the
Church
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September / October 2013 The newspaper of the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas
The sun rises over the Gulf of Mexico at Mustang Island Conference Center. See pages 6-7 for a summer overview of the diocesan camping ministry.
Inside this issue
David White leads an English language class weekly at St. Paul’s, San Antonio. See story on page 9.
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Building on Our Firm Foundation From the Bishop
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Order of St. Luke at St. Peter’s, Kerrville
Community of Hope Thrives at Christ Church, San Antonio
Stephen Ministry at St. Luke’s, San Antonio
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News and Features 2 On the Bishop’s Mind: Building on Our
Firm Foundation 4 Order of St. Luke at St. Peter’s, Kerrville 5 Community of Hope Thrives at Christ Church, San Antonio 6 Diocesan Camping Ministry 8 Stephen Ministry at St. Luke’s, San Antonio 9 Flash Prayer 9 English as Outreach
In Every
Issue
3 From the Editor 10 Around the Circuit 12 Calendar Cover photo of St. Paul’s by Celeste Scalise-Qubrosi.
the Church News is published six times a year by the Dept. of Communication Episcopal Diocese of West Texas 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 70 Number 5 September/October 2013 USPS 661-790 The Diocese of West TX is a family of 26,000+ members in 90 congregations across 60 counties and 69,000 square miles in South Central Texas. Bishop of West Texas: The Rt. Rev. Gary R. Lillibridge Bishop Suffragan: 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. gary lillibridge Bishop of the Diocese
Building on Our Firm Foundation
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he rhythm of our year is measured in many ways - days, months, seasons, calendar year, and the school year to name but a few. As I write this in August, many people have been, or currently are, on vacation. Summer is “vacation season” unless you happen to be involved in leading summer camps, in which case this is your busy season. This certainly has been true over the past few months for the Department of Camps and Conferences, as well as for the Trustees of the Church Corporation. There are three major announcements I want to share with you at this time. As you likely know, we are booked yearround at both Camp Capers and Mustang Island Conference Center, and our programs continue to expand at both facilities. We remain the leader in the Episcopal Church in camping and conferencing, and I serve as the Chair of the National Advocacy and Visionary Council of the Episcopal Camps and Conference Centers (ECCC). The first announcement has to do with Camp Capers, our diocesan camping facility in Waring since 1947. The owner of the property adjacent to us (to the west/the ropes course side) has offered to sell the diocese his 108 acres. Camp Capers is currently about 80 acres, so this would more than double our size, not to mention protect us on that side from future development. The property includes over 2,000 linear feet of water frontage on the Guadalupe River. This is an extraordinary opportunity, a “game changer” for Camp Capers, and a significant moment for the life and the future of the diocese. We have looked at this from many scenarios, and the Trustees of the Church Corporation in West Texas have authorized a contract to move forward. As I write this article, we are doing our due diligence even as we have agreed on a contract. Unless something develops that changes our plans, we expect to close on these additional acres in early October. Combined with our outstanding new facilities and the vast infrastructure improvements over the past year, we are poised for a solid and dynamic future with our ministry at Camp Capers. The new facilities, which have to be seen to be fully appreciated, include three new buildings. Two of the buildings are housing units, with a combined 20 rooms with two queen beds and a private bath in each; the new Steves Hall provides an outstanding and highly functional meeting space. Several other buildings on the property have also been refurbished. We will dedicate these new and refurbished facilities on Sunday afternoon, October 20, at 3:30 p.m. All are invited. The second announcement has to do with Mustang Island Conference Center. We have just finished our 11th year of Family Camp at this wonderful facility. Like Camp Capers, Mustang Island Conference Center is a vital part of our common life as a diocesan family. People who have attended a Family Camp session in the summer or a conference during the year are continually blessed by the seaside experience.
