Diolog: Texas Episcopalian Resale Shops

THE BISHOP’S COLUMN | EVENTS | PROFILES

Diolog

JUNE 2015

VOLUME 5

The Texas Episcopalian

RESALE SHOPS:

THE ULTIMATE IN RECYCLING page12

TYLER’S CHRIST CHURCH PLANTS SECOND CAMPUS page 28 www.epicenter.org 1 |

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Diolog: The Texas Episcopalian (since 1874) is an official publication of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas.

Our mission is to bring you the wealth of stories from the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Communion, to inform and inspire you and to deepen your spiritual life.

PUBLISHER:

The Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle

EDITOR: Carol E. Barnwell, cbarnwell@epicenter.org DESIGNER:

LaShane K. Eaglin, leaglin@epicenter.org

STAFF WRITER:

Kevin Thompson, kthompson@epicenter.org

Diolog: The Texas Episcopalian (PE# USPS 10965, ISSN# 1074-441X) is published quarterly (March, June, September and December) for $25 a year by the Episcopal Diocese of Texas, 1225 Texas St., Houston, TX 77002-3504. Periodical postage paid at Houston, TX. Address changes may be emailed to: txepis@epicenter.org POSTMASTER: Address changes: Diolog: The Texas Episcopalian,

1225 Texas St., Houston, TX 77002-3504 Member of: Episcopal Communicators and Associated Church Press © 2015 The Episcopal Diocese of Texas

The Episcopal Diocese of Texas

Contents:

JUNE 2015

In This Issue: 04 EDITOR’S LETTER Carol E. Barnwell

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RESALE SHOPS 06 Bishop’s Column 12 Shopping with a Conscience

RESALE SHOPS

15 The “Mouse” and the “Mouseketeers”

Women have always led the church in mission and ministy.

Today we celebrate the many hands that have created exponential support for outreach.

16 Guild Shop’s Ministry Multifaceted

Offer Resale with a Mission

18 Growth Marks Need for Next-to-New

Resale Ministry

20 Resale, Thrift Stores Visible Reminders

of Gospel

PROFILES

Luminary, The Rev. Simón Bautista page 22

24 Photo: Kate Powell

The Arts, The Rev. Murray Powell page 24 Advocate, Iliana Gilman page 26 Congregation, Epiphany Community page 28

REVELATION The Rev. Murray Powell reveals the vessel through creative process.

30 CALENDAR & PEOPLE

Cover and Inside Cover Photo: Carol E. Barnwell

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Resale Therapy, It’s Shopping with a Conscience In this issue are profiled a number of the resale shops throughout the Diocese of Texas. It amazes me the amount of outreach that has been funded through the sale of old furniture, well-loved rugs and glittery jewelry, alligator handbags, glassware. Did I mention glassware?

China, crystal, paintings, mirrors, luggage (with and without wheels), cowboy boots and hats of all kinds.

And did I mention glassware?

It is the ultimate in recycling and therefore good stewardship. Founded by women of the church decades ago, these shops were meant to help maintain their historic churches, assist the elderly, reach beyond the church walls to help their communities. These women responded to the needs of their neighbors, gathered volunteers, cleaned and polished, displayed and resold and are still doing it today.

It’s an amazing testament to vision and their availability to do holy work.

In many of these resale shops, there are layers of ministry taking place. Volunteers form a kind of family, ministering to one another and to their customers, as well as to the “pickers” who bring in consignments regularly. In the case of Next-to-New, Austin, they come to the aid of families who are selling estates. I personally benefited from this ministry when my mother died and we had a house full of precious things and no heart for a garage sale. I knew the crystal goblets would again grace someone’s Thanksgiving table and that all my mother’s kitschy Halloween decorations would make someone else smile come October.

Treasure House in Beaumont found the perfect chair to help an elderly client stand with ease. A customer bought

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Darby Kethan’s carelessly placed (expensive) Easter shoes for 75 cents. The stories are many.

Once you have promised yourself a shopping trip to the nearest resale, read about our woodworking priest, Murray Powell (page 24); SimÓn Bautista, the Hispanic missioner at Christ Church Cathedral (page 22); and the new campus planned from Christ Church, Tyler (page 28). El Buen Samaritano in Austin has a new director and a new focus on their ministry. Read about Iliana Gilman on page 26.

This summer brings us the 78th General Convention of The Episcopal Church so we have included a primer for you on the following pages—in the form of artwork by Carvel Glenn, an architect and parishioner at St. Stephen’s, Houston. We have shared this throughout the country and it has become one of the most popular pieces we have ever done. We will have a hub of news, videos and reflections from General Convention on our website at epicenter.org/ gc2015 to bring you the latest as it happens from Salt Lake City this summer.

This month the Diocese hosted a national summit focused on the newcomer ministry of Invite . Welcome .

Connect. We welcomed participants and speakers from New Zealand to England for this sellout event. Audios from the Rt. Rev. Michael Curry and other keynoters are available online at epicenter.org/newcomer. If you missed it and want to know what’s happening in the Diocese, sign up for our enews by texting EPISCOPAL to 42828 to subscribe.

As always, thank you for reading the Diolog and when you are finished, share it with a friend and invite them to church with you.

Blessings,

Carol E. Barnwell Editor cbarnwell@epicenter.org

How to Follow

General Convention

The Episcopal Church’s triennial General Convention will take place June 25-July 3, 2015 in Salt Lake City, Utah. As the Church gathers to elect a new presiding bishop (on June 27), consider changes to the structure of the Church and amendments to the marriage canon, you can stay up to date through the diocesan media hub at www.epicenter.org/gc2015. We will post stories daily with videos from your bishops and elected deputies and link to Episcopal News Service and their coverage as well. Additionally, the Rev. Patrick Miller will publish a blog from various EDOT authors to consider how decisions at General Convention will affect the future of the Church.

THE 27TH PRESIDING BISHOP Four bishops have been nominated for election as the next Presiding Bishop to succeed the Most Rt. Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori. The Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church serves for nine years and is the chief pastor to the Church’s 2.1 million members in 17 countries and 108 dioceses. The Presiding Bishop serves as ecumenical officer and as primate, joining leaders of the other 38 provinces in the Anglican Communion in consultation for global good and reconciliation.

The nominees include: the Rt. Rev. Thomas Breidenthal, Southern Ohio; the Rt. Rev. Michael Curry, North Carolina; the Rt. Rev. Ian Douglas, Connecticut; and the Rt. Rev. Dabney Smith, Southwest Florida. A complete biography of each in English, Spanish and French is available at www.generalconvention.org/pbelect.

They will be presented to the General Convention on June 24 followed by a question and answer session. The Joint Nominating Committee for the Presiding Bishop welcomes

your submissions for this process. Simply go to www.surveymonkey. com/s/8FHBH3P to submit your question for the nominees. The JNCPB will then choose questions from the submissions.

