one of the most important ways our Cathedral is making room for Christ this year is by adding a third service of Holy Eucharist to our Christmas Eve offerings, which are 2pm, 5pm and 11pm. Last year we found that we were so full that some people were turned away. A third service will make ample room for all. All three services include Holy Eucharist and the traditional carols of the season, and the additional service at 2:00pm will include a pageant for children. What a wonderful opportunity these three services provide for each of us to invite a friend or neighbor to experience the beauty of Christmas Eve at Christ Church Cathedral.

I wish you a blessed Advent, and in this season of preparation, expectation and hope, may our Advent yearning find fulfillment as we make room for the wondrous gift of Christ.

With Blessings, Carol+ CCCLEX.ORG / 5

STEWARDSHIP

A Picture of the Heavenly Banquet

By Chuck Baldecchi & Anne Garrett

I

t is said that a picture is worth a thousand words.

The images on these pages and throughout this edition of Prayer & Action speak volumes about God’s work through Christ Church Cathedral. These images and the stories of God’s action in the world through our many parishioners are a witness to the Cathedral’s mission to restore all persons to unity with God and one another in Jesus Christ, through prayer, worship, proclamation of the Gospel, and the promotion of Justice, Peace and Love.

These photos of the Harvest Dinner show the celebration of our stewardship commitments. To commit our lives and labor to God is indeed an act of spiritual devotion. This stewardship season, we have given consideration to how everything we have, even our very breath each morning, is a gift from God. We have had prayerful conversations asking what percentage of our income God is calling us to give for God’s work through Christ Church Cathedral. We have reflected on how offering a portion of our life and labor back to God blesses God’s work in the world, and in turn blesses us. In giving to God first by pledging a percentage of our income for God’s work through the Cathedral, we practice two important characteristics of biblical givers: our faithful giving nurtures our life together in Christ, and we make a difference in this city and in the world beyond.

6 / PRAYER AND ACTION_DECEMBER 12

These images also declare the faithfulness and generosity of the many parishioners of Christ Church Cathedral. The Stewardship Committee gives thanks for the bountiful and generous response this year. Our act of pledging to God’s work through Christ Church Cathedral is an act of faith by which the Cathedral then can shape its mission for the coming year. The Stewardship Committee is very grateful for the many parishioners who have pledged. If you have not pledged, the Stewardship Committee invites you to prayerfully consider a commitment for 2013. The follow-up to our stewardship season has begun, and if you have not yet pledged, please be open to a conversation with a Vestry or Stewardship volunteer when you are contacted.

When you see these pictures and read these stories, what is it that comes to mind? Could it be a glimpse of the heavenly banquet? We think so. Ϯ

W

ith grateful hearts we give thanks for the faithful and generous response in stewardship.

At our fall gatherings parishioners told their stories of answering God’s call in the many ways we share our time, talent, and treasure. A common thread in these stories is the transformative power of answering God’s call. Another theme that emerged in our fall gatherings is the energy and excitement of all the wonderful things happening in our lives together at Christ Church Cathedral. At the Harvest Dinner we gave thanks in prayer and song for these blessings and more.

Behold how good and pleasant it is when brothers and sisters live and worship and serve and eat and sing together in unity.

Psalm 133

Thank you to all for attending these events and for using your unique talents to make them so enjoyable. You make Christ Church a special place! The many people who worked on these events are listed on the stewardship tab on our website.

CCCLEX.ORG / 7

FROM THE ASSOCIATE DEAN

Before and After

By The Reverend Brent Owens

M

any of us are parents. Some are grandparents or even great-grandparents.

But even if you don’t have children, you probably have close friends who have kids. Here’s the thing about having children – there’s always a time that is before kids and after kids. When Malinda was pregnant, friends with children told us our lives would change. Our response was, “Yeah, no kidding.” But they said, “No, your lives will really change, and you really don’t understand what we mean.”

We really didn’t understand. Everything was different after Jillian was born. Our little white Toyota Corolla seemed a lot smaller and less safe. As we drove away from the hospital, I was a little terrified and thought, “What do we do with this baby now?” Simple things like going out to dinner became very complicated. Our priorities changed.

Our friends were absolutely right – we had no idea how much our lives would change.