The summer of 2013 in the diocese has the potential to be remembered as a watershed moment. The third announcement is about our Colorado Adventure Program. Several years ago, Baker and Sally Duncan provided their family property for us to begin our Colorado outdoor program, initially known as the “Duck Lake” experience. Since that time, Baker and Sally sold their interest in the property, and we have been renting space from a local Baptist church, which has a stunning location at the base of the Rocky Mountains. The 18-acre property, currently known as James Park, sits on the banks of a lovely mountain stream know as the St. Vrain River and is surrounded by the Indian Peak Wilderness. At an elevation of 9,500 feet, James Park consists of a rustic mountain lodge with two dorms, a cabin, platform tents, and a shower house. Several trail heads leading up into the mountains begin on the property and reach all the way up to the Continental Divide. The Baptist congregation approached the diocese several months ago offering to sell us the property since we are the main user of the facility. Over the years, we have also provided many improvements to the property. To summarize the details, a group of Baker and Sally Duncan’s friends have raised the funds for the diocese to purchase these 18 acres – and, perhaps, 13 more acres nearby. In thanksgiving for all that Baker and Sally do for the diocese, and specifically for our camping programs over the years, the Trustees have issued a contract to buy the property, which we will rename Duncan Park. Like the contract on the additional acreage for Camp Capers, we are working out details, and we hope to finalize this purchase in the coming weeks. I am so grateful to the many friends of the Duncans who have provided the funding for this acquisition, and to Baker and Sally for their love and commitment to the Diocese of West Texas in so many ways. What a summer it has been and continues to be. The summer of 2013 in the diocese has the potential to be remembered as a watershed moment for the strengthening of our ministry to young people, adults, and families through the many camping and conferencing opportunities held each year that continue to build up the Body of Christ. Space limits what I am able to share in this article, but there will be much more to say as each of these developments moves forward. May God guide us in the stewardship of these resources and these ministries so that we may indeed - per our diocesan core purpose - Be Jesus’ Witnesses (Acts 1:8).
From the editor Laura Shaver
Mercy on the Beach
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y family attended Family Camp at Mustang Island Conference Center this summer in late July. The theme for the weekend was the same as the annual diocesan theme: Do Justice, Love Kindness (or Mercy), Walk Humbly with your God, from Micah 6:8. Sam, who served on the summer staff, led a teaching after dinner each evening on the three things the “Lord requires of us.” A few weeks after our return, with not much discussion of our weekend, my three-year-old son, Casey, revealed the significance of the biblical teachings during our time on the beach. I was reading a Bible story to him at tuck-in time, from a toddler’s devotional, which told about Hannah and how God gifted her with the birth of Samuel. Hannah promised to give the child back to him in thanksgiving. One of the devotional questions asked, “How have your parents given you back to God?” Again, Casey is three, so the answers are usually mine. So I said, “We thank God for you every day, we are trying to teach you about God’s love and how to be kind to everyone like Jesus...”
The Rev. Ripp Hardaway, who served as chaplain during our Family Camp session, delivered a homily on the assigned Gospel reading for the week that Sunday before our departure. The reading, from Luke, chapter 11, told of when Jesus taught the disciples to pray the Lord’s Prayer. Hardaway told us, one way to walk humbly with God is to pray, to give everything to God in prayer. That one evening, as Casey and I finished the Bible story, we began our bedtime prayer, thanking God for each member of our family. Casey then said, “And for mercy on the beach.” Yes, thank you, Lord, for your mercy on the beach and wherever life finds us, every day. Thank you for the gift of hearing the sincere requests of children and of those who love us, those who say prayers for us even without our knowledge.
I guess the word “kind” caught Casey’s attention, and he said to me, “And love mercy on the beach.” He smiled, and I paused. I think my heart skipped a beat. “Yes, Casey, just like mercy.” I quickly recalled our theme song of the Micah passage that we sang at Family Camp, and Casey’s face lit with the recognition and remembrance of the tune. the Church News
A daddy’s embrace at Family Camp on Mustang Island. A camping ministry thank you to our diocesan family is included on pages 6-7.
September/October 2013
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Photo by Laura Shaver.
Additional housing space is needed, and we are currently conversing with an architect and contractors on designs and costs for additional housing spaces. We have been and continue to work diligently on raising the needed funds. Our hope is to be able to break ground on a new housing facility some time this fall if all the factors come together. Whenever it does happen, it will be a blessing for the diocesan family and other groups who have come to love the Mustang Island experience. Stay tuned for more developments.
Featured News
The Order of St. Luke at St. Peter’s, Kerrville
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t. Peter’s, Kerrville, is dedicated to healing prayer. Trained prayer ministers offer healing prayers to any seeker during Communion on Sundays. St. Peter’s serves as the base of the Hill Country Chapter of the International Order of St. Luke the Physician, an ecumenical organization that is dedicated to the healing ministry. Members of the OSL meet in local chapters to study Scripture, specifically the stories of Jesus healing, as well as additional resources on Christian healings. Trained prayer ministers engage in healing prayer, often laying their hands on the seeker. Six parishioners at St. Peter’s serve as trained prayer ministers. After Communion, a seeker is invited into the parlor, which is in the front of the sanctuary, to receive a healing prayer. “After Communion, after we have touched Jesus, and we are full of his body and blood, this is a perfect time to channel his healing,” said Sylvia Friddle, a prayer minister at St. Peter’s and member of the OSL. Each seeker is different, and they each bring different requests for healing prayers. Some may need emotional healing, while others may need physical healing. Some may need
The Hill Country Chapter of the Order of St. Luke presents
“Letting Go of the Past” Saturday, October 5 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at St. Peter’s, Kerrville Dr. Stephen Burger will outline Biblical paradigms for healing and give practical advice for helping those that are struggling with the effects of the past. Cost is $15. Childcare is free, but please register with Mary Hart Frost at 830-238-3018.
