Easter 2017
Volume 48, Issue 1
MAGAZINE OF THE DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
New Life at USF
Renewing a University Mission
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Br Ou and Pr r ne new ! & Pogra w oo m C l c o en mp ter lex !
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LIV THEM E LO ING L : VIN AR G L GE AR , GE
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DAYSPRING SUMMER CAMP 2017
"I have come that they might have life and have it abundantly." John 10:10
Session 1, Break Out Camp, June 7-10 Session 2, Middle School Camp, June 11-16 Session 3, High School Camp, June 18-23 Session 4, Leadership Camp, June 25-30 Session 5, Elementary Camp, July 16-21 Session 6, Mission Camp, July 23-28
Register online
visit our site campdayspring.org 2017 SUMMER CAMP DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
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Call (941) 556-0315 for questions.
From the Bishop
Consider the Flowering of the Cross My dear friends, There are times when the spiritual practices that we teach our children still have heartwarming resonance in our lives. Sharing the blessing of a meal with grandchildren with “God is great; God is good” is a strong prayer of gratitude. Tucking in a small one for bedtime with “Now I lay me down to sleep” is a prayer of hope and trust. As we mature, our lives of prayer should mature as well but the basics that we learned as children still maintain a holy foundation. As we move through the waning days of Lent one particular practice of the spirituality of children deserves renewed reflection. The Flowering of the Cross on Easter Day remains a potent summarizing reminder of the Christian faith. I
still remember the inner happiness as a child and the warm smiles of the adults when we would process into the church with a wide variety of flowers and transform an empty cross into a beautiful floral statement. The look and the smell of the childlike Easter liturgical action is fixed in my memory and my understanding of Easter. The Christian Resource Institute explains it this way: “The contrast between the starkly bare cross that worshippers have seen for 40 days and the living flowering cross of Easter Sunday dramatically and visually represents the new life that they are celebrating as they witness the very instrument of death and endings transformed into life and new beginnings.”
Ordinations andVisitations
Here, the Rev. Richard Earle, a longstanding deacon in the Diocese, was ordained to the Sacred Order of Priests by Bishop Smith on Feb. 22, 2017 at St. Vincent, St. Petersburg. 3
As we move through the waning days of Lent one particular practice of the spirituality of children deserves renewed reflection. Paul’s letter to the Romans that we heard during Lent expressed the Gospel in four words when he writes in the fifth chapter “Christ died for us.” This summary of both history and theology expresses both the cross and Easter and how that one particular cross in history transformed all of human history. It remains a powerful image to see an empty cross that represents death transformed by flowers into an image of life. If your congregation has let this practice of the flowering of the cross cease for whatever reason, I invite you to reconsider the use of this beautiful and life reminding liturgical gesture. It is something poignant that God’s children do: no matter how old they are! X Bishop Dabney Smith is Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Southwest Florida.
Connect Year 48 | Issue 1 | Easter 2017 First Published A.D. 1970
Bishop, The Diocese of Southwest Florida: The Rt. Rev. Dabney T. Smith Here, Michelle Mercurio, Jan Nothum and Tana Sembiante prepare to mail camp brochures to parishes.
Diocesan House Staff The Rev. Eric Cooter, Canon for Ministry Development ecooter@episcopalswfl.org, ext. x978 The Rev. Michael Durning, Canon to the Ordinary mdurning@episcopalswfl.org, x984 Marilyn Erfourth, Receptionist merfourth@episcopalswfl.org, x987 Martha Goodwill, Director of Congregation Support mgoodwill@episcopalswfl.org, x980 The Rev. Christopher Gray, Canon for Stewardship cgray@episcopalswfl.org Adrienne Hymes, USF Chaplain, Missioner Church Ext. ahymes@episcopalswfl.org, 813-418-1281 Barbara Leonard, Bookkeeper bleonard@episcopalswfl.org, x981 Michelle Mercurio, Administrative Assistant mmercurio@episcopalswfl.org, x977 Jan Nothum, Bishop’s Administrative Assistant jnothum@episcopalswfl.org, x986 Carla Odell, Executive Director, DaySpring execdirector@dayspringfla.org, 941-776-1018 The Rev. Dr. John Palarine, Canon for Program & Youth jpalarine@episcopalswfl.org, x989 Garland Pollard, Director of Communications gpollard@episcopalswfl.org, x979 Tana Sembiante, Admin. Assistant to Canon Durning tsembiante@episcopalswfl.org, x983 Anne Vickers, Canon for Finance &Administration/CFO avickers@episcopalswfl.org, x982 4
Assisting Bishops: The Rt. Rev. J. Michael Garrison, The Rt. Rev. Barry R. Howe Editor: Garland Pollard Contributing Writers: The Rev. Eric Cooter, Christen Crosby, The Rev. Bill Faupel, Donald Fudge, Martha Goodwill, Adrienne Hymes, Sharon Julian, The Rev. Canon John Palarine Contributing Photographers: Bonnie Jean Durning, Adrienne Hymes, Jan Nothum, The Rt. Rev. Dabney Smith, Garland Pollard, Anne M. Vickers Advertising Inquiries: Garland Pollard, 941-556-0315 or gpollard@episcopalswfl.org Subscriptions: The Southern Cross is mailed to parishioners of the Diocese of Southwest Florida from member parish lists. Email your address to merfourth@episcopalswfl.org to subscribe or update delivery preferences. Editorial Submissions: The editor welcomes submissions of articles for every section of the magazine including features, news and departments. Email editor@episcopalswfl.org. Manuscripts must be in Microsoft Word format. We invite letters to the editor on subjects of interest to the entire Diocese. Identification Statement: The Southern Cross is published by the Diocese of Southwest Florida, Department of Communications. USPS permit No. 946. Diocese of Southwest Florida DaySpring Episcopal Center 8005 25th St. East Parrish, FL 34219 941-556-0315 web: www.episcopalswfl.org email: editor@episcopalswfl.org Twitter: @episcopalswfl ISSN 2372-7861 (print version) ISSN 2372-8159 (online version)
In this Issue Features
11 St. Anselm’s USF Chapel Center 55 years of reaching students and faculty 14 Episcopal Charities
Report and case studies for programs
17 Dedication at DaySpring
A place to live into God’s plan
21 Your Diocesan Home
Visits to DaySpring not all parish business
Departments Briefs: Vestry Retreat, Camp Mariposa, Diocesan Elections ….……………………………… 6 Meet the Priest: The Rev. Alexander Andujar ….……………………….…………………… 7 Youth: It’s About Christ and the Kids, The Rev. Dr. John Palarine ….…….…………………… 8 Youth: Explosion By Christen Crosby ….…….……………………….……………………….… 9 Youth: Delegation to Episcopal Youth Event ….…….……………………….…………………… 10 Easter: Do Not Miss Personal Resurrection by The Rev. Bill Faupel ……….……………………24 Books: Dragons & Knights ………….……………………….……………………….…………… 25 Easter: The Triduum, by The Rev. Canon Eric Cooter ….……………………….………………… 26 Music: Concerts in April ……….……………………….……………………….………………… 28 Parish Life:Starting an Englewood Gathering by Donald Fudge .……………………….……………… 29 Parish Life: Fishing Tournament in Naples by Sharon Julian .……………………….……………… 30 Events ………………………………………………………………………………………….…… 31 Glancing Back: USF Chapel Center Archives, 1971……………………….……………………….… 34 On the cover: Adrienne Hymes and USF student and camp counselor Elaine ‘Lainey’ Ticer; Pictured here: The pipes of the Charles Durner c. 1886 organ at St.Vincent, St. Petersburg. 5
Briefly
WestTexas Bishop at DaySpring For May 6 Vestry Retreat PARRISH - The Rt. Rev. Gary Lillibridge, Bishop of the Diocese of West Texas, will be the featured speaker at the 2017 Vestry Retreat on May 6. Bishop Lillibridge will address the unique vocation of the Vestry member in both its spiritual and practical aspects. The canonical and organizational requisites of the Vestry member will also be addressed. Spring Vestry Retreat is a key event in the life of the Diocese and Southwest Florida, a day when clergy and lay leaders gather at DaySpring Episcopal Center. This year will be the first-ever Vestry Retreat in the new Program Center at DaySpring. Vestry Retreat is not only an opportunity to learn and share best practices with your vestry, but a time of sharing between the congregations of the Diocese of Southwest Florida. Bishop Lillibridge, the ninth Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas, is a 1982 graduate of Vir6
ginia Seminary. Prior to his election to bishop, he served as Rector of St. David’s, San Antonio; Church of the Advent and St. Paul’s, Brownsville; St. James, Del Rio; and Assistant Rector at Church of the Good Shepherd, Corpus Christi. The day’s events, which include continental breakfast and lunch, are free to lay leaders and clergy in the Diocese of Southwest Florida. Be sure to register early to ensure that your whole vestry can attend as a group with clergy. Questions? Call 941-556-0315. Bring your vestry as a group. Register today by emailing merfourth@episocopalswfl.org. X
Consider Nominating for Elective Office PUNTA GORDA - It is not too early to begin thinking about nominations for elective office. Elective position are a critical part the operations of
the Diocese. Positions to be elected at the annual October convention include representatives to Diocesan Council, the “Board of Directors” of the Diocese, and members of Standing Committee, which acts as a confidential council of advice to the Bishop. Look on the Convention 2017 page of episcopalswfl.org when nominations openings are posted. Annual Convention is Oct. 13-14 in Punta Gorda. X
Camp Mariposa Flies In PARRISH - This May, DaySpring will be one of eight U.S. locations for Camp Mariposa, a mentoring program for children impacted by substance abuse in their families. Many non-profit, community and charitable groups utilize the DaySpring campus each year. DaySpring is one of eight locations across the U.S. where the camp is offered. Youth are here with trained mentors and camp counselors. More at moyerfoundation.org. X
On the Manatee
Five bishops from the Episcopal Church were at DaySpring Jan. 4 for a mini-retreat. From left, Bishop Smith, Texas Bishop Andrew Doyle, Eastern Michigan Bishop Todd Ousley, Maryland Bishop Eugene Sutton and Minnesota Bishop Brian Prior.
