July/August 2016 Church News

Max Navarro (left) presents Bishop Gary Lillibridge with the 2016 Good Samaritan Award, given by Good Samaritan Community Services.

See story on page 14.

the

Church

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July / August 2016 The newspaper of the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas

Inside this issue

4 The annual Mother’s Day Offering, which benefits the work of World Mission, honorees are listed beginning on page 7.

Pen Pal Program Engages Neighborhood Children

6 13 15

Newly Formed Coastal Bend Partnership in Ministry

Report on the Small Church: Big Mission Conferences

Celebrating a Saint: Artemisia Bowden’s Saint’s Day on August 18

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News and Features 2 On the Bishop’s Mind: An Update 4 Pen Pal Program Engages Neighborhood Children

6 Coastal Bend Partnership in Ministry 7 Mother’s Day Offering 11 For Altar Guilds in the Diocese 11 Recent Clergy Changes 13 Report on the Small Church: Big Mission Conferences

In Every

Issue

3 From the Editor 14 Around the Circuit 16 Calendar Cover photo by Candace Schaddelee, with Rememory Photography. the Church News is published four times a year by the Dept. of Communication, Diocese of West Texas of the Protestant Episcopal Church P. O. Box 6885 San Antonio, Texas 78209 Editor: Laura Shaver Laura.Shaver@dwtx.org Deadline for news and advertising is the 15th of the month preceding publication.

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

Volume 73 Number 3 July/August 2016 USPS 661-790 The Diocese of West TX is a family of 26,000+ members in 87 congregations across 60 counties and 69,000 square miles in South Central Texas.

Bishop of West Texas: The Rt. Rev. Gary R. Lillibridge Bishop Coadjutor: The Rt. Rev. David M. Reed The Bishop Jones Center 111 Torcido Dr. San Antonio, Texas 78209 Telephone: 210/888-8245387. FAX: 210-824-2164 general.mail@dwtx.org www.dwtx.org

Communication Department Staff: Marjorie George: editor, Reflections Magazine and ReflectionsOnline Laura Shaver: communications officer

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On the Bishop’s Mind The Rt. Rev. David Reed Bishop Coadjutor of the Diocese

An Update on Initiatives

D

uring his address to the 112th annual Diocesan Council in McAllen this past February, Bishop Coadjutor David Reed said his vision for the Diocese of West Texas is, simply, to be the Kingdom of God. He wants the diocese “to go that way,” following the way of Christ, on the way toward the Kingdom.

Reed said, “My vision is that the diocese become the best, strongest, most vibrant diocese in the Church … with every congregation confident in its purpose, drawing people to Christ and sending them out; with every church fully the Body of Christ, a missionary station creatively engaging the community, going big, offering life in Christ without fear because we have already been baptized into his death and raised with him.”

To proceed “this way,” Reed offered six initiatives, all of which require collaboration, partnerships, and local and regional buy-in. The initiatives are: Church Planting, Evangelism, College Missions, Young Adult Leadership Formation, Small Church: Big Mission Conferences, and Veterans’ Ministries.

“I think these initiatives are my attempt to describe what I think God is already doing with us in West Texas, where his Spirit is already stirring us up and leading us.”

- Bishop David Reed

The Church News recently sat down with Reed to receive updates on what has been happening with the six initiatives since Council. You can read a full report on the Small Church: Big Missions Conferences on page 13.

“I think the initiatives are my attempt to describe what I think God is already doing with us in West Texas, where his Spirit is already stirring us up and leading us,” Reed said. “There’s nothing really new about these initiatives—they are basic and foundational parts of Christian life and ministry—but the time seems right to raise these up and give them new and greater emphasis.”

Church Planting Reflecting on this initiative, Reed said, “Jesus says to go, baptize and make disciples. Our diocese was founded by missionaries, and all of our churches were planted. Thinking about and planning for new church starts should be as normal for us as talking about Camp Capers and World Mission. But it’s not. This initiative, will, I hope, lead

the whole diocese to renewed commitment to making new disciples and building up the Church.”

From the editor

The Revs. Ripp Hardaway (St. John’s, New Braunfels) and David Read (St. Luke’s, San Antonio), along with Delia Cardenas (St. Stephen’s, San Antonio) and John Thompson (Christ Church, San Antonio) are leading the effort to develop a diocesan plan to establish two new congregations: one along the rapidly growing I-35 corridor between San Antonio and Austin, and the other in South San Antonio, which is also experiencing dramatic development.

Laura Shaver

The leaders have met often since Council and have twice pulled together interested clergy and lay leaders from around the diocese.

This has led to a focus on five key areas: location data gathering and analysis, assessment of church planting models, means of selecting church planters, property evaluation and selection (if needed), and identifying and developing financial resources. They also are continuing to build teams to do the necessary work in each area. They will report to the 113th annual Council in Corpus Christi next February.

“I’m greatly encouraged, and challenged, by the work this group has done already,” Reed said. “It’s a huge undertaking, but I trust the Spirit will move us forward. This cannot be a situation where the diocese plants two churches and all our existing congregations are just spectators. We need to reclaim together the stewardship of the mission our Lord has given us. We are working toward something of a culture change in our diocesan life.”

Evangelism In 2015, Bishop Reed restarted the diocesan Evangelism Committee, chaired by the Rev. John Hill (St. Margaret’s, San Antonio). The committee has met regularly for the past year, honing their mission and seeking ways they might most effectively serve the churches of West Texas. As with church planting, Reed sees evangelism as “a basic piece” of being Christian and being the Church.

“Over the years, I’ve grown tired of the nervous jokes Episcopalians make about the dreaded ‘e-word.’ I’m not sure Jesus is amused anymore. I’ve also learned that the work of evangelism—sharing the Good News of Jesus—happens locally and personally. People come to know Jesus through the life and ministries of congregations.”

Members of the Evangelism Committee are currently available to come to any church, or group of churches, in the diocese to assist them in using the spiritual gifts and other resources God has given them to more effectively and confidently share Good News and invite others to join them in the life and ministries of the church.

The committee is currently focused on the “Invite-Welcome-Connect” ministry project developed in the Diocese of Texas in 2010, which includes an intentional, systematic structure that congregations can use to do just what the title suggests.

“Every church, regardless of size, can become effective at incorporating people more fully into the church. You don’t have to be Billy Graham. You just need to be you, willing to risk a little, for Christ’s sake, to invite and make room for others,” said Reed.

The Invite-Welcome-Connect Conference will be hosted by St. Luke’s, San Antonio, on Saturday, September 24. More details will be available soon on the diocesan website, www.dwtx.org.

Continued on page 12.

Finding Rest in Summer

D

uring a recent diocesan staff Eucharist service, Bishop Reed lead us in an exercise during which we wrote a prayer for our summers. He spoke of the quiet and rest that summer time is supposed to invoke. And he reminded us of Jesus’ promise that our faith has made us well, that we should rise, and go in peace.

