CENTRALFLORIDAEPISCOPALIAN NEWS FOR THE EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
THE INSTITUTE FOR CHRISTIAN STUDIES
WWW.CFDIOCESE.ORG
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VOLUME 116, No. 8
OCTOBER, 2014
HISTORY OF THE GRACE EPISCOPAL CHURCH, Ocala
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São Paulo Mercy Ministry This Newsletter Marks Our First Complete Year in São Paulo By The Rev. Stephen and Mary Dass
Um Pobre
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Mary Dass with Maicon and his family, who have been helped by the Mercy Ministry.
t was requested that we write about our daily routine so that people can get an idea of our work. The same person told me not to leave out the tedious and monotonous part of our routine. Our work follows a slow and repetitious cycle everyday. “Repetitious” does not
necessarily mean boring and pointless. We have a goal in the things we do. For an outsider, our walking around looking for the children and playing games with them may not seem like evangelism. However, it opens doors for us. This is our first step in the evangelism process.
We work in the streets from Mondays to Thursdays. The children, at this present moment, are found in three separate locations. We try to visit at least two locations on a daily basis. The time we spend in the streets is quite intense due to the open environment and pollution, not to mention the stench of paint thinner among other drugs being consumed. The environment where the children sleep is filthy as well. They do not have bathroom facilities and they sleep on filthy castaway mattresses. We also have to deal with the drug trafficking. The dealers are usually friendly and respectful to us. This is an unwritten code among the organized crime gangs. They recognize the value of religious and social work. However, this does not mean that we take things for granted. We need to be constantly aware of dangerous situations. Having said this, there has never been a situation where a missionary or a social worker was hurt in the streets while working. In order to protect ourselves from illness and stress, we limit the amount of hours we spend in the streets. We work an average of three to four hours of direct contact with the children in the streets daily. Three times a week are during the day and once a CONTINUED ON P. 28 week is at night.
The Episcopal Church
IN CENTRAL FLORIDA Based in the 15-county heart of our booming, diverse Sunshine State. Companion to the Diocese of Honduras.
Bishop: The Rt. Rev. Gregory O. Brewer IN THE UNITED STATES A community of 2.5 million members in 118 dioceses in the Americas & elsewhere. Established in 1789. Presiding Bishop: The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori IN THE ANGLICAN COMMUNION A global community of 70 million Anglicans in 500 dioceses. Covers 164 countries in 38 member provinces. Archbishob of Canterbury: The Most Rev. Justin Welby
Central Florida Episcopalian Continuing The Palm Branch (1894), diocese (1971)
Contents FRONT COVER: S達o Paulo Mercy Ministry - Story on page 26 3
Absalom Jones Day
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Scripture Union
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Healing Conference Comes to Titusville
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History of the Grace Episcopal Church, Ocala
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Institute Christian Studies (ICS)
BACK COVER: Camp Wingmann event dates
CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN - OCTOBER 2014
The Rt. Rev. Gregory Brewer Bishop
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The Rt. Rev. John W. Howe The Rt. Rev. Dorsey F. Henderson The Rt. Rev. Hugo Pina-Lopez The Rt. Rev. John Said Retired Bishops The Rev. Canon Timothy Nunez Canon to the Ordinary The Ven. Kristi Alday Archdeacon Joe Thoma Editor & Communications Officer Fina Florez Design Editor Erick Perez Subscription Manager
The Central Florida Episcopalian is published monthly by the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida. Submissions are welcome, but are subject to editing and use at the discretion of the Central Florida Episcopalian. Please submit notices two months before event to: The Central Florida Episcopalian 1017 E. Robinson Street Orlando, FL 32801-2023 Tel.: (407) 423-3567, ext. 316 Fax: (407) 872-0006 Email: jthoma@cfdiocese.org www.cfdiocese.org
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AROUND THE DIOCESE
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AROUND THE DIOCESE
Scripture Union
CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN - OCTOBER 2014
Jesus said, “Suffer not the little children to come unto me.”
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cripture Union wants to help parishes establish new, exciting programs to spread the love of Jesus to the hearts of children. Regional Director for Scripture Union Michael Staples said that formulating a plan to mobilize, lead, teach, train, and locate opportunities to reach children and young people is vital to the future of the church. “How do we as followers of Jesus make it possible to introduce to the Lord children, who because of their individual home circumstances are not in a position to attend church or be exposed to the Gospel?” Staples said. “Being a missional church is not about saying the right things but has everything to do with being committed to follow through with outreach and care for the community.” According to George Barna Research, over 85 percent of those in churches today made their initial contact to the Lord as a child or teen. Scripture Union hopes to share the love of Jesus while providing a forum that is entertaining, engaging, relationship building, and full of Bible stories and friendship. “Billy Graham once famously said the church is one generation away from extinction!” Staples said. “Look around and ask, how many children are you reaching? The answer to that question is an indicator of what your future and the future of the church looks like.” Scripture Union is willing to provide tools and resources to help parishes establish either a one day a week after school program or a mini camp for a week in the mornings. They are asking that a few willing volunteers from each local parish commit a few hours a week to this mission. “All you need to do is say “Yes Lord” and be willing to love some
children, who like all of us, need to feel God’s love and care through His people,” Staples said. Scripture Union has a 150 year history in 130 countries, all seeking to mobilize the whole church to engage the scriptures in all sorts of ways to know God better. From its beginnings, Scripture Union has had a particular interest in the lives of children. Several parishes have engaged in ministry outreach to children in recent months. St. Alban’s in Auburndale partnered with a local evangelical church’s youth group to reach out to children in the area, feeding 35 children lunch and showing them the movie “The Sun of God.” The church hopes to continue their progress this fall with an after school Prime Time program. Church of Savior in Palm Bay, which hosts churchgoers from 22 nations, had over 35 volunteers engage in a week long Super Kids outreach with the Scripture Union in July. “Father Loren has a wonderful heart to see this demographically changing community find a church home and to know the love of Jesus,” Staples said. “Thanks be to God for the life changing impact that will have upon these young live.” In addition to outreach programs, Scripture Union offers several Bible engagement programs for all ages. The programs intend to encourage parishoners to read and understand the Bible, as well as come to know the Lord deeper through reflection and prayer. For more information and to have Scripture Union come and visit your parish contact Dr. Michael Staples at Michael.Staples@scriptureunion.org or at 863 860 5200.■
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t is often the power of healing that allows us to rise from the ashes of tragedy, turning our lives to Jesus and allowing His followers to pray for our afflictions. Space Coast residents and visitors can learn more about prayerful healing Oct. 16-18 at “Jesus: The Center of Healing,” a conference sponsored by the Space Coast Chapter of The International Order of St. Luke the Physician (OSL). St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church and First United Methodist Church, both in historic downtown Titusville, will be hosts of the gathering. The event will kick off Thursday, October 16 at 7 p.m. with an open-door praise-and-worship service, then continue through Saturday with a variety of keynote speakers. “There is a prominent stained glass window in the back of St. Gabriel’s featuring the Canaveral Light House,”said the Rev. Rob Goodridge, rector of St. Gabriel’s Church. The light metaphor shines on us all and we are very excited to see God at work in our community and congregation.” The OSL website states, healing occurs through the hands of doctors as well as through the hands of fellow Christians.” “The power of healing prayer is enormous,”said Fr. Goodridge. “The opportunity to be conduits of the healing power and love of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of OSL” Those interested in learning more about the healing process are encouraged to attend the event, which
features several experts in the powers of healing and bereavement. Spearheading the conference are The Rev. Dr. Jack Sheffield and his wife Anna Marie Sheffield, co-founders of Christ Healing Center in San Antonio. Both serve The International Order of St. Luke the Physician, Fr. Jack as the North American Director and Anna Marie on the Board of Directors. The Rev. Dr. Jerald Smith, Director of Pastoral Care at Parrish Medical Center in Titusville, will also be delivering a keynote speech at the conference. He has notably developed spiritual volunteers and partners in healing programs at the medical center, providing support to discharged patients within their congregations. The Rev. Donna Carey, senior chaplain and bereavement services manager of VITAS Innovative Hospice Care, will also be providing a presentation. Her services have been rendered in many congregations along the Eastern seaboard. Registration costs vary by day. Attendees can choose to pay $20 for all materials and meals for the Friday and Saturday sessions, or individually at $15 and $10, respectively. A block of rooms have been reserved at Fairfield Inn and Suites, and guests are responsible for their own room fees. “Through our efforts in organizing ‘Jesus: The Center of Healing’ conference and mission, we feel that we are being led to develop a Healing Center in Titusville.” said Ft. Goodridge. “With God, all things are possible.”■
For more information, visit www.stgabs.org or email spacecoastchapterosl@gmail.com
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Healing conference comes to Titusville
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AROUND THE DIOCESE
We Still Worship Here Grace Episcopal Church, Ocala
CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN - OCTOBER 2014
By Eleanor Simons
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Grace Episcopal Church, 1905.