Even though God is our creator, theologians say that it wasn’t until Jesus was born and lived a fully human life that God fully experienced what it is to be human. If this is the case, then maybe God didn’t know what it was like to actually be a parent until the birth of Jesus. Was God nervous or worried when Mary’s water broke? Did God’s priorities change after Jesus was born? I wonder about these things because after your baby is born things are never the same again.

The story of Jesus’ birth tells me that God was thinking ahead just as a parent would (Luke 2:1-20). First is where Jesus would be born. Emperor Augustus decreed that everyone should be registered for tax purposes, 8 / PRAYER AND ACTION_DECEMBER 12

which puts Mary and Joseph in Joseph’s hometown at Jesus’ birth. This fulfills the prophecy from the Old Testament book of Micah that the Messiah would be from Bethlehem, hometown of King David, a distant relative of Joseph’s. Emperors, governments and laws can serve the purposes of God, even without knowing it. God was working behind the scenes, ever the good parent, to arrange for Jesus to be born in the right place.

Then there’s the manger. From our modern perspective of hospital birthing suites, giving birth in a barn isn’t exactly our first choice. But Bethlehem was a backwater town with perhaps only a few homes willing to take in travelers. The manger would have been a far more private, protected and secluded place for the birth of Jesus than a one-room peasant house full of strangers.

What do we do after the birth of our children? We send out birth announcements, right? So does God. God sends an angel who appears to the shepherds to make the birth announcement. But why announce the Messiah’s birth to lowly shepherds? God emphasizes Jesus’ connection with King David, who was once a shepherd and was considered to be the shepherd of the flock of Israel. And God graphically shows that Jesus is being sent to the lowly and the outcasts. Then the heavenly host of angels sings: “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” This isn’t just good news to a few that God favors. In fact a closer translation is: “on earth peace among all humankind, with whom God is pleased.” God is pleased with all of us and the good news of Jesus.

God is now a parent. After the Messiah is born, nothing is the same. Ϯ

ART AT THE CATHEDRAL

Encouraging Creativity

By Jesse Mark

C

arole Constantino, the new Community Representative for Art-at-theCathedral, visited 33 (out of 40) galleries to observe the November visual art scene for our leadership.

She provided insight into the ambiance of the setting as well as the kind of art and the observed attendance. We appreciate her energy and dedication in visiting so many galleries. The Cathedral Art Committee will take her observations into consideration as we plan the upcoming year.

November Gallery Hop was a significant event in that this was our first working relationship with the art classes at The Lexington School, where visual arts are an integral part of the curriculum. "The school strives to instill confidence in self-expression and a lifelong appreciation of art," says Cissy Hamilton, art instructor for the fourth through sixth grades; "from preschool through eighth grade, students are exposed to a multifaceted program encouraging creativity and age-appropriate art skills." Cissy's class did the pottery and felt pen drawings.

Sallye Staley led the sixth-graders in their study of the “American Gothic,

2012.” The class also painted autumn trees and demonstrated their drawing skills with their fashion statement about "Shoes."

Advent Fair again offered CCC children an opportunity to paint large paintings with the guidance of skilled painters Guy Ellis and Cate Wagoner, accompanied by her granddaughter Phoebe. (See page 19.)

Guy's little guys painted the robes of Jesus and the scribes in the temple scene when Jesus was 12, a familiar Epiphany scene. Cate and Phoebe led the children in painting sheep on the hillside and the garbs of the shepherds. These paintings will be shown during Epiphany-tide in January along with the other murals painted by previous generations of children here at Christ Church. Ϯ

CCCLEX.ORG / 9

MUSIC NOTES

Advent & Christmas Cathedral Music

By Canon Erich Balling

D

uring the month of December, the Cathedral will swell with the sounds of glorious music!

Here is a brief listing of worship and concert opportunities. These offerings promise to fill your heart and mind with expectation and joy as we begin our Advent journey and welcome the birth of Christ on Christmas.

• Friday, December 7 at 7:30pm. Handel’s Messiah with The Lexington Baroque Ensemble, the Cathedral Choir and guest soloists. A Lexington tradition for 22 years, the performance is considered by many to be the best in the city. Tickets are $15, $25 and $35. To purchase go to www.ccclex.org or call 254-4497, Ext. 108.

• Friday, December 21 at noon. A Ceremony of Carols

by Benjamin Britten, performed by the Cathedral Girls Choir and harp. The concert is free and open to all.