We then spent a few moments writing our prayers, and before my pen reached my small sheet of orange paper, I was praying for this rest, peace, and renewal.

In 2 Corinthians, Paul tells us that Jesus said to him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” So Paul gladly boasts of his weaknesses instead of his strengths, calling forth Jesus’ power upon him.

It’s relatively easy to boast of my weaknesses as we endure these long, hot days of summer. I am tired, and most days, I feel as though I am not even trying to make this a summer of memories for my little boys. This is a summer with a sweet baby who doesn’t like to sleep at night, and this is a summer of energetic, joyous, bubbling boys who require constant activity.

of those seeking this same refreshment this time of year. For my weakness is minimal. And Jesus tells us to come to him and he will provide the rest we seek (Matthew 11:28).

My attention turned to those needing such God-gifted rest so much more than I. Friends experiencing long illnesses, friends and neighbors enduring deep grief, the lonely, the hungry, the homeless, the outdoor laborers who show up to earn a living day after day as the sun shines bright and strong upon their backs.

Jesus tells us to take his yoke upon us, for his yoke is easy, and his burden is light (Matthew 11:30).

Easy and light, just like summertime. Easy and light, just like a bright beach ball, a tossing wave, a poolside treat, a swinging hammock by the river, a nap.

As this summer continues on, I will keep praying, praying for those needing renewal to find good rest in the comfort of our Lord. Good, deep rest as fireflies light the night sky and the sun continues to rise to lead us into another warm day.

So on my small sheet of orange paper, I wrote a prayer for renewal in my family, for time to be out in God’s creation, for good play and for good rest. I prayed for the continued health and growth of our baby, and time off from work for my husband to engage his older boys.

I prayed that God keeps us mindful of his love, his grace that surrounds and envelops us, and the Church News

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Featured News

Pen Pal Program Engages Neighborhood Children

by Mike Patterson

Mike Patterson is a freelance writer and member of St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church in Blanco.

Riggins said, “You know, Regina, it’s All Saints’ Day. See if you can use that.”

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Walker thought about Riggins’ suggestion and sat down with the notebook. “God is good,” Walker explained. “He came at the right time to tell me how to respond.”

Photos by Mike Patterson and Leslie Mixson.

n All Saints’ Day last year, Regina Walker, a member of St. Philip’s, San Antonio, opened the thin spiral notebook from her fourth-grade pen pal at nearby S.H. Gates Elementary School and discovered that the light-hearted exchange of letters had taken an unexpectedly somber turn.

The letter from her young friend, written on blue-lined paper, contained a sobering passage: “Do you have a dad because I don’t he died in a car crash. We had his funeral.”

After she read this, Walker retreated to compose herself in a quiet corner of the church’s parish hall. “My heart broke for such a young person to go through such a tragic event,” Walker said. “I saw this as a light-hearted exercise. Suddenly, it was very serious and thought-provoking.”

Seeing her alone, the Rev. Patricia Riggins, priest-in-charge, sensed something was up.

Walker showed her the letter and the two huddled over how she should reply.

“She is a young girl,” Walker said, “so I had to be sensitive to how I responded.”

St. Philip’s parishioner, Regina Walker, works on a letter to her fourth-grade pen pal.

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She picked up her pencil and wrote: “I am very sorry to hear that your dad died. Today is All Saints’ Day, a day when we give honor and prayers to our loved ones in heaven.

I will say a special prayer for you and your family.”

“It was a beautiful response,” Riggins said.

Pen Pal Program

The exchange of letters between Walker and her young friend began as a pen pal program last fall between the fourth graders at Gates and the parishioners at St. Philip’s.

The school and church are located only about six blocks apart in southeast San Antonio and share a heritage rooted deep in the African-American community.

S.H. Gates, a prominent local educator, was the first African-American to have a school named in his honor in San Antonio. St. Philip’s heritage dates to its founding in 1895 as the first Episcopal Church for AfricanAmericans in the Diocese of West Texas.

The cooperation between the church and Gates started when Riggins heard about a partnership between San Antonio’s Christ Church and its neighborhood school, Madison Elementary, at a diocesan Abide in Me conference. (See “A Mutual Transformational Relationship,” The Church News, March/April 2015.)

Although St. Philip’s is much smaller than Christ Church, she wanted to see if there was some way on a lesser scale that her church could help the children at Gates Elementary.

“Part of the DNA of this church community is to be in a relationship with Gates,” Riggins said. “Several of the kids of our parishioners went to Gates. And we have quite a few teachers in the parish.”

Riggins arranged a meeting with Stephanie Webb, the school counselor, to explore ways that the church could help Gates. “I knew we could do something like buy school supplies, but I wanted something different,” Riggins said.

Webb said, “You know, what if we could have a little pen pal program with the fourth graders because they are tested in writing for STAAR.” The State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness measures fourth graders on reading, writing and math.

“I thought that would help with writing by encouraging them to write more,” Webb said. “The kids would also learn things about other people, and those people would be learning things about them.”

Riggins presented the idea to the church and “Nobody said no,” she said.

The program was launched when the school’s two dozen fourth graders decorated the cover of their spiral notebooks and wrote a letter introducing themselves to their future pen pals at St. Philip’s.

Riggins picked up the notebooks from the school, took them to church, and “just started passing them out at coffee hour to anybody who wanted to participate.” They were quickly snatched up, even by St. Philip’s own 6th, 7th and 8th graders. “Everything is on phones these days,” she said, “Our young people have never had a pen pal before.”

Generally, it takes about two to three weeks to turn the letters around between the church and school. The parishioner and student remain paired as pen pals throughout the year.

The children tell their pen pals about themselves, their families, their school, their pastimes, what books they are reading, and what their favorite stories are. Sports and video games are a big topic, too.

“We also get a lot of pictures,” Riggins said.

On Sundays, when the notebooks are passed out after services, it’s a mad dash as church members reach for their letters. “It’s nice to see people grab their booklets,” Walker said.

“They grab their pencils and put their heads down and then raise them thinking about what to say. We have to watch our own penmanship!”

The parish hall also buzzes with conversations as members share what their pen pals have written. “When I distribute the notebooks, I listen to the conversations in the parish hall,” Riggins said. “‘Listen to what he wrote,’ they say.”

The same excitement happens at school when the children get their notebooks back from church. “When they get their books back they open them up and read them, then they’ll share with each other what their pen pal wrote, the questions that they had, the ideas and experiences that they had,” Webb explained.

One child wrote her pen pal that they were learning about the Caddo Indians. “It’s really fun,” the youngster wrote. “Tell me more about the Indians,” the parishioner wrote back.

Another church member told her pen pal that she was “glad you like to read because reading is essential to your education.”

“A lot of this is trying to be encouraging and asking questions about what they’ve learned,” Riggins said. “Anything to get them to write and to practice writing and to tell us about themselves and their school.”

Webb said a fourth-grade teacher reviews the letters and offers suggestions to the children on what to write and how to improve their writing.