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hen I first came to Grace Church I admired the beauty of the building, especially the stained glass windows. Now, after studying the history of Grace Church for the last few years, I appreciate those members that came before me and their efforts that made it possible for me to worship here today in this beautiful and historic setting.
The founding members of Grace Church started meeting in 1849. We know this because they made a list of the first pioneer families that met together. I have asked myself what brought them together. Those were difficult times. There were no missionaries, travel was difficult and distances from plantations to town were far. Transportation was by horse and buggy, on horseback,
or on foot. In later years there were only occasional visits by missionaries. There were no church buildings to worship in and they had to meet in homes. These first members of Grace Church had to be strong Christians, raised in the Church of England tradition of the South, which later became The Episcopal Church. They met using the Book of Common Prayer. CONTINUED ON P. 27
Preparing the Body of Christ for Ministry in the Church and to the World 2014 - 2015
ICS COURSE CATALOG 2014 - 2015
Institute for Christian Studies
A New Day Dawning for the Diaconate!
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ICS COURSE CATALOG 2014 - 2015
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e are now firmly in the third year of Bishop Brewer’s episcopate and what an exciting time it has been! One of the goals Bishop Brewer has challenged our Diocese with is to reexamine our ordination processes, both for the Priesthood and the Diaconate. Bishop Brewer, along with Canon Justin Holcomb, the Commission on Ministry, and myself have worked very hard to step back and examine our ordination processes from a objective, zero-based perspective. After careful examination new conclusions have been drawn. (From this point forward I will be speaking for the Diaconate preparation process only!) According to the National Canons for the Episcopal Church, Title 3.6.5F states: Before ordination each Candidate (for the Diaconate) shall be prepared in and demonstrate basic competence in five general areas: 1. Academic studies including, The Holy Scriptures, theology, and the tradition of the Church. 2. Diakonia and the diaconate. 3. Human awareness and understanding. 4. Spiritual development and discipline. 5. Practical training and experience. Our Diocese has gone above and beyond the National Canons for required steps in the ordination process. The Canons require a time commitment of a minimum of 18 months for the ordination process. Our Diocese is going to require a minimum of 2 years. Prior to now, the Diocese of Central Florida has required 4 years of academic preparation that consisted of taking classes 9 months of the year for 2 Saturdays per month. Given the sheer geographical size of our Diocese, this requirement alone has caused us to lose valuable human resources and leadership potential in the laity who feel called, but cannot commit to the academic requirements. Research has suggested that the average preparation for the Diaconate is a 2 year process, including the academic preparation, with highly developed focus on Mission in the World, Leadership, and Evangelism.
Bishop Brewer has challenged us as a Diocese with his 5 Strategic Point Plan: 1. Strengthen Relationships. 2. Raise up Leaders, both Clergy and Lay. 3. See our Neighborhoods as mission fields. 4. Take our place in the Councils of the Church. 5. Revitalize Children’s and Youth Ministry. In an effort to meet this call, reach potential clergy leaders and continue to focus the Diaconate as the front line ministers in the world for the church we are going to implement some changes in our ordination preparation for the Diaconate. These changes have been called for and approved by Bishop Brewer and enthusiastically approved by the Commission on Ministry. First, the academic preparation will be reduced to 2 years. Those who are ordained will continue to return for further training for 6 months after their ordination, much like the Ministry, Leadership and Mission for the priests.
Secondly, ordinations will take place in September instead of December. The churches need their deacons out in the world and we want to get them there! Third, we are developing a method for online learning that will alleviate some of the travel to Orlando for training and allow those in the far reaches of our Diocese to avail themselves of distance learning and be able to realistically enter the Diaconate preparation process. The silver lining for the distance learning is that it will be available to all; lay people, Sunday school groups, and Bible study groups. The possibilities are limitless. We are abundantly blessed in Central Florida in our clergy and lay teaching resources. We will now be able to make them accessible to all. All the remaining steps in the process for ordination will remain the same. Again, we have a more defined process than the National Canons call for and feel that these changes will continue to strengthen the Diocese through a strong, well prepared Diaconate.â–
ICS COURSE CATALOG
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Institute for Christian Studies (ICS) has been an integral part of the academic formation in the process of preparation for the diaconate and will continue to serve in this capacity. In my 2014 Diocesan Address, I outlined a 5 Strategic Point Plan. The second point of this plan is to “raise up leaders, both clergy and lay�. It came to my attention that, due to the rigorous academic requirements we placed on aspirants to the diaconate, we were limiting our potential pool of ordained leadership. After careful consultation we realized that our academic requirements far exceeded the national average and had moved the focus of training away from ministry in the world. In an effort to raise up quality leadership, ICS is offering a redesigned schedule that will effectively prepare a diaconal candidate academically and also with a renewed vision for mission in the world.
ICS was originally founded as a lay institute. To better serve the educational needs of the laity in a very large diocese, ICS will be instituting distance learning that will be available to all persons wishing to deepen their knowledge of the Lord. I see these changes as positive both in the raising up of clergy and in lay leaders. Grace to you, Gregory O. Brewer, Bishop
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These changes will not negatively impact the quality of the academic portion of the ordination process for the diaconate. Conversely, we are streamlining and focusing the educational piece of training toward ordained leadership whose call is to our neighborhoods as the first mission field.