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healing of an injury, while others may be facing life-threatening medical diagnoses. “We do our best to bring each one into the Lord’s presence, and we trust he will take it from there. We know God is the healer, ministering through Jesus Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit. We get to be the channel of his healing presence, and that is pretty exciting,” said Friddle. One of the core beliefs of the OSL is that God works through humans to do his healing; that all must make themselves fit and willing vessels. Many involved in healing ministry through the OSL will testify to miracles that occur after healing prayers. A young athlete named Pearce sought healing prayers at St. Peter’s after an accident that left him in a leg brace. Doctors told him that the brace would need to remain on for six months, which eliminated the upcoming start of baseball season. Friddle and another intercessor prayed with Pearce one Sunday and gave him a prayer card to take with him. Soon after, the Rev. Stockton Williams, rector of St. Peter’s, told Friddle that Pearce had asked his family to pray the prayer on the card with him every evening. “I remember merely handing him the card, but the Lord obviously
| By Laura Shaver
selected it for Pearce. I was reminded that it is never about us but about who we can bring into God’s presence,” said Friddle. Pearce, pushing ahead in great faith, asked for a prayer shawl from the Daughters of the King at St. Peter’s. After prayer time with his family each evening, Pearce slept with the prayer card and the prayer shawl under his pillow every night. He was healed and medically cleared to play baseball in a short three months and rejoined his team for a successful season. “And a child shall lead us,” said Friddle. Friddle said, “Truly anyone can be a prayer minister of healing if they so desire.” At St. Peter’s, prayer ministers are trained with the OSL’s “Jesus’ 26 Healings” study and “Healing Team Guidelines.” Also included is Mike Endicott’s study “Kingdom Walking (Simply Healing)” and Agnes Sanford’s “The Healing Light.” “Sanford’s book is a classic. It is simple and sweet and perfect for the average Joe,” said Friddle. Healing prayer seekers are welcome back to the parlor during Sunday services as often as they would like to come. If someone requests more extensive prayer, Friddle and the other prayer ministers invite them to St. Peter’s Thursday evening healing service or refer them to the Christ Healing Center in San Antonio or the affiliate office in Kerrville. The Rev. Jack and Anna Marie Sheffield are co-founders of the healing center, which serves as a place of refuge, a quiet healing environment. Father Jack also serves as the North American Director of the OSL. “My dream is that soon we won’t be called a ‘prayer ministry’”, said Friddle. “We will simply turn to each other and ask, ‘How are you hurting?’ We will place our hand on another’s shoulder and pray, ‘In Jesus name, may you be healed.’” The International Order of St. Luke is based in San Antonio, Texas. For more information about the organization visit www. orderofstluke.org. For more information about the ministry at St. Peter’s, contact Sylvia Friddle at sfriddle7@windstream.net.
Community of Hope Thrives at Christ Church By Carol Miller
Carol Miller is the Pastoral Care Administrator at Christ Church, San Antonio.
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ommunity of Hope International, seeks to create a Christian community of volunteer lay chaplains united in prayer, shaped by Benedictine spirituality, and equipped for pastoral care ministry. Community of Hope is thriving at Christ Church, San Antonio, where 96 members have been commissioned for ministry. More than a prayer ministry, Community of Hope chaplains are trained to be present in a listening, compassionate, and noncontrolling manner to represent God and to seek to respond to the spiritual needs of an individual or group. Those trained to be Community of Hope chaplains learn to listen with the ear of their heart. Thousands of people from coast to coast are learning to listen: to God, to Christ, and to people in need. The first 12-week training class at Christ Church was held in 2000, with two facilitators, one clergy member, and eight in attendance to learn to be volunteer chaplains. Since that first meeting, Christ Church has held ten classes.
of Hope member, is attending the current class that targets the residents of local retirement communities. She said, “The precious people in the class are helping fellow residents make the changes and adjustments necessary to live happily in their new independent living circumstances. I am enriched and enlightened by the content and, more importantly, by other students in every class I attend.” The class at Christ Church, which began in June, has 14 attendees. Each class begins at 9:30 a.m. on Fridays with an opening worship service led by one of the members. The Rule of Benedict is read, and a speaker from the community then teaches one of 12 modules, such as listening skills, prayer and meditation, spiritual gifts, grief, care for the caregiver, and commitment to ministry. When a community member cannot be present, a video, produced by Morningside Ministries, is shown to teach one of the modules. On Sunday, October 6, Christ Church will commission the new members, with the Rev. Dr. Helen Appelberg, founder of Community of Hope, and the Rev. Patrick Gahan, rector of Christ Church, presenting certificates and name tags. Appelberg shared with the class during the first meeting the importance of focusing on the needs and concerns of the care receiver. She said, “In laying aside our own agenda, we are better able to listen to others and discover their needs.”