ELECTED DEPUTIES Each diocese elects eight clergy and lay deputies and eight alternates. Ranked in order by number of votes received, the Deputation from the Diocese of Texas includes: The Rev. Mark Crawford, interim rector, St. Mark’s, Beaumont The Rev. Susan Kennard, rector, Trinity, Galveston The Rev. William (Chuck) Treadwell, rector, St. Paul’s, Waco The Rev. Uriel Osnaya-Jimenez, vicar, Santa Maria Virgen, Houston David Harvin, St. Martin’s, Houston Mary Parmer, St. David’s, Austin Herbert (Trey) Yarbrough, III, Christ Church, Tyler Nathaniel Higgins, St. John the Divine, Houston ALTERNATES: The Rev. Patrick Miller, rector, St. Mark’s, Houston The Rev. Miles Brandon, vicar, St. Julian of Norich, Austin The Rev. Janet Dantone, associate rector, St. John the Divine, Houston The Rev. Christine Faulstich, rector, Epiphany, Houston Linda Patterson, St. Peter’s, Brenham Carole Pinkett, St. James, Houston Laurie Eiserloh, St. David’s, Austin Lisa Martin, St. Mark’s, Austin

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To learn more about St. James House and/or to donate, visit stjameshouse.org.

St. James House is a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas and a 501(c)(3), nonprofit organization. All donations are tax deductible.

The first General Convention met in 1785 in Philadelphia and began work on our constitution and a revision of the Book of Common Prayer. Within 10 years, General Convention had agreed on its form of governance and a pattern of worship for the Church, both of which endure today.

In 2015, the 78th General Convention of The Episcopal Church will meet in Salt Lake City, Utah, from Thursday, June 25 through Friday, July 3.

House

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Episcopal All bishops of The retired, and ive Church, act t, voice and are entitled to sea of Bishops. vote in the House Katharine p ho Bis Presiding serves as ri ho Jefferts Sc

es, Each of the dioces on of ati voc Con the ing includ the and e rop Eu in Churches ssion, is entitled Navajoland Area Mi ies, four lay to elect eight deput /or deacons. and four priests and Jennings The Rev. Gay Clark is president of the .

House of Deputies

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Deputies are expected to serve on committees when appointed, to attend forums and hearings, to read the reports to the Church from interim bodies of the General Convention, to listen and vote on resolutions being considered by the House.

Much of the work of convention is carried out by legislative committees. Appointments are made by the President of the House of Deputies. Consideration given to previous experience, expertise and interest, to ensure the committees represent diverse points of view, geographic, age, ethnic and gender diversity. The House of Deputies‛ and the House of Bishops‛ committees meet together but they vote separately.

They hear testimony, engaging in debate and prayer, and they cannot be instructed to vote one way or another. To expect a deputy to vote a certain way would preclude godly debate and preempt the work of the Holy Spirit.

Resolutions that have been proposed for discussion at convention are referred to one of the legislative committees. Each piece of legislation must have an open hearing.

Deputies, registered alternates, bishops and registered visitors may speak at these open hearings. Committees consolidate, amend and perfect legislation before presenting it to the House.

The House of Deputies and the House of Bishops usually meet, deliberate and vote separately except for a joint session to hear the budget presentation.

o ome t ions c t ur lu o o f s Re om tion fr ies; conven terim bod in : s n e a c s e sour s; dioc s, bishop convention d n a s d n il a c n s cou ovince and pr eputies. d m fro

For resolutions to be enacted, they must pass both houses in exactly the same language.

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Debate on the floor of the House of Deputies is governed by the Constitution and Canons of the Church, Rules of Order for each house, Joint Rules of Order and Robert's Rules of Order.

General Convention meets prayerfully and worships together daily. Each day bishops, deputies, registered alternates and delegates to the Episcopal Church Women‛s meeting gather for Bible study and Holy Eucharist.

Both the Houses have designated chaplains, who lead prayer at the beginning and end of daily sessions as well as noonday prayer.

Deputies are expected to listen respectfully to the views of others and to adhere to the rules.

Chaplains are often asked

by the

prayer before the vote on important legislation.

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One of the highlights of General Convention is a festival Eucharist in which the United Thank Offering is presented by representatives from each diocese. The offering is gathered in parishes twice each year for the mission of the Church.

urch within the Ch Organizations ip al worsh offer addition aff a volunteers st services, while l here continua prayer room w e rcession ar prayers of inte e work prayed for th . of convention

Many church-related organizations hold meetings in conjunction with convention, including Episcopal Church Women, and there are lunches and dinners hosted by seminaries, provinces, societies, boards and staff offices of the Church. The ECW focuses on mission and service, and many of the Church‛s most distinguished members are invited to address this triennial gathering.

One of the most interesting parts of convention is the Exhibits Hall, a marketplace of goods and ideas where organizations and interest groups within the Church present their wares, recruit members or provide a respite from each busy day.

“General Convention is a combination of legislative assembly, bazaar of goods and services and family reunion. It is one of the most exciting and, truth be told, one of the most awe-inspiring gatherings in the world.”

The Rev. Dr. Gregory S. Straub, former executive

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THE SISTERS by the Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle

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Beginning in 1871, the work of the Women’s Auxiliary of the Episcopal Church would lead to generations of women committed to the mission of the Episcopal Church.* Four sisters—Mary Abbot Emery Twing, Julia Chester Emery, Susan Lavinia Emery and Margaret Theresa Emery—were key leaders in the Women’s Auxiliary of the Episcopal Church. Their work, beginning in 1871, would lead to generations of women who were committed to the mission of the Episcopal Church and who helped to raise money to fund the Church’s expansion for the next 100 years.

A Century of Endeavor, written by Julia Emery, documents how dollars raised by Episcopal women would fund efforts of church expansion. We are indebted to these women and their zeal for the Gospel. Literally millions of dollars—some of which would undergird our own Texas nativity—are in no small measure due to their example.

Many rectories, church buildings and church repairs were paid for and maintained through their efforts.

Women have held many different roles in ministry over the years—the deaconess movement, social outreach ministries, fundraising—as members of diocesan councils and convention. Today, women hold all offices of leadership in our Church. They did all of this while raising families, running households, building careers and getting everyone (including their husbands) to church on Sunday. Moreover, women did all this saving of the church despite having to create avenues around many a well-intentioned, but incorrect, man.

In light of the faithful service of women in the Church, it is more than ironic that Betsy Dyer’s seating as the first female General Convention deputy, in 1946, was challenged by men (though the Convention had benefited substantially from women’s leadership through the years). On the first day of Convention that year—though duly elected by the Diocese of Missouri—Dyer was challenged because the rules said only “laymen” could be seated. According to a

Reuters News Service story that ran in the St. Louis PostDispatch, Judge Augustus N. Hand, a lay deputy of New York told the assembled delegates that it would be “preposterous” to limit the word “laymen” to the male sex.Indeed!

Resale stores are among some of the more unique ministries of the church and in large part are established and led by women. They have funded ministry, outreach and mission since the Depression. The Diocese of Texas churches host a number of these and they have built tremendous legacies of caring for poor, the infirm, the elderly. They have supported ministers and seminarians for which the Church, at times, has not had money. JoAnne and I are one couple who was supported through seminary by St. Christopher’s Thrift Shop in Houston.