• Sunday, December 23 at 7:00 pm. A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. The Cathedral Choir sings seasonal carols and Scripture readings are read in a service that celebrates the Christmas message.

This service is annually broadcast over National Public Radio.

Come early to reserve your seat as this service is often full. No tickets required. Childcare is

available upon request. Please email Michelle Dunlap, Nursery Coordinator, at mdunlap@ ccclex.org.

• Monday, December 24 at 2:00pm. A Christmas Eve Pageant for children of all ages. Come discover the story of Christmas. The pageant is free and open to the public.

At 4:30pm. Preludes of the season, followed by Lessons & Carols with Eucharist at 5:00pm with the Cathedral Girls Choir. This service includes many familiar and well loved carols.

At 10:30pm. Preludes of Christmas sung by the combined Cathedral choirs, including traditional carols for choir and congregation. Festival Eucharist at 11:00pm with the combined Cathedral choirs. This service includes many familiar and well loved carols. Ϯ

CCCLEX.ORG / 11

Advent e

2012

Christmas By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness..., to guide our feet into the way of peace.’ (Luke 1:79)

Molly Bolton, Wake Forest MDiv ‘14

Advent & Christmas Events Books & Beliefs Tuesday, December 4 10:00am 2521 Pascoli Place A Pearl in the Storm

A Ceremony of Carols Friday, December 21 Noon with the Cathedral Girls Choir Elaine Cook, Harp

G.F. Handel's Messiah Concert Friday, December 7 7:30pm with The Lexington Baroque Ensemble, the Cathedral Choir and Guest Soloists

A Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols Sunday, December 23 7:00pm with the Cathedral Choir Reception to follow in the Great Hall

Tickets on sale at the Welcome Center or www.ccclex.org.

Advent Quiet Day Saturday, December 8 10:00am - 2:00pm Meditations with Cathedral Clergy Sign up at the Welcome Center.

Episcopal Church Women Christmas Luncheon Tuesday, December 11 11:00am Tilford Room

A special Christmas luncheon, provided by our own Bibie Cook, will be held in the Tilford Room at Christ Church Cathedral with uniquely decorated tables created by ECW members. $10/person

Lessons & Carols at St. Augustine's Chapel Thursday, December 13 7:00pm 472 Rose Street

The Episcopal Campus Ministry, together with the Ignite (Lutheran) and Chi Alpha (Pentecostal) Campus Ministries, will be hosting a Service of Lessons and Carols at St. Augustine's Chapel at UK. Join us as we hear the message of the angels and sing carols of praise. A light reception will follow. For more information, contact The Rev. Joe Mitchell (jmitchell@ ccclex.org).

Consecration of Bishop-Elect Doug Hahn Saturday, December 15 11:00am Christ Church Cathedral

Christmas Eve Services Monday, December 24 2:00pm Christmas Eve Pageant with Holy Communion

A Christmas Eve Pageant for children of all ages.

Come discover the story of Christmas. The pageant is free and open to the public. Costumes provided - wear a white shirt. Shepherds, bring a bathrobe.

Questions? Contact Elizabeth Conrad at elizabeth@ ccclex.org. Reception to follow.

5:00pm Candlelight Carols with Holy Communion

This service includes many familiar and well-loved carols. Preludes of Christmas begins at 4:30pm.

Reception to follow the service.

11:00pm Festival Holy Communion

Festival Holy Communion with the combined Cathedral choirs. This service includes many familiar and well loved carols. Preludes of Christmas begins at 10:30pm.

Christmas Day Eucharist Tuesday, December 25 10:00am Youth: A New Year in the Spirit December 27-30 Cathedral Domain

For Grades 7-12. Join us for winter camp as we reflect on where God has been in 2012, and where God is calling us to be in 2013. Lots of singing, dancing, fun and games as well.

Reception to follow in the Great Hall

CCCLEX.ORG / 13

EPISCOPAL CAMPUS MINISTRY

Sharing a Space While Meeting with Christ

By The Reverend Joe Mitchell

D

uring this season of Advent we look with hopeful expectation to God being born once again in our lives. The Christ child of Bethlehem offers hope for a new world, a world where divisions may cease and the light of God may

shine.

In celebration of this hope the Episcopal Campus Ministry will be hosting an inter-denominational service of lessons and carols at St. Augustine’s Chapel (472 Rose Steet) on Thursday, December 13, at 7:00pm.