ICS COURSE CATALOG
I am so grateful and excited for Bishop Brewer’s vision for the diaconate and the changes in training preparation. As with many of you, when I was going to ICS, I was working full time and had ministry responsibilities at my church. Fortunately, my children were grown and I have an understanding husband. I must say that I enjoyed and benefited from the classes, but found the commute to Orlando on Saturday mornings every other week a bit much after working all week as a high school guidance counselor. Because of the requirements of most of my classes to write a paper for the class taken, and to prepare for the next class, I didn’t have the time to prepare as thoroughly as I would have liked. Many in my classes also shared these feelings. I am confident that the changes in training preparation will allow more to participate who are called to this ministry. Thank you Bishop Brewer. -Judy Mathis, Deacon at St. James, Ormond Beach for the CFE
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Deacons serve a vital ministry in the church and their preparation for ordained ministry is crucial. The deacon has one foot in the world and helps interpret the needs and concerns of the world to the Church as well as bringing the Church to the world. The preparation for the diaconate encompasses a broad spectrum of topics; including but not limited to educational, spiritual, and practical training. It is an exciting time in the life of our Diocese that we will more effectively empower men and women called to ordained ministry, prepare them to serve the marginalized in our society and equip them for service to the Church in the world. -The Rev. Christopher Brathwaite, Rector of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, Haines City
Justin Holcomb to teach at ICS
From Bishop Greg Brewer: “The authors’ deeply compassionate writing offers us a book that does not merely speak to us, it comes along beside us-offering both experience and in-depth knowledge about this emotionally charged subject. Too often the church has been not merely been silent but complicit in protecting abusers and marginalizing victims. Justin and Lindsey’s book takes us in a new direction of hope, healing, and mercy. I am more than happy to commend this book.”
Is it My Fault? also serves as a valuable resource for pastors, ministry leaders, friends, and family, providing guidance on how to care for victims of domestic violence. Justin Holcomb is an Episcopal priest andteaches theology, philosophy, and Christian thought at Gordon-Conwell-Theological Seminary and Reformed Theological Seminary. He holds two masters degrees from Reformed Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. from Emory University. He and his wife, Lindsey, are also the authors of Rid of My Disgrace: Hope and Healing for Victims of Sexual Assault. Learn more about Justin on Facebook, Twitter, or Amazon. Lindsey Holcomb counsels victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. Previously, she worked at a sexual assault crisis center, as well as serving as a case manager at a domestic violence shelter. Lindsey has provided crisis intervention to victims of sexual assault and domestic violence and has conducted a variety of training seminars to service providers. Her graduate research focused on violence against women and public health responses. Lindsey is the co-founder of REST (Real Escape from the Sex Trade) and is married to Justin Holcomb.■
Justin & Lindsey Holcomb
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The Rev. Dr. Justin S. Holcomb joined the Diocesan staff in December as Canon for Vocations. His primary responsibility has been the recruiting and training of leaders (both clergy and laity) with missionary vision to effectively lead local congregations. Is that capacity, he has worked closely with the Ven. Kristi Alday, dean of the Institute for Christian Studies, in refining the ICS mission. Canon Holcomb brings a wealth of experience to this position. He holds two Masters degrees from Reformed Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. from Emory University. He has held teaching positions at Emory University, the University of Virginia, and numerous seminaries. He has served as Executive Director of The Resurgence in Seattle, Washington, a ministry with an annual budget of $1.5 million, dedicated to the training and raising up of new leaders. He has served as a priest at Christ Episcopal Church, Charlottesville, Virginia. He is the author of numerous books and articles, in the areas of theology, biblical studies, sexual assault, and domestic violence. He has received teaching awards and fellowships for his outstanding work as a professor both at the University of Virginia and at Emory University. Canon Holcomb is a priest canonically resident in the Diocese of Central Florida. He and his wife, Lindsey, and their two young daughters are active at the Cathedral Church of St. Luke, where Lindsey teaches Sunday School. Canon Holcomb was recently introduced to the clergy as preacher for our annual clergy conference.
STUDY PROVIDES ANSWERS AND HELPS WOMEN FIND FREEDOM Authors Justin Holcomb – Canon for Vocations at the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida – and Lindsey Holcomb – a seasoned crisis counselor – draw on pastoral and counseling experience to bring hope and healing to domestic-violence victims in their book, Is It My Fault? The number of occurrences of domestic violence in the United States is staggering: at least one in four women become victims of domestic violence in their lifetime. Although it may seem impossible to break free of a pattern of abuse, husband-and-wife authors Justin Holcomb and Lindsey Holcomb draw on their pastoral and counseling experience to offer Gospel-based help, hope, and healing directly to victims of domestic violence in their new book, Is It My Fault?: Hope and Healing For Those Suffering Domestic Violence (Moody Publishers, May 1, 2014 ISBN: 978-0-8024-1024-5, $14.99). Is It My Fault? was written for those suffering domestic abuse—typically women—and serves as a resource on healing from the emotional pain resulting from domestic violence by giving a clear understanding of what the Bible says about violence against women. Combining the authors’ theological training with straigh forward and practical advice, the book addresses questions like: What does the Bible say about women? What does the Bible say about God delivering victims? Does the Bible say I should suffer abuse and violence? Is It My Fault? points readers toward the consistent thread that runs throughout the Old and New Testaments emphasizing God’s love, compassion, and mercy, while opposing cruelty, violence, and abuse. In light of this, the authors state that there is simply no justification for abuse. Importantly, the book helps women take critical next steps to identify whether they are currently in an abusive relationship, how to get help immediately and how to make a safety plan. The authors write, “Our hope is that this book will encourage you to believe that God knows and sees your suffering, and that God cares about you and hears your cries and prayers. He cares for you so much that He wants you safe from threat and violence. If you have children, He wants them safe, too. But even beyond physical safety, God wants you to heal from the many ways you’ve been hurt and wounded.”
our mission
table of contents Letter from the Dean of the Institute
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ICS Courses
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ICS Course Descriptions
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Registration Form
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History
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Information & Guidelines
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ICS Faculty
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The mission of the Institute for Christian Studies is to provide adult Christian education and training for interested lay persons, aspirants to the vocational diaconate, and clergy seeking continuing education.
Our Statement of Faith We, the faculty and Commission of the Institute for Christian Studies, “believe the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments to be the Word of God, and to contain all things necessary to salvation,” and will “conform to the doctrine, discipline and worship of the Episcopal Church.” Declaration of Conformity, BCP pp.513, 526, 538
Supporting the Institute for Christian Studies
A good education for clergy and lay leaders requires the support of the entire community. We thank you for your charitable contribution to ICS.