Meet the Priest
The Rev. Alexander Andujar, St.Vincent’s Q: Some see some of the 1960s and 70s suburban churches as a challenge, but you have viewed St. Vincent’s as a great opportunity. Can you tell us what you see there? was your first religious experience? A: I see a community looking to grow in faith as they invite new people to share in their rich tradition. This parish is a great opportunity to reclaim the place of the local Church in the daily life of a neighborhood. But we have to reach out to people not treat them as just abstract statistics. Q: How did you get to the Episcopal Church? A: I came to the Episcopal Church after leaving the Roman tradition when I realized that my family was not being fed as we sat outside listening to a loud speaker because weren’t welcome inside. Deep and meaningful relationships have epitomized my life as an Episcopalian and I wasn’t to experience that amongst the hundreds of people attending my local Catholic parish. I also don’t subscribe to the “Father knows best” mentality that I encountered in some but not all parishes where laity are to be seen and not heard. Q: What has been your biggest emphasis with the Latino Commission of the Diocese? A: The first has been building community amongst the Spanishspeaking congregations. The second 7
has been working with the diocese and congregations to spread the word about the great work being done. Our belief has always been that these are Episcopalians just in another language and culture. Q: You are perhaps the first clergy in the Diocese with a degree in Project Planning. Has it helped? A: My degree is in International Relations with an emphasis in project planning. It has helped to develop a process of getting things organized by asking the important questions: Whom will this effect? What resources do we need? What is our timeline? What is God calling us to do in this project? Q: How did Roxanne and the boys adjust to coming back from Sewanee? A: At first it was hard. We all missed the mountain. I missed being able to walk down the street and knock on my friends’ doors. But we were so lovingly received by Christ Church that we adjusted quickly to being in a new community. Now we’ve been lovingly received by our new parish family. Q: How did you get involved with SPCK (Society for the Promotion of Christian Knowledge) in their work in Cuba? A: I began working with SPCK after a trip to Cuba during my second year in seminary. It was a life-changing experience. Now we are working together to fund Vacation Bible Schools
The Rev. Alexander Andujar, giving announcements at St. Vincent’s.
in Cuba for parishes and missions that would never be able to do that on their own. Q: Do you have a favorite hymn? A: I love so many hymns but my favorite is “Christ is made the sure foundation” I think of my ordination and my first Sunday at St. Vincent’s. Plus, Christ is the sure foundation of the Church! X St. Vincent, located in the Northwest of St. Petersburg, was founded in 1955, and became a full parish in 1959. Andujar follows the tenure of the late The Rev. John Hartnett, who was rector of the parish from 2008-2015.
Youth
It’s About Christ and the Kids By The Rev. Dr. John Palarine Canon for Program & Youth
PARRISH - Several years ago, I was watching a group of about 50 teens and a few adults from my parish board a bus to go on their annual ski trip. I noticed in line waiting to get on, Zac, who then was a sophomore in college, who I remembered fondly as a “wild child,” free spirit, who had been every leaders challenge, going as an adult chaperone. I walked over to him put my arm around him and said with a sarcastic smile on my face, “I never thought I would see the day when you were in charge.” He gave me a serious look with a small tear running down his face and said, “Sometimes when you have received so much, you need to give back.” WOW! That’s it. That’s what it is all about; changing young lives through the power of Christ and love for one another. I believe the purpose of the church is to change lives through the power of Christ. There is not greater thrill or honor than to do that with young people. God transforms them and they touch our souls. And if you let them, they will transform your congregation. That’s what it is all about. By now you have read that I will be completing my tenure as Canon for Program and Youth at the end of 2017. I give thanks to God for the many youth and adults who make youth ministry happen in their congregations, Happening, New Beginnings, Summer Camp and other youth events in the Diocese. We are so blessed by their leadership. We have much to do together in the next nine 8
months. The present and future are so bright for our young people. Thanks be to God. Please offer your prayers as we seek the person for the new Youth Ministry and Program position. I am thrilled that we will have six months to work together and to prepare for the future. It is an exciting time in the Diocese of Southwest Florida. Remember my strong belief that youth ministry is different in every place and possible in every place. We have been working hard with so many of our congregations and making great progress in supporting them, encouraging them and training their adults and youth to create a strong youth presence. We also have created youth ministry “Hubs” with seven coordinators (we call them HubCos) to develop and enhance a network of adults who work with youth in geographical areas. If we can help you connect or I can help your congregation in any way, please let me know. Let me say a word about this year’s DaySpring Summer Camp. We have worked hard in the last two years to create not only a fun camp but a camp experience that is formational and transformational. We want to touch lives with the power of Christ and a loving community. Remember it is about Christ and the kids.
Above, from right, The Rev. Dan Lemley giving the host at New Beginnings #61. To his left is the Rev. Dr. John Palarine.
We want to raise up young leaders and send them back to you to make a difference in their church, school, family and community. This is happening and it is powerful for so many youth and their congregations. I ask one thing. Please send them to camp. It will make a difference not only in their lives but for your congregation. Parents, please let you child know about this incredible opportunity to not only have the best time of their lives, to meet new friends but experience God in new and powerful ways. This year will be even better including the new Program Center, pool & recreation area, a great Leadership Camp, Mission Camp and an amazing staff of teens and young adults. Invite your youth to come and be part of our camp family. I give thanks to God for each of you, for your love of Christ and our precious children and youth. Let us be a blessing to them and they will be a blessing to us in ways we could never imagine. X
Youth
Blessing Bags and Psalm 139 at Youth Saturday By Christen Crosby Cathedral Church of St. Peter
SARASOTA - Djembe drums, canned soups, and paintbrushes. Youth from all over the Diocese of Southwest Florida gathered on Saturday, January 21 at Church of the Redeemer for a day of fellowship and fun hosted by the diocesan Youth Leadership Team. Y.E.S. not only featured a drum circle, one of the highlights of summer camp each year, but featured our own Bishop Smith, who spoke to the youth about all they can do and achieve in their churches and today’s culture with the increase and new reliance upon technology. Y.E.S. was comprised of two main breakouts: the making of Blessing Bags and meditation upon scripture. While in the Blessing Bag breakout, the youth assembled gallon sized plastic bags filled with water, canned soup, socks, shampoo and conditioner, lotion, granola bars and other snacks to give to those in need. With more than two garbage cans filled, each participant took home three bags in the hopes of giving them to someone in need, in exchange for optional friendly conversation and prayer. In the Scripture & Meditation breakout, the youth started off by reading Psalm 139: 1-16 three times and then meditating on one word that stuck out to them. They then received a canvas for which they painted what their faith looked like to them. Some included rainbows, crosses and flowers, and paintings of friends and family. 9
Both breakouts were followed by a youth led Eucharist, with YLT’s own Donald White eloquently speaking about persevering in faith despite going through pain and hardship. This event collectively served to send the message that we as young kids and teenagers can do so much and that even though we all go through difficult times with our friends, family, and faith that in the end, we have so many gifts to offer and can do so much for the growth of our churches. X
Top: Above, Donald White, bottom left, gave the sermon at the youth-led Eucharist. Clockwise from top left are Tyler Long, Anslee Long, Kayla Eggar, Devon Shank, Michael Byrd and Christen Crosby. Below, and bottom left, groups and families came from across the diocese.
Youth Delegation Summer EpiscopalYouth Event in Oklahoma
The Episcopal Youth Event, (E.Y.E.), is intended to serve as a celebration to inspire a deeper faith in Jesus Christ, and a renewed commitment to mission and ministry. It is the second largest event in the Episcopal Church and the single largest youth event in the Episcopal Church, typically attended by some 1500 young people, adult sponsors, bishops, staff and resource people. E.Y.E. is a triennial event (held once every three years) as mandated by General Convention of the Episcopal Church. E.Y.E. is jam packed with fun and excitement! It is an opportunity to meet other youth from all over the world and experience the church on a global level. Participants are lodged in the host facility’s dorms and eat meals at the campus dining facilities. The event community gathers regularly as a large group for worship, program, music and media. Participants also meet daily in ongoing small groups. A variety of other activities such as carnivals, forums, workshops, sports/recreation and free time help round out the schedule. Congratulations also to high schooler Devon Shank from St. Clement’s, Tampa who has been chosen for the design team of this international event and two college students from our Diocese, Courtney Crosby and Brittney Traudt, who have been selected for the Pastoral Care Team for EYE. We are also pleased to announce that Bishop Smith will be attending this incredible gathering as well. We will have much to share upon our return. X
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EpiscopalYouth Event 9th – 12th Grade July 10-14, 2017 University of Central Pictured here Devon Shank and Christen Crosby, manning the DaySpring youth table at the dedication of the Program Center and Pool. Devon, who is on the Episcopal Youth Event planning team, attends St. Clement, Tampa and Christen attends the Cathedral.