We could not have made it through seminary without them. Their check, and special offerings, always seemed to arrive just at the most dire moment. What a gift those ladies are to us.

So here’s to the women who have nurtured my ministry and shown me, more often than not, a better way. Here’s to those women in our congregations who have actively engaged in their unique ministries to strengthen our churches and our communities, put a face on the Gospel, visited the sick and loved society’s “unlovables” through their faith and actions.

For the women who have raised money for the cause, marched on behalf of their fellow human beings, and fed millions at their dinner table and on the street. For the women who week after week get their children’s tangles out, put them in the car and get them to church and then work on the altar guild, sing in the choir, break bread at the altar or open the doors of the thrift store. To the sisters who make us a better church—we give God thanks and praise!

*Information on women’s ministry taken from A History of the Episcopal Church by Robert W. Prichard, 2014.

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RESALE SHOPS

SHOPPING WITH A CONSCIENCE

by Carol E. Barnwell Beaumont—Katy Maneman gave up her job at the Treasure House in Beaumont to help care for her father. She later returned to work without pay for six months and lived off savings until a part-time paying position was once again available. When the manager, Karen Rush, decided to retire after 15 years, Maneman was ready to take the reins. That was five years ago and she’s done much to continue and grow this ministry of St. Mark’s, which raises more than $30,000 annually for outreach in the community.

Tim Collins, Maneman’s right-hand man, brings his wicked sense of humor and decorative eye to the thrift store’s furniture and bedding, china and antique chandeliers. “When I came here I needed a place to be where everything was okay,” he said about a rocky time in his life.

The “temporary” job turned into something of a career. “This place will ground you quick,” Collins said. “Being here opens our eyes [so we see] that we just need to be grateful daily for the things that we do have and not mourn the loss of what we don’t have,” he said. “The difference we make in the world around us, it’s huge!”

Collins brought his background in furniture staging to the Treasure House and, as a result, the consignment part of its business has grown.

The quality of things people consign has also improved, Maneman said.

Collins’ experience in merchandising and display helps. Treasure House recently hired a part-time employee to manage the shop’s eBay account so its reach is now far beyond Beaumont. And today, typical shoppers are people of all income levels.

From designer apparel to denim, Treasure House has it all.

Maneman loves the ecology of the Treasure House: people giving generously, the thrill of a customer finding a vintage, one-of-a-kind piece and the “opportunity to be kind to at least 75 people a day!” she said. It’s a lot of work, but there is never a dull moment.

Established in 1957 by the women of St. Mark’s, Treasure House supports many of Beaumont’s neediest people. Profits are shared through community partners including several food pantries; children

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The Treasure House of St. Mark’s, Open M-F, 10:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., 805 North Street, Beaumont, TX 77701 409.832.0253.

Volunteers are welcome.

Facebook.com/treasurehousebmt and family services; a sober living facility; nutrition services for seniors; the rape and suicide crisis center; a hospice center; St. Mark’s Stable Spirit, a horse therapy ministry; and Ubi Caritas, another of St. Mark’s ministries offering health and dental care to the underserved.

The original motto of the founders—“Buy it, Use it, Donate it”—still rings true, and people do. That nonessential pair of jeans has an exponential response throughout the community—from the donor’s cleared-out closet to the staff ’s paychecks, the buyer’s bargain, and the ultimate recipient benefiting from the funds raised for so many local charities.

Recently, a 90-year-old customer who has frequented the Treasure House for more than 30 years asked about a lift chair that had just been unloaded. She was delighted when the chair was raised to help her stand up. “Oh, my gosh, I have had such trouble getting up and down,” the Photos: Carol E. Barnwell

woman told Collins. Her son picked up the chair later that afternoon. “To help someone like that,” Collins grinned, “it’s just the best.”

Maneman’s pet peeve is people trying to get the price reduced. “We research most things to set a fair price and it all goes to charity. It sort of dumbfounds me … You know, here’s an opportunity to get something you want—cheap— and it’s going to help someone else,” she said. “It’s shopping with a conscience.”

While Collins says he’d rather be fishing and thinking about God than attending church, Maneman, a member of St. Mark’s, said, “Gosh, every minute of every day here I feel like we’re just walking with Jesus. Look, this is how Jesus did it. We’re doing it. Every shoe that I clean, it’s kind of like washing feet … We get to show people what the church looks like outside the door.”

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RESALE SHOPS

St. Paul’s “The Mouse” 1703 W Bluff St., Woodville, TX 75979 409.283.3710

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The “Mouse” and the “Mouseketeers” Offer Resale with a Mission

by Darby Kethan Woodville—“Where in the world “I come in, down in the dumps, and Sunday morning coffee hour often did you get that GREAT dress?” The am made happy,” one regular customer finds our parishioners and visitors answer may come sheepishly or said. Another said they “get the Word” shopping. Some fast-paced horse boldly—“At the Mouse,” St. Paul’s when they come in and only later trading is apt to go on when a “find” is resale shop in Woodville. One story “recognize the message.” coveted by more than one person! I starts a flood of others: the Coach bag, traded a long red coat I’d worn for a St. Paul’s started its resale ministry the divine and never worn Trotter beautiful Pendleton pea jacket my in a trailer some 30–35 years ago. The shoes, the first edition of a favorite Church Mouse—a suggestion from the friend found. She liked mine better book, a 24-karat gold sand dollar woman who had the original idea—has and I still like hers best … on me! necklace for a dime. Discoveries are grown to fill a room in the parish hall I won’t soon forget my new endless and the joyful recounting today. Eight regular volunteers, known EXPENSIVE Easter shoes that sold for of them lights up the faces of those as “Mouseketeers,” open the store twice 75 cents when I absentmindedly laid sharing resale treasure tales of loot weekly. It is a bright and cheerful space, them down and a customer bought that would make a pirate envious! It’s small, but well able to handle the them. A church member once forgot “retail therapy” with a twist! constant arrival of donated items from her jacket at the Mouse. It sold only to What is our fascination with the community and church members. return four years later for resale. We finding “buried treasure”? These resale have had several style shows, with Several years ago we added a used shops are more than inexpensive models fashionably dressed completely book section: paperbacks $1.00, with sources of clothing and household from our Mouse collection. This has a trade of 2-for-1 working well. Some goods, more than shopping proved a great way to advertise and day there are many customers, other conservatively. Moms, matrons, reach the larger community. We sell days, only a few, but there is always teachers, lawyers, teens and the elderly out of our “one of a kind” outfits every something to do. Mouseketeers sort all share the “thrill of the hunt” and the through mountains of donations, hang time, garner new customers and have a camaraderie of kindred souls shopping clothes, arrange and price objects, keep riotously good time. resale. One common thread is many the books, learn about and listen to our Resale shops have always been who understand the value in goods shoppers. a part of society; however, the that are not yet used up. evangelical aspect of such churchProceeds fund outreach, church “Resale shopping makes God’s supported stores makes them a true programs and other local projects money go farther and leaves me more “missionary outpost,” a place to find such as River of Life, a ministry to money to spend for others,” one information on child care, education, women seeking a second chance for customer said. Her husband admitted comfort when life hurts, help with education and life skills; Caring Is that she had probably saved as much as Sharing, our local food and emergency utilities, information on health care, he’d made over the years. family services, friends, local events, outreach program; and support for activities, etc. Welcoming, friendly, And there is something else shared. pregnant women seeking to raise and resourceful, intriguing; the real Regulars return weekly to shop and support their children. Our “Mouse” “treasure” in places like the Church stop to talk about their day, their is a ministry for all those who come, Mouse is the gift of giving of ourselves family, their burdens and their joys. for whatever reason, looking for We are a true ministry for those who unexpected treasures or a bit of advice. as we minister to those who come. walk through the door, inviting them They find a welcoming, supportive and Kethan is a member of St. Paul’s. to share their lives with us as we share caring group of volunteers. ours with them.