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Your generosity helps ICS students with * Access to computers and educational materials * On-line courses * Video and audio equipment for distance learning And many other expenses not covered by tuition. Please contribute what your means, and heart, allow: [ ] $25 [ ] $50 [ ] $100 [ ] $ _______________________ Make checks payable to the Institute for Christian Studies and send to” ICS Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida 1017 E. Robinson St., Orlando FL 32801
ICS COURSE CATALOG
A Letter from the Dean of the Institute Dear Students, Faculty, Clergy and Lay Persons, Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ! Welcome to another interesting and exciting year in the Institute for Christian Studies - a wonderful world of opportunities for gaining knowledge and insight, friends and fellowship, a deepened faith in our Lord, and an appreciation for the traditions of the Episcopal Church! This is an exciting year in the life of ICS! We are re-structuring the curriculum as well as shortening our process for ordination to the Vocational Diaconate. ICS is the place for ANYONE who wants to learn and grow deeper in their faith whether they are ordained, lay or brand new Christians! All are welcome. Invite your friends and neighbors! I invite you to read carefully, choose the courses you would like to attend, send in the registration form, and join us on the adventure that is ICS. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 407423-3567 x303, (800) 299-3567 x303, or via e-mail at kalday@cfdiocese. org. I welcome your inquiries. You may also refer to our website: http:// www.cfdiocese.org/ics. We welcome you and hope that you will join us this year! In His Service, Kristen N. Alday, Dean
The Ven. Kristi Alday, Dean of the Institute for Christian Studies
The Institute for Christian Studies Commission The Ven. Kristen N. Alday, Dean
The Rt. Rev. Gregory O. Brewer, Ex Officio
The Rev. Michael Matheny, Deacon
Ms. Winsome Latty, Institute Administrator
The Rev. Edward Bartle
The Rev. Danielle Morris
The Rev. David Newhart, Chairman
The Rev. Rick Burhans
The Rev. John Motis
The Rev. Nancy Kline, Deacon, Secretary
Mrs. Tracy Cheek
The Rev. Dr. Edward WeissFrom the Dean’s Desk
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ICS COURSE CATALOG Institute for Christian Studies Course Schedule 2014-2015 - Year 1 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
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The Building Blocks of Ministry Mr. Kevin McCarthy - September 20, 2014 Old Testament Survey The Rev. Charlie Holt - October 4, 2014 Old Testament Survey The Rev. Charlie Holt - October 18, 2014 Mission in the City The Very Rev. Anthony P. Clark - November 1, 2014 Doctrine The Rev. Christopher Brathwaite - November 15, 2014 Doctrine The Rev. Christopher Brathwaite - December 6, 2014 Diakonia in a Modern Day World The Rev. Thomas Williams, Deacon - January 3, 2015 Church Leadership in a Multi-Cultural Context The Rev. Dr. Gerardo de Jesus - January 17, 2015 New Testament Survey The Rev.Dr. Reggie Kidd - February 7, 2015 New Testament Survey The Rev. Dr. Reggie Kidd - February 21, 2015 Raising Up Leaders: A Paradigm Shift The Rev. Jonathan French - March 7, 2015 The Universe Next Door: Comparative Views The Rev. David Newhart - March 21, 2015 Shaping the Heart, Head & Hands of the Christian Leader The Very Rev. Anthony P. Clark - April 18, 2015 Our Anglican Heritage The Rev. D. Scott Walker - May 2, 2015 Know the Heretics The Rev. Canon Dr. Justin Holcomb - May 16, 2015 The Reformation The Rev. Tom Rutherford - TBA
Institute for Christian Studies Course Schedule 2014-2015 - Year 2 • • • • •
The Book of Common Prayer The Rev. Sarah Bronos - September 20, 2014 Deacon 101 Practical The Rev. Molly Bosscher & Mrs. Cindy Muldoon - October 4, 2014 Sexual Assault / Domestic Violence The Rev. Canon Dr. Justin Holcomb - October 18, 2014 Shame: The Confusion of Faces Mrs. Debbie Miller, LMHC - November 1, 2014 Christian Peace Making The Rev. Charlie Holt - November 15, 2014
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Homiletics The Rev. Noy Sparks - December 6, 2014 Addictions & Faith: Where Do They Intersect? Julia Suereth, MA - January 3, 2015 Genesis and Interpersonal Relationships Mrs. Debbie Miller, LMHC - January 17, 2015 Benedictine Spirituality and Prayer The Rev. Richard Hoover, Deacon - February 7, 2015 Ethics in Action The Rev. Ed Bartle - February 21, 2015 Mapping Out Your Ministry in the World The Rev. Loren Fox - March 7, 2015 Ministry Review The Rev. Richard Bordin - March 21, 2015 Social Media: Proclaiming the Gospel in the 21st Century The Rev. Jabriel Ballentine - April 18, 2015 Your Body: God’s Temple Mrs. Brooke E. Holt - May 2, 2015 Exam - May 16, 2015
Year 1 Course Descriptions, Go Forth: ON-PURPOSE Building Blocks of Ministry Answering the call to serve God and his people ironically creates more questions? What does it truly mean, “…to go forth into the world, rejoicing in the Power of the Spirit?” What will be my ministry? What form will this ministry take? Who and where might God be calling me to serve? What is this desire upon my heart for God’s people and how will it manifest itself in practical terms? Go Forth: ON-PURPOSE® opens your Diaconate training by giving you the opportunity to co-creatively clarify and build the foundations of your ministry from the beginning of your training. You’ll begin by defining your personal purpose so your identity is truly anchored in Christ. Next, you’ll clarify who you are to serve as a people group and their needs. Finally, you’ll build a Service Model™, a simple one-page plan, to put the pieces all together. Over the course of the next two years, this ON-PURPOSE framework will develop and deepen. As you grow in Christ so too will your ministry come to light. Upon graduation, you can already be in momentum in the world. Thanks be to God! Old Testament Survey The Old Testament is filled with stories of human faithfulness and failure, God’s judgment and redemption. It contains challenging laws and rules, prophetic mysteries and insightful wisdom. Taught by the Rev. Charlie Holt, rector of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Lake Mary FL, this survey class will provide the attendee a general overview of every book in the Old Testament. The class will also explore the big picture of how the books function together and work redemptively for God’s people. We will also learn how to apply the Old Testament scriptures faithfully in the age of the New Covenant.
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Doctrine One of the foundational components of this course will be the Book of Common Prayer, beginning with the Historical Documents of the Church, including the Question and Answer section beginning on page 845. As background for this course the student is asked to read the Book of Romans. Christian Doctrines examined will include; but will not be limited to, Condemnation, Justification, Sanctification, Glorification and a discussion of the dynamic between Sin and Grace. All of these doctrines will be highlighted as to how they are lived out in the Episcopal Tradition. Diakonia in a Modern Day World Overview of scriptural and theological foundation of diaconal ministry. The seminar will reflect upon The Examination at ordination and where the deacon intersects with the church and the world. The deacon is the icon for servant ministry, the herald of The Good News in Jesus Christ and leads the faithful into the world for mission and ministry. Requirements - Read “Being A Deacon In The World Today”, Rosalind Brown, Morehouse Publishing. Write a brief biography, why do you feel called to the diaconate, your understanding of the diaconate with a mission and ministry to the world. Church Leadership in a Multi-Cultural Context Discovering how to appreciate, understand, and dialogue with those different that ourselves is part of the missiological task. The ancient miracle of “tongues” to hear the gospel in one’s own language was more than just a linguistic phenomenon, rather, an intentional act of God to connect with those who sought to feel included in what God was doing in Jesus Christ. This course seeks to continue this miracle of communication by empowering future leaders who will working in a multi-cultural context. It will also enlighten as to the obstacles to this inclusion, such as the myriad subtle threads of cultural and social alienation that slip through our theological formation. Our aim is to offer an Incarnational response to leadership that will change the way we think of ourselves and those different from us.