Pastoral care is God’s love in action. places and situations. The volunteers visit recipients in nursing homes and hospitals, deliver flowers to those in need, visit the homebound and take communion to them, deliver meals, or work in the church kitchen to prepare meals for special events. Holshouser said, “I have learned so much from the Community of Hope classes. The personal discipline of reading the Bible and the Rule of Benedict has made my own spiritual awareness increase. The ability to hear God asking me to listen to a friend or even a stranger in the grocery store and be a reflection of God’s love has begun to develop.” Pastoral care is about the receiving and giving of God’s love. Pastoral care is God’s love in action; every encounter with another is a pastoral moment.
Community of Hope has truly blessed Christ This year, Christ Church is partnering with Church in many ways. The clergy alone Morningside Ministries, a group of senior cannot meet the demand of pastoral care living communities in San Antonio, and has For more information about Community needs in the congregation and community. invited residents from Morningside Meadows of Hope International visit www. Community of Hope members are trained Retirement Community and Chandler Estate cohinternational.org. For more information to provide pastoral presence in a variety of to participate. Trained lay about the ministry at Christ pastoral care givers with Church, contact Carol Community of Hope often Miller at 210-736-3132. offer their presence at Prayer ministries places such as retirement across the diocese are vital in the spiritual walks of many individuals. And and nursing homes, so this prayer ministers walk humbly daily, as they lift up different friends and partnership enriches the loved ones and fellow parishioners they do not know. Their prayers ask for training and the experiences of those participating in the healing, for comfort, for strength, and offer thanksgivings. This issue of the class. Church News highlights only a few of our healthy prayer ministries at select churches. However, active chapters of the Order of St. Luke, Community of Sudie Holshouser, Hope, and Stephen Ministry, can be found throughout the diocese. parishioner at Christ Church and Community the Church News
September/October 2013
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Diocesan Camping Programs
The Colorado Adventure Program at James Park
Summer 2013, a Success. Thank you.
College Trip to Colorado By Allie Melancon, college missioner This was a trip of firsts: the first college trip to James Park, first time to white-water raft, first time to see snow, first time to hike eight miles 11,000 feet above sea level, first time to be on the Continental Divide, first time to see marmot and elk, and first time to see God’s majesty in nature. For five days 12 of us were a community through the adventures of James Park. We challenged ourselves and tried new things; we wrote in our journals and prayed daily, tackled questions such as, how did we get here, what are our fears, what is holding us back, and how do we take responsibility for our own lives? We prayed for each other and affirmed one another.
About Family Camp “It is a wonderful rejuvenating experience.” “Wonderful beyond words! We are making this an annual tradition.” “We loved it. We really liked being with the staff and having them play with us and taking time to get to know us.” “Every family needs an experience like this.”
Photos submitted by camp participants.
We came back with a better perspective of our own lives ready to take on life’s challenges as a community.
• 246 families attended a Family Camp session on Mustang Island.
There were ten sessions offered this summer, as well as one during Spring Break and one over the Labor Day holiday weekend. Each session is four days and three nights.
• Over 1,100 campers attended summer camp at Camp Capers. • 57 participants traveled to Colorado for the adventure program at James Park: two adult weeks, two youth weeks, and one college week.
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Just when you think the opening day can’t get any better, we tone things down and make our evening pilgrimage to St. Francis Chapel. Whether it’s your first year or fifth, the whole camp is immediately drawn into God’s presence as we open our chapel time with song. Arm in arm, shoulder to shoulder, joined together as one body lifting our hearts and voices to Almighty God and bathing in His glory. In so many ways, we are reminded of God’s goodness and mercy toward us as we open ourselves to Him this night. The Rev. Patrick Soule, dean, Jr. High Camp A at Camp Capers
CAMPS Sunday was held April 14, 2013. This special
Because of your generosity...
Sunday was dedicated to spreading the word about our ministry at Camp Capers, Family Camp at Mustang Island Conference Center, and the Colorado Adventure Program at James Park. On this Sunday, churches helped spread the word about the camping programs and donated the plate offering to camp scholarships. This year, our Camps and Conferences Annual Campaign goal of $165,000 was met, due to the generosity of our churches and other individuals and institutions. The following churches gave a total of $26,500, a very generous sum. • • • •
132 children from the Good Samaritan Community Services attended Camp Capers this summer with diocesan scholarship funds, which come from the gifts received on CAMPS Sunday and from other donations.
