The newspaper of the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas
Episcopal Diocese of West Texas P. O. Box 6885 San Antonio, TX 78209 www.dwtx.org Send address changes to The Church News, P.O. Box 6885, San Antonio, TX 78209
January/February 2012
Inside: ● St. James’: One of the Diocese’s Smallest Missions, page 4
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● St. Stephen’s, Goliad, Celebrates 150 Years, page 7 ● Hands to Heal and Offer Hope, page 8 ● An American Thanksgiving, page 13 In Every Issue: ● Around the Circuit, page 15 ● Calendar of Events, page 20
The rooftop of St. James’ Episcopal Church in Fort McKavett, Texas, against a blue sky and scattered white clouds. The 108th Annual Diocesan Council February 16-18, 2012 McAllen, Texas Find the special insert on this year’s Diocesan Council, beginning on page 9.
On the Bishop’s Mind
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Church News
In the News
The Rt. Rev. Gary Lillibridge Bishop of the Diocese
News and Features
2 People of the Visitation 4 St. James’: One of the Diocese’s Smallest Missions 6 Frontera Unida 7 St. Stephen’s, Goliad, Celebrates 150 Years 8 Hands to Heal and Offer Hope 9 108th Annual Diocesan Council Special Insert 13 An American Thanksgiving 14 Historical Commission of the Diocese 14 Clergy News In Every Issue
Cover photo by Mike Patterson.
is published six times a year by the Dept. of Communication Episcopal Diocese of West Texas P. O. Box 6885 San Antonio, Texas 78209
Volume 69 Number 1 January/February 2012 USPS 661-790 The Diocese of West Texas is a family of 27,000 members in 90 congregations across 60 counties and 69,000 square miles in South Central Texas.
Editor: Laura Shaver Laura.Shaver@dwtx.org
Bishop of West Texas: The Rt. Rev. Gary R. Lillibridge
Deadline for news and advertising is the 15th of the month preceding publication.
Bishop Suffragan: The Rt. Rev. David M. Reed
Church News
Periodicals Postage paid at San Antonio, TX and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Church News P.O. Box 6885 San Antonio, TX 78209
The Bishop Jones Center 111 Torcido Dr. San Antonio, Texas 78209 Telephone: 210/888-824-5387 FAX: 210-824-2164 email: general.mail@dwtx.org website: www.dwtx.org
Communication Department Staff: Barbara Duffield: writer and departmental assistant Marjorie George: editor, Reflections Magazine and ReflectionsOnline Laura Shaver: communications officer
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January/February 2012
In a recent sermon, I mentioned that I will be one person who will lament the demise of the printed newspaper, should that day come. In a rapidly changing world, especially in the area of communications, this is a very real possibility as we read “the news” about “the news.” For thousands of years, people have been interested in “news.” Throughout human history, news has been delivered in many ways – orally, town criers (when few could read), hand carried (such as Paul’s letters); by ship, pony express, trains, newspapers, and newsreels in theaters; and more recently radio, television, the Internet, and social media. Throughout history, a piece of news might be heard as “good news” by some and “bad news” by others. This is certainly true in our own day, as much of our culture and the world in general seems divided by almost any piece of information. I often wonder what inside of me makes me respond with joy, sadness, empathy, or sympathy when I learn of news about complete strangers. I then come back to a basic faith belief, namely that as a result of having been created in the “image of God,” a little of God’s compassionate and caring nature has been planted within each of us. Therefore, as card-carrying members of the human race, we all have a stake in humanity doing well.
3 From the Editor 15 Around the Circuit 20 Calendar
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People of the Visitation
In our current culture, we are bombarded with “news.” Most people are also very busy, so we receive a steady diet of “sound bites” because it takes time, effort, and attention to look into the details of a headline or news event. It is now Epiphany, and we have moved rather quickly through the seasons of Advent and Christmas. All three of these seasons are packed with “news.” Prophets, angels, shepherds, magi, John the Baptist, and many others have been proclaiming the “news” of these seasons on a regular basis. As we learned during Advent, Mary and Joseph received some news, and initially it was not comforting information. Joseph certainly received the news as “bad” and planned to “divorce (Mary) quietly” (Matthew 1.19). Mary was “greatly troubled” (Luke 1.29), and then perplexed, “How will this be?” (Luke 1.35). As we know, their initial response of doubt and fear gave way to acceptance and faith. It took some deep reflection to understand this news. Had Mary and Joseph kept this news at the “sound bite” level and not reflected deeply on it, the story would read quite differently. They became, quite literally, what we might call “People of the Visitation.” Unfortunately, I fear that many people who hear the news of the Gospel in church or elsewhere often receive it as a “sound bite.” It takes engagement to receive the full benefit of “the news.” How we receive it and respond to it will inform how we live our lives.
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On the Bishop’s Mind During Advent, I read a meditation in which the author wrote, “The way we approach the day matters. It determines what we see and how we feel about everything that follows.” How true. As “People of the Visitation” ourselves, I believe that how we approach our day is directly related to how we have or have not received and then appropriated “the News” – the great Good News. Paul encouraged the church at Rome to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 13.14),
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Church News which says to me that when I wake up and am getting dressed, I had best not forget to clothe myself in Christ as I move into my day. When I do this, and when this becomes a natural part of who I am, i.e., my morning routine, I am in fact better prepared to receive whatever “news” will be coming my way that day. In the Collect appointed for the fourth Sunday of Advent, we pray that Jesus Christ – through God’s daily visitation – “may find in us a mansion prepared for himself.” If we
Of Children and Camels 21-month-old son, Casey, to the “Live Christmas” event at St. Helena’s in Boerne during Advent. As we walked around the makeshift Bethlehem, his head was lifted high watching the adults pass by. The adults bustled about on a very cold night, trying desperately to keep warm in their homes with dirt floors. A few townsmen had built a fire in the middle of the city, around which children frolicked and friends visited. I overheard one woman say to her friend, “Agnes, have you seen the lady very heavy with child? She’s looking for a place to stay.” “No, I have not,” said Agnes, “but I have no room in my home for her.” As I held Casey’s hand, we walked past the market area and spotted Mary and Joseph making their way into a lowly stable. Casey shuffled his feet to keep up with his grandmother and me through the thick crowd of observers. An angel appeared and told us the Savior had been born, and we would find him lying in a manger by following the star. Once out of the crowd and back in the middle of the city, near the fire, people came running about, “The kings are in town, the kings are here! Make way, the kings are here!” I held Casey’s hand tightly, and his 2-foot, 10inch frame straightened, his head tilted back, and his bright blue eyes opened wide. I heard him gasp a breath as he watched in wonder three live camels, draped in colorful robes, enter the city, leading the wise men.
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I hope that you will receive God’s great “news” in ways that you are not simply informed, but transformed. For like Mary and Joseph, when we believe in the promise of God, we give birth to the promise of God. As People of the Visitation, may we always, “abound in hope” (Romans 15.13).
FYI: Diocesan Staffing Changes
From the Editor
I took my
have been faithful in “putting on the Lord Jesus Christ,” this is not only possible, but beyond doubt.
We followed the camels to their keeping place, where Casey, unafraid and unassuming, was able to pet them and watch them nibble on some hay. Seeing these majestic creatures and feeling them with the tips of his fingers made his entire night. I am not the first to say that Christ can be found in a child’s eyes, in a child’s joy, and in a child’s gift of love. But as I watched my son and witnessed his awe, and as I took in our surroundings, thinking, yes, this is what it was like, I cried. Over 2,000 years ago, children saw the camels enter Bethlehem, they saw past the kings with gifts, and saw the animals approach and bow down to our Savior, the baby Jesus.
Stacy Dowdy, the diocesan Youth and Young Adult Ministry Officer for the past five years, retired December 31, 2011. Stacy did a wonderful job of coordinating and overseeing our youth, young adult, and college ministries; as well as being deeply involved with our Camps and Conferences programs. We are extremely grateful to her for her dedication, energy, and devotion to the ministries of West Texas. Effective January 1, Stacy’s job will be divided among current personnel as we plan our 2012 offerings and look toward the future.
John Rutter wrote in the “Carol of the Magi,” “We entered in and there we saw him; it seemed we’d known him from long before. A child like any child, yet somehow different: The face of every child we saw.”
Brian Kates and Johnson Jeffers, both of whom are currently working with Camps and Conferences, will assume the responsibility as Program Directors for Camp Capers (Brian) and Mustang Island (Johnson). They will serve under the direction of Rob Watson, Director of Camps and Conferences. Their responsibilities include helping to plan, coordinate, host, and lead programs. In addition, both will help with youth and college ministry.
Every day I see Christ in Casey. And on this night, I saw Christ in Casey’s face just as the magi saw all the children in the face of Christ. It’s the wonder I cling to, the joy and the love so freely given. How grateful I am to see this beautiful reminder of what awaits us all.