Attendees for Triennial Youth Event
The young people and adults who will represent our Diocese at EYE, 2017: Lianan Joy Aldong Armil – Church of the Ascension, Clearwater Tommy Chase – St. Peter’s Cathedral, St. Petersburg Christen Crosby – St. Peter’s Cathedral, St. Petersburg Rebecca Davis – St. Anne of Grace – Seminole Kayla Egger – Lamb of God, Ft. Myers Emily May Ellingham – Church of the Ascension, Clearwater Sarah Howlett – St. Peter’s Cathedral, St. Petersburg Tyler Long - St. Peter’s Cathedral, St. Petersburg Sarah Mankowitz – St. Mary Magdalene, Bradenton John Patterson – St. John the Divine, Sun City Center Alexannie Segura – St. Giles, Pinellas Park Ian Sharff – Christ Episcopal Church, Bradenton Charlotte Starr – Holy Innocents’, Valrico Paige Toth – Holy Innocents’, Valrico Melody Vinson – St. Clement’s, Tampa Donald White – St. Mary Magdalene, Bradenton Katie Arp – St. John the Divine, Sun City Center Tessa Burnsed – St. Peter’s Cathedral, St. Petersburg Anthony Primiano – St. John the Divine, Sun City Center The Rev. Daniel Lemley – Church of the Ascension, Clearwater The Rev. Dr. John Palarine – Diocese of Southwest Florida
Bullish on College Mission
Evening Prayer and programs resumed at USF this year with the arrival of Adrienne R. Hymes, our new Diocesan Missioner for Church Extension. A roundup of news on new energy at St. Anselm’s Episcopal Chapel Center. TAMPA – Since 1962, the Episcopal ity. Soon it will also be re-landscaped.
Church has had a physical presence on the USF campus. Located just off 50th Street in what has been nicknamed Religious Row, St. Anselm’s Episcopal Chapel Center was the first religious building constructed on the USF campus; it has gone through many iterations and chaplains over its 55-year history. Last fall, the Diocese of Southwest Florida funded a full-time resident chaplain, Adrienne Hymes, to live at the building and help recast and revive its ministry. Hymes, officially USF Chaplain and Diocesan Missioner for Church Extension, moved in at the end of September 2016. In recent months, Hymes, in cooperation with Canon to the Ordinary Michael P. Durning, has seen to it that the 1950s Modernist building has had new signage, new services, upgraded interiors and new activ11
“Those first few months were intentionally set aside to focus on relationship building,” said Adrienne Hymes, a candidate for Holy Orders in the Diocese of Southwest Florida. The relationship building was not only so that she could alert USF to the revived center, but to build relationships so that others would start talking about the center. The investment at USF is a critical part of an increased interest in college
The interior upgrade, with library behind. Below, new signage donated by parishes of the Tampa deanery.
ministry in the Diocese of Southwest Florida, which supports chaplaincy programs at USF, State College of Florida and Florida Gulf Coast University. Over the last 50 years, Episcopal participation at USF has enriched not only the diocesan clergy pool, but it has trained lay leaders as well. At USF, the Diocese has a paid-for building in a convenient part of campus; if it were to be closed there would be no way to ever get it back. “We might not always see the dividends from the budget, but the fact remains that it is clear when the church pays attention to its young adults, the young adults become the leaders of the church,” said The Rt. Rev. Dabney Smith, who said that tending to the spiritual development of the college-aged is a “method that builds church muscle for generations to come.” The Holy Spirit is breathing new life into the Episcopal Chapel Center through multi-tiered approaches– physical restoration (building and grounds), relational restoration (religious services, Christian education and fellowship and community outreach),
increased visibility (branding and marketing), and enhanced credibility (public relations, strategic alliances, chaplain visibility). St. Anselm’s invites all, and it provides a special sense of grounding for those who identify as Episcopalians. “Many students come to the campus seeking community, and I am committed to ensuring that Episcopalians know that they can find a faith community here—a place where they can worship in the Episcopal-Anglican tradition and where the Book of Common Prayer is accessible at their fingertips—that’s home,” said Hymes. Born Again In 2017 It was only in this spring semester that Hymes reinstituted services at the St. Anselm Chapel. On Tuesday evenings there is Evening Prayer and a community meal, and on Thursdays, there is a Bible study and community meal. On Sundays, she has launched a discussion series on the television show The Walking Dead. Hymes, a 2014 graduate of Virginia Theological Seminary, is making a strong effort to be present and visible around the USF campus. To further make the mission visible, Bishop Smith recommended to Hymes that she wear a postulant’s collar while on campus; the “notched” collar indicates her prediaconate role. Understanding that the center has a clinically-trained chaplain has already opened doors for conversation and integration into existing efforts at USF. For example, upon invitation, Chaplain Adrienne developed and conducted a two-hour continuing education training for 25 counselors at the USF Counseling Center, which result12
Above, the USF community drops by for an open house. Pictured here, the Kennedyera modern structure at USF.
ed in an invitation to the Counseling Center’s existing bereavement group. “As a steward of this campus ministry I enthusiastically embrace what God is calling St. Anselm’s Episcopal Chapel Center to be at this unique time in the life of our diocese and wider Church. We are well positioned to become the religious center on campus that is distinguished by the quality of pastoral care and creative program offerings that meet people where they are along their spiritual journeys and equips them to lean on their existing faith traditions when faced with difficulties and the inherent transitions
of life in the academic village,” said Hymes. Having the university see her as a professional it can trust is important, as they had no recent experience with a professionally trained chaplain. With all the church presence on Religious Row, Hymes says that campus ministry is perceived by the administration as a “nice-to-have” offering for students. She is all about changing that perception so that the Episcopal Chapel Center stands out as a must-have, valuable resource for nurturing the wholeness of students, faculty and staff. X
The Walking Dead Discussion Party
Sunday nights this semester, faithful viewers of “The Walking Dead” television show have gathered at St. Anselm’s to experience the show together and discuss theology and ethics. The series, which deals with a post-apocalyptic world of zombie “walkers”, is among the most popular television shows among the collegeaged students. USF’s newspaper, The Oracle, with the title, “The Walking Dead Meets God.” Some remarks: • “We watch ‘The Walking Dead’ with the intent of figuring out what the producer is trying to say, where they’re coming from and what the hidden meaning is behind everything. One thing we love about coming here is the fact that we come not only to watch The Walking Dead, but to dissect what truly is behind each episode, and that’s pretty mind blowing.” Gabriel Gonzalez, first-year student • “I think church is cool. ‘The Walking Dead is cool,’ and when you combine them, that’s pretty cool!”— Alex Daniel Morales, first-year student. 13
Life of the USF Chaplain
Chaplain Adrienne can often be found in her mission field—on campus at the University of South Florida. As a clinically-trained chaplain she deeply believes that she must first be present and visible in order to be the instrument of mission that God has called her to be. She is often on campus meeting with students and faculty members, engaging students during the vendors’ bazaar at Bull Market, and even working on her laptop in the midst of the students in the Marshall Student Center or library. “Initially, this start-up ministry mirrors the ‘push-pull effect’ that I would use in my former career in public relations and marketing. It’s about ‘pushing’ the message of St. Anselm’s Episcopal Chapel Center out into the mission field, so that people may be ‘pulled’ (drawn into) the sacred space of the Episcopal Chapel Center—a beacon of Christ’s light in the world—which is now being liberated from its bushel basket,” said Hymes. Hymes shares the Gospel message through evangelizing the “good news” of the Episcopal Chapel Center. The good news, she says, is that “the Holy Spirit is surely and vibrantly moving in this place, breathing life and hope out into the USF community and surrounding neighborhoods."X
2017 Episcopal Charities Report
EPISCOPAL CHARITIES
IMPACT How to apply. What they are. How they help. What you can do.
Groups helped by the 2016 Episcopal Charities Grants. From top left, Resurrection House, crafts at Holy Spirit Osprey, snack in Osprey, Calvary Indian Rocks Food Pantry, graduate at Resurrection House. Center, Kingdom Care at Church of the Holy Spirit, Osprey. 14
Facing page, clockwise from top left, St. Bartholomew food pantry, All Souls, Ft. Myers Transportation Outreach, food pantry, and Resurrection House Celebrate Reading program in St. Petersburg.