A camper from Grace Church, San Antonio, delivers a care package to a staff member at Camp Capers. This was the second year churches signed up to “adopt a staff member” and sent care packages throughout the summer to those serving on staff at Camp Capers and Family Camp on Mustang Island.
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St. Philip’s, Beeville St. Francis by the Lake, Canyon Lake* All Saints’, Corpus Christi Church of the Good Shepherd, Corpus Christi St. Bartholomew’s, Corpus Christi* St. Mark’s, Corpus Christi* Grace, Cuero* St. Matthias, Devine Church of the Redeemer, Eagle Pass Trinity, Edna St. Alban’s, Harlingen St. Matthew’s, Kenedy* Epiphany, Kingsville Grace Church, Llano Annunciation, Luling Church of the Ascension, Montell St. Andrew’s, Port Isabel St. Christopher by the Sea, Portland Church of the Epiphany, Raymondville Christ Church, San Antonio Church of the Holy Spirit, San Antonio Grace Church, San Antonio* St. Andrew’s, San Antonio St. David’s, San Antonio* St. Francis’, San Antonio St. George, San Antonio St. Luke’s, San Antonio St, Mark’s, San Marcos St. John’s, Sonora* St. Matthew’s, Universal City* St. Stephen’s, Wimberley* *Surpassed suggested goal
the Church News
September/October 2013
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Featured News
Stephen Ministry at St. Luke’s, San Antonio
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tephen Ministry, “a listening ministry,” began at St. Luke’s, San Antonio, more than 20 years ago under the leadership of Dr. Colette Kohler, a parishioner. The St. Louis based Stephen Ministries organization was founded in 1975 and equips and trains Stephen ministers to serve clergy and congregations as lay caregivers. Stephen Ministry is a caring, listening, and confidential ministry. “Stephen Ministers, the caregivers, receive 50 hours of training,” said Judith Durbin, parishioner at St. Luke’s and a leader in the Stephen Ministry. “It is intense but valuable training, in which we learn to focus on listening, to be a good listener.” Clergy members refer care receivers to the Stephen Ministers. “We are equipped to help the clergy, and the clergy support is extremely important and critical,” said Durbin. This ministry has been a vital outreach of St. Luke’s for the past 20-plus years. At times, up to 22 Stephen Ministers have been trained and providing listening care to receivers. Presently, St. Luke’s has ten Stephen Ministers. “We are not therapists, not fixers, but a presence,” said Durbin. The Stephen Ministers offer one-to-one Christian care to those going through a long- or short-term crisis, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or even a significant life change, like the birth of a child. “They, the care receivers, just need to talk to someone,” said Durbin. “Talking is the best therapy, and many of us don’t have a friend who is willing to only listen and not solicit advice.” Durbin, who sees two different care receivers, each once a week, understands how hearing your own words can be therapeutic. The sessions involve a moment of silence and reflective listening. Typically, the care receivers just need to listen to themselves talk, she said. “I will stop and say, ‘Did you hear that? What you just said was amazing,’” said Durbin. Often times prayer is incorporated in the listening sessions with the care receivers. “It depends on the care receiver,” said Durbin. 8
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If the receiver is not interested in praying in person, Durbin offers to pray for her during the week. Or, if the receiver is willing, Durbin incorporates a prayer from The Book of Common Prayer, the Thomas Merton Prayer, or she simply makes it up as she goes. “I will leave them a copy of the prayer, and they are welcome to carry it with them, if they choose,” said Durbin. The Stephen Ministers at St. Luke’s meet twice a month to encourage and support each other and to help each other overcome their shortcomings. Though each relationship with care receivers is confidential, they do talk about the relationships in which each minister is engaged in general terms. A guideline of Stephen Ministry is that men meet with men, and women meet with women; the genders are never mixed. Stephen Ministers take part in continuing education once a month. A professional is invited to attend a meeting to speak on aging, Alzheimer’s Disease, divorce, and other life situations. The ministers also take an annual retreat, often at the Bishop Jones Center in San Antonio, where they celebrate Holy Eucharist, spend quiet time together and meditate on the grounds.
| By Laura Shaver
“We believe we are the care givers, and God is the cure giver,” said Durbin. The training for Stephen Ministers not only benefits the care receivers but also the trainees. “The skills we learn help to make us aware of other people and their need to talk and for us to listen, not to offer advice,” said Durbin. There have been times in the 20-year history without many clergy-referred care receivers. But the Stephen Ministers practice their skills in everyday life and share their experiences at the monthly meetings. “One minister shared his experience riding a public bus and listening to a fellow passenger the entire ride,” said Durbin. “I try to incorporate my skills of listening and not offering advice with my daughters. I’m not always successful, but I keep trying.” To learn more about Stephen Ministries, visit http://www.stephenministries.org/. For more information about the ministry at St. Luke’s, contact the Rev. John Badders at 210-8286425 or Judith Durbin at judithdurbin@ sbcglobal.net.