“Sometimes they don’t know what to say, especially over a holiday,” Webb said. She and the teacher encourage the children to write about what happened during the Easter holiday, what happened during the Christmas holiday, and to share those experiences.

Webb will occasionally substitute the time she sets aside each Wednesday for guidance work with the class for letter writing. “I’ll say, ‘take out your notebooks.

This is what we’re going to do for guidance’ so that

it won’t take time away from their class” and interfere with their preparation for the important STAAR test.

“I think that’s a good exercise for them,” Webb said. “They notice the patterns that other people use when they write. They conform to what they see other people doing.”

“Church members love the fact that they’re encouraging the kids.

This congregation knows the value of education. They want to very much assure that these kids are valued as individuals and valued as children of God and that they keep up with their education.”

Riggins has also heard positive feedback about the program. One parent noticed the improvement in her child’s handwriting, for example. “You can also tell the sentence structure improves,” Riggins said. “They start responding. They have more confidence.

They’re not getting anything from us that is scolding. All they’re getting from us is responses to their questions, and they get a chance to brag on themselves.”

Church members “love the fact that they’re encouraging the kids. This congregation knows the value of education. They want to very much assure that these kids are valued as individuals and valued as children of God and that they keep up with their education,” said Riggins.

“It warms my heart to go back in time to remember what it was like, what is in their minds, what their young minds think about at that age,” Walker said.

Although religion is not a theme in the letters, the children know that the letters are sent from a local church. “Several church members do talk about the church family,” Riggins said. “Many of our letters end with ‘You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.’”

With only 49 families, St. Philip’s faces limitations on how broad it can spread its outreach programs into the community. In addition to the pen pal program at Gates, a

the Church News

Continued on page 11.

July/August 2016

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Featured News

Coastal Bend Partnership in Ministry

by Laura Shaver

T

he Coastal Bend Partners in Ministry, a collaborative partnership among four churches in and around Corpus Christi, formed this spring, and Bishop David Reed appointed the Rev. Beverly Patterson as Canon Missioner. The churches in the partnership are Church of Our Savior, Aransas Pass; St. Andrew’s, Calallen; Church of Reconciliation, Corpus Christi; and St. Christopher’s, Portland.

Similar to the Eastern Partnership in Ministry, that has been successful for 20-plus years, the Coastal Bend Partners in Ministry formed to allow for the continuation of these smaller churches in this area of the diocese. But as found in the Eastern Convocation, the relationship among the congregations will benefit the churches the most.

“Friendships, similar needs, mutual caring, and support are already apparent. It is a most hopeful, exciting, and challenging time for us all,” said Dianne Nichols, bishop’s warden of Church of Our Savior, Aransas Pass.

Photo submitted by the Rev. Joann Saylors.

The wardens and other leaders of the four churches, as well as Patterson, Bishop David Reed and the Rev. Canon Joann Saylors, who oversees congregational development for the diocese, came together on May 25 to sign the Partnership Covenant.

The covenant signing followed several exploratory and informational meetings beginning in January of this year.

Patterson and the lay leaders of the churches make up the Partnership Council, and they will continue to meet regularly to discuss ways to work together for the good of this mission. “We will explore shared activities as we become better acquainted with one another’s needs, abilities, and interests,” said Nichols. “ We agree that our shared activities need to strengthen our bonds with one another as individuals, cement our Partnership Covenant, and bring growth to the partnership churches.”

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The Partnership Council came together with Bishop David Reed and the Rev. Canon Joann Saylors on May 25 to sign the Partnership Covenant. Council members are: Front left to right: Sue Johnson, treasurer for St. Christopher’s, Portland; Sue Fiedler, bishop’s warden of St. Christopher’s; Kathy Ackerman, Church of Our Savior, Aransas Pass; Dianne Nichols, bishop’s warden of Church of Our Savior

Middle left to right: the Rev. Canon Joann Saylors; Jenny Thompson, treasurer for Church of Our Savior; the Rev. Beverly Patterson, canon missioner

Back left to right: Jim Childre, St. Andrew’s, Calallen; Bishop David Reed; Gerald Phelps, bishop’s warden for St. Andrew’s, Calallen; Eileen Benton, bishop’s warden of Reconciliation, Corpus Christi; TJ Molina, junior warden of Reconciliation

In time, opportunities for shared activities may include special worship services, fellowship activities (pot lucks, outings, and retreats), Christian education and formation (study groups and book clubs), youth activities, workdays at the various churches, outreach projects, prayer groups, and fundraisers.

“We are blessed to have Beverly to lead, guide, and walk beside us in faith as we pursue increased growth and strength for each partnership church and its congregants,” said Nichols. “We also recognize and appreciate the support of Bishop Reed, Joann Saylors, and the diocesan family.”

Patterson, who served previously as the rector of St. Andrew’s, Port Isabel, brings a wealth of experience as a priest and educator, and she has also served in the Eastern Partnership.

This summer she will begin working with each congregation to determine her rotating schedule and the schedule of supply clergy, as well as learn the priorities of each church.

The partnership will move forward in its abiding commitment by discovering and respecting each other’s needs. “In this way, shared activities can be fully integrated in a manner that will be lasting and will strengthen us all,” said Nichols.

Special Section: Mother’s Day Offering

Honoring Our Mothers

Tributes ...

“My mother always has a smile on her face.”

A special offering on Mother’s Day, May 8, honored the special women in our lives and contributed to the work of World Mission.

In past years, the funds have provided such things as medical and dental treatment for marginalized children in Mexico and Guatemala; micro enterprise conferences for women of Uganda; renovations and beds for orphanages in Kenya and Mexico; scholarships for students in secondary and technical schools and universities in Mexico, Honduras, Kenya, and Uganda; and continued work with children’s ministries in Haiti.

Thank you for giving to the Lord.

“I have always known my Father because of her teaching.”

“My mom was my best friend and my hero.”

“There was nothing she would not try to do. The best description of her - she was a force of nature, unbelievably strong.

“My mother is awesome. Tough and loving, understanding and caring.”