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New Testament Survey The New Testament is a book of what St. Paul once called “God’s many-sided wisdom”(Eph3:10), wisdom that is central to diaconal ministry. The richness of what God has revealed about himself in Christ comes to us through the most diverse of individuals –from down-to-earth Mark to mystery-captivated John, from faith-promoting Paul to works-defending James. And the communities the gospel first created anticipated challenges that Christians have faced ever since: how to balance truth and love, freedom and discipline, mercy and justice, mission and nurture. In this two-part “flyover” of the New Testament, we will explore each book’s promise and challenge for our call to do the work of the ministry: “to make Christ and his redemptive love known” where we “live, and work, and worship”, … and “to interpret to the Church the needs, concerns, and hopes of the world.” Raising Up Leaders: A Paradigm Shift “Leadership” is a cultural watchword. Google it and you’ll find articles from Forbes, Psychology Today and Christianity Today among the 140 million results. So, what is a leader? Who is a leader? Where do you find them and IF you find them, how do you keep them engaged and leading?
This course will consider: • Why “leadership” matters in the church • The biblical model of leadership • Whether you are a leader • If you’re not a leader, what you should do • How to attract more leaders - both those like and unlike you The Universe Next Door: Comparative Views Today we live in a world with many worldviews. Each worldview has its own set of standards, doctrines, and foundational beliefs. Each day we are confronted in various ways by these different worldviews and at times people try to integrate them into Christianity. In this course you will discover the foundations and if applicable, the commonality each of the worldviews has with Christianity. It will enable you to understand the basic concepts of differing worldviews in a way that will aid you in defending the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Shaping the heart, head and hands of a Christian Leader This workshop will explore how the Lord shapes hearts, heads and hands for Christian leadership in this present and future. Reading, teaching, discussion and projects will focus on three essential questions for a Christian leader: Who does the Lord call me to be? What does the Lord call me to know? What does the Lord call me to do? Our Anglican Heritage “The Episcopal Church exists because Henry VIII wanted a divorce and the Pope wouldn’t grant him one.” Well, I suppose that’s all we need to know about our Anglican heritage: class dismissed. Or, maybe there is a little more to the story? Perhaps there is a firmer foundation for this worldwide communion of some 70 million souls than just an unhappy marriage. In this course we will examine the development of Christianity in Britain and, later, the world. We will touch on several key characteristics and decisions that have formed the Anglican Church as we currently know it, and consider what type of communion the Lord is calling us to be now and in the near future. Know the Heretics There is a lot of talk about heresy these days. The frequency and volume of accusations of heresy suggest that some Christians have lost a sense of the gravity of the word. On the other hand, many believers have little to no familiarity with the orthodox doctrine or the historic distortions of it. What’s needed is a strong dose of humility and restraint, and also a clear and informed definition of orthodoxy and heresy. This class is designed to help the student more deeply understand the foundations of the faith.
The Reformation - Year 2 Course Descriptions An Introduction to Prayer Book Worship & Theology This course seeks to provide an understanding of the history and emphasis of Anglican worship, to place the Prayer Book in the context of theological and historical development, and to provide a connection between worship and living. Deacon 101 Practical This course is intended to give the student a practical experience of the liturgical set up of the Altar and all that is encompassed in preparing for worship.
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ICS COURSE CATALOG Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence and the Church This course will be a study of various forms of violence and abuse and the theological and practical implications of the Gospel of the kingdom for these topics. First, we will investigate two forms of violence and abuse (sexual assault and domestic violence) to better understand each issue as well as the prevalence of the issue and effects on victims. Second, we will study the theological subjects of the Gospel to lay a foundation for how these biblical themes affect our view of violence and abuse. Third, we will explore the how the Gospel offers help, hope, and healing to victims. This part of the course will include issues from both Christian thought and practical theology. We will focus on theological engagement and practical engagement. Objectives • For students to understand the numerous dimensions of sexual assault and domestic abuse. • For students to be aware of the scope of the problem of violence and abuse and to be aware of the prevalence and effects for victims. • For the student to be able to formulate a theology of violence and abuse. • For students to understand how the theological subjects of the Gospel lay a foundation for how biblical themes affect how we view violence and abuse. • For students to be able to relate major themes of Christian theology to violence and abuse. • For students to be able to articulate how Gospel-based hope and healing relates to violence and abuse. • For students to know that individuals and the Church can respond practically with help and victim advocacy. • For students to learn about the experiences of and responses to sexual and domestic violence.
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Shame: The Confusion of Faces Ever since we tasted the forbidden fruit, shame has been a constant companion for the human race. It keeps us from risking the vulnerability necessary for connection, love, creativity, and belonging. It grips us with secrecy and silence. It holds us back from living authentically with its messages of scarcity, comparison, and judgment. And it is rarely talked about from our pulpits, because even the word shame can send us reeling into shame. Based on the work of Brené Brown, popular TED talk speaker and social science researcher, this workshop will focus on: • Debunking common cultural myths about vulnerability; • Defining shame and examining triggers; • Exploring the neuroscience of our responses to shame; and • Reviewing ways that we try to protect ourselves from vulnerability and shame. Christian Peace Making Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” Conflict provides one of the greatest opportunities to share the Christian Gospel and apply it to life. Knowing and applying the Gospel message of forgiveness and reconciliation are two different things. Whether we are talking about everyday conflict between spouses,
parents and children, friends and co-workers or higher level conflict of church fights, legal battles and political wrangling, the Gospel of Jesus Christ provides THE practical solution. The application of the Gospel requires faith, understanding and skill. The principles, behaviors and techniques of peacemaking can be taught and learned. This class is essential for anyone who desires to become a more effective student and minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness. (James 3:18) Homiletics Various approaches to the preparation, delivery, and critique of the sermon will be explored. Each student will have the opportunity to preach during the Eucharist on ICS Saturdays. Addictions and Faith: Where Do They Intersect? This question will enable an in-depth look of precisely where faith and God meets a person struggling with an addiction. See how spirituality can help loose a person from the grips that deceive and control. Understand how dependence results from lack of connections and submission to God. Learn how to allow faith to be part of addiction recovery. Genesis and Interpersonal Relationships If you’ve thought of Genesis as nothing more than a dusty book of who-begatwho’s, then you’ve been missing a lot! The first book of the Hebrew Scriptures is a powerful narrative that introduces us to some of the most compelling glimpses into the human condition ever recorded. Join us to see what the Garden teaches us about identity, development, and the impacts of shame. Explore how the relational dynamics of jealousy, rage, and fear played out among the first family and what we can learn from those messages today. See how family dysfunction and generational sin worked out in the Patriarchs and their progeny and the implications for looking at our own family stories. And see how the theme of desire is a running thread throughout the Genesis text. You’ll leave with a new appreciation for the Old Testament stories, as well as a lively new Biblical context for looking at your own relationships today. Benedictine Spirituality and Prayer This class explores the theories and practices of some of the prayer disciplines handed down by saints and teachers of the historic Church. If you have a rosary or “prayer rope” please bring that to class. Ethics in Action One of the texts for this class on Christian Ethics written by Victor Lee Austin is titled: Christian Ethics and is sub-titled; A Guide for the Perplexed. The foundation of our belief is centered on Scripture, Tradition and Reason. We can so easily become ‘perplexed’ when our understanding of moral theology, or what scripture and tradition teaches us, conflicts with our pastoral care, what reason teaches us and social or communal needs demands from us. How do we realistically deal with contemporary “hot buttons” affecting those who come to us for counsel or advice? If we respond with “Well, the Bible says…” we risk sending them away more conflicted. If we respond by re-shaping our belief to meet their needs, we risk creating a message of ignoring scripture and tradition. This class is designed to be an interactive thought
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2014-2015 registration form
Institute for Christian Studies School of Continuing Education 2013-2014 Registration Form Name: ______________________________________________
E-mail:______________________________________________________
Address: __________________________________________________City: ______________________________________State: ______ Zip Code:_________________ Phone (H): ______________________________Phone (Cell):________________________________
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Please enroll me in the following courses: Course Name
Check one: I plan to audit the courses. Cost: $35.00 per Saturday
Course Date
Parish:__________________________________________
Course Name
I plan to take the courses for credit. Cost: $45.00 per Saturday
Course Date
Please order lunch for me. Cost: $8.00 per Saturday
Please email course registration form to The Ven. Kristi Alday at kalday@cfdiocese.org. Prepayments, along with the course registration form, may be mailed to: The Ven. Kristi Alday / The Diocese of Central Florida, 1017 East Robinson Street, Orlando, FL 32801 Course fees may be paid in advance or on the day of class. Please make checks payable to the Diocese of Central Florida with ICS on the memo line.