Greg Richards, who has been serving in our college ministry (primarily at St. Mary’s University, Incarnate Word, and Trinity University) will now expand his duties to help oversee and coordinate college ministry as we use 2012 to discern what our efforts might look like in the future.
The carol continues, “So long ago, yet I remember that child who lay at Mary’s knee; how strange that every child seems so much like him. His is the face I seem to see.”
For all general questions about Youth, Young Adult, and College Ministries or Camps and Conferences, please contact Rob Watson or Jean Beere at (210) 824-5387; rob.watson@dwtx.org; jean.beere@dwtx. org. For specific questions about College Ministry, please contact Greg Richards at (210) 885-1192 or greg@stirflux.com. For specific questions about Youth Ministry, please contact Brian Kates at (210) 8245387 or brian.kates@dwtx.org.
Laura Shaver
January/February 2012
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St. James’: One of the Diocese’s Smallest Missions, Whose Roots Extend to a U.S. Cavalry Fort McKavett, a prominent cavalry and infantry base active in the mid-19th century. The fort, which Gen. William T. Sherman called “the prettiest post in Texas,” was established in 1852 to protect settlers and California-bound travellers from Comanches, Kiowas, and other nomadic tribes. All four regiments of the Buffalo Soldiers – the African-American cavalry and infantry units – served there at one time or another. The Episcopal Church’s connection to Fort McKavett and many other frontier outposts is due to the fact that the Army was fond of Episcopal priests serving as chaplains. “The Army liked the regimented liturgy of the Episcopal Church,” Roque said. Church services were held at the fort’s school house and attracted soldiers and settlers alike.
By Mike Patterson
Photos by Mike Patterson.
It’s Sunday afternoon at the farthest reach of the Diocese of West Texas. Under cotton puff clouds floating lazily in a sparkling blue sky, a handful of parishioners arrives for services at St. James’ Episcopal Church. You wonder where they’re coming from. Except for the stone footprint of an old frontier fort, the horizon is unencumbered by any signs of human habitation. The scene is virtually unchanged from what the first ranchers, settlers, and soldiers saw 150 years ago.
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But arrive they do at their small rock church with a white cross on top, from isolated pockets across the empty landscape, in vans, SUVs and pickup trucks, some caked in caliche dust. There are no sedans or small imports. The vicar, the Rev. Christopher Roque, arrives with wife Tish and their two children, Matthew and Ethan. They chat briefly with church members congregating at the front door before heading inside for the 3:00 p.m. Holy Eucharist service. Roque wears a white straw Stetson, leather vest, Levi’s® jeans cinched up with a big silver belt buckle with a Texas star in the middle, tall leather boots, a beautiful silver crucifix, and a clerical collar. From a tooled leather briefcase he dispenses copies of today’s scripture readings. There is no proces-
January/February 2012
sion or music. Roque walks to the front of the church and starts the Holy Eucharist Rite II service. With his sermon, the entire service is over in 45 minutes. Afterward, Roque is almost apologetic that there were only nine in attendance today. No need to apologize, Father. This is a story about one of the smallest missions in the diocese.
When the fort closed in 1883, the chaplains left, the services ended, and the area was left without a church or Episcopal minister. So “the local residents demanded that the bishop give them their own priest,” Roque said. They founded St. James’ as a mission in 1884 and formally organized the church in 1889. A decade later they built their first church, a wooden structure that was eventually so dam-
St. James sits in the crossroads town of Fort McKavett, population four, some 170 miles west of San Antonio. Besides St. James’, the tiny hamlet consists of a post office, fire station, and the Fort McKavett State Historical Site. It’s so remote that you have to drive to Sonora, 41 miles south, for a loaf of bread or tank of gasoline. On Sundays, “Father Chris,” as he’s affectionately known to his parishioners, conducts services at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Sonora in the morning, and then treks up to Fort McKavett twice a month for the 3:00 p.m. service at St. James’. “If called to Sonora as rector, it’s conditional that you are vicar at St. James’,” Roque said. “The diocese kind of yokes the two churches together.” St. James’ probably would never have existed if it hadn’t been for the presence of Fort
The Rev. Christopher Roque, vicar of St. James Episcopal Church
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aged by a twister that the bishop condemned it and ordered all the furnishings removed for safekeeping. The present rock building was constructed in 1941. “Many prayers have bounced off these walls,” said Bishop’s Warden Jimmy Martin. Some dozen or so parishioners are Sunday regulars, while 30 to 40 might show up at Easter. Not all of those who attend services are confirmed Episcopalians, either. Some belong to other denominations but attend St. James because it’s the only church around. “We keep hanging in there,” Martin said. “We lose some once in a while. It’s kind of dwindled down. But in the last few years we haven’t dwindled any more. We manage to have enough children to keep going.” Most families, like Martin and his wife Sherry, are long-time ranchers in the area. Their own three children, now adults, were raised attending St. James’. Newcomers arrive now and then as old-time ranchers subdivide their sprawling holdings. The smaller acreage is snatched up by those who may want a home in the country or a weekend getaway. The congregation is especially pleased to see a young family now attending St. James’ with their three children. Martin himself grew up a “chicken eating Methodist and my wife grew up a Baptist. She wouldn’t give and I wouldn’t give so we ended up Episcopalians,” he said. “There was something that grabbed us about the Episcopal Church and we’ve been here ever since.” In an ironic twist, one of the Martin’s children is now a Methodist, one a Baptist, and one an Episcopalian.
The U.S. flag still flies over adjacent Fort McKavett, now a state historical site.
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Church members gather outside after services on a Sunday this past fall. St. James’ was served by supply priests until the minister at St. John’s in Sonora began going up to St. James’, leading to the tradition of yoking the two parishes together under the same minister. Roque has served at St. James’ and St. John’s since 2008. If parishioners want to attend Sunday school, they drive down to St. John’s in Sonora. St. James’ doesn’t have Sunday school, Bible studies, or a plethora of other activities that play a role at larger churches. “We miss Sunday school and things like that but at the same time we’ve grown up with a strong Sunday worship service,” Martin said. “That’s what we’ve known and that’s what we’ve gotten used to. I do miss the Sunday school part, but I have everything else here.” Smallness does have its virtue, Martin believes. When he’s visited larger churches, he wonders, how many of those people does that priest know personally? “We love each other, we share with each other, we know each other very well,” Martin said. “Father Chris knows us very well. We know everything about each other.” Martin paused. “For better or for worse.” After church, “we may hang around for an hour just chewing the fat with each other,” Martin said. Or they’ll pull out the folding chairs and tables and have a pot-luck lunch. “You don’t walk outside to a big ol’ parking lot. You can find your car, and you know everyone’s name,” Martin said. “Gosh, we’re all old friends.” Over the years, “the chemistry
of the church has changed,” he said. “When we pass the peace, we hug each other. In the old days, you’d just nod. Now we also have a priest,” he said. “If we need him, we can call him.” Roque has taken to the area’s rich ranching culture and probably has the distinction of being the only priest in the diocese who helps his parishioners round up cattle. “It also gives him a chance to meditate and pray,” Martin said. Members of the congregation have gone on Continued on page 18.
Fort McKavett’s school house once served as the site for church services.
January/February 2012
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Frontera Unida
ongoing support for our Northern Mexico partners in ministry Frontera Unida, a partnership in ministry
with our brothers and sisters in Northern Mexico, was launched during 2008. At this time, clergy on both sides of the border shared pulpits. Both the Northern Mexico and Texas Valley clergy took part in each other’s Vacation Bible School programs in the summer, as well. Since the violence in Mexico has escalated, the diocese’s Valley clergy do not cross the border anymore. However, ministry in Mexico remains strong. In the summer of 2010, La Ascencion in Matamoras offered a twoweek-long Vacation Bible School program that served literally hundreds of children and families. Bishop of Northern Mexico Francisco Moreno remains engaged in and supportive of the Frontera Unida program. Moreno knows the group provides good moral support for his clergy, so they still come over to meet in Brownsville four or five times a year. Amidst the violence and threatening daily interactions, the clergy of Northern Mexico remain faithful in their service. They arrive at the Frontera Unida gatherings with a positive attitude and with thanksgiving for this part-
nership. About their unfailing dedication, the Rev. Scott Brown, rector of St. Alban’s, Harlingen, said, “It really delivers a jolt to your gut.” Recently Bishop Moreno honored St. Alban’s by naming one of the Northern Mexico churches after the same saint. The relationship between diocesan clergy and the clergy in Northern Mexico has existed for over 40 years. But priests move or retire, and long-term lay leadership has not developed. Now when Frontera Unida gathers, each clergy member is asked to bring a lay leader to encourage the group to remain strong and healthy well into the future. When Brown spoke at the 2011 Diocesan Council, he reminded the diocese that Frontera Unida isn’t an outreach: it’s a two-way street, paved with a mutual exchange of support, love, and encouragement. Frontera Unida is not a political organization. It is a spiritual endeavor that allows the Jesus in us to meet the Jesus in our brothers and sisters in Northern Mexico in life-changing and lifegiving ways. Laura Shaver
Diocesan Council in Action Benefits Frontera Unida Sacristy Supplies: Diocesan Council 2012 convenes in McAllen on February 16. As part of the diocesan Council in Action, each church is asked to bring gently used altar items, linens, candles, and clergy vestments to give to our neighbors in Northern Mexico. The clergy across the border are in need of vestments and plain, black clergy shirts and collars. “If every priest in our diocese could spare one shirt and one collar, we could clothe the Northern Mexico clericus,” said the Rev. Scott Brown, rector of St. Alban’s, Harlingen. El Libro de Oracion Comun: In addition to sacristy supplies for our partners in ministry in Northern Mexico, the diocese has joined forces with The Bible and Common Prayer Book Society of The Episcopal Church to donate 500 Books of Common Prayer (BCP) in Spanish (El Libro de Oracion Comun) to the nine Northern Mexico churches in partnership with Frontera Unida. Currently these nine churches share 50 copies of El Libro de Oracion Comun.