Joining the ECM will be the Ignite (Lutheran) Campus Ministry and the Chi Alpha (Pentecostal) Campus Ministry.

Over the past year the two groups have shared St. Augustine’s with the ECM, but there has been little in the way of common worship or fellowship time.

“I think it is wonderful that we are all coming together for this service,” said The Rev. Barry Neese, campus minister for Ignite. “This is our opportunity to show that the different members of the Body of Christ are truly united.”

The service will be led by ministers and students of the three different campus ministries. Dr. Schuyler Robinson, member of Christ Church Cathedral and professor of music at the University of Kentucky, will play the organ. Meanwhile, members of Chi Alpha’s praise band will also be leading some of the music.

...we get a glimpse of the welcome we shall receive in God’s Kingdom.

14 / PRAYER AND ACTION_DECEMBER 12

“Our kids are really excited to take part in this service,” added The Rev. Todd Yates of Chi Alpha. “We’ve wanted to do something together for a long time, and now we have the chance.”

It is far too easy for members of a particular church or faith community to become insular, focusing solely on their own growth and spiritual needs. However, this Adventtide invites us to see things differently, to see the unifying power of a little baby born to a poor family. Christ calls us to be united in Him, and as we continue to offer Christ’s abundant welcome by opening St. Augustine’s doors and sharing its space, we get a glimpse of the welcome we shall receive in God’s Kingdom.

So join us on December 13 for this wonderful evening when we hear once more the message of the angels, as we travel together to Bethlehem, and we find the living Christ in one another. Ϯ

FROM THE DEACON

Waiting for Hee-Haw

By The Reverend Paula Ott

W

hen I was growing up, it was a tradition for my mother, my grandmother, my sister and me to take the bus into downtown Cincinnati the day after Thanksgiving in order to see all the beautiful Christmas window displays and decorations. It was as if something magical had descended over downtown while all of Cincinnati was at home watching the Thanksgiving Day parade and football games as we stuffed ourselves on turkey with all its trimmings, sides and desserts. I recall being all dressed up, complete with hat on my head and new white gloves on my hands. We’d go eat lunch at Hathaway’s Cafeteria, my favorite eating place as a child, and then venture over to the Netherland Hilton Hotel to see its Art Deco architecture decked out in garlands of greenery and brightly colored ornaments. I made my annual pilgrimage to see Santa Claus, remembering to tell him all the wonderful things I had done since I had lasted visited him. Each year I told him what I wanted for Christmas and each year, when my family visited good friends on Christmas Eve for dinner and gifts, Santa more or less came through just as he promised he would.

During the Christmas season, my parents would let me let me don my newest most beautifully decorated

I was indeed in love with Christmas, but for all the wrong reasons.

red dress and good black patent leather shoes so that I could go “work” at my father’s store. My job was to help make big red and green bows and cut Scotch tape in order to assist the woman who did the Christmas gift wrapping at the back counter of the store.

Those Saturdays, I got to start my day with breakfast, just me with my dad, at the bakery next door to his store--a doughnut and all the hot chocolate I wanted to drink. I hardly slept the night before because I would be so excited about going to breakfast/work with my dad. I loved hearing the Christmas music that played in the shopping center and delighted in seeing Santa everywhere I looked. Between all the Christmas arts and crafts projects and Christmas programs at school and the sight of Christmas trees shining from the windows of homes, the closer it came to Christmas, the more excited I grew. I was indeed in love with Christmas, but for all the wrong reasons.

It can be difficult not to get caught up in all the sights and sounds of the anticipation of Christmas, but over the years, the more I have become aware of the journey God and I travel together, the easier it has become to turn my attention to the sacred season of Advent. Don’t get me wrong; I still love the sights and smells of Christmas Continued on page 16...

CCCLEX.ORG / 15

Continued from page 15...

trees and goodies baking in the oven. My eyes are still dazzled by the sparkle of the hundreds of tiny lights which adorn houses and beautifully decorated trees. But it is that sense of the sacred, of some great mystery about to unfold Christmas Eve, that makes my breath catch within my chest.

Last Advent season, a friend of mine and her husband erected a manger in their yard. Around the corner of the yard, they placed the figures of Joseph, Mary and a donkey. My friend’s son, who was 3 at the time, started calling the donkey HeeHaw and soon noticed Hee-Haw moved a wee bit closer to the manger each day. In a matter of days, as soon the young lad arose each day, he would run to the window to see how far Hee-Haw had traveled through the night.