Donor Honoree

Donor Honoree

Advent, Alice

St. Francis, Canyon Lake

Melba Gafford Thelma, Una, Cathy, Lainey, Amanda, Kathy, Beth, Paige, Stephanie, and Becky

Church Donation --

Church Donation -Patricia Perea Patricia Enriquez Ganedo David and Julie Chalk Marie Chalk and Betty Morris Kenneth Patla Dorothy Goodwin Betty Morris Alice Grey Sears Akin and Rasabel Smith Anonymous Wenonah Hillin

St. Christopher’s, Bandera

St. Boniface, Comfort

Church Donation -Mary Bird Dorothy Lindsey, Charline Cover, Harriette Hill

Jana Colgate Flo Rickey Lera Tyler Cecile McCann Tyler Bernadette Kunz -Anonymous Lera Tyler

Our Savior, Aransas Pass

St. Philip’s, Beeville Fred and Joan Jennings Jan Lassetter Hallie Hollenback Hillery Adams Joan Stautzenberger Pat Sugarek David Henley Inez S. Henley and Adelle J. Ross Ginny Turner All mothers Pat Sugarek Every mother Janis Brown Pat Sugarek Kay Past Margaret Cude and Mary Chestnutt Cude Tom and Judy Healey All mothers

St. Helena’s, Boerne Joyce Ann Brieger -Lou Kennedy Vicki Kennedy Charles and Louise Kennedy Natalie Kennedy Jim and Sandy Folts Kim Folts and Jeannie Leo Gail Simpler Jennifer Dalton Mike and Cindy Glick Martha Glick

St. Paul’s, Brownsville Church Donation --

All Saints, Corpus Christi Church Donation -Jim Tyree Atlee Ann Tyree and Catherine Tyree Anonymous Nancy Adams and Stella Berecka

Good Shepherd, Corpus Christi Cornelia Freeman -Shawn Pettus Marylee Browning Josephine Irby Jo Hurd Frank and Betty Fuller Lucy Robb Winston Works and Joan Abbott Fuller David and Leah Brown Nana Brown and Meme Smith William Turner -Jeffrey & Jacqueline Carlson Juanita McGinty and Margaret Carlson Atlee and Connie DuBose Linda Dubose Faye Bruun Glenna and Janie Bruun Susan Roberts Betty Worell, Missy Bell, Faye Dixon, and Cleta Thomas Anonymous Vickie Gilley and Irma Martin Anonymous Mrs. CA Stephenson and Miss Julie Timmins Anonymous Patricia Drake

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July/August 2016

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Special Section: Mother’s Day Offering

Donor Honoree

Donor Honoree

Anonymous Boice and Galen Anonymous Cristina Rhodes Anonymous Laura Lee Tegarden Anonymous Peggy Booth

Emmanuel, Lockhart

St. Bartholomew’s, Corpus Christi

Lynne Lewis -Amy Davidson -Anonymous Rose Mary Scheffler

St. John’s, McAllen

Anonymous Rae and Gladys

Grace, Cuero Saundra Anderson-Mueller Loraine McLerran Linda Miller Jeanie Duderstadt

St. Matthias’, Devine Mary Roberta Walters

Church Donation -Jim Egger Emma Jean Yarber and Dorothy Egger Pam Simpson June Simpson Hopper

St. John’s, New Braunfels Bill and Lynne Campaigne

Roberta Hundley

Redeemer, Eagle Pass

Nellie Mayfield and Ellen Campaigne

St. Andrew’s, Port Isabel

Bob and Nancy Ostos Bernadine Buck and Vivian Ostos Deborah Parkin Carol T. Chapman Patricia McGaughy Gladys Thomson Anonymous Courtney Hill Cornelia Muzquiz Lela Gruy Muzquiz, Sara Elisa Muzquiz, Maria Muzquiz Roswell, Leticia V. Lewis, Mariaelena Cristerna St. Peter’s, Rockport

St. Barnabas’, Fredericksburg Church Donation -M J Long Beatrice Latimer Johnson

Good Shepherd, George West Darryl and Teresa Haas

Nita Anderson

St. Alban’s, Harlingen Church Donation --

St. Matthew’s, Kenedy David and Dianne Maitland Peggy Maitland Henry Pat Hemby Doris Crowell Shirley Oleson Paula Helton and Barbara Wood Christ Church, Laredo Andrew and Alison Hilburn Debby Hadley and Sue Hilburn Mary Aguilar and Nikairy Rivera Antongiorgi Melchora Guajardo Aguilar and Ms. Amie Goodman Ray and Patricia Keck Barbara Cigarroa and Joyce Keck Steve and Angie Gutierrez Rosario Gutierrez Anonymous Julia Watson Jones and Patricia Cigarroa Keck Anonymous Beth Anonymous Tina Trevino Anonymous Mickey Rangel and Beth Trevino

Grace, Llano Church Donation --

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Church Donation -Kimber and Benjamin Clark Irma C. Jones and Sally Clark Audre and John Debler Annie L. Ankele Julie Pina Judy Diana Severino-Saxon and Greg Saxon our mothers Joan and Scott Steward mother, Constance Armitage, and friend Phyllis Stewart

Christ Church, San Antonio Church Donation -Rollins and Bitsy Rubsamen Florence Ayres and Simona Rubsamen Kelly McClendon Harris Glenda Waskon McClendon Sarah McLain Ruth McCumber Gain Marthe Curry Tish Tucker and Brooks Hagee Austin and Martha Moore Miriam Burke Anonymous Pat Dalton Anonymous Jennifer Wivagg Anonymous Carol Strode Anonymous Emily Dial Anonymous Nellie Mayfield

Holy Spirit, San Antonio Alice Babine Ellen Conley Mary Sipich Lois Hollerich and Josephine Isenegger

St. Andrew’s, San Antonio Church Donation -Paul and Linda Lehberger Katherine Williams and Marie Lehberger Nenita Chevas Modesta Tolentino Natividad Clarke Filisa Buton, Barbara McCoole, Norma Bingham, Cynthia Titmus, Evelyn Franklin, Minnie Hamilton,

Special Section: Mother’s Day Offering

Donor Honoree

Donor Honoree

and Vera Ceder Marshall

Clark O’Neil Anonymous Amanda Byrd Anonymous Mary K. Schlecht

St. David’s, San Antonio Alfred Evans Lometa Evans John and Patricia Brooke Olivia Castro and Hope Ball Brooke Vicki Goebel Nancy Hurd and Martha Autern Carol Hester Virginia, Leta, and Jane Amy Rhodes Rosalee Coleman Peggy Henry Muriel Willett Mari Marion Ana Vasquez and Mirta Vazquez Julie Bissell Beverley Axford William Hoffman -Kaitlin Reed Patti Reed Steve Bissell Berniece Bissell J Colleen Cooke Daye -Beverley Axford Julie, Jackie, Kathy, and Karla Elizabeth Neally Eleanor Jean Neally Cutter Charlotte Phillips Mary Warner Phillips Nelda Ruth Cade Winnie Dickins Betty Schrade Nora Riley Grona Robert Hodnett My wife, Elizabeth Folts Hodnett Patricia Biggs Anabel McKinney Work David and Patti Reed Gloria Kopec and Olive Reed Nancy Schweers -Patricia Bose -Kirk and Lisa Mason -Courtney Gibb -Anonymous Pat, Mary Elizabeth, and Amy Anonymous Mildred Hillier and Virginia Long Anonymous Deborah Threadgill Anonymous Rosemary Thomas Anonymous Helen Anderson, Loraine Moody, Frances Anderson, and Martha Westmoreland