Photo submitted by Scott Brown.
Council in Action will offer our churches the opportunity to donate three or more Los Libros de Oracion Comun, and The Bible and Common Prayer Book Society will donate an additional 225 books. “If every church in the diocese donates at least three copies, we should easily reach our goal of 500,” said Brown.
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The books are available at Amazon.com if you would like to bring your donated copies to McAllen. You may also fill out an order form on the Council website, www. council-dwtx.org; cost is $16.50 per book. The diocese will deliver these books to Council in February. Book plates will be available near the Frontera Unida booth for each church to place in their designated copies. Francisco Moreno, Bishop of the Diocese of Northern Mexico, blesses the picture of a child’s pet at the Blessing of the Animals event at the Episcopal Day School in Brownsville. Behind Father Moreno is Father Serge Villalobos, rector of La Ascension in Matamoros, and Father Reese Friedman, rector of Church of the Advent, Brownsville.
January/February 2012
To read more about the Council in Action initiatives, please see the Diocesan Council special insert in this issue, beginning on page 9.
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St. Stephen’s, Goliad, Celebrates 150 Years It was a gorgeous fall day in Texas.
The sky was clear and blue, the sun shone brightly, and the cool breeze touched faces, as the temperature reached a charming 70 degrees. Over 100 friends and neighbors in the Eastern Partnership in Ministry gathered at St. Stephen’s in Goliad on Sunday, October 30, for a celebration of St. Stephen’s 150 years in ministry.
Sitting under the tall oaks, members from each congregation joined each other in spirited fellowship. Some had traveled from over an hour away, some as far as Austin and Corpus Christi, to celebrate with St. Stephen’s and the others in the partnership. A member of St. James’, Halletsville, mused over lunch, “I just look forward to these gatherings [of all the congregations] so very much. What a beautiful day. I’m so happy for St. Stephen’s, and of course for St. James’; three of those confirmands are from our church, young families!”
A typical Sunday finds nine to 12 parishioners in the pews at St. Stephen’s. For this celebration, extra seats were set up outside adjacent to the church building, where audio of the service was fed through The young and old dispersed, after speakers. The Rt. Rev. Gary LilMembers of the churches in the Eastern Partnership and visitors to the kisses and hugs were exchanged, libridge, bishop of the diocese, led celebration gather on the parish hall lawn of St. Stephen’s, Goliad. with full bellies and a renewed the service, and the four priests spirit of ministry. Two confirmations and two receptions into that regularly serve the churches in St. Stephen’s was formed as a mission in 1861, the life of the church followed the bishop’s serthe partnership assisted him: the Revs. Gary founded by the Very Reverend W.R. Richmon. People from each side of the sanctuary Gooch, Gina Frnka, Richard McLeon, and ardson, dean of St. Mark’s in San Antonio. appropriately crowded the narrow center aisle Robert Johnston. Visiting clergy were present The church was in the Missionary District of as they walked to the altar to receive the Holy as well, including the Rev. Eric Fenton, the Texas. In 1874, St. Stephen’s became a part Eucharist. Lillibridge asked God’s blessings on newest rector of Grace Church in Cuero. of the Missionary District of Western Texas St. Stephen’s and their ministry, thanking the supported by the bishops in the Diocese of members for their continued work in God’s In his sermon, Lillibridge spoke to the memTexas. The Rt. Rev. R.W. Elliott, first bishop kingdom. bers of St. Stephen’s, recognizing the abunof Western Texas, consecrated St. Stephen’s. dance of 150 years, saying, “In 1861, believThe Diocese of West Texas became an official After a panoramic picture was taken of most ers needed a place to gather. For 150 years, self-supporting diocese in 1904. attendees in front of the church, the crowd people have come together at this altar to migrated to the lawn in front of the parish take communion and then go out and serve.” St. Stephen’s, Goliad, is a member of the Easthall, which was adorned with several tables The founders of St. Stephen’s left a gift, and ern Partnership in Ministry, a group of seven covered in white tablecloths and decorated Lillibridge called the congregation to conchurches in the Eastern Convocation that are with arrangements of mums and daisies in tinue to be respectful of it. “We are a place of served by four bi-vocational priests. In the bright and bold fall colors. The parish hall was formation and transformation, a place that partnership are: St. James’, Halletsville; Trinfilled with lively conversation as people made sends. The best way to honor God is to honor ity, Edna; Church of the Holy Communion, their way around the tables overflowing with his family, his people, to go and do likewise.” Yoakum; Church of the Ascension, Refugio; pot-luck dishes, grits and scalloped potatoes, Speaking to the members of each congregaSt. Stephen’s, Goliad; Grace Church, Port rolls and bread, ham and brisket, and pies, tion in attendance, he said, “While we are on Lavaca; and St. Matthew’s, Kenedy. cookies, and cakes. our watch, let us make the most of it.”
Photos by Laura Shaver.
Laura Shaver
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Hands to Heal and Offer Hope About 0ne year ago, St. Philip’s, Beeville,
parishioner Susan Fields discovered a local food ministry, the Mariposa Mission, which had been operating for over eight years in the nearby town of Berclair. The ministry is an outreach effort of Fannin United Methodist Church (FUMC) in Goliad. FUMC had been serving the needs of 60 people living in the poverty-stricken town of Berclair, with food, clothing, pots and pans, and personal hygiene needs. Interested in the ministry, Fields joined their team and was instantly hooked. Fields brought the ministry to her own parish, naming it Helping Hands with Open Hearts. She then approached her church family to tell them of the needs in the Berclair community and to request financial and material donations. She shared with them stories of elderly people in Berclair in need of medical services, some who were living without heat or air conditioning in their homes, and some with no electricity at all. Most had no vehicle which made it hard to get to even the nearest towns of Goliad and Beeville. One 75-yearold woman was riding an old, broken bicycle to and from Beeville.
Photos submitted by Clayton Elder.
The Rev. Clayton Elder, rector of St. Philip’s said, “One day Susan invited me to come and see what they were doing, so I went over intending to be there for the food distribution but arrived too late. I remarked that we wanted to get involved, and had just asked
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what were the biggest needs of the community, when a group of the locals came rushing over saying, ‘The Father, the Father is here!’ They were all Roman Catholic and had not had any sort of worship service that was even close to their liturgy.” He laughed, “I think when they saw the collar they decided the Episcopal Church would work in the absence of the Catholic Church.” He continued, “I knew they were Hispanic, they spoke a little English, and they were just hungry to be able to worship.” Elder said he knew then that his involvement in this ministry would first be to meet their spiritual needs. Elder held the first worship service under an awning, and 35 people attended. He also set up time to spend with them to offer pastoral care. He had one woman serving as a translator, and people lined up to speak with him. “We were really concerned that we not walk in and look as if we were trying to take over from the Methodists and step on everyone’s toes. They had been serving so faithfully for so long, but as it turned out, they had reached a point of recognizing that it was time for them to step away from some parts of the ministry. There were other directions they felt they were being called to support,” said Elder. The consensus of the Methodist community was, “Go ahead and step in, we’re pulling our toes back!” The Methodists planned to continue their work with food distribution, and the parishioners of St. Philip’s took on the work of gathering other needed supplies. There was more than enough of both need and work for each community.
Food is served to some of the residents of Berclair, a poverty-stricken community.