ICS COURSE CATALOG
Mapping Your Ministry in the World How does the Gospel intersect with the World? Is the Church a dead end, a rest stop, or a scenic route? How does your brokenness and gifted-ness combine to fuel your ministry? This workshop, drawing from Second Corinthians, is designed to be practical and to challenge each participant to articulate your unique calling and commitment. Ministry Review Each encounter with another person provides opportunities to minister as Christ to them and to learn about ourselves from both spiritual as well as practical perspectives. The activity of reflecting on our diaconal ministry helps us define our roles in both the Church and the world; to share in depth with fellow servants our struggles and successes; to identify and evaluate our skills and preferences for pastoral care; and to invite God’s grace, Jesus’ love and the Spirit’s wisdom into our personal lives and professional ministries. Social Media: Proclaiming the Gospel in the 21st Century How to “Go Into All the World and Proclaim the Good News to the Whole Creation” in the 21st Century. When Mark’s Gospel was written, there was no internet, Facebook or Twitter. Trading was done in marketplaces, not QVC, Amazon and Craig’s List. Communication was face to face, never by text, email or Skype. In the ancient world, answers took months. Today, we measure responses in nanoseconds.
The command remains the same, but how we do it in the post-modern world is very different. Learn how technology can help you get the Good News into the hands of those who need it most. This “hands-on” class covers web sites and social media such as Facebook & Twitter. We’ll also show how to get church events promoted by local newspapers, television and radio. Plus we’ll cover other communication applications like podcasting, blogging and Skype. Your Body: God’s Temple “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) The Scripture teaches our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. Nevertheless, the church for years has neglected to teach and admonish members to live this out. In this class, we will examine those scriptures teaching about care of the temple as well as looking at the practicalities of changing our lifestyles to create optimal health. Objectives of class: 1. Changing our view of the body, moving from apathy and shame to a view of stewardship 2. Learning the basics of healthy eating and cooking 3. Cultivating a lifestyle with mindful movement, exercise 101 for the very beginner to the advanced 4. Learning to relate to our culture and their broken views of the temple: anorexia, bulimia and eating addictions 5. Allowing God to heal our minds and spirits lead to a healthy body wholeness through God’s healing touch.■
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session, not offering answers but encouraging students to discuss alternatives derived from experience and conscience based on Scripture, Tradition and Reason.
ICS COURSE CATALOG
History The “Lay Institute” was founded in 1973 by a group of committed Episcopalians. The Church in Central Florida was experiencing renewal; people of the diocese were seeking sound biblical teaching, and a revival of the ancient order of the vocational diaconate was occurring. Today, the mission of ICS is the same: to provide adult Christian education and training for any interested person, training for aspirants to the diaconate, and continuing education for clergy. ICS offers a variety of courses. All courses offered are designed for Christian Education to strengthen and enhance lay and ordained ministry. Courses of study also prepare Lay Preachers and Lay Catechists for licensure. Courses are varied, interesting, challenging and inspiring. The one-day format makes it possible for the student to take for credit, or to audit, any course in any sequence.
Information & Guidelines
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Education Credits: Each ICS class provides 5 hours of continuing education credits for the Diocesan clergy to help fulfill their yearly requirements. Schedule: The class day begins with Holy Eucharist at 8:30 a.m., and concludes by 3:30 p.m. There are scheduled breaks during the morning and afternoon, in which coffee is available, and there is a 45 minute lunch break. Books: Required textbooks will be found on each course syllabus, which can be found on the ICS website. (To find the syllabi, go to cfdiocese.org, look under Programs/Places, click on ICS and they will be found on the left menu bar on the home page). Each student is responsible for obtaining the books required for the courses. Often these books can be borrowed from another student or from a local or parish library.
Registration: A registration form will be found on the last page of this catalog, on the ICS website or may be obtained by contacting the ICS office. Advanced registration is encouraged so that the student may obtain the class syllabus prior to the class. Syllabi are posted on the ICS website, www.cfdiocese.org/ ics. Students taking the course for credit will be expected to arrive for class prepared to participate in the class discussion, and to submit a written assignment. Students auditing the class will find it helpful to have read the reading assignments.
The Yergey Memorial Library: Students are encouraged to make use of the Yergey Memorial Library, located at the Cathedral, for study and research. The library offers a unique opportunity for students to further their knowledge and to avail themselves of the resources available.
Tuition and Fees: Students taking courses for credit: $45.00 per Saturday Students auditing courses: $35.00 per Saturday Students taking Special Workshops: $35.00 per Saturday
Grades: Formal grading of courses is on a Pass/Fail basis. Students who intend to take courses for credit and desire to receive a grade will be expected to demonstrate preparation prior to the class, participation in the class discussion, and the satisfactory completion of an assignment or project. In order for a student to receive credit, required assignments or projects are required to be in the instructor’s hands within 30 days following the class.
Lunch: Lunch can be purchased for an additional fee of $8.00, or the student may bring his/her own lunch. If you plan to purchase lunch, please let the dean know the week before so that she can give the caterer an accurate number. Location: Courses described in this catalog will be held at All Saints Church, 338 East Lyman Avenue, Winter Park, FL, (unless otherwise noted).
Student Records: The Institute keeps a record on each student who attends a course for credit. Students’ records are confidential.
Special Note: The ICS Commission strongly advises students in an ongoing program to seek regular counsel with a spiritual director. If you have a question about this, please see a faculty member or the dean.■
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ICS faculty with Take Shape for Life; MABS, Reformed Theological Seminary (5 hours pending)
BALLENTINE, Jabriel, Rector, Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist, Orlando; BS, University of Maryland; MDiv, Virginia Theological Seminary.
HOLT, Charles L., Rector, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Lake Mary; BA, University of Florida; MDiv, Seabury-Western Theological Seminary; Trained Mediator, Peacemaker Ministries and Institute of Christian Conciliation.
BARTLE, Edward B., Rector, St. Edward’s Episcopal Church, Mount Dora; BS, Rollins College; MS, Rollins College; MATS, Nashotah House.