St. George, San Antonio Nancy Henson Francis Elizabeth Cummings Cromack Jennifer Dietrich Rosalie Alvey Tommy and Sarah McLean Arden McLean Paul and Peggy Foerster -Dale and Renny Worsham Maurine Worsham and Elizabeth Samuel Marilynne Herbster Virginia Soar and Ernestine Herbster LaRue Acosta -Wesley Hiatt Mary Shipman Anonymous Jane Welter

St. Philip’s, San Antonio Gerald and Dorothy Bailey Lelia Morton and Albertha Bailey Yvonne Smith Clara Etta Williams Dorothy Adkins Josephine Warren Elizabeth Applin Clara Etta Williams Patricia Riggins -Susan Peterson Helen Peterson Elisha Nelson Lucille Edwards Nelson Ruth Nelson La Vada Fields Thornton Oddie Lilly Novella Flowers Joyce Sowells Helen G. Cuffins Katherine Lilly Oddie Lilly

St. Thomas, San Antonio Scott and Nancy Perrin Pat Ryder and Aurelia Perrin Julia Crusius Janet Perez, Bertie Coon, and Alice Baker Jennifer Palmer Jana Covey Tom and Esther Rickey Anna Seib Ronald Lorton Grace Lorton Donald and Kathleen Wilkinson Isabel Peach and Phyllis Wilkinson Alma Benevides -Thomas and Deborah Smith Catherine Smith and Ruth Austin Rosalind Love-Murray Carmen Love and Patricia Murray Deborah Murphy Pauline Debeur Judy Thompson Dee McLaughlin Martha Gaston Helen Mills and the Rev. Elizabeth Risinger Anonymous Bobbie English and Christie Bartkowski Anonymous Daisy White and Cathy Wilkinson Anonymous Frances Durso and Norma Caughman

All Saints, San Benito Church Donation --

St. Mark’s, San Marcos

Kaare and Brenda Reeme Gloria Remme Dianne Pape Rouge Rush Leanne Smith Corinne T. Smith St. Luke’s, San Antonio Sarah Willingham Iona Fountain Anonymous Karen Ashton Kathy Timberlake Patricia Allday, Alice Jean Timberlake, Anonymous To all those who have love and guided Sarah T. Halbach Anonymous Dorothy and Julie Robert Rogers Karen Rogers Anonymous Joyce Kirkland and Stephanie Pat Scott Anonymous Katie Nesbit

St. Mark’s, San Antonio

Church Donation -Mollie Zachry -Lillian Padgitt Morris Lililan Maverick Padgitt Lee and Judy Rux Florence Nunn and Marie Rux Jessie Babcock Stephanie Babcock Bob and Stephanie Pollom Rowena and Esther Russell & Susan Thompson Jean Cleek and Mary Ann Boggs Deborah Hay Lule Baggles, Robert Bunages, and

St. Andrew’s, Seguin Henry Moore Edwina Moore Janice Pruitt Donna Delaria Mr. and Mrs. Sydney Bauer Ann Bauer and Susan Bauer, Julie Khazami Tony and Beth Price Audrey Price and Ruth Gibson Clark Melinda Luedmann --

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Special Section: Mother’s Day Offering

Donor Honoree

Donor Honoree

St. Matthew’s, Universal City

Resurrection, Windcrest

Church Donation -Michael Mika Annie Russell Turner Victor Boyce Iris Boyce and Mildred White Bill Ercoline Edith Ercoline Chester Wyatt Irine Wyatt and Ellon Charlton Chuck Swanberg Lil, Marion, June, and Dee; Carrie, Cindy, Gladys, and Mitzi Ingrid Bethel-Constable Valencia Saunders Judy Ingram Anne Munger Kandice Thomas Marlene Bernaiche (mother) and Cindy Martinez (friend) Kathy Ercoline Wilma Sharp Michelle Goff Patty Ann Sommerlot Anonymous Elizabeth Macdonald Anonymous Elizabeth Sampson Anonymous Mrs. Adeline Beatrice Neal Anonymous Jean Arlene Barrows Forbes

Church Donation -Virginia Alexander Dorcas Gill Smith Robert and Ferol Senter Gertrude Senter and Lois Fisher Frances Wolf Emma Lou Lovell James and Cynthia Garrett Virginia Smith Alexander DC and Martha Swartout Elizabeth Duval and Josephine Swartwout R F Wallace Vivian Rita Wallace Mary Lew Finster Mary Bray and Mary Alvarez Anne King Dorothy Rice Graves Anonymous Debbie Clemens Anonymous Virginia Smith Alexander

St. Philip’s, Uvalde Beverly Heyen Dorothy Gillett Brown Betty Fitzgerald Eula Lee Windham and Elizabeth Fitzgerald William H. Barton -Anne Flemming Maurine Crenshaw Mr. and Mrs. Eddy Carnes Lavone Hatch Collier and Martha Richardson Anabel White Cynthia Marsh Chris Carper Mary Lucille Carper Michael and Cheryl McGehee Our daughters Monica Hernandez, Missy Cerna, Kristie Blackwell Anonymous Rebecca Lunsford Anonymous Angie Thomas Anonymous Judy Peterson

St. Francis, Victoria Janet Libby Judy Robisheaux Rose Neece Lucille Sims and Janet Myhand, Kate Blackwood Sandra Christian Ruth Setterle Ted and Andrea Wise Jamie Wise Angell and Amy Gabert Wise Paul and Kay Roeh Virginia Roeh, Chau Oi Ping,

Joy Roeh, Monica Wai, Hinnie Wai Cathy Hurst -Anonymous Beverly Popp Bell

Trinity, Victoria Richard Rogers -Jane Cox -Richard Lenz Lea Lenz Mary Silkey -- Wade Perry Christina Perry and Kay Baruday Anonymous Sandy and Caroline Anonymous Barbara Wickham Anonymous Cathy Taylor and Spring Taylor Anonymous Alice Englebright Anonymous Gloria and Margaret and Stormy Anonymous Annie Charbola Anonymous Angela Panelas Anonymous Leone Burgess Anonymous RoseAnn Preston and Carole Evans

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No church listed Peggy Opela and Patrick Coyle Marjorie Coyle and Adele Opela Richard Clark Pat Dailey Barbara Howe -Harriet Nelson -Martha Bernhardt Grace Inman Booth Ephlin

For Altar Guilds in the Diocese of West Texas

Continued from page 5.

couple of members also read to pre-K and kindergarten children attending the school.

Altar Guild Handbook: An extensive Altar Guild Handbook for each church in our diocese is now available at www.dwtx.org/ altar-guild and can be viewed online or printed for keeping.

The handbook includes information about the national Altar Guild Association, what one needs to know about membership and all about the use of and care for altar items.

Altar Guild Sharing Closet: The Diocesan Altar Guild created a Sharing Closet to be maintained at the Bishop Jones Center in San Antonio to accept any items churches may wish to share, such as vestments, altar appointments, kneelers, Pascal candles, candles and candleholders, linens, crosses, hymnals, prayer books, etc. The various items will be listed on the diocesan website, and should a congregation be in need of something listed, it will be available to them. As the list forms, you can find it here: www.dwtx.org/altar-guild.