January/February 2012
St. Philip’s engaged in the supply ministry and began offering a monthly worship service. Unfortunately, not everyone in the area was happy with the new energy surrounding the ministries. A local gov-
The Rev. Clayton Elder lays hands on a Berclair resident. ernment official began working behind the scenes, threatening the Berclair residents with retaliation if they continued to come to the worship services. The locals were living in homes (shacks, really) that he had control over, and they had nowhere to go if they were forced out. Workers from St. Philip’s found a building to use for storing supplies in Berclair. The same official approved the use at first, but once the supplies were in, came and told them they had to move out so that he could rent it to a pipe-line company moving into the area. It was beginning to look like an old “good-guy vs. bad-guy” movie, but in those old movies the good guys always win. The difficulties began to turn a corner. The antagonistic government official lost his position in the next election, and suddenly there was support in a number of areas, including the new government official making an offer for use of an empty storage building, which belonged to the county. Sadly, due to government rules and regulations the building could not be used by St. Philip’s, because they were a religious organization. Not willing to give up, Elder found a building available for sale, and both he and others Continued on page 18.
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We Live in Hope For the 108th time, clergy and laity representing the congregations and institutions of the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas - as well as many guests and presenters - will gather for our annual Diocesan Council as we carry on the work and ministry of Christ in and beyond our diocese. Council 2012 will meet February 16-18 at the convention center in McAllen. St. John’s, McAllen, will serve as host and will share the hosting of Council with other churches in the Valley, including St. Peter and St. Paul, Mission; St. Alban’s, Harlingen; Grace, Weslaco; St. Matthew’s, Edinburg; and Trinity, Pharr. This year’s diocesan theme, which will be introduced at Council, is “Abound in Hope.” This is a portion of Romans 15:13 which proclaims: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” We are called to live our lives in and with hope. The opening acclamation in the baptismal service, from Ephesians 4.4-6, calls us to worship with the words: Celebrant: “There is one Body and one Spirit; People: There is one hope in God’s call to us; Celebrant: One Lord, one Faith, one Baptism; People: One God and Father of all.” As we abound in hope, we in fact live within it and it lives within us. As we gather at our Diocesan Council in McAllen, and as we live our lives in our congregations and in our communities, let us strengthen our relationships and refresh our call to ministry to “Be Jesus’ Witnesses” (Acts 1.8 and the Core Purpose of the diocese).
108th Diocesan Council
February 16-18, 2012, in McAllen, Texas
Online Registration at www.council-dwtx.org Council Registration Clergy, delegates, alternates - $115 Includes Friday night banquet Clergy spouses - $75 Includes Friday night banquet and Friday morning breakfast Visitors - $30 Optional Registration Thursday Christian Faith in Action Luncheon - $18 Friday noon luncheon with speaker, The Rt. Rev. John Bauerschmidt - $20 Extra banquet tickets - $35 Saturday morning 5K benefiting Guatemala - $20 Youth in Action Event, youth and sponsors - $30 Delegate Certification The official 2012 delegate count is prepared by the diocesan secretary, the Rev. David Read, and is based on each congregation’s average Sunday attendance in 2010. In addition to registering for Council, all Council delegates must also be certified. Each congregation of the diocese completes the certification form and returns it (three copies) to the bishop’s office, the diocesan secretary, and the Council registration chair. No congregation may be seated at Council unless it has completed the annual parochial report, due at the diocesan office by February 1, 2012. All needed forms can be found at www.council-dwtx.org. Childcare Registration There is never a childcare fee for children of clergy, delegates, and alternates, but children must be pre-registered. Drop-ins cannot be accommodated. Ages are infants through eight years. Childcare is provided during all Council business sessions, the Council Eucharist, the luncheons, and the banquet. Childcare is on premises at the convention center. Go to www. council-dwtx.org to register.
The 108th Annual Diocesan Council - special insert to The Church News, January/February 2012 - page A
The
The 108th Annual Council of the Diocese of West Texas, www.council-dwtx.org
Church News Mrs. Barrington Returns Abandon Hope?! Is that what this has come to?
Pre-Council Meetings January 2012 All meetings begin at 6:00 p.m. with a light dinner, except the last meeting for the Central Convocation, which begins at 6:15 p.m. with a light dessert. All presentations begin at 6:45 p.m. Eastern Convocation Thursday, Jan. 19 Pine Street Community Center Hosted by: Trinity, Victoria Southern Convocation Sunday, Jan. 22 All Saints, Corpus Christi Valley Convocation Sunday, Jan. 22 St. Alban’s, Harlingen Western Convocation Tuesday, Jan. 24 St. Philip’s, Uvalde Northern Convocation Thursday, Jan. 26 St. Barnabas, Fredericksburg Northeastern Convocation Thursday, Jan. 26 St. Mark’s, San Marcos Central Convocation Sunday, Jan. 29 St. David’s, San Antonio Clergy and council delegates are urged to attend the pre-council meeting for their area where the details of the diocesan budget and other reports will be presented.
We met Mrs. Barrington (played by Sam Gilliam) at Diocesan Council 2011 as she introduced us to her Episcopal church, St. Aidan’s, and enlightened us with its changes in liturgy and membership. She was not in agreement with many of these changes - I mean, who listens to a 20-something-year-old priest? However, as the members of the church and new neighbors in her community sowed some seeds of faith around her, Mrs. Barrington found ways to connect once again with her church. Mrs. Barrington has remained an active member of St. Aidan’s this past year, and she continues to maintain the community garden on her property with the help of fellow members, her lady neighbors, and those children who stole her heart. However, the world which St. Aidan’s longs to serve is in desperate times, the economy is failing, jobs are hard to come by, and even her closest acquaintances are having a hard time making ends meet. Mrs. Barrington thinks hope is lost; why abound in hope; shouldn’t we abandon hope? Come and hear Mrs. Barrington’s story of her personal struggle and St. Aidan’s struggle with the world around them. How can this church overcome adversity and come together?
5K Run/Walk Benefit The Mission and Outreach programs of St. John’s, McAllen, are organizing a 5K Fun Run/ Walk during Council 2012. Proceeds will benefit their Guatemala Construction Mission, which provides homes for indigenous women who are widowed or abused and have children. The 5K Fun Run/Walk Facts: • Date: February 18, 2012 • Time: 6:30 a.m. • Location: McAllen Convention Center, 700 Convention Center Blvd, McAllen 78501 • Register online at www.dwtx.org (download entry form) • Entry fees: $20 for runners of all ages; $25 for late registration • Teams of at least 5 encouraged. Show your team spirit and bring your own shirts. • Each person is asked to also raise a $20 sponsorship to benefit the Guatemala Construction Mission (not required to run). • Packet pick-up at church office Feb. 13 – 15 and at the Convention Center on Friday, Feb. 17 between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. • Have more questions? Call the church at 956-687-6191. If you are attending Council as clergy, delegates, alternates, clergy spouse, or visitors, you may sign up for the run during your Council online registration process at www.council-dwtx.org.
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Church News Mission Congregations Dinner Back by popular demand, the mission congregations’ dinner will immediately follow the Thursday Council Eucharist with 8:00 p.m. reservations at BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse (3200 Expressway 83, adjacent to the McAllen Convention Center). Dinner includes a four-pizza buffet (BJs Favorite, the Classic Combo, Spinach and Artichoke, and the Mediterranean), plus Fettuccine Alfredo, house salad, and a nonalcoholic beverage. Sounds so good parishes may be tempted to sign up, but sorry, it’s only for our mission congregations. Pre-registration and $16 per person payment are required and available
through the church or individual online registration forms at www.council-dwtx. org. Hosted by Church of the Holy Spirit, San Antonio.
Lobban was appointed to serve as chaplain to the clients, people, and staff at GSCS and as a liaison between the center and the 90 churches of the Diocese of West Texas.
Christian Faith in Action Luncheon The Christian Faith in Action Luncheon will be held Thursday at 11:30 a.m. in meeting room #103. Cost is $18/person. The Rev. Andrew Lobban, chaplain at Good Samaritan Community Services (GSCS), will be the speaker. This past summer, GSCS welcomed him to the staff as its first chaplain. Lobban graduated with his Masters in Divinity from Seminary of the Southwest (SSW) in May 2011 and was ordained to the priesthood in January.
Council Luncheon The Council Luncheon will be at 12:00 noon on Friday, Feb. 17. Cost is $20/person. The featured speaker is the Rt. Rev. John Bauerschmidt, bishop of the Diocese of Tennessee. The theme is “Hoping Against Hope.” Bauerschmidt was elected the 11th bishop of the Diocese of Tennessee on October 28, 2006. He also serves as the Episcopal co-chair of the Anglican-Roman Catholic Ecumenical Dialogue in the United States and has served on the House of Bishop’s Theology Committee since 2007.