2017 Episcopal Charities Report
DEACONS AND EPISCOPAL CHARITIES GRANTS Deacons, canonically charged with identifying community needs, assist in the yearly process of deciding on Episcopal Charities Fund grants, reports the Rev. Kathleen Moore
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DEACONS ARE CALLED and or- organizations. Programs funded in
dained to a ministry of serving all people, particularly the poor, the weak, the sick, and the lonely. So it should come as no surprise that the group charged with receiving applications and recommending the awards from the Episcopal Charities Grants is the diocesan Council on Deacons, the group canonically charged with overseeing, studying, and promoting the life, work, and ministry of the diaconate in our Diocese. The Council advises the Bishop and works with the Commission on Ministry on the recruitment, discernment, and formation of people as deacons. Each year, through the grant program, the Episcopal Charities Fund of S outhwest Florida funds programs that serve community needs, either standalone ministries of congregations or partnerships and collaborations among churches or with community-based nonprofit
the past include homeless services, children’s after-school programs, adult education and literacy training, and transitional housing—any program that meets a compelling human need may be a candidate for funding. Grants are one-time awards for one year, with the possibility of renewal. The amounts awarded vary but are typically less than $5,000. In the most recent funding year, 8 awards were funded for a total of $29,000. The due date for applications for 2017-18 funding is June 30, 2017. The Council on Deacons will review the applications and make recommendations to the Diocesan Council, which will approve the awards at its August meeting. The awards will then be announced by the Council on Deacons at the October Diocesan Convention. X
Steady Growth
FOR 2016: STEADY ENDOWMENT GROWTH Above, the purple bars represent our Episcopal Charities Endowment, which has grown from $36,000 to now $734,802.
2017 Episcopal Charities Report
CASE STUDY: KINGDOM ENTREPRENEURS
Using only small grants from Episcopal Charities, new ministries have blossomed across the Diocese of Southwest Florida, reports Garland Pollard.
EACH YEAR, EPISCOPAL Char-
ities sends out cash awards to about a half dozen charitable projects across the Diocese. These awards receive monies from the Episcopal Charities Fund, which was launched in 2009 to support congregation-based community outreach and special needs ministries. When Episcopal Charities was launched, the endowment had a total of $36,000; at the end of 2016, and thanks to Bishop’s Appeal donations and wise investments, the principal in the endowment has grown to $734,802. The Council on Deacons reviews applications each summer (see story from The Rev. Kathleen Moore) and makes recommendations to Diocesan Council about which projects best serve the mission of Episcopal Charities. The ideal project is one that expands the capacity of an existing pro-
Have Your Parish Apply for a Grant
Additional information about the Episcopal Charities Grant Program is available on the website of the Diocese of Southwest Florida at episcopalswfl.org keyword “charities” 16
Afternoon group at Kingdom Care, Church of the Holy Spirit, Osprey.
gram, helps to launch or seed a new program, or enhances an existing, selfsustaining program. Programs funded in 2016 include the All Saints, Tarpon Springs Pack a Snack program, the Calvary Indian Rocks Beach Food Pantry renovation, Cathedral Church of St. Peter’s Resurrection House, St. Bartholomew’s Food Pantry and the All Souls, North Ft. Myers Transportation Outreach program. One new program launched with 2016 grants was through the Church of the Holy Spirit, Osprey. Holy Spirit is a small parish in the southern part of Sarasota County, off of Tamiami Trail. They received a $1,700 grant to launch Kingdom Care, a summer and afterschool program. The idea came from a former parish administrator, who felt the church could do more with youth. Each year, they would set up for Vacation Bible School, and welcome a group. After the week, the children and parents would disappear. “We don’t really see any of the kids ever again,” said the Rev. Michael Todd,
rector of the church. They applied for the program, and were awarded $1,700, one of eight projects that were given grants in 2016. The idea was to be able to keep children all summer; during the school year, the program would be open to school-aged children from 3 p.m to 6 p.m. To recruit, they used word of mouth and reached out to schools. While the project was an ambitious one for a smaller church, they have found that the hardest part is getting the children there, as transportation is a big issue for the families. Currently, a bus brings the children from Imagine School, and they are met in the adjacent Walmart parking lot and walk to the church together. The program today operates with a handful of volunteers, including a Sunday School teacher who volunteers each afternoon to work with the children. During that first summer, they ran the program with two part-time staff, and the help of others. X
A Place to Live Into God’s Plan The new DaySpring Program Center and Pool complex is the completion of the first phase of improvements to our diocesan camp and conference center on the Manatee River, reports Garland Pollard.
PARRISH – One hundred fifty representatives from across the Diocese of Southwest Florida came to DaySpring Episcopal Center on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2017 to dedicate a new diocesan Program Center and Pool. The building is the completion of the first phase of improvements to the diocesan camp and conference center, which broke ground in 2016. “Thank you for gathering as God’s people to celebrate a new investment in God’s plan,” said the Rt. Rev. Dabney Smith, in a dedication service held in the new mixed use gathering space and auditorium. The complex sits at the center of the 97-acre Manatee River campus, surrounded by youth cabins and forest. “What we do here in this Program Center, is absolutely, all the 17
time to live into God’s plan.” The dedication service, which included the sprinkling of holy water around the building, in the pool, and in the classrooms and large gathering room, referenced the Old Testament’s 1 Kings 8, where Solomon faced the altar in the Temple and celebrated the
‘Thank you for gathering as God’s people to celebrate a new investment in God’s plan.’ Bishop Dabney Smith
promises made to King David by God in the construction in Jerusalem. The 12,500-square-foot center, which blends into the rustic old Florida surroundings of DaySpring, is now the center’s primary facility for youth and adult programs, art, music, recreation activities, retreats, teaching and worship. While available to all DaySpring guests, the center is central to the growing Episcopal youth program at DaySpring, which has doubled its offerings to diocesan youth in the last two years. Participating in the dedication were counselors and youth team members, who took to basketball and volleyball after the service. “The people I have met here have started out as friends and turned into
Program Center & Pool Dedication
Clockwise from top left: Julius James, Daryll King and Mike Peters are Standing 8 Count; Adrienne Hymes, Bishop Smith and Canon Michael P. Durning in the procession; members of St. Francis and Youth Leadership Team on new sports courts; representatives from Fawley-Bryant and Willis Smith Construction; cutting the ribbon at the front entrance; prayer and song in the new Program Center entrance hall.
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JUNE - DECEMBER 2016
family,” said Christen Crosby, a camp counselor and member of the Youth Leadership Team who spoke at the dedication. “It is a place where I have learned so much about God’s individual plan for each person.” Attending were members of the Bishop’s Cabinet for DaySpring Episcopal Center, including Chair Michael Kline and Vice Chair Lana Fitzgerald, both of whom helped shepherd the construction and overall program. Reading a litany of prayers was Joan O. Kline of the DaySpring Cabinet Prayer Committee. How to Live as Christians Bishop Smith, in his homily, said that the building was about building God’s temple in our lives. “We come to DaySpring to strengthen our lives so that when we are sent out from this place we are God’s Church.” What is learned at DaySpring, Bishop Smith said, is about being a Christian, and learning how to live in a better way than what is found in the media, in cinema, in popular writings, or the words we speak to each other. “We come here to learn to the codes of God’s moral law,” said Bishop Smith. “God has a different standard.” The day concluded with a sampling of offerings from Joe LaCross and the staff of the DaySpring dining room, as well as music from the Tampa jazz band, Standing 8 Count. Representatives were also on hand from Fawley Bryant Architects and contractor Willis Smith Construction. The handicapped and family accessible pool that was constructed as part of the complex will now be the central feature of the youth area of the campus, which includes basketball and volleyball X courts. 19
Clockwise from top, procession on front terrace; the pool has a shaded, beach-like children’s area with palm fountain; former DaySpring director Dr. Charles Wallace and Anne Birgbauer (seated) with, standing, Mary Smith, Bishop’s Cabinet cochair Mike Kline and Joan O. Kline.
About the Program Center & Pool The dedication completes the first part of a three-part plan to renew DaySpring, which opened in 1984. The next phases will add updated adult lodging facilities and a new $5 million large-group meeting/ worship building. Construction was made possible by gifts from donors and the support of the 77 Episcopal churches of Southwest Florida.