HOOVER, Richard A.; Deacon, All Saints’ Episcopal Church, Lakeland; BA, Southwest Missouri State; Diploma, Institute for Christian Studies.
BORDIN, Richard F., Vicar, Holy Cross Church, Winter Haven; BA, University of North Florida; MDiv, Oral Roberts University; DMin, Drew University.
KIDD, Reggie M., Associate, The Cathedral Church of St. Luke, Orlando; Professor of New Testament, Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando; BA, The College of William & Mary; MAR & MDiv, Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia; PhD, Duke University
BOSSCHER, Molly, Chaplain, Sweetwater Episcopal Academy and Assistant, Church of the Resurrection, Longwood; BA, University of Virginia; MDiv, University of the South. BRATHWAITE, Christopher E., Rector, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, Haines City; BS, University of Phoenix; MATS, Asbury Theological Seminary; Diploma, Institute for Christian Studies.
MCCARTHY, Kevin W., Chief Leadership Officer, On-Purpose Partners; Author, The On-Purpose Person and On-Purpose Peace; BS, Lehigh University; MBA, The Darden School at the University of Virginia.
BRONOS, Sarah L., Rector, Church of the Good Shepherd, Maitland; MDiv, Nashotah House Theological Seminary.
MILLER, Debbie, LMHC, Certified Daring Way Facilitator and Consultant, Founder and Lead Therapist, Daring Soul Care, Orlando; BS, University of Maryland University; MA, Reformed Theological Seminary; Coursework Completed, The King’s Seminary; Pursuing DMin, Graduate Theological Foundation.
CLARK, Anthony, Dean, The Cathedral Church of St. Luke, Orlando; BA, Stetson University; MDiv, Virginia Theological Seminary.
NEWHART, David, Rector, St. Elizabeth’s Church, Sebastian; BS, Arizona State University; MDiv, Trinity Episcopal School for Ministry.
DE JESUS, Gerardo J., Assistant, St. Mary of the Angels, Orlando; BA, The Kings College; MDiv, Fuller Theological Seminary; PHD, The School of Theology at Claremont.
RUTHERFORD, Tom, Rector, Church of the Messiah, Winter Garden; BS, Middle Tennessee State University; MDiv, University of the South.
FOX, Loren C., Rector, Church of Our Savior, Palm Bay; BSEE, University of Rochester; MA(CCSP), Fuller Theological Seminary; MDiv, Trinity School for Ministry FRENCH, Jonathan D., Rector, Grace Church, Ocala; BA, University of Florida; MDiv, University of the South. HOLCOMB, Justin S., Canon for Vocations, Diocese of Central Florida; Adjunct Professor of Christian Thought, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary; BA, Southern University; MA (Theological Studies) and MA (Christian Thought), Reformed Theological Seminary; PhD, Emory University. HOLT, Brooke E., Owner of Cross Train, LLC; Certified USA Triathlon Coach; Certified USA Track and Field Coach; Certified Health Coach
SPARKS, Noy L., Priest-In-Charge, Christ Church, Longwood; Professor of Humanities, Valencia College, Orlando; BA, The Criswell College; MATS, Reformed Theological Seminary. SUERETH, Julia C., Mental Health Counselor Registered Intern, IMHC 6809; BS, New York University; MA, Asbury Theological Seminary. WALKER, D. Scott, Rector, St. Agnes Church, Sebring; BA, Southern Methodist University; MS, Baylor University Graduate School; MBA, Baylor University Graduate School; MA, Nashotah House Theological Seminary. WILLIAMS, Thomas. Deacon, Church Of Our Savior, Palm Bay. AAS, Monroe Community College; AB Morehead State University; MA, St. Bernard’s Institute.■
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ALDAY, Kristen N., Archdeacon, Diocese of Central Florida; Dean of ICS; BA, Rollins College; MA, Asbury Theological Seminary; Diploma, Institute for Christian Studies.
ICS COURSE CATALOG 2014 - 2015
Acts 2:42, The Fellowship of the Believers: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
AROUND THE DIOCESE These strong, optimistic pioneer families formally established a parish in 1853. The next 27 years would be incredibly difficult, as war was on the horizon. With the Civil War moving south it is a sad history. Services were suspended at Grace Church except for a few services in 1862 and 1863 in an effort to keep the church alive. Men went to war, women and slaves worked the farms. The schools were closed and so were the churches. It was not until 1866 that services resumed and Grace was reinstated in the diocese. After the war was over, slaves were free, and there was no one to work in the fields or harvest the crops. The aftermath of the war brought despair and economic ruin to Ocala. The missionary that had been visiting, Rev. Quimby, could no longer be supported. He continued to come anyway and kept the small flame that was Grace Church alive. It wasn’t until 1880 that better times began. The tenacity, endurance and faith of these Episcopal families must have been strong. They endured through lean times, a war, and an upheaval to their way of life. As things slowly improved, the Grace members started a building fund in 1875 and supported a missionary who would come to Ocala on a regular basis. In 1880 they built a simple church in downtown Ocala. After 31 long years they had a place in which to worship. The 1880s and into the early 1890s was a time of recovery and prosperity. Orange trees replaced previous crops and economic growth returned to the area. The church membership grew and the church had to be enlarged. Two side wings and a bell tower were added. In 1893 the membership could now afford a rector and a rectory was built down the street from the church. The Rev. Charles Gray was barely settled into the new rectory when disaster struck. In 1894 and 1895 there were devastating freezes that destroyed the orange crops and killed the trees. The economy suffered terribly as did attendance at Grace Church. The rector’s salary was cut drastically, almost in half. Even though he had a large family Rev. Gray stayed and continued to serve until things started to improve. Again a time of improvement returned after hardship. In 1902 the members purchased land and in 1905 the church was taken apart and reassembled 1/2 mile up a hill to its present location. The whole process took 5 months. Grace Church was still close to the downtown area, but had room
“This church was a special place of worship to those members. They were a downtown church and wanted to remain a downtown church.” to grow. Eventually the first rectory was sold and a new rectory was built beside the church. When I think about those early years and those members who came before me, I think their motto must have been Step Out in Faith. After the church and the rectory were in place, there were more difficult times ahead: World War I, The Great Depression, and World War II. When there was a need for a Parish House Rev. Pennington in the 1930s started collecting pennies and nickels from the children’s Sunday School classes. He used the coins to buy native limestone rock and had it delivered to the empty lot beside the rectory. The lot had been purchased in 1920 for a Parish House. The rock pile grew as the years went on, a visual symbol of the Parish House in the planning stages.