Schedule Highlights All activities will be held at the McAllen Convention Center. Thursday, February 16 10:00 a.m. Exhibits, Hospitality, and Registration open 11:30 Christian Faith in Action luncheon and nursery opens 12:45 p.m. Gathering music begins 1:00 Council 2012 business session convenes with Mrs. Barrington 4:30 Recess with A Taste of the Valley reception 6:00 Council Eucharist with the Rt. Rev. Andy Doyle preaching, bishop of the Diocese of TX 8:00 Dinner for Mission Churches at BJ’s Evening on your own Friday, February 17 7:30 a.m. Clergy Spouses’ Breakfast 8:00 Morning Prayer 8:00 Exhibits open 8:35 Gathering music 8:45 Council business session resumes 9:30 Bishop’s Address 11:30 Noonday Prayers, then break for lunch 12:00 p.m. plated luncheon with the Rt. Rev. John Bauerschmidt (bishop of the Diocese of Tennessee) 1:30 Council business session resumes 4:30 Recess 6:30 Banquet reception and entertainment by Brooks Ausborn 7:00 Council Banquet 8:00 - 11:30 music and dancing with Rotel and the Hot Tomatoes (Note: there will not be a Compline service Friday night due to the banquet concert.) Saturday, February 18 6:30 a.m. 5K run/walk with proceeds benefiting Guatemala 8:00 Exhibits open 8:20 Gathering music 8:30 Council business session resumes 8:30 Morning Prayer with youth and commissioning 1:00 p.m. Council adjourns
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Clergy Spouse Breakfast The annual Clergy Spouse Breakfast, in meeting room #103, will begin at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 17 (not the traditional Saturday). Cost is included in the Clergy Spouse registration price. The featured speaker will be Mrs. Caroline Bauerschmidt, wife of the Rt. Rev. John Bauerschmidt. Council Banquet If you like to dance and party, you’re going to love Rotel and the Hot Tomatoes. The Hot Tomatoes are three dazzling female singers decked out in one outrageous costume after another: big hair, shimmy dresses, sequins, and leopard pants, and their show captures the sounds, the look, and the fun of the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s. When the Hot Tomatoes dance, strut, sing, and stomp, you’re sure to have as much fun as the law allows. The banquet will have food, too. Not just any food either, rather a Longhorn Barbeque, chuck wagon and all. The menu includes skillet-baked cornbread, grilled chicken with chipotle barbecue sauce, sliced barbecue brisket with fried jalapeno onions, smoked rope sausage with grilled onions and peppers, corn on the cob, and ranch style beans, and last but not least, a dessert of peach cobbler. The evening begins with the banquet reception at 6:30 p.m. featuring entertainment by McAllen’s own Brooks Ausborn, a classical and eclectic guitarist. At 7:00 p.m. the buffet lines open with plenty of seating for everyone plus, of course, the dance floor. A cash bar will be available.
The 108th Annual Diocesan Council - special insert to The Church News, January/February 2012 - page C
The 108th Annual Council of the Diocese of West Texas, www.council-dwtx.org
A Time for Fellowship
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Church News Council in Action Frontera Unida Goal #1:
Casa Bethesda Goal #2:
Diocesan Council in Action is asking the 90 churches of the diocese to donate three or more Books of Common Prayer in Spanish (El Libro de Oracion Comun) for the nine Northern Mexico churches in partnership with Frontera Unida. Please see the article on page 6 for more information and details on how to order your books. Order forms are available on the Council website, www.council-dwtx. org.
Casa Bethesda is the only facility of its kind in the Piedras Negras, Mexico, area. It is a home where indigent or abandoned persons with disabilities are cared for with love and respect. The home is run by Pastor Paulino Esquivel and his wife Gilberta.
Los Libros de Oracion Comun Sacristy Supplies
Diapers - small and medium adult sizes, to supply the orphanage for several months.
Churches are also asked to clean our their sacrisities and donate unused supplies, such as candles, chalices and plates, linens, etc. In addition, clergy may consider donating unused clergy shirts and collars to the deacons and priests of the border churches.
Esquivel and his wife believe that God will provide for the home whatever it needs as long as God wants it to exist. In 1999, Pastor Paulino founded Casa Bethesda, and since that time God has provided for all their needs through free-will gifts. One of Casa Bethesda’s greatest expenses is adult-size diapers. They use dozens each day. This simple gift will be a blessing of encouragement to all the “family” at Casa Bethesda, said Betty Chumney, office of the diocesan Department of World Mission.
Youth in Action Youth in Action enters its fifth year of service in 2012. Like Diocesan Council, this event has become a time of reunion, renewal, and the business of the youth. And that business is mission work. Who should attend: All students in 6th through 12th grade are invited to attend. There is much good work that needs to be accomplished, not to mention the fun of a weekend in the Valley. Cost is $30. Location and Contacts: Headquarters for Youth in Action will be at St. John’s, McAllen. Youth Ministry contacts: Carrie Guerra, St. John’s, McAllen, 956-6276191; or Mike Woods, St. Alban’s, Harlingen, 956-428-2305. Mission Projects: The youth will be working on special projects for the Good Samaritan Center of the Rio Grande Valley in Pharr. Stay tuned to www. council-dwtx.org/youth-in-action for more info.
Agenda: Friday – Feb. 17 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. – Arrival and check-in 9:00 – 10:00 – Intro, rules, and music 10:00 – Worship 11:00 – Movie Saturday – Feb. 18 7:00 a.m. – Rise and shine, eat your breakfast, pack lunches, and get going! 8:30 – Morning Prayer and commissioning by Bishop Reed 9:00 – On to mission projects The evening will be full of fun with inflatable game madness and a BBQ celebration Sunday – Feb. 19 8:00 a.m. – Get up, get ready, get packed, and go to church. Registration: To register and pay your $30 online, visit www.council-dwtx.org/youth-in-action. Here you will also find the medical and liability release forms and a complete packing list.
Council Live at www.council-dwtx.org Can’t make it to McAllen? Log on to Council Live (tab at top) of www.council-dwtx.org beginning Thursday afternoon, February 16. Throughout the three days of Council, the DWTX communications team will be updating the site with news and audio reports and pictures. News & Blog Reports We will file news reports throughout the days of Council, beginning on the afternoon of Thursday, Feb. 16. See the “email subscriptions” box on the right of the Council Live page to subscribe and receive them automatically in your e-mail. Audio Reports Hear the Council Eucharist sermon, the bishop’s address, and other committee reports. Documents & Reports Get the text of the bishop’s address, nomination results, resolutions, diocesan budget, and much more. Photos View the photo gallery as new pictures will be posted regularly.
Council Elections View all the nominees up for election at Council online at www.council-dwtx.org. Diocesan Council will elect clergy and lay leaders to serve on: • Executive Board • Trustees of the Episcopal Church Corporation • Trustees of TMI • Trustees of the University of the South • Standing Committee
The 108th Annual Diocesan Council - special insert to The Church News, January/February 2012 - page D
Features
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Church News
An American Thanksgiving Ugandan missionary that the diocese supports, spends few American holidays with her stateside family. This year in gratitude for the hospitality of Archbishop Henry and Mama Phoebe Orombi, Alison prepared “an American Thanksgiving.” Although the holiday season has come and gone, the time for thanksgiving is always now. Alison’s candid account (below) of her recent celebration reflects the abounding hope that informs her ministry. “I stayed busy cooking the Thanksgiving meal. Instead of turkey (I didn’t know where to look for one…plus I’ve never cooked one before, and this is probably not the time to start), we’re having roasted chicken, stuffing, gravy, French beans with caramelized onions, roasted root vegetables, pumpkin cookies, fruit, one crate of soda, and one box of water, and kwen. (No meal is complete without kwen, a doughy millet ‘bread.’) I also didn’t want to try my first pumpkin pie, so made pumpkin cookies. I thought about trying to make individual pumpkin pies in my muffin tin, but the thought of making a crust is more than I could handle. I tried once in my early 20’s to make a crust, and it was a disaster… “I bought some flowers in fall colors that I will use as table decorations. I went online
and collected some ideas for table decorations, but, in the end, I decided to just use a long piece of African fabric that is in browns and yellows and a table runner with orange and yellow embroidery, plus the flowers. “I bought the family a goat as a gesture of Thanksgiving. I prepared and read a “Welcome to American Thanksgiving” speech at the beginning of the meal. I said that in America the day before Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day of the entire year as people who live far away from their families travel home to be together and, as a country, to give thanks to God. I told them in previous years I went to Mukono to celebrate Thanksgiving with [American friends] Peggy and Stephen Noll. Since they are no longer in Uganda, I wanted to observe Thanksgiving with you, my adopted family. “So, what is American Thanksgiving? It is being with your family; celebrating the harvest by eating a special meal; and it is giving thanks to God. “In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a public holiday and called for a nation-wide Day of Thanksgiving on the last Thursday of November. In his Presidential proclamation he encouraged the American people to come together to remember that the harvest has come from God, not from us; and, that, in spite of the ongoing war between the states, we should thank God because gardens have still been cultivated, minerals have been extracted from the ground, and children have been born. President Lincoln concluded by saying, ‘I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States…and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwells in the Heavens.’ “I wanted to take this day to share with you the foods of American Thanksgiving (with some local additions) and to give thanks to God for all He has done for me through you—a home to live in, a family and village commu-
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nity to be part of, security, and peace. Money can’t buy these things. You have offered them freely and generously, and I give thanks to God today. I offer this meal on American Thanksgiving—and the goat that is outside— as a token of my appreciation and gratitude for these last seven and a half years together. “I must say, dinner went very well; my biggest concern was making the gravy. The recipe called for a can of cream of chicken soup, which is not available here. I could only buy Knorr powdered soup. And, when I added it to the chicken bouillon, it was just all lumps. The blender helped fix that. And, after that, it went smoothly, and the stuffing and gravy turned out to be one of the biggest hits of the meal. The Archbishop kept saying, ‘This is good food. This is really good food,’ and if he’s happy, I’m happy.” Submitted by Marthe Curry
A General Thanksgiving by Alison Barfoot
Accept, O Lord, our thanks and praise for all that you have done for us. We thank you for the splendor of the whole creation, for the beauty of this world, for the wonder of life, and for the mystery of love. We thank you for the blessing of family and friends, and for the loving care which surrounds us on every side. We thank you for setting us at tasks which demand our best efforts, and for leading us to accomplishments which satisfy and delight us. We thank you also for those disappointments and failures that lead us to acknowledge our dependence on you alone. Above all, we thank you for your Son Jesus Christ; for the truth of his Word and the example of his life; for his steadfast obedience, by which he overcame temptation; for his dying, through which he overcame death; and for his rising to life again, in which we are raised to the life of your kingdom. Grant us the gift of your Holy Spirit, that we may know him and make him known; and through him, at all times and in all places, may give thanks to you in all things. Amen.