Here, the ECW Labyrinth, situated between St. Thomas Chapel and the Canopy Walk. 20
Your Diocesan Home, DaySpring By Garland Pollard
THIS FEBRUARY, The Rev. Dan-
iel Lemley preached and celebrated at the monthly Holy Eucharist in the St. Thomas Chapel at DaySpring Episcopal Center. Arriving with him were a group of parishioners from his home church in Clearwater, Church of the Ascension. The group, who used the Eucharist and lunch as group excursion, experienced a day out on the 97acre campus. Many of them were firsttime visitors. “I feel that so many people come to church and fail to realize the greater importance of the wider church at DaySpring,” said Jim Watrous, a parishioner at Church of the Ascension who has brought a number of groups to DaySpring. Watrous brought the group to see Fr. Dan Lemley, the newly ordained associate priest at Ascension. “We were there to support him,” said Watrous. After the service and lunch, some of the Ascension group came by Diocesan House to see the Bishop’s office and meet the Diocesan staff. These small groups, and time together in the car, help increase fellowship within the parish. Watrous and Ascension invited a group of 35 people, including their parish staff, to Bishop Smith’s Advent Quiet Day in December. “We were 21
The group from Ascension, first row from left, Patti Mulock, Molly Lea, Nancy Raymond, Mary Margaret Florie, Jan Watrous. Second row from left Kyle Jones, Elizabeth Peterson, Bishop Dabney Smith, Fr. Dan Lemley, Susan Scott, Adrienne Hymes and Jim Watrous.
taking advantage of a DaySpring program that would enrich our season,” said Watrous, who also serves on the Bishop’s Cabinet for DaySpring. “Developing relationships within the church family is key to your faith and quality of life,” said Watrous, who is active in Cursillo, members of which also schedule reunions at DaySpring. “It’s just what we as Christians want to do.” Bringing your parish to visit is the oldest tradition at DaySpring. When DaySpring opened in the spring of
1984, the first group to visit was a picnic group from St. Chad’s in Tampa. Back then, the DaySpring “amenities” at the construction site were only the Manatee River campus, the wildlife and the sunset. Today, DaySpring is still available as a resource for our parishes, and not just for overnight retreats, but for personal time; for instance a group of non-denominiational preachers in the Bradenton area schedule time in the library for personal retreats and sermon writing. Our own Episcopal vicar, the
late Fr. Don Nicholson, often arrived for his DaySpring personal visits and clergy meetings by sailboat, traveling up from his seaside church, historic St. Raphael’s in Ft. Myers Beach. The Rev. Charleston Wilson, priest associate for evangelism & parish development at Church of the Redeemer, uses DaySpring in a number of ways, including the parish’s traditional vestry retreats held at DaySpring. Two years ago, he and other clergy staff organized a Lenten Quiet Day at DaySpring, which included lunch and time in the St. Thomas Chapel. Wilson also uses DaySpring for personal time; when coming through from the Tampa airport he has made time to stop by and walk the labyrinth. The labyrinth, built by the Episcopal Church Women, is located between the chapel and the Canopy Walk. You don’t need an appointment to see DaySpring, but groups coming should call ahead to Reservations. On most days, meals are available, though large camp groups sometimes fill the Curry Hall dining room and calling ahead ensures that there is space in the Dining Room. Ways You Can Connect Private Retreats: During Advent, Lent and other penitential seasons, St. Thomas Chapel, The Labyrinth, the riverside Stations of the Cross and other paths used for private devotion. For a quiet day during the Christmas season, Church of the Redeemer parishioner Todd Menke came for personal prayer and making time apart from the rush. The chapel is unlocked during regular DaySpring hours, but call ahead to the front desk to make sure it is available, as it is used for worship 22
Above, the group from St. Mary, Palmetto from left, front row: Jean Alexander, Michelle Mercurio, Delsie Zahn, Marian Buescher, Patricia Goodrich, Gail Cascella, Sandy Borrowman,Barbara Renney, Patricia Gagne, Lynda Priepot, Sandra Grondahl, Betty Polizzi, Cindy Kubit, Joe Kubit. Back row from left: Ora James, Frank Grondahl, Lorraine Wood, Rev. Glen Graczyk, Rev. Robert Martin, Rev, Cheri Ford. Right, Kelly and Will Augustine at a Lenten Retreat of Church of the Redeemer.
by the many groups who come to DaySpring. Weekdays are often a quieter time for these retreats. Youth Events: The entire outdoors area is available by reservation to parishes, including the Canoes and Waterfront, Pool and Recreation Area, High Ropes Course, Low Challenge Course and Tree Climbing. These can be standalone activities, or done in combination; facilitators are provided. Closing Eucharists for each camp session, and youth events like New Beginnings and Happening, are also an excellent time to visit DaySpring and support new attendees at these spiritual events. Parish Excursions: This February, St. Mary, Palmetto brought their entire
Episco-Pals lunch group to DaySpring. Each month, the Episco-Pals from the church go to a different restaurant in Manatee County. For February, the Episco-Pals came to visit DaySpring. They had lunch, took a tour of the new Program Center and Pool and youth complex with Operations Director Frank Beuchene. After lunch, the group took a tour of Diocesan House led by Michelle Mercurio, a parishioner at St. Mary’s and the registrar for youth programs at the Diocese. While here, the group met each of the bishop’s staff and had time with Bishop Smith. X Visit DaySpringFla.org for more information.
DaySpring
Food For the Journey A new program at DaySpring from April 20-23 will inspire your faith, your journey and your relationship to God, writes Martha Goodwill.
PARRISH - We are looking forward to you and a team from your church joining us for “Food for the Journey,” April 20-23, at DaySpring Episcopal Center. This weekend retreat is a wonderful opportunity to be nourished, to stir creative juices, to ask questions, and to get inspired through speakers, music, reflection and nature. Food for the Journey is about how we reach out - especially to those who do not feel connected with the Church. We will focus on what so many of us want to do, which is to engage the Millennial, the young adult and the spiritual but not religious. Most of all, the retreat will help us reimagine, reconnect, and rejoice with the Church we love, with the God we serve, and with the people who need to hear the Good News. Brian McLaren (The Great Spiritual Migration), author and lecturer, will challenge us to think in new ways but always for building up and reaching out in our beloved Church. Brian argues that—notwithstanding the dire headlines about the demise of faith and drop in church attendance—Christian
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faith is not dying. Rather, it is embarking on a once-in-an-era spiritual shift. Brian challenges readers to stop worrying, waiting, and indulging in nostalgia, and instead, to embrace the powerful new understandings that are reshaping the Church. Sarah Bessey (Out of Sorts), author and blogger, has some insights that we all need to hear about how to attract and welcome people. As Sarah says, “It’s about making peace with an evolving faith. It’s my way of leaving the light on for the ones who are wandering and wondering in their faith or spiritual journey. I believe that if our theology doesn’t shift and change over our lifetimes, it means that we’re not paying attention.” Accompanied by the music of
Above, Sarah Bessey, author of Out of Sorts. Bottom left, Brian McLaren, author of The Great Spiritual Migration.
Fran McKendree and other talented musicians, this full three-day conference is taking place at our lovely DaySpring Episcopal Center. All rates include conference fees, study materials, 3 nights’ lodging and 8 meals. On-site private occupancy is $550 On-site semi-private occupancy is $500 and the Commuter rate $350. Food for the Journey will make a difference in our lives and in our ministries! X To register, please contact Marilyn Erfourth at (941) 556-0315 or by email at merfourth@episcopalswfl.org. Or, register online at our event website episcopalswfl.org/food.html
Easter
Do Not Miss Personal Resurrection This Easter, prepare not to be let down after Easter, writes The Rev. Bill Faupel. Instead, await the Holy Spirit, and become a witness to Christ’s peace. DO YOU PLAN to miss Easter this
year? By this I’m not implying that of you that you will miss “coming to church.” Do you feel like Easter comes and goes, and nothing feels different? If you are able to experience fully the risen Christ on Easter morning and the “Alleluias” you said came from the heart, you are indeed most blessed. However, if you feel that Easter passes you by each year, don’t despair. There are two things you should know. First, our Lord understands! As I wrote in a Saturday Musings column, “the presence of God among us does not rely on our comprehension of Him.” He is here even when we do not sense His presence. Second and equally important, He also appears in our midst when we least expect Him. By that I mean, we often experience his “felt” presence when we least expect it. Don’t Let In Despair In the passage of scripture that comes just before the Luke Gospel (Luke 24:3648), we read of two men walking to their home village on Easter evening. They are despondent and feel betrayed. How could their master have been crucified when they had staked their hopes on Him as their Savior? Suddenly, unexpectedly Jesus was there. He met them where they were: in their grief, in their sense of be24
‘Closed doors and closed minds are opened because we are given the gift of seeing the world through God’s eyes.’ trayal, in their sense of loss, in their not knowing what to do next. He sat them at table, and broke bread with them, “their eyes were opened and they recognized Him.” In another Gospel, we find that Jesus appears to the 12, his closest friends. He finds them huddled behind locked doors, terrified that the Jewish authorities, who took Jesus, were now coming for them. And as today’s Gospel informs us, when it was Jesus, not some Jewish official who appears in the room, their terror is intensified. They thought He was a ghost. After all the doors were locked, he did not bother to knock. He was just there! Then He speaks. What does He say? “Peace be with you.” What a joke! The disciples were hiding behind closed doors. Locked doors and protected boarders may make us feel more secure, but they certainly do not bring us a sense of peace. Instead fear and anxiety persist. Yet we find that we find that when Jesus speaks the anxiety, the fear, the terror subsides. What has happened?