Each day’s sighting only increased his anticipation of what the next morning’s sighting would bring. The closer HeeHaw advanced towards the manger, the more excited my friend’s son grew. Christmas morning brought not only Hee-Haw and his traveling companions, Mary and Joseph, to the manager, but the baby Jesus suddenly appeared as well, swaddled in the manger. I smile each time I think

of the joy and amazement that young child felt last Christmas morn. His season of Advent was spent watching, wondering and anticipating the journey of Hee-Haw, Joseph and Mary.

I feel certain that beautiful young child will watch and wait with just as much excitement and awe this Advent as he did last year.

At the close of this Advent season, as I drive home to Millersburg from our Christmas Eve service, I will listen to one of my favorite pieces of music--“O magnum mysterium, et admirabile sacramentum, ut animalia viderent Dominium natum, jacentum in praesepio! Beata Virgo, cujus viscera meruerunt portare Dominum Christum. Alleluia! Oh great mystery, and wondrous sacrament, that animals should see the newborn Lord, lying in their manger! Blessed is the Virgin whose womb was worthy to bear the Lord Jesus Christ. Alleluia!” May we all be so blessed to be filled with awe and a sense of some great holy mystery about to unfold as we wait and watch for the arrival of the holy mystery and gift from God of the birth of His Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Alleluia! Ϯ

Meditations with Cathedral Clergy

Saturday, December 8, 2012 10:00am - 2:00pm Christ Church Cathedral Pre-registration is requested by calling the church office at 254-4497.

Bring a sack lunch; drinks will be provided.

Please let the church know if you will need the nursery’s services.

A time for some quiet. A break from the rush. An opportunity to slow down.

16 / PRAYER AND ACTION_DECEMBER 12

Advent Quiet Day

Preparation, Expectation, Hope

CATHEDRAL OUTREACH

Share the Spirit of the Season

By Gwen Mathews

T

he clock is ticking down for our Cathedral’s participation in the 2012 Angel Tree! As in years past, our Christ Church family will be serving the children and families at Harrison Elementary School: persons living with HIV/AIDS, through the Episcopal Diocese AIDS Ministry and Moveable Feast: and the mothers and children participating in the Hope Center’s One Parent Scholar Program (formerly known as Virginia Place).

The Angel Tree will be up beginning Sunday, December 2, and we must have all gifts by the end of the 11am service on Sunday, December 16.

Please select your angel by writing your name and phone number on the RED angel that stays on the tree.

Please take the WHITE angel shopping with you. Gifts for Harrison children should NOT be wrapped. All other gifts should be wrapped, and ALL gifts should be SECURELY tagged with the angel information on it when returned to the church by the December 16 deadline. Please

return gifts to the Resource Center on the first floor of the Helm Building.

In addition, donations of wrapping supplies to be used at the Harrison event, which will take place on Friday, December 21, are gladly accepted. CCC members and friends who would like to volunteer at the Harrison Christmas Event should contact one of the Angel Tree volunteers listed below. Your donation of time will also be gladly accepted!

As you make your Christmas plans, please keep this important ministry in mind as a meaningful way to share the spirit of the season with those less fortunate than ourselves. Please direct any questions you may have to Gwen (859-608-3471) or Marc (859-797-2791) Mathews or Renee (859-333-9727) or Greg (859-333-3827) Mullins.

Thank you for considering participation in this important Christ Church ministry. Ϯ

CCCLEX.ORG / 17

THEOLOGY ON TAP

Giving Thanks for New Faces

By The Reverend Joe Mitchell

I

t begins with an invitation to the table. Several members of the Cathedral’s 20s and 30s ministry have said that a simple invitation is all it took to get them to become members of this community. And in this season in which we celebrate all the gifts that God has so richly bestowed upon us, we are most thankful for the gift of new faces at our table.

Monday nights at the Village Idiot Pub oftentimes find the same young professional types coming in after a long day of work. They flop down in a chair to discuss their days, while the weight of yet another week is clearly visible on their shoulders. It is here, among friends and among the Holy Spirit, that they can unwind and talk about nearly anything.

But then something happens. A new face appears, slowly settling into a seat near the end of the table. I introduce myself but leave the space open, waiting to see what will happen next. The result is almost always the same: one of those same young professional types moseys over to the end of the table and strikes up a conversation. As a clergyperson there are few moments that fill me with such joy as seeing members of the congregation reach out to welcome someone new.