January/February 2012
Photo by Alison Barfoot.
Alison Barfoot, a
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Historical Commission of the DWTX Submitted by David White
Among the various boards, commissions,
and other entities of the Diocese of West Texas is the Historical Commission, which is charged with safeguarding and preserving the history of The Episcopal Church in this part of the world. It is headed by the historiographer of the diocese and has various other members as appointed by the bishop. I am a new member, so I’m just beginning to find out what we do. One of the things we do is keep the archives of the diocese in a little room in the basement of the Bishop Jones Center in San Antonio. But it’s not enough just to keep them there. We have to make sure the information contained in the archives is readily available to anyone who needs it. In order to do this we are currently trying to organize and index the archival records in a computer program called Archivist’s Toolkit. This is an ongoing project and will take some time. For active parishes and missions, correspondence and reports, some of which dates back many years, are contained in the archives. For closed parishes and missions, the archives contain everything they had at the time they closed, including registers of baptisms, confirmations, marriages, and burials. If a congregation no longer exists, it’s the responsibility of the diocese to keep the records. There are also records of individual bishops, records created by or pertaining to diocesan clergy, and records of boards and commissions. Institutions of the diocese, such as TMI - The Episcopal School of Texas and Good Samaritan Community Services, are also represented. The Historical Commission uses all the records and information stored to answer questions. We also use it to help members of a congregation tell their own story. A number of parishes in the diocese have published their own history, and we encourage others to do so. Besides the archival documents there is a library of reference books and periodicals, such as the journals of General Convention and Diocesan Council, and some rare historical editions of the Bible and the Book of Common Prayer. We think we have a complete run of The Church News, but we aren’t sure yet. The library part of the archives is
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being cataloged online and can be seen at http://www.librarything.com/catalog/histcomm. But the keeping of records is not the only activity of the Historical Commission. The commission is currently gathering documentation to support the inclusion of an Episcopalian who lived in this diocese in the next edition of Holy Women, Holy Men. Dr. Artemisia Bowden, a parishioner at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in San Antonio, was a leader in the education of African-American women who turned a small day school for black girls into St. Philip’s College and served as its dean for many years. The process of adding a new saint to the calendar of The Episcopal Church is somewhat different from the corresponding procedure in the Roman Catholic Church, but it requires some effort, and the Historical Commission supports this process. In addition, we are collecting oral histories of people who have led and shaped our diocese. Currently we are interviewing retired Bishop Suffragan Earl McArthur and Evelyn Bailey, widow of the late Bishop Scott Field Bailey. The Historical Commission wants to help congregations with their own record keeping, and we would like to encourage them to write their own stories for future generations to read. David White is a parishioner at St. Paul’s, San Antonio, and returned to Texas after retiring from the Library of Congress in 2009.
Clergy News The Rev. Faith Bledsoe accepted an invitation to postulancy in the Order of St. Helena, an Episcopal religious order for lay and ordained women. Her last day at St. Francis, Victoria, was October 9. The Service of Institution for the Rev. Beverly Patterson was held on Wednesday, October 19, at St. Andrew’s, Port Isabel. The Rev. Russ Matthews was appointed interim rector of St. Francis’, Victoria, and began October 23. The Rev. Dick Elwood accepted a call to serve as acting rector for Grace Church, Llano. He began in early November. The Service of Institution for the Rev. Lisa Mason was held at St. David’s, San Antonio, on November 16. The Service of Institution for the Rev. Eric Fenton was held at Grace Church, Cuero, on December 4. A Service of Ordination to the Priesthood for the Rev. Andy Lobban was held at St. Mark’s, San Antonio, on Thursday, January 5. The Rev. Dori Zubizaretta, of Hogar Infantil in Chiapas, Mexico, accepted a call to serve as rector of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Hamilton, Montana, (Diocese of Montana). She began at St. Paul’s on January 5.
Now on ReflectionsOnline Now up on ReflectionsOnline, the diocesan spiritual formation blog, are new pages of resource suggestions for 2012, which include links to online Bible studies and other spiritual formation sites, as well as information about Bible apps and prayer apps for your smart phone. The blog offers regular reflections and will host a special Lenten study beginning February 22, Ash Wednesday. The site will also host, this year, a Bible study on 1 and 2 Corinthians, written by the Rev. Drs. John Lewis and Jane Patterson; and an online study of the Nicene Creed written by the Rev. Mike Marsh.
Find us on the web at www.dwtx.org
Around the Circuit
Church News First Chapter of the Daughters of the King for Reconciliation, Corpus Christi
St. Paul’s, Central City, Colorado
Trinity by the Sea, Port Aransas, has a monthly feature in their newsletter inviting their bi-church members to share a picture and a bit of their other home church’s story with members at Trinity. One husband and wife who have been Winter Texans for quite a long time are Joyce and Don Herod. They hail from St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Central City, Colorado, where there are 12 members. Don maintains the church’s website and is still the treasurer, even while they are away. He does most of the banking online, and they attend the Bishop’s Committee meetings every month via Skype (an online communication system).
Healing Grace, the first chapter of the Daughters of the King (DOK) at the Church of Reconciliation, Corpus Christi, was recognized during the installation ceremony held on November 6. The Rev. Bruce Wilson, vicar of Reconciliation and chaplain to the Daughters, led the service. Four Daughters were installed, and visitors and members alike celebrated. Wendy Molina, who serves as the church secretary one day a week, pursued her interest in the Daughters of the King and considered becoming a Daughter-at-large, not belonging to a specific chapter. However, after encouragement from a close friend and Daughter, Molina decided to start a chapter at Reconciliation. Women interested joined Molina at regular Sunday gatherings after church for the discernment period of three months. Together they discerned the mission and ministry of the Daughters of the King and their individual calls to the order. “It was very enlightening for us all,” said Molina. “The DOK already have a rule of life in place, and it fit perfectly with each of us. We were all new at this, so we went through the DOK guide on our own, did our homework, and came together to discuss and compare our thoughts.” The ladies completed the discernment period on Sunday, October 30, and the installation service was held the following week. Fellow Daughters, Lorraine Dawson, wife of the
Dr. John Cooper
TMI Appoints New Headmaster The Board of Governors of TMI – The Episcopal School of Texas has appointed John W. Cooper, Ph.D., to become the school’s next headmaster. He will join TMI on July 1, 2012. “Dr. Cooper is recognized as an exceptionally intelligent, energetic, and accomplished leader, educator, and fundraiser,” said the Rt. Rev. Gary Lillibridge, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas and chairman of the school’s Board of Governors. “We look forward with confidence to the vibrant leadership he will bring to the TMI community.”