Christ’s very presence brings peace. Our fears that hold us captive: fears of illness, unemployment, loneliness or death, subside. To experience Christ’s presence enables us intuitively to understand in just a small way the power of His resurrection. It is the power of His indwelling presence that plants seeds of change: transforming our experiences of fear into experiences of peace. Closed doors and closed minds are opened because we are given the gift of seeing the world through God’s eyes. Does our situation change when this happens? Not at first. He does not remove us from the situation that we are in. Rather His felt presence enables us to see our circumstances from His perspective. We come to understand the pain of our despair in relation to the exhilaration of hope. We see the angst of our anxiety in relation to the promise of assurance. It is a process by which nothing is changed, but because our perspective has changed, everything has changed. Peace, Not Necessarily Security God’s transforming Word calls us to peace, but peace does not necessarily mean security. Being transformed requires change. Change itself can create anxiety. It sounds like we are moving between a rock and a hard place. But that is exactly where God wants us! That is where we recognize our dependence
Books
Dragons & Knights Pictured here, orchids from the popular farmer’s market at St. Paul’s, Naples.
upon Him. That is when we experience His resurrection power! When Jesus appeared to His disciples who were hiding behind locked doors their fear and anxiety disappeared. They came to a new understanding of themselves and of their capabilities. It became clear to them what they were to do next. They were to stay in Jerusalem until the Holy Spirit came upon them in a new and special way and would empower them to be witnesses of what they had experienced, first in Jerusalem, their home town, then to all of their country and finally throughout the whole earth. What Jesus did for them, while He was still physically on earth, He has promised to do for us through His Spirit, the Holy Spirit. As our scriptures declare, Jesus is the same, yesterday, today, and forever. He meets us where we are, wherever that may be. And when He comes He not only helps us to understand Him better, He gives us a clearer understanding of ourselves especially when we are having a difficult time trying to figure ourselves out. He will let us know what comes next and will give us the courage and strength to accomplish it. Don’t despair. He will come to you when you least expect it! Allow Him to calm your anxieties and learn to lean on His strength. X The Rev. Dr. D. William Faupel, is Priest-in-Charge of St. Paul’s, Naples 25
St. Alfred Parishioner authors new children’s books, as well as a stuffed dragon toy.
PALM HARBOR - Valerie Crowe created fairy tales to tell her children, and has continued the tradition for her grandchildren. This year she was encouraged to publish her stories, and so the first two books are now available through Amazon, with two more in the publishing pipeline. Adventures of the Precious Knights introduces readers to Sir Gold, Sir Silver and Sir Rusty, of the land of Everbright. These best friends, known throughout the land for their bravery, their skill with swords, and their chivalry, protect Castle Precious from the scourge of terrifying stripy dragons. One day they find a newly hatched baby dragon which they adopt in order to understand the flying fiery reptiles. “The Adventure of the Sick Drag-
Find Back Issues Online All editions of The Southern Cross are published online, in addition to the 17,000 that go out across the Diocese of Southwest Florida. You can find them online at episcopalswfl.org search keyword “publications” Also available is the annual Journal of the Diocese of Southwest Florida and Annual Convention guidebook.
on and the Damsel in Distress” continues the saga of the Precious Knights and introduces their pet, Timothy Dragon, who is sick. When the knights go on a quest to rescue a damsel in distress, they learn that she had a magical healing talent. Can she cure Timothy? Parishioner Irene Southwick, a talented seamstress, worked with Valerie over a period of several months to create Timothy Dragon, who has now captivated the parish, as have the beautifully illustrated books themselves. Author Valerie is currently signing books and reading the stories in schools and learning centers in Pinellas County while awaiting publication of two more of her stories. X
Easter
Easter in Three Days, the Triduum If you just attend church on Good Friday, you miss a deeper understanding of Easter, Holy Week explains The Rev. Canon Eric Cooter. HOLY WEEK for Christians has been and is just that, the holiest of weeks in our liturgical calendar. Through the liturgies of Holy Week, we experience a tradition that is centuries old. Palm Sunday, the Triduum (Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil), all lead us to the Feast of the Resurrection of Our Lord. The richness of these liturgies move us from “Hosanna” to the “Triduum” to the “Feast.” It is important to understand the history and deep meaning embodied in the ancient rituals of Holy Week, which recall the Passion of Our Lord. Palm and Passion Sunday The liturgy of Palm Sunday begins the journey of Holy Week. On this Sunday, there are really two services (The Liturgy of the Palms and the Liturgy of the Passion). A discontinuity in these two liturgies provides a tension between the shouts of Hosanna, as Our Lord entered the City of Jerusalem, and the Passion Gospel that provides the narrative for the Crucifixion of Our Lord. The Liturgy of the Palms usually begins in a place apart from the church. The procession to the sanctuary itself, helps the participants to rediscover how a procession works on the body. The actual movement in some communities covers some distance and it helps us to experience the reality of the distance traveled when Jesus entered the city. The moment the congregation enters 26
the church facilitates a shift in focus and at this point, the Liturgy of the Passion narrative begins. It is this prelude in the liturgy that sets the tone for remainder of the week, the “Triduum” which is to come, the liturgies that prepare us for the great feast of Easter. Triduum The “Triduum” represents a complete liturgical narrative of the Passion. The primary focus in the past in many churches, seems to rest merely on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, but the Easter Vigil, the first Eucharist of Easter is the culmination of this week of ritual and mystery. The “Triduum,” the three days of Holy Week are a complete, interconnected liturgical journey that expresses the dramatic narrative of the Lord’s Passion. The Triduum has its roots in the fourth century when Christians made pilgrimages to the Holy Land in commemoration of the Feast of the Resurrection. As these Christians moved about the city, special observances (Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil) developed over time, and when the pilgrims returned home, these liturgies began to take root throughout the Roman Empire, and they were the forerunners of the liturgies we often observe today. Maundy Thursday (from the root word “Mandatum”) is representative of Our Lord’s command to “Love one Another.” This command is expressed
in the liturgy of the “foot washing.” The emphasis on this night is on community, the washing of the disciple’s feet by Our Lord, and our call to serve one another. Maundy Thursday and Good Friday are a seamless whole and is usually expressed as such, because there is no dismissal on Maundy Thursday. We move directly from the foot washing, to the last celebration of the Eucharist until sundown Saturday, to the stripping of the altar and then to our exit in silence, to await the liturgy of Good Friday. The church remains bare throughout Good Friday until the first Eucharist of the year at the Great Vigil of Easter. Some parishes observe a “Gethsemane Watch” right after this service. The reserve sacrament (the Body and Blood of Our Lord) remains in an open tabernacle overnight, and pilgrims are invited to stay and observe a “Holy Watch” of devotion to Our Lord. This can be a very moving and special time for reflection, prayer, and silence. Good Friday recalls the death of Our Lord. Most Christian churches do not offer the Great Thanksgiving on Good Friday however, at this service, some congregations offer the elements of the Body and Blood of Our Lord from the sacrament, which was consecrated at the Maundy Thursday service and reserved in the tabernacle. The liturgy of Good Friday itself is subdued and solemn. While the congregation is kneeling in silent prayer, the
clergy enter the nave in silence. There is no musical procession during this entry. The gospel readings offered on Good Friday remind Christians that Jesus was in charge of the events of his passion, and it sets the tone for the liturgy. The focus is on remembering that Jesus offered himself for all of creation. The ritual moves from the entry into the sanctuary, to the Liturgy of the Word, and then to the Solemn Collects. These are the oldest prayers known in the Christian tradition, and they are the ancient
form for the intercessions, offered by the congregation. The congregation stands and these prayers begin with a ‘bidding’ said by the clergy. Next, with all kneeling, a lengthened silence is observed. Next, with all standing again, a collect is offered by the clergy. In some congregations, after the Solemn Collects are said, a large wooden cross is brought into the church and placed near the altar. The congregation kneels in silence and is invited to express some form of veneration of the cross. Some people come and kneel at the cross, some kiss the cross or touch it, and some remain kneeling at their seats. This is a very powerful moment in Holy Week. The Good Friday service can continue with the Confession of Sin, the Lord’s Prayer, Communion from the reserve sacrament, and then the final prayer. There is no blessing or dismissal, the clergy process in silence and the congregation leaves in silence.
Find Fr. Cooter Online
The Great Vigil of Easter The Great Vigil of Easter has been observed in many different ways, and with different fervor and commitment, depending on the church and its history. Historically, this service has been one of the most important of the week, as it represented the first Eucharist of Easter. The timing of the Eucharist of the Great Vigil
The Rev. Cooter is Canon for Ministry Development in the Diocese, which includestransitions and ordinations. His work appears on the Christian ministry resource website ministrymatters.com and he blogs at ericcooter.com 27
of Easter has traditionally been set after civil twilight, which begins at sunset and ends when the geometric center of the sun reaches 6° below the horizon. Because it is usually observed in darkness, the beauty and richness of this liturgy, stands in contrast to the liturgy of Christmas Eve. In some churches, outside the doors a “New Fire” is ignited and from it, the Paschal Candle is lit. The clergy, servers, and the congregation together, behind the candle, move into a completely darkened sanctuary. The Paschal Candle, the “Light of Christ” is placed in its stand and from it, the congregation lights their individual candles, and the Exultant (an ancient chant is said or sung. From this point, all present take their seats and patiently listen to the “History of Salvation” which includes readings from Exodus and other biblical narratives, interspersed between singing or readings of the Psalms. If there are candidates for baptism, the Great Vigil is an appropriate day. From this point in the liturgy, the words “Alleluia, Christ is Risen!” is shouted, all the lights in the Nave are ignited, and the joyous celebration of the first Eucharist of Easter begins. The Great Vigil of Easter traditionally stands as the culmination of Holy Week and most appropriately, stands as the Great celebration of Resurrection of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. X
Music
Parish Concerts A SMALL SAMPLING of April
music programs at our parishes:
Church of the Redeemer Great Music Series On March 28, 7 p.m., the Great Music Series presents the National Cathedral Choir of the Washington National Cathedral. The series will also present the Sherwoods of Cornell Alumni on April 5, 2017 and We Can Mend the Sky, a Key Chorale Chamber Singers Concert on Saturday, April 29. 222 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota 941-955-4263
St. Thomas, Snell Isle Chorus Angelorum On April 12 supper, song and prayer with Chorus Angelorum at 6:45 and post concert discusson on the book The Divine Dance. 1200 Snell Isle Blvd, St. Petersburg 727-896-9641 Trinity-by-the-Cove, Naples Sunday, April 23 Richard Watson and Douglas Major will join Trinity-by-the-Cove to play music by James Stephenson, Eric Ewazen, Telemann, Tomasi and Hovhaness. Watson is assistant principal trumpet of the Boston Philharmonic.