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RESALE SHOPS

GUILD SHOP’S MINISTRY MULTIFACETED

by Andrea Meier Houston—In 1962, a group of dedicated women in a weekly sewing group at St. John the Divine, Houston, envisioned a resale shop where their talents could serve God, their church and the community. With the broad support of their church, they established a store at 1508 Fairview. Fifty-three years and two locations later, The Guild Shop now fills an 11,000-squarefoot building building on Dunlavy with racks of clothing, gorgeous jewelry, great shoes, dinnerware, art, furniture and a chorus of friendly voices.

“There was never a thought of failure,” wrote founding member Alice Wheeles in her short history of The Guild Shop. “... The personnel attacked with zest whatever needed to be accomplished.”

The Guild Shop is one of the most popular resale shops in Houston and continues to be a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike. It was recently featured in Houstonia magazine’s March 2015 article, “101 Great Little Shops,” and was chosen 2015’s Best Resale Shop by the Examiner newspaper.

Beyond just being a great store, The Guild Shop’s mission has always been to enrich the community as a Christian ministry, dedicated to providing financial support to organizations that serve the elderly. Since 1982, the shop has given more than $5 million to the financial assistance fund of St. James House, the diocesan retirement community in Baytown, and has also financially enriched other local charities, such as The Gathering, Amazing Place, Holly Hall and senior programs at the YMCA.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE GUILD SHOP AT THEGUILDSHOP.ORG AND LIKE THEM AT FACEBOOK.COM/THEGUILDSHOPHOUSTON.

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The Guild Shop has layers of ministry, stacks of treasures.

Recently appointed executive director Gaye Jackson is the fourth person to lead The Guild Shop. Jackson brings a wealth of entrepreneurial and nonprofit experience as well as a heart for ministry.

“There are going to be more and more elderly in need,” Jackson said. To help meet those needs, she has set a lofty goal of doubling the shop’s contributions to area organizations over the next few years. One of her plans to increase direct donations is to have several “Guild Giving Days” at St. John the Divine throughout the year. On these days, the shop’s truck will park at the church and accept “trunk to truck” donations.

The women’s ministry at St. John the Divine also supports the shop by sponsoring a benefit style show at the church each spring. At this festive ticketed event, parishioners, clergy and shop volunteers walk the runway in fashions direct from the shop’s racks. Additional selected pieces of jewelry, clothing and eclectic collectibles are sold before and after the show.

Beyond financial goals, Jackson wants the shop to be “the

gold standard of resale shops … because we’re doing good for the community.”

“There are many levels of mission here,” she said. “[The shop’s volunteers] are happy to be there and give the shop life and vitality. Each morning they hold hands and pray before they open the shop.” The more than 150 volunteers, some of whom have served for 30 years or more, range in age from 7 to 94. The shop ministers to and through this group of dedicated people.

Each uses their talents in specific jobs—some organize displays, others research the prices of consigned and donated items.

When asked what The Guild Shop means to them, most say that they simply can’t imagine not being there.

A wealth of connections is forged by The Guild Shop’s ministry—connections with the surrounding community, connections with organizations that assist elderly in need, connections among the community of volunteers. Come and experience resale at its best—great deals that benefit others!

Meier is director of publications at St. John the Divine, Houston.

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RESALE SHOPS

Growth Marks Need for Next-to-New Resale Ministry

by Bob Kinney Austin—Next-to-New, a 55-year-old ministry of St. David’s, Austin, will soon expand its 10,000-squarefoot store in North Central Austin to enable the iconic landmark store to donate even more grant money to local nonprofits every year. Initially, the resale shop was established by the women of St. David’s to help maintain their historic church and to support outreach efforts.

“Next-to-New is a consignment, resale and antique store, not a thrift store,” manager Michael Pursley emphasizes.

The many eclectic displays of first-rate items for sale in Next-to-New affirms the statement.

A tour of the Next-to-New includes: • Rows of gleaming and sturdy classic dinnerware • A variety of glasses and cups to grace any table • Solid wood furniture, from dressers to dining tables and chairs • Racks and racks of quality women’s clothing • An eclectic collection of framed artwork • Children’s furniture: tables and chairs, desks and bookcases • Elegant jewelry • Cuddly children’s dolls and other huggies • Various sizes and styles of rugs • Vintage sofas and chairs On my first visit to Next-to-New, a beautiful 1930s radio was available for $300. Two days later it had been sold.

Retired art teacher and Next-to-New volunteer Robin

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Gurka has deftly created a selling space that is artfully designed and inviting to walk through. She is one of 125 volunteers who work at the store every week, in addition to six paid employees, Pursley said.

Gurka will redesign the store’s interior when the planned extension adds 1,300 square feet to the store later this year. The new store footprint will allow all retail to be moved to the ground floor. The store will remain open during construction, Pursley said.

The consignment room will be enlarged as well to accommodate more estate collections, said Pursley, who had a 40-year career in storage and moving businesses before joining Next-to-New’s staff in late 2010. Next-toNew splits consignment sales 50-50 with people who bring family collections to the store to be sold.

Pflugerville-based Sanford Companies is the contractor for the building project in the fast-developing Burnet Road area. A new five-story apartment complex opened earlier this year to the north of Next-to-New. A similar complex opened two years ago across the street. Austin’s iconic Little Longhorn Saloon—a honky-tonk where real country music is played six evenings a week—is Next-to-New’s neighbor just to the south.

The resale store’s current site at 5435 Burnet Road is its fourth location since the first store opened on Lavaca in downtown Austin, October 20, 1959.

In recent years, half of Next-to-New’s profit was set

aside for expansion costs and the other half given to St. David’s for the church to donate to community outreach organizations.

“What a lot of people who give to or purchase from the shop don’t know is that each year Next-to-New gives thousands of dollars back to the community in the form of grants awarded to local nonprofits,” said Jeanie Garrett, director of communications at St. David’s. “These nonprofits serve disabled persons, the homeless, the elderly, the working poor, victims of neglect and abuse, babies and children with HIV/AIDS, the terminally ill, cancer victims, and

those who are hungry,” she said.