The Mother’s Day Offering benefits the Department of World Mission and honors mothers and other influential women in our lives. In addition to the honorees listed in the July/August issue, the following are from Resurrection, San Antonio: Alexander Family Shirley Bryan Mrs. Betty Lee Collins Peter and Elisabeth Englefield Janet H. Ferguson Steven and Tiffany Hooper David and Cheryl Jimenez Andrea Knight-Byfield Cliff and Alta Miller The Sampson children and grandchildren Kathy and Rick Stahlman Nancy Summers Don and Marty Swartwout Janelle and Joe Tye
In memory of Dorcas Gill Smith In honor of Beatrice Longford In honor of Lee Collins In honor of Lara Hlavaty and Annette Englefield In memory of Anna K. Hammill In honor of Mary Worley and Hilde Hutchinson In honor of MaryAnne Jimenez and Joyce Anglin In memory of Pauline Williams and Viola Miller In honor of Louia Dibrell and Ireacy Miller In honor of Gwen Sampson In honor of Eleanor Bartels, Betty Stahlman, Eva Frit, Nellie Bartels, Carlie Partridge, and Margaret Stahlman In memory of Dora Mae Summers In honor of Elizabeth Duval and Josephene Swartwout In memory of Nellie Fox Bowen and Doris Ann Smith
English as Outreach
Flash Prayer:
A recently formed diocesan Flash Prayer group meets two times a month, but can increase or decrease, too, with regard to requests.
The purpose:
To connect in intentional prayer time with God in community through silence. The onehour format is 20 minutes of deep breathing and some Pilates movement, 20 minutes of Centering Prayer and lastly, 20 minutes of Contemplative Dialogue, which incorporates silence, as well.
Number of participants:
30 people are on the email list. Between five and 11 have come to each session. At this point, the group is all women, though anybody is welcome. When I leave I always have a sense of peace, but also I am energized by the connection with the women in the group. Jacki I am immensely happy and cannot wait to gather with a group of women who meet me as I am and visa versa. Anne I think about the power of silence in creating community. Anonymous Even when we do not meet for a while, I gather strength from knowing that our group exists, and that we value this quiet together. Sue Flash prayer is the practice of being able to disconnect from our hectic lives at a moment’s notice. Monica The gift of silence, an intentional slowing down, in the Spirit, with a community of women I am at home with because we come together with hearts open, in the moment, ready to receive. Robin I didn’t realize how deeply I could breathe until our Flash Prayer group began with a few minutes of intentional breathing and movement. Catherine
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t. Paul’s, San Antonio, is currently offering a class to teach the English language to residents in the surrounding community, mostly from the Government Hill neighborhood, which is adjacent to the church campus. David White, parishioner at St. Paul’s, leads the class, which meets on Saturday mornings.
David White, center, leads a weekly class at St. Paul’s, San Antonio, teaching the English language to neighborhood residents.
The idea of the class came after the Rev. Ray Cole, recent interim rector of St. Paul’s, led the congregation in developing ideas to further their mission and to decide where they would like to go as a parish. The English class developed as an outreach to the neighborhood, currently being refurbished as new condominiums are being built, houses are being restored, and Fort Sam Houston Joint Military Base continues to grow. White, who recently finished leading a two-year course at Reconciliation, San Antonio, teaching Spanish to English-speaking members of the church, is fluent in both languages. Around 14 people attend each class at St. Paul’s, which began on June 15. White leads them through the book, “Aprenda Ingles, Facil y Rapido” (Learn English, Easy and Fast), which he purchased on Amazon.com and at Barnes and Noble. “The book and corresponding notebook and the class are free,” said White. “I did not want to hinder anyone from coming.” White invited neighborhood residents who had attended or been a part of other St. Paul’s outreach ministries, such as the Lord’s Table, which serves as a food pantry and hosts a Christmas party with gifts for families in need. “I never see all those who signed up at the same time. Some will miss a week and then return, but those who come are learning,” said White. The class attendees asked White how long the course would last during the first meeting. One lady in the class offered, “Until we finish the book.” White said, “I don’t know when that will be, but I am committed to them.” Photo by Celeste Scalise-Qubrosi.