Major is former organist of the Washington National Cathedral. 553 Galleon Drive, Naples 239-262-6581 St. Boniface, Sarasota Youth Opera Sunday On April 23, 6 p.m. Sarasota Youth Opera Sunday with chorus and piano. A yearly tradition at St. Boniface. 5615 Midnight Pass Rd., Sarasota 941-349- 5616 St. Monica, Naples A Classical Dinner and Concert The Rauschenberg Quartet will play at four-course catered Europeanthemed dinner to benefit the Music Fund on Sunday, April 30 at 5 p.m. 7070 Immokalee Rd., Naples 239-591- 4550 Send events to editor@episcopalswfl.org for the Bridges e-newsletter.
Tuesday, April 25 DaySpring Episcopal Center Join Bishop Dabney Smith for a day of reflection at DaySpring. The day includes four teaching sessions, lunch, personal time and walkabouts on our Manatee River campus. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Registration includes lunch in Curry Hall, $1o. Bring a Bible and comfortable clothes for optional quiet contemplative walks. For more information visit episcopalswfl.org or call 941-556-0315 To register email Marilyn Erfourth at merfourth@episcopalswfl.org
Eastertide Quiet Day With Bishop Smith
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Parish Life
Starting a ‘Gathering’ in Englewood Opening up your church, midweek, for new, community event is not as hard as it seems. Donald Fudge of St. David’s describes a group targeting newcomers. ENGLEWOOD - ON the first and
third Mondays of the month, the St. David’s Parish Hall is host to 10 “hosts” and anywhere from five to 10 “guests” who gather together in fellowship to share our stories, reflect on a reading chosen by a member, and break bread together. Laughter, warmth and caring expression of ideas and personal thoughts make for a delightful evening – and the homemade soup and bread isn’t bad either. The Gathering is not meant to replace “church”, nor is it theology, nor evangelism, but it is spiritual and Godly. The first 15 or 20 minutes are for touching base, checking in with one another about their week. After a welcome from the leader/host we reflect on questions generated by our reading for the week for thirty minutes or so. Our readings have ranged from a quote from Socrates about Change to a statement from a modern theologian about spirituality versus religion. Then our “serving team” brings around soup & salad, or meatloaf and we share a meal and conversation – some still related to the reading, and some just friendly conversation. And then we say goodbyes with hugs and saying “see you in a couple weeks”. The “Gathering” started as an idea during our Visioning process in 2015. The rector and team wanted 29
From the New Attendees
This reaching out to our community has been a resounding success as our hosts and visitors have testified verbally and in writing. From Karen Blandford after the second “Gathering”: “I was so bummed to leave the gathering last night early. I feel the experiment was a huge step forward in opening up an ongoing conversation on the divine dance we are all participating in - whether on the dance floor or spectating from the sidelines, the room felt charged with authentic conversation from the heart. The St. David facilitators were fantastic.” Or from Cris White in a piece in the Englewood Sun: “A stimulating peace is offered as a catalyst toward the sharing of thoughts, but discussion is not required. There is a total absence of judgment or censorship of any kind. It’s in the idea of a casual dinner party with neighbors and friends. Volunteers watch carefully to make sure it is an inclusive and comfortable time. “I attended the very first one and found it delightful to be treated to a nice meal and to share ideas and concerns. I will be making it a regular date on my calendar. If you think this might be something you have been seeking, they’d love to see you too.” to reach out to two groups - those who were “spiritual, but not religious” and may have been turned off by a church and its doctrines and those who are not able to attend church on Sunday due to their work. So we printed Invitation Cards and hand-delivered them to restaurants and businesses in Englewood. We
posted an invitation on our website and advertised in the paper. We launched our Gathering on November 7, 2016 and will continue all spring and then ask participants to help plan the next step. To those of us who are “hosts” this has been an awesome and awe-inspiring experience! X
Parish Life
Trinity Fishing Tournament
The Naples parish puts its waterfront to use with an annual fishing tournament, set for June 3, 2017. Parishioner Sharon Julian tells tournament lore. A GREAT TIDE of events first oc-
curred just over seven years ago culminating in a surge of Christian fellowship while enjoying the fun filled challenge of trying to catch the (and it might be said elusive) “big one.� We are talking fishing of course. Specifically the annual Trinity-bythe-Cove Fishing Tournament. Trinity-by-the-Cove is set uniquely with water frontage. Being mindful of the environment, the church, under the leadership of Fr. Edward Gleason, put that water to good use by presenting an annual fishing tournament for the church and community to enjoy. In 2010, a Captains Committee was formed to plan the inaugural Trinityby-the-Cove Fishing Tournament. It departs from a small pier in front of the rectory with only a small flotilla of boats, 34 people and a waiting list. It was not long before a floating dock was offered to the church, and it soon became clear that it was appropriate for this event to be developed further as a unique way to encourage even greater fellowship and family fun within the parish. Seven years later, the 2016 event had 14 boats; 10 commercial boats donated by local businesses, and four private boats with 80 people fishing and 29 on the Eco-Cruise. For those who do not enjoy fishing, an Eco-Cruise was added last year providing fun at 30
At top, view from the day. Below, a second non-fishing group on a cruise.
Keewaydin Island, with sightings of birds, animals and shelling. With a conscious regard for community, this event has also spawned great fellowship with those beyond our parish, and works in conjunction with the Naples Waterfront Association. Among the vessels were Pure Florida’s Lady Brett, Kudu and Kudu II, and the Naples Explorer. Jimbo Hail also provided three vessels while Capt. Gene Luciano sent his Dalis III and Ray Aiello from Capt. Rays Charters provided his vessel, each contributing to the fishing fun. The Pure Florida vessel Edison Explorer also came down from Fort Myers. Prizes included six fishing rods donated by West Marine, and an array of gift certificates for fishing trips, hotel stays and Zoomers Fun Park in Fort Myers, among others. As an added attraction, this event included a silent auction, with the prize being a fish dinner, cooked and served by Fr. Gleason. As the boats returned, they were greeted by the Trinity Choir singing a collection of old sea shanties. Then it was time for the traditional barbecue lunch from Texas Tony’s, and the prize giving. A total of 161 people attended as “non-boating types” arrived to share in the fun of the prize giving. The top angler award, given in the name of the late Capt. Jim Wheeler, was presented to Gregory Faulkner. Wheeler, who sadly passed away earlier this year, had a great love of fishing, which he happily shared with so many, and the top angler award aimed to honor him for the many service projects he headed within the church. Other top awards went to Chuck Johns, Charlie Rieger and Susan Price. Finally, the Old Boot Award went to Jason Naido for the most interesting catch of the day. X 31
Diocesan Events Key Diocesan events for 2017 are listed below. Visit episcopalswfl.org for exact details, times and other events. All events are subject to change; consult episcopalswfl.org for details.