“In 2014, Next-to-New set a new record awarding ten $10,000 grants —back to the community from a store that relies on the community to make it possible. It’s such a testament to how we can all help others and remain true to St. David’s mission of service,” Garrett said.

The list of nonprofit community outreach groups is impressive.

Receiving grants in 2014 were Austin Children’s Services (formerly The Austin Children’s Shelter); Junior League of Austin’s Food in Tummies (FIT); AGE of Central Texas’ The Early Memory Loss Support Program;

Austin Diaper Bank; The Care Communities; A Community for Education (ACE); People’s Community Clinic’s Center for Adolescent Health; Green Doors’ Pecan Springs Commons; Helping Hand Home for Children’s Kids Closet; and Helping the Aging, Needy and Disabled (HAND) Partnership for Employee Excellence.

Kinney was communications director at Seminary of the Southwest in Austin from 1986 to 2009. He is now a freelance writer, photographer and publicist in Austin. See more of his writing and photography at bobkinney.wordpress.com.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE NEXT-TO-NEW SHOP AT NEXT2NEW. ORG AND LIKE THEM AT FACEBOOK.COM/THENEXTTONEWSHOP. Photo: Bob Kinney

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RESALE SHOPS

Resale, Thrift Stores Visible Reminders of Gospel Sister Joan Chittister recently commented in her daily reflections on The Rule of Benedict: “Benedictine spirituality recognizes the fact that a thing may become valueless to us before it actually becomes valueless. In that case it is to be given to someone else in good condition.

Benedictine spirituality does not understand a world that is full of gorgeous garbage while the poor lack the basics of life.”

With these words of wisdom ringing through the past six or seven decades, women in the Diocese of Texas stepped up, each in their own communities, to serve their neighbors. They opened resale shops, small and large. They provided clothing and household items to the poor, and in emergencies. They funded outreach. It would be difficult to overstate the importance of the ministry still being accomplished from these often humble and local efforts.

“I wonder at the vision of the women of the Church,” said Bishop Andy Doyle. “They are the early adapters to ‘recycling’ and the drivers of outreach in their communities from early on, as they continue to reflect the Gospel in so many ways through this type of ministry. We are very blessed by the work of the founders of these resale shops, those who have volunteered through the years and continue to do so, and in the service they provide to the community.”

ST. CHRISTOPHER’S, LEAGUE CITY St. Christopher’s Thrift Shop was established by the church’s Episcopal Church Women in 1958 as a means to earn money for “baby sitters” at the church and for support of missions. The League City shop is still doing business in the same location, although the building has been replaced, retaining the original façade. Where racks and shelves once stood, the layout now has more of a boutique feel, offering slightly used, and some new clothing, household goods, furniture, home décor, books and more. Proceeds 20 |

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go to fund shop expenses and provide a small budget for ECW activities, but the bulk of the shop’s income goes to outreach, from $20,000–22,000 annually.

“We have the greatest volunteers, both parishioners and nonparishioners, ages 10 to 94,” said co-manager K. C. Miller. “Sorting donations can lead to some unusual discoveries, like a deer head, a 100-year-old dress, two hookahs replete with sequins and rhinestones, and a rubber chicken sculpture by a nationally known artist.”

Expanding its reach even further, the shop also gives clothing, linens and home goods to three different homeless ministries in the Houston area, toiletries to a women’s recovery center, school supplies and teaching supplies to St Vincent’s House, eyeglasses to the Lion’s Club, baby clothes to a local ministry catering to newborns and toddlers, medical supplies to a local free clinic, soaps and dental supplies to Nicaraguan missioners, sewing and knitting/crochet supplies to three different St. Christopher ministries, and gardening supplies to a community garden.

ST. LUKE’S, LIVINGSTON Founded in 1984, The Oasis thrift shop, a ministry of St. Luke’s, Livingston, manages to give out a minimum of $10,000 in grant money each year to community organizations, including the Polk County Emergency Health Board, Polk County Missions, MannaFest, Careshare Mission and Twelve Traditions House. In addition to providing low-cost goods to the community, the church assists a dozen families monthly who experience extenuating circumstances, donating much needed clothing and household items. The Oasis also delivers unsold clothing and other articles to The Salvation Army and Goodwill Industries in Lufkin and Conroe. Staffed completely by volunteers, The Oasis is headed by director Judy Adams and assistant director Eunice Owens.

GRACE, GALVESTON The Silk Purse is the oldest thrift shop on Galveston Island, located directly behind Grace Church in an old house that survived the Great Storm of 1900. Established in 1959 by the Women of Grace, this shop lost all its contents in Hurricane Ike but is back better than ever to serve the community.

ST. CHRISTOPHER’S, HOUSTON Located in the Spring Branch area of Houston, St. Christopher’s and Houston Hospice Retail Shop is a thriving team effort, supported by generous donations from the community and volunteers.

“We are community-minded and are always looking for ways to support the families and individuals in our area,” said shop manager Aprille Williams. “We believe in a cooperative effort to make good things happen for our neighborhood.”

Established as St. Christopher’s Thrift Shop in 1961—when the ladies of the church had leftovers after a fundraising rummage sale—the shop has been in continuous operation ever since. The first storefront was located on Long Point, several blocks from the church. The space was old and quirky but volunteers worked hard and it was a friendly, laughter-filled place to spend the afternoon. In 1980, the store reopened at its new location next to the church at 1650 Blalock Road. In 2000, St. Christopher’s formed a partnership with Houston Hospice with all proceeds supporting the work of Houston Hospice and outreach efforts such as Lord of the Streets, The Mission of Yahweh Shelter, A New Vision Shelters and The Monarch School.

ST. THOMAS, NASSAU BAY The Nearly New Shop was established in 1973 by the Episcopal Church Women’s group as an outreach to the many Vietnamese boat people who were then living and working in Seabrook. Forty-two years later, the shop raises nearly $30,000 annually and since 2009 has given another $40,000 worth of clothing away to agencies that help the poor. Nearly New runs on volunteer power exclusively. Thirty men and women serve weekly to help support a local women’s shelter, St. James House, Seafarers Center, Interfaith CaringMinistries and Meals on Wheels.

A few years ago, they started The Great Clothes Out, taking unsold clothes and shoes to St. Vincent’s House, in Galveston. When needed, they help clients put together outfits for job interviews. Last year, one volunteer went the extra step after helping a client at St. Vincent’s House find a nice shirt and trousers for his upcoming baptism, said Susan Manville, a member of St. Thomas. There had not been a donated pair of shoes that fit, so the volunteer took off his own shoes and gave them to the client, completing the “nearly new” baptismal outfit. That is gospel action.

SHOP AT NEARLY NEW TWF FROM 10-3, THURSDAY 1-6 AND SATURDAY 11-3, 18093 UPPER BAY ROAD, HOUSTON TX 77058.

281.333.4497.