A quick calling together for one hour of prayer. Email notice is given 24-48 hours in advance, and the gathering is held in a room at a church or outdoors. Since it is in a “flash”, the time, day, and place are not scheduled before the email is sent.
| By Laura Shaver
More MINISTRY Stories
on the DWTX Blog
www.dwtx.org/blog
For more information: email Jacki at rbucci@swbell.net. the Church News
September/October 2013
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Around the circuit
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Walk to Action for Prevent Child Abuse Texas November 2, San Antonio Prevent Child Abuse Texas will host its annual Walk to Action on Saturday, November 2, in San Antonio. The 20-mile walk meanders through the King William District, around missions, and along the River Walk. Team DWTX is building strong, and you are invited to participate. You can register online at www.walktoaction.org and search for the team name. There are some new faces this year, along with supporters who have walked for years. Here’s what past participants have said: “I love kids - and it breaks my heart that some kids suffer at the hands of adults who are supposed to care for them. Thank you so much for the opportunity to do this!” Quinn Leidecker “It’s just far enough to be a real challenge, and still give a feeling of accomplishment. Nothing can stop me from participating.... nothing!” - Juan Jackson “A wonderful walk: Everyone was encouraging, supportive, enthusiastic. it was downright inspiring!” - Bishop David Reed To read a personal invitation from the Rev. Scott Brown, rector of St. Alban’s, Harlingen, visit www.dwtx.org/blog/walk-to-action.
Cathedral House Gallery “Seasons” Cathedral House Gallery presents a new art exhibit, “Seasons.” The gallery is located at the Bishop Jones Center in San Antonio (111 Torcido, 78209).
NAMI Walks for the Mind of America October 5, San Antonio The National Alliance on Mental Illness will have its annual NAMI Walks for the Mind of America, Saturday, October 5, at Morgan’s Wonderland Park, beginning at 7:30 a.m. for registration, and the walk at 9:00 a.m. All funds collected by walkers will fund NAMI’s programs in San Antonio and surrounding areas, including support, education, and advocacy for people living with mental illnesses. The team led by Jerry Fulenwider of St. George, San Antonio, is named Faith in Mental Health. You are welcome to join the team and walk on October 5. If you would like to donate to the walk you may go online to http://namiwalks.nami.org/ SanAntonioTXJerryF2013. Or if you prefer to mail a contribution, you may include Jerry’s name on the memo line and send your check to NAMI San Antonio, Christ Episcopal Church, 510 Belknap Place, Rm 242, San Antonio, TX 78212.
“Seasons” will open to the public with a free reception on Sunday, September 22, 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. The exhibit will hang through October and can be viewed Mondays through Fridays, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This show, which features diocesan artists, is part of a month-long special offering “Celebrating Contemplative Arts,” being cosponsored by Viva Bookstore and Galleria, and ABODE Contemplative Care for the Dying, both in San Antonio. Many events are planned throughout the month of September. Full details can be found at www.abodehome.org/contemplative-arts.
Julie B. Cosgrove Book Signing at Viva Bookstore Saturday, September 14 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. 8407 Broadway, 78209
Julie Brown Cosgrove has been invited to present a workshop at Viva Bookstore on Saturday, September 14, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Julie will be launching her new book, Squeeze More God-time Into Your Day, a pertinent subject that speaks to this hectic, microwave- and cyberspace-orientated global society in which we live. Treat yourself by squeezing in time to attend this free workshop. Refreshments will be served. Born in San Antonio, daughter of the late Judge Archie and Margaret Brown, Julie grew up at St. Mark’s, San Antonio, and is a graduate of Saint Mary’s Hall and Trinity University. She attended Austin Presbyterian Seminary and was sponsored by this diocese to the Episcopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest in Austin. Since launching her full-time writing and speaking ministry five years ago, Julie has led more than two dozen Lenten retreats, workshops, and Quiet Days throughout Texas, as well as at the Daughters of the King Triennial meeting in Indianapolis. She is also a spokesperson for Women at Risk International, a Christian missionary effort to rescue women and girls from sex slavery in 30 countries. For more information, contact Viva at 210-826-8321 or visit www.juliebcosgrove.com. 10
www.dwtx.org
Around the circuit
The Oldest Bedtime Story Ever and Creating Your Story On Friday and Saturday, October 1819, the Diocese of West Texas, along with Viva Bookstore in San Antonio, will welcome Benjamin Morse, author of The Oldest Bedtime Story Ever, for a book signing and engaging workshops for families and adults. The Oldest Bedtime Story Ever, written and illustrated by Morse, tells the stories of the Old Testament with creativity and unparalleled artistic expression. The illustrations that support each story were created with collage pieces, from old family photographs to collected textiles from around the world and other media. The story book, which will delight children and those young at heart, was written to introduce people to the love and light of God as it is revealed in Scripture. Visit www.biblebeautiful.com. Please join us Friday, Oct. 18, at Viva Bookstore for a meet and greet and book signing opportunity with Morse, 4:00-5:00 p.m. Two workshop opportunities, Saturday, Oct. 19, at Reconciliation, San Antonio. Morse will be present to speak on his experience creating the book and to help facilitate workshop projects. God’s story. Our story. Your story. Building on Morse’s book and using his method of collage, workshop participants will be invited to tell their own stories or family stories, as they incorporate personal photos and other memorabilia into their own works of art. Family Workshop, 9:00 to 11:30 a.m., $35/family Adult Workshop, 1:30 to 4:00 p.m., $25/individual Register online at dwtx.org/events Snacks and some materials will be provided, but everyone is invited to bring personal materials to use in the collages. For more information contact Marjorie George at marjorie.george@dwtx.org.