18 / PRAYER AND ACTION_DECEMBER 12

From Google Images

This is a table where the stranger does not stay that way for long.

By the end of the evening the new face is laughing, smiling, telling stories, and joining in with those seated nearby.

What brings this person to the table varies each week (“A friend invited me,” “I read about it in the bulletin,” “My mom thought I’d like it.”). Still, each week the result is the same: a new person is welcomed, fed, and invited to return.

In the past three months the Theology on Tap program has welcomed a new family, a UK student writing a sociology paper on what community looks like, and a longtime Cathedral member who isn’t quite 20 or 30 but is filled with joy whenever joining the conversation. This is a table where all are welcome, for 10 minutes or two hours. This is a table where the stranger does not stay that way for long.

So in this season of thanksgiving, and as we look forward to the greatest gift of all being born in our lives, we pause to give thanks for the wonderful gifts of new conversations and new friendships. Come to this table!

All are invited!

Theology on Tap meets the first, third and fifth Mondays of each month at the Village Idiot Pub (corner of Mill and Short) at 6:30pm. Ϯ

CATHEDRAL KIDZ

Advent Fair

By Amanda Tudor

H

ow thrilling it is to be with 51 children preparing for Advent with hearts full of anticipation and hands full of … glitter!

Our Advent Fair on Sunday, November 18, from 2 to 4pm was a great opportunity for our children to remember the importance of the approaching Advent season and to celebrate through creative activities and crafts. The program included an Advent story and songs, along with a chance for the children to create pieces that can be used as gifts or serve as a way for families to celebrate Christmas. The crafts included creating glitter ornaments, painting on two different murals, creating angels,

decorating Advent star cookies, and painting on coffee mugs. We also provided decorative plates with the theme “Hands Are God’s Gift to the World,” and each child was able to place his or her handprint in the center of the plate. We had an amazing response to our call for volunteers, and as with every event at Christ Church Cathedral, it is the team effort that makes it a success. Thanks to everyone who participated--it was a wonderful afternoon together! Ϯ

CCCLEX.ORG / 19

CATHEDRAL OUTREACH

There Is Room in the Inn

By The Reverend Brent Owens

T

hey all have a few things in common. They have jobs that they get up and go to in the morning. They are homeless. And they are enrolled in “Room in the Inn.” This ecumenical program provides temporary shelter for men in these circumstances during the coldest months from November through March. A number of churches and synagogues agree to host and feed the men in their buildings, some once a week, some once a month.

The same 15 men spend every Wednesday evening and Thursday morning at Christ Church Cathedral. When they arrive on Wednesday evening, they are greeted with smiles and conversation over a homemade meal.

On Thursday morning, the men wake to freshly brewed coffee and a hearty breakfast. When the guys leave for their jobs, a sack lunch is handed to each. Some Cathedral volunteers help with dinner on Wednesday, some help with breakfast or the sack lunch on Thursday, and some do both.

20 / PRAYER AND ACTION_DECEMBER 12

Christ Church Cathedral members Robert Fugate and Tom Howard have organized CCC’s involvement in Room in the Inn. Many different groups and individuals at CCC have agreed to help each week.

What Room in the Inn does is provide a sense of stability, a warm and safe place to sleep, and the opportunity for the men to save. Robert tells of one of the men has gotten to know, “He can’t make enough during the winter months to pay for child support, so he does without housing to make the support payments.” When Robert speaks about his ministry with Room in the Inn, it is clear that he’s involved because he feels it is a way he can live out his Christian vocation in the world.

On that first Christmas Eve when Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem, there was no place for them at the inn (Luke 2:7). That is not the case at Christ Church Cathedral, because we have Room in the Inn. If you feel called to help in this vital ministry, please call Robert (270-519-6355) or Tom (859-421-6116). Ϯ

MUSIC NOTES

Christmas Eve at the Cathedral

By Canon Erich Balling

T

his Christmas Eve at 2:00pm the Cathedral offers children and families the opportunity to hear the Christmas story with a full service that includes a pageant and Holy Communion.

The service will last about one hour. Familiar and traditional carols will be sung in a festive and family-friendly context.