To donate serviceable altar items, please call Leigh Saunders at the Bishop Jones Center at 210/888-824-5387 or Dee Whiteside, Diocesan Altar Guild Director, at 512-587-7514, and arrangements will be made to pick up donated items.

The Rev. Clayton Elder accepted a call to serve as Associate Rector of St. Philip’s, Frisco, in the Diocese of Dallas. His last Sunday as Rector of St. Philip’s, Beeville, was May 29. The Rev. Jerry Sneary has been appointed Interim Rector of St. Philip’s, Beeville.

The Rev. Richard Speer has retired as Rector of Grace, Weslaco. His last Sunday was May 29.

The Rev. Beverly Patterson accepted the appointment of Canon Missioner for the Coastal Bend Partners in Ministry. Her last Sunday as Rector of St. Andrew’s, Port Isabel, was May 29.

The Rev. Patricia Riggins has resigned as Priest-in-Charge of St. Philip’s, San Antonio.

Her last Sunday was June 5. The Rev. Nancy Coon will be serving at St. Philip’s through the month of July.

The Rev. Kevin Dellaria accepted a call to serve as Rector of St. Francis-in-the-Fields, outside of Malvern, Pennsylvania, in the Diocese of Pennsylvania. His last Sunday as rector of St. Andrew’s, Seguin, was June 12.

The Rev. Gordon Scheible (Diocese of San Diego) has been appointed Interim Rector of St. Andrew’s.

The Rev. Chris Roque has resigned as Rector of St. John’s, Sonora, and as Vicar of St. James, Fort McKavett. His last Sunday was June 12.

The Rev. Michael Bertrand has resigned as Assistant Rector of St. John’s, McAllen. His last Sunday was June 26.

The Rev. Lera Tyler has retired as Vicar of St. Boniface, Comfort. Her last Sunday was June 26. The Rev. Carol Blaine (retired priest, Diocese of Texas) was appointed Interim Vicar of St. Boniface.

The Rev. Stockton Williams will retire as Rector of St. Peter’s, Kerrville. His last Sunday is July 31. The Rev. Dick Elwood (Diocese of Texas) has been appointed Interim Rector of St. Peter’s.

The Rev. Jennifer Shadle has accepted a call to serve as Assistant Rector of St. John’s, McAllen. Her first Sunday will be August 1.

Jennifer is a recent graduate of the Hispanic Studies program at Seminary of the Southwest in Austin.

The Rev. Kris Graunke will retire as Vicar of St. James, Hebbronville. Her last Sunday will be August 28.

The children have their pictures taken with Santa and make Christmas ornaments. Last Christmas, 100 people attended, including one family who joined St. Philip’s. “Several kids said it was the best day they’d had,” Riggins said. A few children participating in the pen pals program also attended.

For St. Philip’s, the pen pal letters “allow us to have conversations about how we can pray for people who are in trouble. I think they have deepened our conversations about what happens to our neighbors,” Riggins explained.

When reading the children’s letters, she “picks up on loneliness. I pick up on kids who are so excited that somebody’s listening. I think that’s what struck a lot of our parishioners - that these kids are asking to be in a relationship and that’s what God calls us to do.”

“It helps you count your blessings,” Walker said, “makes you realize people go through different things, makes you aware of what people go through.”

Webb is hopeful that the pen pal program will continue in future years. St. Philip’s hopes so, too. “It brings us great joy,” Riggins said.

The Rev. John Rayls will retire as Vicar of Good Shepherd, George West. His last Sunday will be August. 28.

The Rev. Brian Cannaday has accepted a call to serve as Rector of St. Christopher’s, League City, in the Diocese of Texas. His last Sunday as Assistant Rector of St. Helena’s, Boerne, was July 17.

A sign in St. Philip’s, San Antonio, front yard reads, “You are now entering the mission field.”

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July/August 2016

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Photo by Mike Patterson.

Recent Clergy Changes in the Diocese of West Texas

In another outreach to neighborhood children and families, St. Philip’s has revitalized its Breakfast with Santa program, held on the second Saturday of December.

The breakfast, advertised throughout the area, including fliers distributed at Gates and a promotion on the church’s marquee, offers pancakes, sausage, juice and coffee to anyone who attends.

Featured News

An Update on Initiatives with Bishop Reed Continued from page 2.

College Missions In his Council address, Reed reminded clergy and delegates that Bishop Lillibridge had begun a renewed emphasis on campus ministries in the diocese five years ago. With reorganized structures and programs, and with greatly increased funding, College Missions has enjoyed increased health and vitality in San Antonio and San Marcos. “But we said from the start that, whatever we developed would need to be exportable to other campuses within the diocese.”

This fall, College Missions will move onto the two campuses of the newly formed University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley (UT-RGV) in Brownsville and Edinburg.

Reed appointed a Valley Advisory Council to support the ministry and to assist with fundraising. It is chaired by Anne Rentfro, member of Church of the Advent, Brownsville, and long-time faculty member and administrator at UT-Brownsville. The Council is made up of Episcopalians from all over the Valley.

Chelsea Mueller, who has been part of College Missions in San Antonio for the past few years, has been appointed as the College Missioner for the Valley. She has been meeting with clergy, lay leaders, and members of the Advisory Council since March.

good, faithful people who have been leading in the same ministry for years and years, with little relief,” he says. “On the other hand, there are usually a few younger adults around who, given a chance and given responsibility, could develop into wonderful leaders for their churches. I think the diocese can develop and offer some resources to encourage the forming of new and younger leaders.”

“The toolkit is designed to help churches achieve the goal of reaching out to military members, veterans, and their families,” said Reed. “It offers resources for connecting with existing military members and suggestions on things churches can do to be more specific in being military friendly, informs congregations on this extensive mission field, and offers suggestions of established programs.”

Reed has asked the Rev. Ram Lopez (St. George, San Antonio) and Lisa Earl (St. Peter’s, Kerrville) to head up this initiative, with the Rev. Dr. John Lewis of St. Benedict’s Workshop. They are planning a September dinner for young adults to gather ideas for content and structure.

The toolkit, which is based on one developed in the Diocese of San Diego, includes resources for spiritual support and care and practical help for congregational members, as well as ideas for care packages to military members overseas and information on becoming involved with established programs, such as Haven for Hope in San Antonio and Open Table.

Military Ministry Reed asked the Rev. Karen Brandon, Chaplain Lt. Col. (ret.), U.S. Army, and Chaplain Susan Douglas, Chief Master Sgt. (ret.) U.S. Air Force, to begin to inventory churches on active duty military members and veterans, assess other dioceses’ military ministries, and gather resources to successfully implement a similar effort in our diocese.

Recently, Douglas and Brandon pulled together extensive resources and created a Military Ministry Toolkit that is available for all congregations on the diocesan website at www.dwtx.org/military.