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The first members of “Healing Grace”: Eileen Benton, Lynne Blackler, Cynthia Jernigan, and Wendy Molina Rev. George Dawson (retired, DWTX); and Frances Aboud from the Church of the Good Shepherd in Corpus Christi, came to the service to support the new Daughters. “We were delighted with their attendance,” said Molina. A reception was held following the service. Molina said, “We had the coolest cake ever.” Made by a lady in the congregation, the sheet cake featured a cut-out, silver Daughters of the King cross on top. “You should have tasted it,” said Wilson. Healing Grace continues to meet on Sundays after church once a month. They have designed a box in which church members can place their prayers requests. “All prayers are confidential, of course. We will add them to our list, and we are ready to begin our ministry in prayer service,” said Molina.
Recent Gifts to the Ministry of the Department of World Mission Louisa Steel honoring her mother, Guyrene T. Cater; Louis Capt honoring his wife, Sue Capt; George Carroll honoring Nancy Brock; Tom and Clara Chumney honoring Betty and Bill Chumney, Connie McDougal, Larry and Marion Lentz, and Foard and Marian Townsend; Betty and Bill Chumney honoring their family; Patsy Steves honoring Betty Chumney; The Rt. Rev. Ben and Joanne Benitez honoring Bill and Betty Chumney; Will and Susan Hausser honoring Bobby Hausser; Juliette and Frederich honoring Bobby Hausser; Peter and Carol McGanity honoring Bobby Hausser’s work in Piedras Negras, Mexico; Robert and Dorothy Harper honoring Ms. Daubney Harper Alora Mae Durden Nelson in memory of Barbara Boege, Fred O’Donnel, Major Gary Madden, Jimmie Luigi, George Peterson, Pat Whitworth, Michael McAllister; Sally Mitchell in memory of Henry Krapf; Sally Mitchell in memory of George Peterson; Pat and Bernardette Kunz in memory of George Peterson
January/February 2012
Photos submitted by respective churches. TMI Headmaster photo submitted by Paula Allen.
Recognizing our Winter Texans For many years, one of the unique things about the Diocese of West Texas has been the annual arrival of Winter Texans, heading for the warmth of the Texas coastal bend from the northern areas of the country.
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Around the Circuit
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Church News New Learning Center Dedicated at Good Samaritan Community Services The Rt. Rev. Gary Lillibridge, bishop of the diocese, dedicated the new learning center at Good Samaritan Community Services (GSCS) in San Antonio. The interior’s four classrooms are each decorated in university themes, including St. Mary’s, Texas A&M, the University of Texas, and Texas Tech. The design was chosen to aid in the encouragement of college attendance to the children that attend the programs at the Good Samaritan center.
Martin in the Narthex
Book photos submitted by Camille Cohn. GSCS photos by Laura Shaver. Sign photo submitted by St. Peter’s, Rockport.
Since its publication last fall, Martin in the Narthex is becoming a diocesan household story, much to the delight of author, Martin the dog, and his dad, the Rev. Dick Elwood, acting rector of Grace Church, Llano. In Martin in the Narthex, Martin tells his story of working with his “dad” at St. Barnabas in Fredericksburg, where he embodied unconditional love and brought joy to the parishioners and visitors. The book, published by Shearer Publishing in Fredericksburg, was beautifully illustrated by 11-year-old Riley, an autistic girl who loves dogs and is a gifted artist. The pictures bring life to this precious story for children of all ages. Since publication, Elwood and Martin, at times accompanied by Riley, have attended several book signings and have sat for readings at elementary schools. Elwood and Martin also appeared on the FOX San Antonio local morning news show this past December. Copies of Martin in the Narthex are now adorned with a bronze medal for the Independent Publishers Award for 2011 in the best of children’s books category. The “Martin” crew, who will steal your hearts before you read the first page, is always available to come to you. To request and schedule a book signing or reading, please contact Elwood at dickelwood@gmail.com. The book may be purchased online at Amazon.com.
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Jill Oettinger, CEO of the GSCS, welcomed the attendees to the dedication service, which included children and seniors from the center, the board of directors, representatives from the building designers and builders, and teachers and staff. Lillibridge recognized the significance of the completion of this final building on the San Antonio campus, acknowledging the center’s continued growth and commitment to serving the surrounding community. “Because of the success of this center in San Antonio, Good Samaritan Community Services has spread throughout our diocese,” said Lillibridge.
Bishop Gary Lillibridge blesses the new learning center at Good Samaritan Community Services.
The ceremony also included a blessing and celebration of the ministry of the Rev. Andrew Lobban, the first chaplain of the GSCS. Lobban, who was ordained to the priesthood in January, has served as chaplain since his graduation from Seminary of the Southwest in Austin last May. The board of directors presented Lobban to Lillibridge, and Lobban then accepted his reBishop Gary Lillibridge blesses the ministry sponsibilities as chaplain. Lobban also serves as of the Rev. Andrew Lobban, chaplain an advocate for GSCS, visiting the churches of at the GSCS. the diocese throughout the year to inform them of the services and ministry of the center.
New Land for St. Peter’s, Rockport Saturday, December 3, the Rt. Rev. Gary Lillibridge, bishop of the diocese, and his wife, Catherine Lillibridge, joined the people of St. Peter’s, Rockport, to dedicate a piece of property recently purchased on which to build a new church. The day’s liturgy included the blessing with holy water by parishioners and clergy at various points around the property. The original church was established on November 30 in 1871. The Rt. Rev. Alexander Gregg, Bishop of the Diocese of Texas, presided on that occasion. The date for the blessing of the new land this past winter was chosen to coincide with their 140th anniversary and was the first opportunity for many of the parishioners to walk the grounds. The following Sunday morning the Lillibridges joined 143 parishioners of St. Peter’s, Rockport, for baptism, confirmation, and reaffirmation. The new property is just over 10 acres and near the center of the peninsula, located adjacent to the Rockport Post Office and the First Baptist Church.
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Congregations with open positions or upcoming events can now advertise at no cost on the newly re-designed Episcopal News Service website http://episcopalnewsservice. com Launched in early December 2011, the Episcopal News Service website now includes Featured Jobs and Calls, a jobs area, as well as a bulletin board, where churches can post jobs and calls for free. Churches can also post employment opportunities on the Diocese of West Texas website, www.dwtx.org, on the Help Wanted page found under the tab “Visitors.” Send the job title and description to Laura Shaver at laura. shaver@dwtx.org.
Texas Conference of Churches New Location The new home of the Texas Conference of Churches (TCC) is on the campus of Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. The TCC assembles its constituents every year to present information on topics important to their ministries, and to bring them up to date on the workings of the TCC. In the new regional format, two assemblies are held in different quadrants of the state during the spring. The format for all assemblies includes a morning of information and presentations, an afternoon of networking in small and large groups, and an ecumenical worship celebration to close the day. Visit the website to learn more: www.txconfchurches.org. They are located in the lower level of the Trull Building – the first building on your right as you pass through the gates of the main entrance. Parking is a bit tight on campus, so if you know you will be stopping by, let TCC know at tcc@txconfchurches.org, and they will arrange for a visitor’s pass for you. New address is: 100 E. 27th St., Austin, TX 78705; 512-708-0660.
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The first clergy spouse gatherings in the Diocese of West Texas were hosted by Helen Jones, wife Clergy spouses gather around the prayer of the Rt. Rev. Everett Jones, who was conseboxes they created at the most recent crated fourth bishop of the diocese in 1943. Clergy Spouse Retreat. Evelyn Bailey, wife of the Rt. Rev. Scott Bailey, sixth bishop of the diocese, continued the tradition in her home. The number of spouses in attendance began to increase, so Bailey organized the first overnight retreat. “We are blessed to have this legacy within our diocese,” said Lillibridge. In addition to the weekend retreat held now, Lillibridge and Reed are also coordinating convocational gatherings to enhance the relationships among clergy spouses in each of the diocese’s seven convocations. For these gatherings, Lillibridge and Reed travel to the designated location and meet the clergy spouses for dinner and conversation. “There is nothing like the ‘togetherness’ we receive at the retreat, but these meetings do help reinforce our relationships,” Lillibridge said. The clergy spouses also host a booth at Diocesan Council, where individuals in the group can sell particular items, such as church cookbooks or published novels or crafts. A percentage of the profit goes to a clergy spouse fund that is used to support each diocesan seminary family. Donations to this fund are also appreciated. The fund also helps facilitate the annual clergy spouse retreat and the newly formed convocational gatherings.
Piedras Sin Frio (Piedras Without Cold) Last winter, the Diocese of West Texas was able, through individual donations, to send over 1,000 blankets to Piedras Negras, Mexico, to be distributed throughout the city to the poor. Many families who live in unheated housing were blessed by the blankets. Some were even distributed to the boys selling newspapers on the street. Because the project was so successful, and the need is still so great, the Department of World Mission is asking people to donate blankets by bringing or sending them to the diocesan offices at the Bishop Jones Center.
Blankets donated in 2011.