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PROFILE: LUMINARY

A Thriving Latino Ministry Is the Goal

The Rev. Simรณn Bautista, Canon Missioner for Latino Ministries at Christ Church Cathedral, Houston,was born and raised in the Dominican Republic. Ordained a Roman Catholic priest in 1987, he taught philosophy, served two parishes and pastored Haitian immigrants in the Dominican Republic before moving to the United States in 1993. He was received into the Episcopal Church in 2004 and served as Canon for Latino Ministries in the Diocese of Washington before coming to the Cathedral in 2014. Bautista also serves as chaplain to the House of Bishops. He and his wife Amarilis Vargas have four children.

CEB: Who first taught you about Jesus?

SB: My mother was a woman of strong belief and profound convictions. Her faith was the answer to everything and the solution to all problems. For my mother,

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prayer and church were essential. She pointed my siblings and me to Jesus, and she led by example. I learned to pray from my mother, sitting with her to pray the rosary, which she used to say in the early evening. So it was through the devotion of the rosary that I became familiar with the Photo: Jen Frazer

name of Jesus. It was by walking with my mother approximately two miles every Sunday that I learned the road to Church.

Republic and Latinos here in the United States has made me embrace “the otherness” in the greatest capacity and introduced me to the concept of diversity in a way I hadn’t thought CEB: What led you to seminary? about previously. In a word, working SB: I realized that God might have with Haitian immigrants in my home been calling me early on in my journey. country formed me to offer unlimited At 17, I was already very involved in hospitality and enhanced a dimension my local church, Iglesia del Espiritu of my priesthood.

Santo, where I attended Bible study CEB: What led you to the Episcopal and community reflections. We also Church? How did your faith formation learned about different issues that inform this decision? affected our community. I think this was how I learned to put life, faith and SB: I left active ministry in the the Bible in dialogue. The priests and Roman Catholic Church in 1993 nuns of my parish were involved in when I lived in Manhattan. After these conversations and very active in several years away from ministry, I the community, so I grew up looking decided to reclaim my call to the up to them as role models. I think this priesthood, so I began visiting is what eventually took me to seminary. churches. The Episcopal Church was attractive [because worship seemed CEB: How does your ministry to the familiar]. However, this is not why I Spanish-speaking members of Christ became an Episcopalian. I became an Church Cathedral compare with your Episcopalian because of the differences previous ministry in the Dominican between the two traditions—the Republic? sense of diversity and inclusion of SB: I spent much of my ministry in the Episcopal Church—as well as the the Dominican Republic on the road, power of the voice of the laity in the on my feet and with my hands full. governance of the Church.

Sundays were a marathon from sunrise CEB: Can you describe some of to sunset, and most weekdays seemed to have endless hours, but nonetheless, the challenges that the immigrant population here has as it relates to very gratifying and rewarding. finding a community of faith?

My ministry at Christ Church SB: Finding the right community Cathedral is similar in that I am of faith is always a challenge for serving mostly immigrants. Though anyone. Latinos are no exception. The the interests and needs of these people language barrier makes finding a faith are different, both groups are among the most vulnerable and are the subject community particularly challenging [along with] the newness of the culture of discrimination and exploitation and context, family composition, because of their race and status. educational level, the type of job one CEB: How did your experience has, the particular religiosity practices with Haitian immigrants inform your each group carries, and in many cases, ministry with Hispanic immigrants? the legal status of many.

SB: Ministering to the Haitian immigrants in the Dominican

and other churches as well. In many cases, by the time many Latinos visit an Episcopal church they had already been part of or have visited other denominations. But most Latinos come straight from the Roman Catholic Church because of our [ability to welcome them as they are], for who they are and wherever they are in their journey of faith and commitment.

Being a former Roman Catholic priest sometimes helps, sometimes it doesn’t.

For some it may be comfortable, for others, it may raise their suspicions.

Being a Latino and a former Roman Catholic who had fully embraced the Episcopal faith has put me in a very desirable position when it comes to making people feel welcome in our midst.

CEB: Tell me about the ministry to Latinos at the Cathedral?

SB: The Latino Ministry at Christ Church Cathedral is mission at home, offering to the Cathedral its greatest expression of diversity with a great potential to grow. Thanks to the great work of my predecessors, the commitment of our lay leaders, the dedication of Canon Jim McGill and the enthusiasm of the Rev. Eileen O’Brien, this congregation feels at home in our midst and has made of the Cathedral its spiritual home.

CEB: What are your goals for this community at the Cathedral?

SB: To grow, form and educate; to strengthen the relationship between members of Spanish- and Englishspeaking members of the Cathedral and to take the Cathedral Latino ministry to the neighborhoods and invite the neighborhoods into the Cathedral.

Latinos are choosing the Episcopal Church over the Roman Catholic

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PROFILE: THE ARTS

WOODWORKING AND MINISTRY: BOTH PROCESS OF REVELATION

by Carol E. Barnwell Murray Powell has been ordained for 37 years. He has served churches in Beaumont, Tyler and Houston; biked with a team on several MS 150s from Houston to Austin; and was vicar of Lord of the Streets homeless ministry in Midtown Houston. He brews his own craft beer and, despite being born without a left hand, is a master woodworker. While semi-retired, he currently serves as assistant rector at St. Mark’s, Houston. His vocation as a priest and avocation as an artist share some revealing dimensions.

Powell’s family moved to Houston from Tennessee in 1956 and had the distinct luck to purchase a home next door to one Tom Bagby, founding rector of St. Martin’s Episcopal Church. Though the Powells were Presbyterian, their growing friendship with Tom and Mary Louise Bagby eventually led them to the Episcopal Church, so Murray Powell grew up at St. Martin’s, where he was confirmed and served as an acolyte.

When he was 16, Powell remembers Bagby talking to him about ordination. “I see in you makings of an Episcopal priest,” Bagby told him. “I want you to think about it.”

Powell went on to graduate from Robert E. Lee High School and entered The University of Texas in the fall of 1968. “I got there in time for the tear gas,” he said, remembering the protests against the Vietnam War. He left college a semester shy of graduating “to avoid any decision on a future course for my life.”

The Rev. Murray Powell has made croziers for Bishop Andy Doyle and Bishop Dena Harrison.

Bagby’s words echoed in his mind over the next several years, while he worked selling advertising for several area newspapers. When he was 24, he met with Bagby to talk about seminary.

“I remember he called Milton (Richardson, then Bishop of Texas) and we went right down to the Cathedral to talk with him. It was a whirlwind … I took the GRE a week later and entered seminary at Virginia Theological Seminary in the fall of 1975,” he said. Powell finished his UT communication degree during the following summer and, with support from St. Martin’s, completed seminary in 1977.

Following his ordination, he served at St. James’ and St. Matthew’s in Beaumont (now closed); Christ Church, Tyler; Christ Church Cathedral in Houston; and St.

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John’s in Austin before becoming rector of St. Michael’s, Houston, where he served from 1992–2005. St. Michael’s is now Hope Episcopal Church. Powell became vicar of Lord of the Streets in Midtown Houston in 2005 and assisted at Trinity part-time. “What I learned at LOTS was that I knew a lot more about homeless ministry when I got there in 2005, than when I left in 2010,” Powell said. “I was most struck by what I received from the people there. It was a pleasure to be known through LOTS. My ministry there was very powerful.”