Children dressed as shepherds, angels, and sheep help tell the story of the Messiah’s birth. On the day of the event, families arrive in costume in the Nave for a 1:30pm brief rehearsal prior to the pageant. Everyone needs to wear a white shirt, and the rest of the costume for angels and sheep will be provided. Shepherds

will need to bring bathrobes. The pageant begins at 2:00pm and lasts approximately one hour. Bring family and friends for this lively portrayal of the true meaning of Christmas that is incorporated in a beautiful service.

We offer three services this Christmas Eve to provide space for all who want to worship here. Last year, many were turned away from the 5:00pm service due to the lack of available seating. Since we will be having three services there will be amble room to invite your friends and neighbors. Give the gift of Christmas -- invite a friend to come with you to our Cathedral.

We'll ensure that there is "room in the inn" by providing welcome and hospitality to those who seek God's call to celebrate the birth of Christ. ĎŽ

CCCLEX.ORG / 21

BULLETIN BOARD

MINISTRIES/// CALLING ALL CHOIR ALUMNI Have you sung in the Cathedral choir or do you know a family member of a former boy or girl Chorister? The Cathedral Music Committee is building a database that will allow us to communicate more frequently with our choir alumni. This is especially important during the 50th anniversary year of the Choir of Men and Boys. Please contact Canon Musician Erich Balling at eballing@ ccclex.org or 254-4497, Ext. 117.

ADVENT QUIET DAY The Advent Quiet Day is a break from the rush and an opportunity to slow down.

It will be held on Saturday, December 8, 10:00am to 2:00pm in the Great Hall. This year’s theme for the Advent Quiet Day is Preparation, Expectation, Hope: Mediations with Cathedral Clergy. Please register at the Welcome Center by December 5. Please bring a sack lunch; drinks will be provided.

And let the church know if you will need childcare. Look for your brochure in the mail or email soon.

LESSONS AND CAROLS SERVICE AT ST. AUGUSTINE’S CHAPEL The Episcopal Campus Ministry, together with the Ignite (Lutheran) and Chi Alpha (Pentecostal) Campus Ministries, will be hosting a Service of Lessons and Carols at St. Augustine’s Chapel at UK (472 Rose Street) on Thursday, December 13, at 7:00pm. Join us as we hear the message of the angels and sing carols of praise. A light reception will follow. For more information, contact The Rev. Joe Mitchell (jmitchell@ ccclex.org).

CONSECRATION OF BISHOP-ELECT DOUG HAHN Welcome The Very Rev. Doug Hahn as the seventh Bishop of the Diocese of Lexington on Saturday, December 15 at 11:00am at Christ Church Cathedral. This is a unique opportunity to stand with other members of the diocese and hold up Bishop-Elect Hahn in our community. The Most Rev. Katharine

Jefferts Schori, Presiding Bishop will be consecrating the new bishop. A light reception follows in the Great Hall.

day. These will make great gifts for anyone on your list! Proceeds go to the Choir Tour Scholarship Fund.

COMMODORES Bishop Hahn has graciously consented to be the speaker at the January 4 meeting of the Commodores. We will meet at 7:00 p.m. in the Great Hall with dinner and program to follow. All members and friends of the Cathedral are invited to be present for his first of hopefully many annual presentations to the Commodores. Bring a meat, vegetable, or salad dish to serve 10-12. The following items are furnished: dessert, appetizers, bread, and beverage.

GET YOUR PHOTO TAKEN FOR THE CATHEDRAL DIRECTORY Picture taking for the new Cathedral directory will take place in the “studio” in the nursery area, first floor of the Helm Building. There will be signs directing parishioners to the location. We plan to take pictures after the 8:30am service and before and after the 11:00am service each Sunday unless circumstances preclude. We hope to get 100% participation!

OUTREACH/// ROOM IN THE INN Room in the Inn, a movable shelter, started again in November. Christ Church is honored to host 15 men for housing, dinner, and breakfast Wednesdays in November - February. We have expanded the program to every Wednesday this year to allow for more people to serve and experience this powerful ministry. For more information contact Tom Howard at 859-368-8684 or Robert Fugate at 859-881-8695.

NOTICES/// KRIS KINDLE You are invited to participate in one of the Cathedral’s most beloved traditions. Kris Kindle is a prayer exercise in which you agree to pray daily for a specific person all during Advent, and then on Christmas Eve you give them the gift of letting them know you were their Kris Kindle. Sunday, December 2, Advent 1, you will have the opportunity to sign up and receive your Kris Kindle.