In closing, Bishop Reed asked for prayers for the mission and ministries of the diocese. “I pray for revival,” he said. “We are blessed to be a largely healthy and united diocese. But still, the challenges are great, and the needs of the world where our churches are planted are great. I named six initiatives, but I could have named 16. Our hope is in Christ who dwells in us, and whose Spirit enlivens and empowers us to go, following Jesus toward the Kingdom.”

This past spring, more than one hundred people gathered at St. Alban’s, Harlingen, for a Valley Kick-off Dinner, hosted by the young adults who help lead College Missions in the diocese, including Chelsea.

Reed said, “There’s just no substitute for relationship-building. It was evident at the Kick-off Dinner how much Chelsea and members of the Advisory Council have already accomplished in the short time this work has been underway.”

As he travels the diocese, the bishop sees, in many places, the need to identify and form new leaders. “In smaller churches, in particular, you’re likely to find 12

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pd. adv.

Young Adult Leadership Formation

Report on the Small Church: Big Mission Conferences

The Small Church conferences were designed as a response to Bishop David Reed’s desire to connect the smaller congregations to allow them to share experiences and concerns and to learn some best practices in ministry. In his 2016 Diocesan Council address, Reed said, “ Bishop Lillibridge and I often see that many of our smaller congregations face the same challenges and seek to faithfully be the Church in similar contexts. And yet, often they feel they are the only ones.”

The planning team, which consisted of the Rev. James Derkits (Trinity-by-the-Sea, Port Aransas), the Rev. Patricia Riggins (St. Philip’s, San Antonio), Ella Mason (All Saints, Corpus Christi), Dexter Lesieur (St. Matthias’, Devine), the Rev. Canon Joann Saylors, and other diocesan staff members, presented the conferences around gardening themes.

Regarding the changing methods of how the Church does mission, three plenary speakers addressed pruning away what is not fruitful, grafting on possibilities, and helping to grow new life.

In his opening homily, Reed said that the themes of pruning, grafting, and growing are images found throughout Scripture – “from the Garden of creation to Israel as

God’s pleasant planting, to Jesus’ telling his disciples, ‘I am the vine, you are the branches.’”

Reed said these are images of God’s creative power and his desire that we have life abundantly.

During the plenary session on pruning, Derkits said Jesus taught us a lot about laying down our lives in order to follow him.

“Regarding the church, we may have to let go of things that are no longer life-giving. If a branch is no longer bearing fruit, it may give health to the whole tree to prune it off.

Remember, too, that things that are put in the compost pile help fertilize the soil for future growth,” said Derkits.

“Our churches have similar challenges and opportunities and it was great to have them all in the same place at the same time to be in conversation.”

- Bishop David Reed

Dexter Lesieur, bishop’s warden for St. Matthias, Devine, delivers the second plenary address, Growing God’s Garden to the participants at the Small Church Conference in San Antonio.

After the plenary sessions, the afternoons consisted of workshops in connecting with communities, evangelism, growing leaders within a congregation, and Christian formation for all ages. Participants also had the opportunity to visit various ministry tables for additional resources from spiritual formation in the diocese, communications and social media, Texas Water Mission, Environmental Stewardship, World Mission, and others.

Participants at the Small Church Conference in San Antonio visit the Environmental Stewardship ministry table.

In San Antonio 105 members attended representing 23 churches in the diocese.

Twelve participants also represented five local Lutheran churches. In Corpus Christi 83 people from 23 churches attended, as well as 14 participants from six local Lutheran churches.

“I believe we accurately assessed the need for a conference such as this,” said Reed.

“Our churches have similar challenges and opportunities and it was great to have them all in the same place at the same time to be in conversation.”

Reed said he thinks the Small Church: Big Mission conferences were successful in terms of number of participants and also in the engagement of the people that attended.

“The planning team hopes our small churches will use some of the information they received to try some new things or perhaps reconsider the way some things are being done,” said Reed. “And I hope they reach out to us – the diocese, the churches near to them – to work with them on being the church in their particular community.”

the Church News

Photos by Laura Shaver.

R

ecently, the Diocese of West Texas presented two Small Church: Big Mission conferences for churches with an average Sunday attendance (ASA) of 100 or fewer, although all churches were invited.

The conferences were held at St. George, San Antonio, on May 21 and St. Bartholomew’s, Corpus Christi, on June 4.

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Around the circuit

Folts Activities Building Dedication at Camp Capers

Lillibridge Receives Good Samaritan Award

“We stand here on the shoulders of others, enjoying the fruits of their labors, improving on them, building on them, and celebrating the past and the present of what God is doing and looking to the future with hope,” said Bishop Gary Lillibridge as he opened the dedication ceremony of the new Folts Activities Building at Camp Capers, named in honor of Bishop Jim and Sandy Folts, on June 10. Camp Capers will celebrate 70 years in 2017, and it is because of the investment by Bishop Folts and others that it remains a key formation place for children and youth.

Bishop Gary Lillibridge was honored as the recipient of the Good Samaritan Award, presented by Good Samaritan Community Services (GSCS) in San Antonio, during a lively spring evening ceremony at the San Antonio Country Club on Thursday, May 12.

Folts’ picture by Peyton Land. Good Samaritan Award picture by Candace Schaddelee.

In front of visiting guests and Senior High campers, Sandy Folts, during her remarks, said she and Bishop Jim knew each diocesan bishop back to Bishop Jones (1943-1969), and she reiterated what Jones once said, “Camp Capers is more than a place, it is an experience.” With gratefulness, she said, “Our hearts are full,” and her one request was to keep the scholarship fund open so each young person who wants to experience camp can.

Bishop Folts said the great truth in the experience of Camp Capers - the glorious, blessed experience - is founded on the determination of the generations of folks before us. “Camp Capers is [here] because of Bishop Jones and his vision for a youth camp for our diocese, and every bishop since has nurtured and benefited from his vision.” To the campers, Folts said, “You have benefited from his vision. By virtue of being here, you’ll never be the same.”

Based on Jesus’ Good Samaritan parable, GSCS provides comprehensive services to youth, families, and seniors living in poverty. The Good Samaritan Award for San Antonio, first given in 2014 to Tom C. Frost and then in 2015 to Max Navarro, recognizes individuals that take Jesus’ words to heart to “go and do likewise,” to be a good neighbor to those in need.

Jill Oettinger, CEO of GSCS, welcomed the crowd of several hundred and reported that the organization serves 5,250 people in its programs that span eight locations in diocesan boundaries. This year, two in-school services began in Brownsville, where 600 youth per week are involved.

After a very moving video tribute to Lillibridge, Bishop David Reed said, “Those who follow Jesus and serve in the way [Lillibridge] served expect to be interrupted, and we have all been so blessed by Gary and his attention to life’s interruptions.”

Lillibridge, humbled and overcome with emotion from the tributes, said “It is truly

an honor, honestly too much for me and unnecessary, but we are all here because we are thankful to GSCS and are committed to continuing the good work and reaching people in need.”