While Tom Bagby guided Powell’s ministry, his love of woodworking came from his father. “My dad always had a project going and he could do anything,” Powell said. He grew up helping his father with projects around the house and still uses his father’s table saw in his home shop today. His father was a recovering alcoholic and Powell believes that his dad’s recovery “cemented his spirituality in a quiet way. My dad lived a sermon of wisdom and intelligence,” he said.

Powell started an arts program at Trinity and at St. Mark’s to help people connect with their creativity.

Parishioners create Stations of the Cross in wood, glass, watercolor and many other mediums; and after Holy Week, these pieces are auctioned to help support outreach, making each collection both unique and ethereal.

At times, woodworking is an escape, Powell admits, but mostly “it is a celebration.” It is a process of discovery and, “I am more connected with ‘me’ when I am working with wood,” he said. As in his ministry, Powell tries to see what lies

concealed in the whorls and knots, the rings and the bark. Ultimately, a gem is revealed, sanded smooth and oiled to highlight a previously hidden beauty.

“I live a charmed life,” Powell said. “I love doing what I’m doing.” It is a legacy to the spark that Bagby first recognized, an ability to see beneath the surface and bring out the best, in people or in a block of raw wood salvaged from the roadside.

Photo: Kate Powell

Powell expanded his repertoire from furniture to objects (“queer little Murray things”) when he bought a lathe. He joined Gulf Coast Wood Turners and found “a place to park my soul” in the creativity process.

He built a music stand in the shape of a clarinet; several bishop’s croziers (inlaid with turquoise); impossibly thin vessels with beautiful, elongated spindle tops; boxes and document tubes.

An exhibition of Powell’s work will be held at the Beeville Art Museum May 16-July 17, 2015. The museum is at 401 East Fannin, Beeville, TX 78102. Open M-F, 9-5 and Saturday, 10-2.

Admission is free. 361.358.8615 Diolog

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PROFILE: ADVOCACY

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE, PASSION INFORM MINISTRY TO AUSTIN LATINOS

Iliana Gilman

by Ivan Dávila

Iliana Gilman, executive director of El Buen Samaritano, Austin, has used her personal life experience and background in strategy and public policy to bring new life to the legacy of Bishop Maurice “Ben” Benitez since joining the organization exactly one year ago. El Buen is a diocesan outreach ministry to Latinos.

An Austin transplant from Laredo, Texas, Gilman struggled with the same environmental and social barriers El Buen’s clients face every day and relates to them with a deep sense of responsibility.

“After my parents divorced when I was two, it was my grandmother, a Mexican immigrant, who raised me in a Spanish-speaking household,” Gilman said. “We learned English together by watching Sesame Street.” Gilman often refers to her grandmother as the love of her life who taught her the most important life lessons—being kind, loving and responsible—and says she aspires to that every day.

When her mother remarried, Gilman became the oldest of five sisters. She moved in with the new family after middle school, and as is often the case in many families sharing her cultural background, she was expected to help with the household chores and raising her younger siblings. “It was my obligation to stay home and help, so when it came time to leave for college, I felt I was turning my back on my own family. It was awful,” Gilman said.

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lacked financial and emotional support. “There were times when I was hungry and unmotivated … ready to quit. But I took my education seriously and did what I needed—worked full time, took out loans and worked extra hard to get through.

Experiencing poverty and domestic violence had an inescapable influence on my priorities,” Gilman said. She was determined to be self-reliant. She persevered and ultimately received her master’s in media studies from The New School University in New York City.

Shortly thereafter, she joined Austin Travis County Integral Care, the largest provider of mental health care in Travis County, where she would later become chief strategy officer. Gilman came to learn from her combined personal and work experience that mental health is inseparable from physical health. “I do believe it was divine intervention that brought me to El Buen.

It was difficult to witness the barriers my grandmother faced accessing critical health and social services. Now I have an opportunity to help remove those barriers for other families,” Gilman said. “I am honored to serve in this capacity for the only faith-based safety net provider improving the health and quality of life of Latino immigrants in Central Texas.”

El Buen has seen many transitions since its foundation in 1987—staying true to its mission of empowering Latino families.

Access to health care has been a glaring issue for Latinos, especially in Travis County, where 57 percent of the uninsured population is Latino.

Shortly after Gilman joined the staff on April 1, 2014, the organization began exploring national models and best practices that would leverage El Buen’s existing services. Supported by institutions like the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, research proved that 80 percent of an individual’s health begins with their environment at home, school and work. “Our innovation comes from being one of the few safety net providers in the country that offers a comprehensive array of family supports such as spiritual support, adult and youth education and food assistance,�

Gilman said.

El Buen is growing and transforming to ensure it will continue to provide quality, comprehensive care for families for many years ahead. It is a blessed place that inspires anyone whose life it touches. “The opportunities ahead are countless. We look forward to becoming a model example for other health care providers and encourage people to learn more about us,� Gilman said.

DĂĄvila is director of communication and community engagement for El Buen Samaritano.

To learn more, visit www.elbuen.org.

IMPROVING HEALTH AND QUALITY OF LIFE While access to medical care is critical to health, 80% of an individual’s health begins with their environment at home, school and work. * 10% 40% 30%

Social Economic Factors: Educa on, Employment, Income, Family & Social Support, Community Safety, Spirituality Clinical Care: Access to Care, Quality of Care

20%

Health Behaviors: Tobacco Use, Diet & Exercise, Alcohol & Drug Use, Sexual Ac vity Physical Environment: Air & Water Quality, Housing & Transit *

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PROFILE: CONGREGATION

EPIPHANY COMMUNITY

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Christ Church’s Epiphany Campus To Open in South Tyler

by Kevin Thompson In January of 2011, the Epiphany Community gathered for the first time at Christ Church, Tyler. Initially aimed at young adults and college students, Epiphany has transitioned into a missional community with its eyes on a second campus. “It began as a service for all the people who, for whatever reason, don’t [feel comfortable] in the nave,” said the Rev. Matt Boulter, who leads the growing congregation.

Dressed in his priestly collar and sporting blue jeans and a vest, Boulter, a former Presbyterian minister and church planter, is associate rector of Christ Church.

He is quickly recognized as he walks from Christ Church downtown to a nearby coffee shop. “Culture is always shifting,” Boulter said, “and I make a real effort to be out in public as much as I can, to do mad networking and shake as many hands as possible, have as many conversations as possible.”

Those conversations led to a small Bible study on Thursdays and have grown into the second campus in South Tyler. “God willing, the building will be open for worship by Christmas, which is not a second too soon.”

Epiphany currently gathers on the fourth floor of Christ Church in a room that seats 100 people, maybe 110, but they need more space.

The new location in South Tyler is situated on 27 acres purchased with a grant from the Diocese’s Great Commission Foundation. The building will be a multiuse facility that will get the congregation through its first five years in this growing area of Tyler. The new Epiphany location will serve a more suburban population, taking the community out of its original downtown context.