Diocesan Events
Tues., April 11 Chrism Mass, St. Boniface, Sarasota April 20-23 Food for the Journey, Brian McLaren, Sarah Bessey & Fran McKendree Tues., April 25 Eastertide Quiet Day w/ Bishop Smith Sat., May 6 Vestry Retreat May 5-7 Clergy Spouse Association Weekend Sat., June 3 Diocesan Ordinations, Cathedral Sept. 5, 6, 7 Fall Deanery Convocations Sept. 15 Baseball with the Bishop, Tropicana Field Sept. 18-19 Fall Clergy Retreat Oct. 13-14 Diocesan Convention, Charlotte Conference Center
DaySpring Monthly Eucharist & Lunch Wednesday services at 11 a.m., lunch for $10 follows Weds., April 5 Weds., May 3 Weds., Sept. 6 Weds., Oct. 4 Weds., Nov. 1 Weds., Dec. 6
The Rev. Chase Ackerman, St. John, Tampa The Rev. Alexander Andujar, St. Vincent, St. Petersburg The Rev. Matthew Grunfeld, Church of the Annunciation, Holmes Beach The Rev. Wayne Farrell, St. Boniface, Sarasota The Rev. Canon Eric Cooter Holy Eucharist & Lunch
Special Weekends Sat., April 8 May 18-21 June 17 July 28-29 Oct. 5-8 Sat., Oct. 28 Thur., Nov. 16
Daughters of King Spring Retreat Cursillo #136 (Spanish) Cursillo, Back to the Mountain Fresh Start Presbyters’ Weekend Cursillo #137 Daughters of King Fall Assembly Episcopal Church Women Annual Meeting
Specialized Parish Training Tues., April 11 May 18-20 Tues., May 23 Thur., May 25 Sat., Aug. 26 Tues., Oct. 24
Website Help EfM Mentor Training ACS Users’ Day QuickBooks Users’ Day Stewardship Workshop Benefits & Budget Workshop
Diocesan House Registration: 941-556-0315 DaySpring Reservations and Front Desk: 941-776-1018
Around the Diocese Holy Trinity
CLEARWATER - In February, the Rev. De early one Saturday morning, eight of LaAbove, Torre at Racetrac our youth and one other adult chapon Ash Wednesday. At right, the play erone headed to Clearwater Beach to Sanibel’s Founding Mothers presented venture out on the high seas on the at St. Michael and Captain Memo Pirate Ship; yes, it’s the All Angels. From left, big red ship you can’t help but notice if Dory Rooker, Marilyn McNamara, Carol you ever go to Clearwater Beach. Our Heath, Jo Bowen, Bettie Modys and 10 a.m. cruise began with instruction Martha Ponader were from the pirates aboard, and we were the cast members at the special St. happy to notice that we were on a famiMichael’s Women’s ly-friendly excursion. It was a beautiful meeting Jan. 9. day for our two-hour adventure. There Affectionately called “Arkettes” by was lots of music and dancing and enjoying the beautiful gift of God’s cre- Ark staff, frequent shoppers often arrive with snacks, birthday cakes and ation as we sailed into the Gulf. X other baked goods. Acquainted with St. Michael & All Angels one another from time spent at the SANIBEL - Noah’s Ark, an op- Ark, they come to socialize as well as eration of St. Michael & All Angels shop, developing friendships that conEpiscopal Church, is popular with Is- tinue long after their shopping day. landers, many of whom visit the shop At their meeting Jan. 9, the Womnearly every day and know one anoth- en of St. Michael and All Angels preer by name. One longtime customer, sented “Sanibel’s Founding Mothers,” who has been shopping at the Ark for a play written and directed by parish12 years, is so fond of the popular thrift ioner Dory Rooker. The skit presents a shop that she named her dog “Noah.” picture of life on Sanibel, seen through 32
the eyes of early women settlers.X At www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org
St. Mary, Palmetto PALMETTO - The Rev. William De La Torre of St. Mary’s and St. Giles, Pinellas Park, visited nearby tomato packing factories and fields, as well greeting students as they came home. The day started at 5:30 a.m. at the Palmetto Racetrac station and ended with traditional Ash Wednesday services inside the church. X
Obituaries The Rev. Floyd William Brewer
FRANKLIN, TN. – The Rev. Floyd William Brewer, a retired priest in the Diocese of Southwest Florida, died Dec. 2, 2016. Born in Chattanooga in 1931, he received his B.A. from the University of Florida in 1958 and his Masters in Divinity from The University of the South in 1996. Brewer worked in the computer field for much of his lay career. He was made deacon on June 15, 1996 under the Rt. Rev. Rogers Sanders Harris, and ordained as priest by the Rt. Rev. John Bailey Lipscomb on Jan 24, 1997. He served as vicar of St. Chad, Tampa, from 1997-1999; and St. Cecelia from 1999-2000. He served as deacon at St Alfred’s, Palm Harbor from 1996-97. While retired in Tennessee, he served the Diocese of Tennessee as a chaplain for retirement homes. He and his second wife, the late Anne Blake Brewer, married Feb. 5, 1989. Survivors include his children, Dr. Beverly Brewer Mahan (Tom), Floyd ‘Bo’ Brewer III (Beth) and Kelley Brewer O’Brien (Jake, deceased). He is also survived by four grandchildren and one great grandchild.
The Rev. Frederick Harrison ST. AUGUSTINE - The Rev. Frederick C. Harrison Jr. died December 12, 2016. Born in 1922 in South Bend, Indiana, he is a graduate 33
of Florida International University and holds an MDiv from Virginia Theological Seminary. He married Lucille Saporito in 1973. In June of 1956, he was ordained deacon by The Rt. Rev. Richard Henry Baker and ordained as priest in January of 1957 by the Rt. Rev. Edwin A. Penick. He served as rector of St. Andrew’s, Charlotte, and took early retirement in 1984. He served Episcopal churches in Crystal River, Florida and Kannapolis, N.C. Harrison had a long career in counseling. He was founder and executive director of Unity House in Auburn, N.Y, from 1974-78 and executive director of the Christian Counseling Center in Naples from 1979-84. From 1960-68 he served as chaplain at the Illinois State Pententiary System.
The Rev. Barbara Martin FT. MYERS - The Rev. Barbara J. Martin, 90, a deacon in the Diocese of Southwest Florida, died January 1, 2017. Born in 1926 in Mt. Vernon, New York she married William Martin in 1944. She was ordained to the diaconate on June 13, 1998 by The Rt. Rev. John Lipscomb and as-signed to St. Paul, Naples, where she served from 199899. In 2001, she was honored with a Diocesan Service pin for her work in chaplaincy, especially at Naples Community Hospital. From 2004-05 she served
after retirement at Church of the Resurrection, Naples, and Church of the Epiphany, Cape Coral. In 2014, she served at All Soul’s, North Fort Myers. She also served at St. James in Port-au-Port, Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada.
The Rev. Magar Bedrosian SPRING HILL - The Rev. Magar Bedrosian died Wednesday, Jan. 18. The Rev. Bedrosian, a native of Milford, Mass. and the son of Tanal and Nevart Bedrosian, was most recently the associate rector of St. Andrew, Spring Hill, where he served during his retirement from 1996-2005. He was canonically resident in the Diocese of Connecticut. Fr. Bedrosian received his B.A. from University of Massachusetts and his Masters in Divinity from Yale’s Berkeley Divinity School in 1958. He was ordained as a deacon on June 15, 1958 by Bishop Robert McConnell Hatch and priest by Bishop John Henry Esquirol. Through his career, Bedrosian served at parishes including St. John’s in East Hartford; Trinity in Scituate, Mass.; St. Thomas in Alton Wood River, R.I..; St. Elizabeth’s in Canochet R.I.; St. Elizabeth’s in Hope Valley R.I.; and Church of the Holy Spirit in West Haven, Conn., where he served from 1983-93. His wife, Sarah Palmer, died in 2014. He is survived by eight children, seven grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. X
Glancing Back
In the Archives: 1971 at the USF Chapel Center THIS WINTER, CANON Mi-
chael Durning and USF Chaplain and Church Planter Adrienne Hymes cleaned out the archives of the St. Anselm USF Chapel Center. Large bags of photos, minutes, brochures, negatives, scrap books, folders, architectural plans and booklets arrived at Diocesan House. The materials cover USF from its founding in 1961 to today; it even includes an unlabeled reel-to-reel tape. The archives will be cataloged and preserved at DaySpring. One donation is a copy of the 25th anniversary history booklet of the Episcopal University Center. Mrs. Dorothy Bibb, Dr. George Cowell and The Rev. Jerold Stadel wrote: “Christians take history seriously. We believe that God has revealed his goodness and love in creation….Taking history seriously does not mean looking backward in order to find an recover some “golden age” of Christianity; instead we “look into our history in order to find out who God is and who we are. We find that God has been active in every age, and that same God is calling us into the future.” One interesting artifact is the selfwritten wedding vow program from 1971 of Kathleen Elizabeth Vaden Wrigley and Justin Adams McSweeney who were married at USF on Sunday, August 6, 1972 at the odd time of 7:30 a.m. It reads, “In the placing of this ring I bind my spirit unto yours and commit myself as your spouse.” The 1971 minutes show an attempt 34
Here, Adrienne Hymes, of the USF Chapel Center shows Diocesan House visitor The Rev. Richard Earle some older landscaping plans from USF that will go into the Diocesan House Archives at DaySpring Episcopal Center. In its over 55-year history the chapel center has accumulated a large number of scrapbooks, plans and even a time capsule.
to add students to the Vestry, under the leadership of The Rev. Kevin Stanley, who served from 1971-74. New business in March of 1971 included the discussion of purchasing of a soft drink dispenser for the building, as Jeff Crisman noted that the other religious centers had one. One issue that also came up was what to do with the “two stray dogs which have seemingly adopted the EUC.” Minutes read that Jeff Crimson (name later scratched out in pen to read VESTRY) was given two weeks to find homes for the dogs. In May, it was reported that the center had started singing Mitchell’s “American Folk Song Mass” with Tom Dulin the guitarist and Laura Mar-
torelli assisting. By June, the Coca-Cola machine had been installed. In March of 1972, Mrs. Valentine reported on Bishop Duncan’s public stand in favor of busing. In April, Tom Dulin reported on the Migrant Worker Program in Ruskin, and Sister Maureen. At that meeting, Mr. Pomerantz apparently did not like the music; he “suggested we choose more familiar hymns for the 10:30 service.” By 1973, there was now a Prayer Group meeting and several priests had joined. Stanley felt that this group “filled a need for some and not for others.” A brochure in the minutes binder had the name of the group as the “Brothers and Sisters of the Wind. "X
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Easter 2017
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