Monetary donations are also welcome. Padre Miguel Cristerna of Iglesia El Buen Pastor in Piedras Negras can buy a blanket across the border for about $10.00 or $15.00. Please send donations made out to the Diocese of West Texas and marked “blanket project” to The Bishop Jones Center, P.O. Box 6885, San Antonio, TX 78209, ATTN: Betty Chumney. You may also bring your donated blankets to the center at 111 Torcido Dr. Donations are welcome through March. Help keep someone warm this winter.
January/February 2012
Clergy spouse retreat photo submitted by Connie Bye. Blankets photo by Laura Shaver.
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The Clergy Spouse Retreat was held last November at Mustang Island Conference Center. This retreat, led by diocesan bishop spouses, Catherine Lillibridge and Patti Reed, is held once a year as a time for clergy spouses to come together in fellowship and community. “The retreat gives all of us a chance to get away, be ourselves, and not be the minister’s wife (or husband) for a short time,” said Lillibridge.
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mission trips to Costa Rica and Nicaragua and have sent veterinarian and medical teams to Honduras. One family has been actively involved in Cursillo and helped host an Ultreya at Fort McKavett. They are also involved with Good Samaritan Community Services, and Martin himself volunteers with prison ministries. But they only had to look at the neighboring fort to come up with a novel idea for a new outreach program – Star Parties. Every quarter, amateur astronomers from Houston set up a dozen or so telescopes at Fort McKavett for visitors to gaze at distant plants, stars, and galaxies. “We’re on top of a hill and you can see forever,” Martin said. “It’s one of the darkest places in North America.” Star gazers arrive in the late afternoon and stay until around 10:00 p.m. “There’s nothing out there to eat,” Roque said. “You can’t buy a Coke, you can’t buy a bag of chips. You get hungry.” Martin said, “So we provided dinner for the Star Party.” At one of the dinners, they cooked brisket, set out buns and all the trimmings, and asked for donations to cover the meal. They took in $300 and are “all hopped up to do it again,” Martin said. Roque’s attraction to Fort McKavett is rooted in his childhood. A native of New Braunfels, he was “born, raised, baptized, and confirmed in the diocese.” When he was a youngster, his Boy Scout troop camped at Fort McKavett. Later, he joined Civil War and cavalry re-enactment groups that gathered at McKa-
vett. “I’ve had a lot of ties and connections out here,” he said. And in a twist of fate, “My favorite high school teacher is from here, she moved back home and now attends church at St. James’.” His involvement in military re-enactments has morphed into another outreach at the fort. He volunteers as the post’s chaplain, sporting a historically accurate replica of an Army chaplain’s frock coat. Last summer, Fort McKavett held a summer camp that attracted about 40 children from across Texas. He held prayer services and talked about what an Army chaplain did on the frontier. During heritage days at McKavett, Roque conducts a Eucharist using the 1789 Book of Common Prayer, the version seen on the 1870s Texas frontier. “It’s a neat experience being able to be out here,” he said. “I realized that this is the type of ministry that I’m good at. I go out on ranches, I work cattle with some of the ranchers, I still do my hospital visits and my pastoral care.” He’s also been a part-time police officer for more than 16 years. “I tease St. John’s in Sonora all the time,” Roque said. “I wouldn’t have come out here to St. John’s if it weren’t also for the call to St. James’. They laugh because they knew how much I love St. James’.” West Texans have always been known as a self-reliant and independent lot, a trait reflected at St. James’. “St. James’ is a staunchly independent and self-reliant church,” Roque
said. “If the diocese asks ‘is there anything we can do for you?’ our members will say, ‘we’ve been around for over 100 years. Just give us a priest and we’ll be all right.’” Martin echoed those sentiments: “As long as there’s a parish in Sonora, we’re on cloud nine. And as long as Father Chris is there, we’re on cloud nine.” Mike Patterson
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contacted people in the nearby communities of Fannin, Beeville, and Berclair to request help to raise the necessary funds. People responded in droves. When the fund drive was over, they were only about $750.00 short of what they needed to purchase the building. They were faced with a dilemna: should they use the money for storage or for a worship space? Recently, Elder put out a request to the Diocese of West Texas for a storage building available for donation or for sale that could be used for one of those needs. If you know of such a building, you can contact Elder at the church at 361-358-3730, on his cell at 361-542-9875, or by email at elder_clayton@hotmail.com. “This really has been a Godly turn of events, ever since Susan discovered Mariposa at Fannin United Methodist Church. The Holy Spirit lit a fire, if not a blaze, in these communities, there is no doubt,” Elder said. “The meeting of needs has been wonderful,” he continued, “but just as important are the relationships that are building. One St. Philip’s parishioner has named himself responsible for providing all the peanut butter and jelly that is needed; all of the families of the parish have been clearing out their closets. One young girl has offered her services as acolyte for every worship service, and the women of St. Philip’s prepared Christmas gifts for the families in Berclair.”
Photo by Mike Patterson.
Barbara Duffield
The rubble of an old fort building sets an historical note for St. James’.
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January/February 2012
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FYI - Seminars, Conferences, Workshops, Retreats For details and online registration (when available) for these events, visit the diocesan website at www.dwtx.org and click on “Special Events” or “Church and Other Events” located under the “Events and Calendar” tab, unless noted otherwise.
January DWTX Recreational Basketball Tuesdays, through February 21, 2012 Games are played each Tuesday at the St. Luke’s, San Antonio, gym from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. High school kids and all adults are welcome to participate. A medical release is required. Please contact Steve Rogers, DWTX Sports commissioner, at 210-601-2787.
February Craft Retreat, February 3-5 A Craft Retreat led by Sue Hardaway will be held at Camp Capers February 3-5 for ladies ages 18 and older. Cost is $120 per person. This is a time to craft together; please bring your own supplies. Contact Sue and let her know if you will need a table for your craft at 361-633-1825. Register online at www.dwtx.org.
The Clergy Lenten Retreat will be held March 4-7 at Mustang Island Conference Center. The registration deadline is February 24. Clergy Continuing Education grants are available. Contact the Rev. Robert Woody for details at rwoody@ churchofreconciliation.org or 210-655-2731. EfM (Education for Ministry) Mentor Training will be held March 23-25 at Camp Capers. For more information, please contact Ada Sutherland, diocesan coordinator for EfM at: adazsuth@att.net; 361-572-4816 or 361-564-8492.
DWTX Summer Camps
Online registration is available for all summer camps at www.dwtx.org.
Summer Camp Schedule at Camp Capers
“Staying Power” Marriage Retreat, February 10-12 A weekend marriage retreat for couples, “Staying Power - Making Marriage Last a Lifetime,” will be held at Mustang Island Conference Center on February 10-12. The Rev. Jennifer and Carrick Brooke-Davidson and the Rev. Lisa and Kirk Mason will lead the retreat. Cost is $460.00 per couple. For more information, please contact Lynn Corby at lynn.corby@dwtx.org or 361-749-1800. Register online at www.dwtx.org.
Senior High Camp A June 3 – 9, rising 10th to first year of college Primary Camp A June 10 – 16, rising 3rd – 5th Junior High Camp A June 17 - 23, rising 8th – 9th Intermediate Camp A June 24 – 30, rising 6th – 7th Senior High Camp B July 15 – 21, rising 10th to first year of college Junior High Camp B July 22 – 28, rising 8th – 9th Intermediate Camp B July 29 - Aug. 4, rising 6th – 7th Primary Camp B Aug. 5 – 11, rising 3rd – 5th
108th Annual Diocesan Council, February 16-18 Council will be held February 16-18 at the McAllen Convention Center. Please visit the Council website, council-dwtx.org, for information. See the special insert in this issue, beginning on page 9.
Family Camp Schedule at Mustang Island
March Cursillo #255 will be held at Camp Capers, March 1-4. Patti Stegall will serve as lay rector, and the Rev. John Fritts as spiritual director. Both are from St. Paul’s, Brady. Online registration available at www.dwtx.org. Happening #121 will be held March 2-4 at St. David’s, San Antonio, beginning at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 2, and ending on Sunday, March 4, following the closing service around 4:30 p.m. HIS Love #121 will be held March 3-4 at the Church of Reconciliation, San Antonio, beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 3, and ending on Sunday, March 4, following the closing service around 4:30 p.m.
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Spring Break Family Camp March 15 – 18 Session 1 June 7 – 10 Session 2 June 14 – 17 Session 3 June 21 – 24 Session 4 June 28 – July 1 Session 5 July 5 – 8 Session 6 July 12 -15 Session 7 July 19 – 22 Session 8 July 26 – July 29 Session 9 Aug. 2 – 5 Session 10 Aug. 9-12 Session 11 – Labor Day Aug. 31- Sept. 3
Colorado Adventure Camp at Roosevelt National Forest July 16 – July 21: Youth Base Camp Trip 1 July 23 – July 20: Youth Backpack Trip 2
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