Bishop Reed, Carol Hester Lillibridge, (Lillibridge’s mother), and Bishop whose Lillibridge at the 2016 Good ministry Samaritan Award Dinner. as a priest included many community service and outreach opportunities, first became involved with GSCS in 1995 when he served as the Archdeacon of the diocese and, therefore, served on the Board of the Good Samaritan Center. “Serving on the board deeply entrenched my love for this organization,” he said, “and my experiences there have been life-giving to me.”

See the video tribute to Lillibridge at www.dwtx.org/blog/good-sam-award

Update on the Election of a Bishop Suffragan The Standing Committee has received the necessary consents to hold the election from diocesan standing committees and bishops of The Episcopal Church. They will be receiving names of potential nominees until September 30.

You can view the timeline of the election process, as well as any updates that become available at www.dwtx.org/bishop-suffragan Below is the prayer that the Standing Committee is asking every congregation to offer each week until the election:

Bishop Jim and Sandy Folts stand outside the new Folts Activities Building at Camp Capers, named in their honor with thanksgiving for their ministry.

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Election of a Bishop Suffragan Saturday, February 25, 2017

Almighty God, we give you thanks for calling leaders throughout the generations who boldly proclaim your love. Call through us now a bishop 113th annual who will proclaim Jesus Christ’s resurrection, faithfully interpret the Gospel, Diocesan Council, and lead us into the world to love and serve the Lord encouraging the Corpus Christi saints and nourishing us from the riches of your grace. So guide the hearts and minds of those who will discern the person you are calling to be our Bishop Suffragan, that we may receive a faithful pastor who will guard and govern the church, sustain the presbyters, care for your people, and equip us to serve the world in Christ’s name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Around the circuit

Saint’s Day: Dr. Artemisia Bowden August 18 is the day to celebrate Dr. Artemisia Bowden and her ministry, after her inclusion in “Holy Women, Holy Men: Celebrating the Saints” following the General Convention of The Episcopal Church in 2015.

Dr. Bowden is the first person from West Texas to be included on the calendar of The Episcopal Church that commemorates people cited in “Holy Women, Holy Men.” The Collect for the day is as follows: O God, by your Holy Spirit, you give gifts to your people so that they might faithfully serve your Church and the world: We give you praise for the gifts of perseverance, teaching and wisdom made manifest in your servant, Artemisia Bowden, whom you called far from home for the sake of educating the daughters and granddaughters of former slaves in Texas. We thank you for blessing and prospering her life’s work, and pray that, following her example, we may be ever mindful of the call to serve where you send us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Spirit, lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Dr. Artemisia Bowden, who at the request of Bishop Steptoe Johnston, took over the fledging St. Philip’s School in San Antonio in 1902, a sewing school for Black girls. Bowden oversaw the school and led it all the way to junior college status in 1927.

Today, St. Philip’s College serves 12,000+ students in a variety of programs, many vocational.

Save the dates of May 19-21, 2017, for a A reminder to churches: please turn in your 2015 audits to celebration of Camp Capers’ 70 years. More the diocesan office. If you have any questions, contact Susan information to come at www.dwtx.org/events.

Hardaway, 210-824-5387 or susan.hardaway@dwtx.org.

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Summary of apportionments through June 30, 2016.

To read more of Bowden’s story, visit www.dwtx.org/blog/bowden-saint

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

the

Church News

calendar of events

Diocesan events August Night at the Ballpark - Corpus Christi The annual diocesan Episcopal Night at the Ballpark in Corpus Christi will be on Tuesday, August 2, when the Corpus Christi Hooks play the visiting San Antonio Missions at Whataburger Field. More information to come; stay tuned to www.dwtx.org/events.

Pathways to Hope: Breaking the Stigma of Mental Illness A community-wide conference on mental health, “Pathways to Hope: Breaking the Stigma of Mental Illness,” will be presented at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts in San Antonio on Friday-Saturday, August 2627. This is a free event, and more information can be found at www.pathwaystohope.net.

Featured speakers are Kay Warren, Dr. Dan Morehead, Dr. Matthew Stanford, and Joe Padilla. The presenting sponsors are Health Collaborative and the First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio.

September Abundant Living Conference Save the date for the second annual Abundant Living Conference: Celebrating the Journey to be held Monday-Wednesday, September 19-21 at Mustang Island Conference Center.

This year’s Abundant Living Conference will focus on the seasons of our journey, noticing where we are, where we’ve been, and where we’re going. We will continue the comfortable retreat rhythm of plenary speakers for the whole group and workshop offerings for you to choose. Come to the beautiful island, enjoy Kathy’s delicious food, spend time on the beach, and live abundantly. More information to come at www.dwtx.org/events.

Invite-Welcome-Connect Conference The diocesan Evangelism Department will host an Invite-Welcome-Connect Conference on Saturday, September 24, at St. Luke’s, San Antonio, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The conference will be led by Mary Parmer, who created and developed Invite-WelcomeConnect in the Diocese of Texas and has now shared the newcomer ministry project with 37 Episcopal dioceses. In the last three years, clergy and lay leaders from congregations across the country have attended this dynamic training that includes assessment tools and creative and concrete resources to form an intentional newcomer ministry. More information to come; please save the date for now. Stay tuned to www.dwtx.org/events.

Christ to carry His message of Good News. We are all disciples of Jesus, and we are all apostles of Jesus. At the Gathering, we will explore these life-giving roles in a community of supportive women. The weekend allows time for relaxation, renewal, and refreshment. Cost is $165 per person to stay in a cabin or $245 per person to stay in the lodges. For more information, contact Marjorie George or visit www.dwtx.org/women. Registration is open.

Diocesan events: www.dwtx.org/events Church events: www.dwtx.org/church-events

October Cursillo #273 Cursillo #273 will be held at Mustang Island Conference Center Thursday-Sunday, October 6-9. Cursillo is a three-day spiritual retreat that gives participants the tools to share the joy of Christ with others. This particular weekend is designed especially for young adults. The Rectora for the weekend is Laurie Haney, and the Assistant Rectora is Heather Marks.

Spiritual directors are the Rev. John Hardie (St. Mark’s, Corpus Christi), the Rev. Rob Harris (Christ Church, San Antonio), and the Rev. Nancy Springer (St. Alban’s, Harlingen).

Register online at www.dwtx.org/events.

Fall Women’s Gathering The annual Fall Women’s Gathering at Camp Capers will be held Friday-Sunday, October 14-16. Check-in begins at 4:00 p.m. on Friday and the retreat lasts through Sunday Eucharist.

The topic for the weekend is “Deepening Discipleship - Affirming Apostleship,” and the keynote speaker is Bishop Suffragan Laura Ahrens of the Diocese of Connecticut. We are formed by Christ, and we are sent out by

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Read ministry stories from our churches in between issues of The Church News. The blog also features current news, national news, and diocesan ministry updates.

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