HOMEMADE CHOIR CANDY New this year: homemade choir candy! We will offer peppermint bark, stained glass candy, puppy chow, and caramels, offered in various size bags. You can purchase the candy after morning services beginning to-

22 / PRAYER AND ACTION_DECEMBER 12

CHRISTMAS FLOWER MEMORIALS Christmas Flower Memorials are being accepted through December 14. If you would like to remember your family member or friend in the Christmas Flower Memorials section of the Christmas Eve service bulletin, please contact Cindy Ware at 266-6947, cindy.ware@insightbb.com, or send your information and check to 217 Henry Clay Blvd., Lexington, 40502. Minimum suggested is $15.00 per name. Your memorial gift helps fund the work of the Christ Church Altar Guild all year long.

COMMUNITY/// DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR THE NUTCRAKER The Lexington Ballet has extended a discount to the Christ Church Cathedral family for upcoming performances of The Nutcracker at the Lexington Opera House.

Performances (matinee and evening) are December 7-9 and 14-16. Christ Church youth Lucy MacFarlan and Mary Rollins Mathews will be performing. Discount ticket prices are $26.75 for adults and $17.75 for students and children. The discount code is FAMILY12. Tickets may be purchased at the Lexington Center Box office at (859) 233-3535, or online at www.lexingtonballet. org. For more information, contact Gwen or Marc Mathews at 608-3471. Ϯ

2

Claire Henkel

10 Heidi Fay

18 Cooper Garner

24 Beth Jett

2

Linda Robinson

10 Rebecca Chapman

18 Lamar Grimes

24 Norna Bathke

2

Tracey Meyers

11 Beth Pride

18 Erilyn Jackson

25 D.J. Geddes

3

Dino Marletta

11 Christian Schnabel

19 Philip Wahle

26 Jessi Logsdon

3

Lily Brice

12 Joyce Disoba

20 Sally Wahle

26 Nancyetta Palumbo

3

Vera Jones

13 Becky Horine

21 Cade Baldecchi

26 Gary Stewart

4

Spencer Lutz

13 Jesse Mark

21 Carl Gray

27 Jane Emmott

4

Tim McWaters

13 Lee Ellis

21 Charlie Naish

28 Bill Woodward

4

Mark Taylor

13 Susan Dellarosa

21 Kristin Hosea

28 Dan Pride

5

Dick DeCamp

14 Carol Wade

21 Lela Stromenger

28 Eli Dunlap

5

Sherry Ferguson

14 Missy Baize

21 Will Burke

28 Shelby Martin

6

Jeff Milward

15 Charlie Lisle

21 Caroline Kinkead

28 Thomas Kearns

6

Jonathan Fitzpatrick

15 Finn Hall

22 Cissy Collins

28 Robert Williams

6

Will Milward

15 Roger Kirkpatrick

22 Quentin Prewitt

29 Pat Flanagan

8

Anne Bjork

15 Terrie Brewer

22 Tommy Roser

29 Jane Burke

8

Ron Parkey

15 Emily Duncan

22 Woods Freeman

29 Susan O'Neill

9

Grif Smith

16 Ginny May

23 Diane Haynes

30 Bennett Wethington

9

Peggy Collins

17 Katherine Sturgill

23 Virginia Pisacano

31 Bryan Irwin

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

DECEMBER

166 Market Street Lexington, KY 40507 www.ccclex.org

SUNDAYS 7:30am

8:30am

9:30am 10:00am 11:00am

12:15pm 6:00pm

Holy Eucharist Rite I • Chapel Holy Eucharist Rite II • Church Breakfast • Great Hall Sunday School Holy Eucharist Rite II • Church Welcome Reception • Great Hall Youth Groups • Basement Activities Room

WEDNESDAYS 12:05pm Healing Service • Chapel

UPCOMING SERVICES & EVENTS December 2 Angel Tree Begins December 4 Books & Beliefs December 7 Messiah Concert December 8 Advent Quiet Day December 11 ECW Christmas Luncheon December 13 ECM Lessons & Carols December 15 Bishop Consecration December 21 A Ceremony of Carols December 23 A Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols December 24 Christmas Eve Services December 25 Christmas Day Eucharist December 26 Cathedral & Church Offices Closed December 27-30 Youth: New Year in the Spirit