“As a resident of Tyler, I can tell you that our city is growing to the south,” said the Rt. Rev. Jeff W. Fisher, suffragan bishop. “The south campus of Christ Church will be apostolic and evangelistic, reaching people who have never heard or experienced the good news of Jesus Christ through the lens of our rich Episcopal tradition.”

A mix of old and new worship styles, Epiphany has used different liturgies to “introduce people to tradition,” Rendering: Fitzpatrick Architects

Boulter explained. Some forms were unfamiliar, even to lifelong Episcopalians. “We borrow liturgies from around the Anglican community,” he said. “For anyone already accustomed to Episcopal liturgy, it’s going to be fresh for them.”

Through events like Pub Club, college dinners and movie nights, Epiphany has reached out to people who might not normally consider going to an Episcopal church, or any church at all. Even one of the bartenders at the bar where Epiphany’s Pub Club meets now attends Sunday services and is in the process of being confirmed.

Boulter attributes this outreach mentality and freedom to experiment to Christ Church’s rector, the Rev. David Luckenbach. “He’s the one who fully empowers me to initiate, implement and pull off Epiphany as I see fit,” Boulter said.

After Boulter had lived in Austin for 20 years, he moved to Tyler, where he encountered a new set of challenges for his ministry. “In Austin, I’d say there are a lot of groups that are already formed that you can plug into. There are neighborhood potlucks, tons of dog parks, things like that are already up and running,” Boulter said. “Four and a half years ago when we moved here, there wasn’t a lot of stuff to jump into. It’s kind of like I had to invent stuff.”

That invention led to time spent meeting people in coffee shops and pubs, and even a failed idea to network with people at the local country club. Boulter also enrolled in classes at The University of Texas in Tyler where he and a few faculty members began holding Bible studies on campus specifically for faculty.

“I believe that amateurs borrow and geniuses steal, so I look around for the best out there to steal,” Boulter laughed. One of the models that Epiphnay is based on is the contemporary young adult service at Dallas’ Church of the Incarnation. “We got a date on the calendar, and we pulled it off,” said Boulter, talking about the first meeting of Epiphany. “It was fun, it was scary, and it was really exciting. Probably no one in that room knew what to expect or had experienced anything like that.”

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CALENDAR & PEOPLE Calendar of Events JUNE

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People Jane Barker is the new lay pastoral leader intern at St. John’s, Center.

EPISCOPAL NIGHT WITH THE ASTROS

The Rev. Peter Casparian will serve as interim associate at St. David’s, Austin.

The Houston Astros take on the Seattle Mariners at Minute Maid Park. Make plans to attend with your church for a fun night out at the ballpark, fireworks included. Pregame hot dogs served at the Cathedral.

The Rev. Bob Flick, vicar of Lord of the Streets, is now retired.

The Rev. Ed Gomez is the new associate clergy at San Pedro, Pasadena. He was previously non-pariochial.

The Rev. Erin Hensley has accepted a call as rector of St. Alban’s, Austin. Hensley was formerly associate to the rector at St. John’s, Roanoake, VA.

DEACON’S ORDINATION JUNE

20 June

25 JULY

5

Two vocational deacons and seven transitional deacons are to be ordained at 10 a.m. On June 20 at Christ Church Cathedral, Houston. See epicenter.org for full story.

The Rev. Wendy Huber has accepted a call as rector of St. Bartholomew’s, Hempstead. She was previously rector of St. John’s, Marlin.

The Rev. Bill Laucher will serve as co-vicar and administrator of San Pablo/St. Paul’s, Houston.

THE 78TH GENERAL CONVENTION

The Rev. Mary Koppel, former assistant to the rector at Good Shepherd, Austin accepted a call as rector of All Saints’, Miami, OK.

The 78th General Convention will be hosted by the Diocese of Utah and will take place at the Salt Palace. For more information, visit epicenter.org/gc2015. Through July 3.

The Rev. Matt Marino is the new associate rector at St. John the Divine, Houston. He was formerly in the Diocese of Arizona.

The Rev. James Morgan, rector of St. Stephen’s, Huntsville, has retired.

MUSIC CAMP

Dr. Nandra Perry is the new lay pastoral leader intern serving at St. Phillip’s, Hearne, and St. Andrew’s, Bryan.

Music Camp will be held in Brenham, July 5-11. Campers in rising grades 3 and up will sing, play instrumental music, swim and do outreach projects. Tuition is $450 and is all inclusive. No prior musical experience is required. For more information, visit epicenter.org/musiccommission.

The Rev. John Soard is the new dean of the Southwest Convocation.

The Rev. Mike Stone has accepted a call as rector of St. Thomas the Apostle, Nassau Bay. He was formerly in the Diocese of San Diego.

The Rev. Mitch Tollett is the new dean of the Northeast Convocation.

MISSIONPALOOZA JULY

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Missionpalooza is going to San Antonio for an urban mission experience, July 19-24, for all youth who are currently in 6th-12th grade. Visit epicenter.org/missionpalooza15 to learn more.

The Rev. Erin Jean Warde is the new associate rector of Transfiguration, Dallas. She was formerly at St. Paul’s, Waco and Baylor University.

Births JULY

30 SEPT

4

INTERMEDIATE URBAN MISSION EXPERIENCE HOUSTON

Rising 4th-6th graders are invited to Christ Church Cathedral for a weekend of service, worship and exploration in the heart of downtown Houston.

Hieronymous Bancroft Peters was born to Sarah Celeste Bancroft and the Rev. David William Peters on Valentine’s Day in Austin.

Rahel and the Rev. Bertie Pearson welcomed their new daughter, Helena Eudora Pearson, born April 22.

Suzanne and the Rev. Travis Smith welcomed their new son, Andrew Smith on Holy Saturday.

LABOR DAY FAMILY CAMP

Dust off your boots and kick off the school year with a funfilled family weekend in the piney woods, topped off with a Western hoedown under the stars featuring a barbecue dinner, line dancing, rope tricks and more.

To view more, go to campallen.org/calendar

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Deaths

The Rev. Abdias Avalos died on February 11, 2015.

The Rev. Reid Morgan died April 14, 2014.

Please keep these families in your prayers.

The LOGOSProject The LOGOS project is a video series presenting global faith leaders offering their expertise on theological, practical and spiritual subjects. They are free, online and available to any person or congregation who wishes to use them.

epicenter.org/logos

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The Episcopal Diocese of Texas 1225 Texas Street Houston, TX 77002-3504

Game Time

EPISCOPAL NIGHT AT THE BALLPARK

VS.

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015 7:10 PM Please contact Brent Broussard at 713.259.8316 or email broussard@astros.com to purchase tickets.

The Rev. Simón Bautista will throw out the first pitch.

Christ Church Cathedral will host a pregame cookout. They will start serving free hot dogs (with all the fixin’s) and beverages at 5 p.m.

Special Pricing Field Box : $34

Bullpen Boxes: $22

View Deck I : $13

Field Box : $24

Mezzanine : $17

View Deck II: $11

All proceeds will benefit Texas Episcopal Service Corps., a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas.

epicenter.org/astros