Summary of apportionments through August 21, 2013.
San Antonio to Host Citywide Ecumenical Candlelight Service The second Citywide Ecumenical Candlelight Prayer Service focusing on mental health issues in San Antonio, will be hosted by the St. Brigid Catholic Church parish community, (6907 Kitchener St., 78240) on Sunday, October 6 at 5:30 p.m. Bishop Gary Lillibridge will be participating in the service, as well as other clergy and professionals in the community. The special prayer service is part of a week-long focus on mental health, in concurrence with National Mental Illness Awareness Week, Oct. 6-12. For more information about the service, contact Doug Beach, chair, Ecumenical Mental Health Ministry Committee, at 210-247-4616. the Church News
September/October 2013
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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 September
Education for Ministry (EfM) Training The next Education for Ministry (EfM) mentor training will take place Friday-Saturday, Sept. 20-21, 2013 at Camp Capers. Basic and Formation training will be offered. Contact Ada Sutherland for more information at adazsuth@att.net or 361-572-4816.
Dedication of Camp Capers Buildings The new and refurbished buildings at Camp Capers will officially be dedicated during an outdoor ceremony on Sunday, October 20, at 3:30 p.m. at Camp Capers. The recently completed buildings include Steves Hall, two lodging facilities, the Health Care Center, and the Elder Welcome Center. Bishops Lillibridge and Reed will dedicate the new buildings. All are invited to attend. For more information, contact Rob Watson at rob.watson@dwtx.org.
october
Spiritual Retreat in Recovery The fall Spiritual Retreat in Recovery will take place at Camp Capers Friday-Sunday, October 4-6. Leaders for the weekend are the Revs. Lisa Mason and Ben Nelson. For more information, please contact JC Stromberger at strombergerjc@yahoo.com. Register online at dwtx.org/events. Cursillo #261 Cursillo #261 will be held at Mustang Island Conference Center, Thursday-Sunday, October 10-13. Lay Rector is Patsy Durham from All Saints, Corpus Christi, and the Spiritual Director is the Rev. Jim Friedel rector of St. Peter’s, Rockport. Register online at www. dwtx.org/events. Fall Women’s Gathering The annual Fall Women’s Gathering sponsored by the Commission for Women’s Ministry will be held Friday-Sunday, October 11-13, at Camp Capers. The theme for the weekend is “Crossing Sacred Thresholds,” and women are invited to come explore how Scripture informs who you are today, yesterday, and tomorrow. The Rev. Patricia Riggins will be the presenter, and the Rev. Lera Tyler will serve as chaplain. Register at dwtx.org/events.
Diocesan Choral Festival The second annual diocesan Choral Festival, “O God, Our Help in Ages Past, and Hope for Years to Come” will be held on Saturday, October 26, at 4:00 p.m. at St. David’s, San Antonio (1300 Wiltshire, 78209). Dr. Marilyn Keiser will again serve at the director and clinician. More info at dwtx.org/events.
november
Bishop’s Golf Classic The 2013 Bishop’s Golf Classic will be held at Canyon Springs Golf Club in San Antonio on Friday, November 1. The first shotgun start is at 8:00 a.m. The driving range and putting green will open at 10:00, and the second shotgun start is at 1:00 p.m. An awards dinner and celebration will be held at 5:30 p.m. Entry fee is $140 per player, and sponsorship levels are available. All proceeds benefit youth ministry programs and youth camp scholarships in the Diocese of West Texas. Register online at dwtx.org/events.
The Diocese of West Texas Online
www.dwtx.org/blog
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.
ReflectionsOnline
The diocesan spiritual formation blogsite, ReflectionsOnline offers weekly reflections and resources for your spiritual journey. www.reflections-dwtx.org “Episcopal Diocese of West Texas Bishop Jones Center” @DioceseWestTX