In 1943 the rectory was moved to the end of the block to make room for the Parish House. In 1948 the Parish House was finally built. The Rev. Pennington had left in 1936 and other rectors had come and gone. Twenty-eight years after buying the lot the church had a Parish House beside it, and that Parish House was built with the limestone that had been purchased with those pennies and nickels collected years earlier. The 1950s began a sustained period of growth for Grace Church. A school was started and proved to be successful. Improvements were made to the church and the first curate was hired. As the membership grew three services were scheduled. The pews were filled and parking was a problem. There was talk of increasing the size of the church or knocking down the church and building a larger church on the church property. Discussions went on for over 10 years. Finally, in September of 1966 the vestry passed a resolution stating they would buy land some distance from the downtown area and build a larger church with adequate parking and room to grow. Land was located, plans were drawn, permission from the diocese was obtained, and a buyer for the church and church property was found. In 1972 the papers were about to be signed. Some members objected and started making phone calls. Soon a meeting was called and the church was packed as the pros and cons of moving were discussed. The discussions grew heated and the hour grew late. A vote was taken and it was almost unanimous with one dissenting vote. There would be no more talk of moving. This church was a special place of worship to those members. They were a downtown church and wanted to remain a downtown church. The vestry was asked to find solutions to the problems and forget any plans of moving. I asked a friend, an older member who had been at the meeting that night, why through all those years no one had stood up and said, We don’t want to build a bigger church at another location. She said, “No one ever really thought they would sell the church and move across town.” I asked Fr. Al, who was rector at the time and had attended the meeting, what he thought. “It is simple,” he said, “God let us know what His plan was for Grace Church.” Grace Church remains a historic downtown church. So, thanks to the many members who preceded me. I still worship here, remember and am grateful to those who came before me. ■
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AROUND THE DIOCESE CONTINUED FROM THE FRONT COVER
CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN - OCTOBER 2014
Mary and Stephen with a friend who escaped the slums.
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Our normal day begins in the morning with prayer and devotion. We also set time aside for personal study especially in relation to our work. We consider this to the most crucial part of the day because it helps us to keep things in perspective. We need to remind ourselves who we are, why we are here and what we are doing. We leave for the streets after lunch when the children are up and about about the center. When we work in the evening, we leave after supper. All of us live in the center and we walk to work together. We choose a place in the streets near where the children are gathered and say a short prayer. Then we approach the children and sometimes we have to search for them. They are scattered all around the center and sometimes they might be hiding under highway bridges and even in manholes. When we find the children, it takes a while for them to warm up to us and start engaging in games and sports. This frequently depends on the type of drugs they have been using. It seems like the children have categorized us accordingly to certain activities. They always play badminton with our team leader and sometimes with me. They will only play a game of checkers with me (Stephen) and Mary is either doing their nails or playing the card game Uno. Sometimes they ask
A home in “Cracolandia.”
to read a part of the Bible to them. Strangely it is the older teens who ask us to read to them. While we play games with them we casually ask them questions about their day or sometimes just allow them to tell us about themselves and what they are thinking. More often than not, they tend to share personal things about their lives during these times. The older teens will sometimes ask our help to get their documents in order, which is quite a complicated process as well as intimidating if you don’t know all the necessary steps. Whenever they engage in activities with us, they are not allowed to use any drugs or inappropriate language. Getting them to stop sniffing paint thinner even for a short period is hard but we won’t do any activity with them unless they stop using it. Each time we do an activity with these young people, we are strengthening our bond with them. It opens the door to serious conversation sometime in the future. However, this might only happen five years down the road with the younger children. Right now it is happening with the older teens. They realize that they need to change their lifestyle and are more willing to ask our opinions. However, they will only do this with those whom they trust. Talking about change and asking for help is quite difficult for them. They want to make
sure that we won’t consider their plea for help as a sign of weakness. Every week we try to make a visit to the Juvenile Detention Center or a home/family. We only visit children and teens with whom we had contact through the street work. We consider this to be an extension of our ministry. Presently, our visits are restricted to Bruno who is still incarcerated and Yuri who has been living with his sister for almost a year now. In these visits, we do a short Bible study and talk about its life application. We found it best to read one of the gospels chapter by chapter and allow the themes to flow out of our readings. During these times, we found that the teens open up and share their fears and dreams. This is a more advanced phase of our evangelism. Our Fridays are set aside for group Bible study as well as a time to reflect on the events of the week. We also discuss during this time where our ministry is leading us. We also make ourselves available for hospital visits and emergencies throughout the week and where the children and teens can call us anytime or hour during the week for emergency help. A Place for the “Evertons” I don’t know when Everton came to the streets but our team leader has known him since he was
ten. He is nineteen now. He is shy and taciturn. He stutters when he speaks and unfortunately it earned him the nickname, “stutterer”. This is the harsh reality of the street. They make fun of one’s perceived weakness. No one in the streets knows him by his real name but he introduced himself as Everton when we first met. One day Mary saw him walking in the street alone. She called out his name to say hi and he turned around and smiled. He looked pleasantly surprised that we remembered his name. Everton has no family and he has no place to go. He told me once that he wants to have a small house even a small scrap wood shack to call home. He was tired of living in the streets. In his mind, a home and family come together and he wants both desperately. Yet he has never lived in a house for most of his life and he does not know anything about the responsibilities that come with it. The streets are full of Evertons. They are orphans who have never known what is like to live in a home. Most of them don’t even know how to sit at a table and eat with a family. We cannot preach the gospel of adoption and then turn around leave Everton, Igor, Bruno, and Caique to sleep in the streets. These are older teenagers and society does not look at them with compassion. People in general take pity on a young child but they tend to adopt
a cold and unfriendly stance towards the older teens. These teens are street smart, but they don’t know how to survive in the regular world. They are even afraid to get their regular documents. Some of them are ashamed of their lack of education. They really need someone or a community to help them. They need guidance like a little child and at the same time, they don’t want to be treated like one. They need fathers and mothers to help them. Getting all the necessary documents is an essential step in getting employment. As mentioned before, it is also quite a tedious task in Brazil. Usually parents would help their teenage children to work through the bureaucracy. We try to do this for our teens. In the process, we have discovered that most of them can hardly read or write. They are ashamed of this and they don’t want to be humiliated by this fact. Sometime they open up and share that they are afraid of their future and they think about death often. On our part, we are at a stage where we are willing to take the next step. This we believe is opening a halfway house or an educational/discipleship community where these teens could learn how to survive in the world. So far, none of the agencies that work in the streets are aware of the existence of such a house. It is going to be something new and we need to carefully plan our goals
WWW.CFDIOCESE.ORG - OCTOBER 2014
The slums of Sao Paulo.
and vision for it. It is not something that is going to happen in the near future. We need to grow in our numbers first. Right now, there are only three in the streets full-time. We need at least two more people to work with us full-time with a long-term commitment. We need time to stabilize our personal financial support before embarking on another project. This is the time to pray and plan for long-term as well as short-term goals for the house. Our ultimate purpose is to help these young people hear and discern the voice of the Holy Spirit within them. The halfway house must be a place where they can learn to do this. Support for Our Ministry São Paulo Mercy Ministry is a ministry of the Diocese of Central Florida and it is supported by contributions from the churches. This means that we depend on the churches to help us meet all our financial necessities. We don’t receive financial support if there are no contributions. We need about $40,000 per year to be able to do this work. This includes my pension, as well as housing and personal income. We need your financial participation to help us continue in this ministry. As of August, the ministry has received $20,000 in donations and we still need another $20,000 in order to meet our financial needs. We ask you to seriously consider becoming a partner with us individually or corporately as a church. The way to contribute to this ministry is through the diocese. We have individuals who contribute $25 monthly and we have churches who help us with $75-$100 per month. The important thing is that you participate in this ministry with us and the amount is not important as long as it is contributed with your prayers. One of the ways a church can participate is to organize a special fund raising event specifically for this ministry once a year and contribute the proceeds to this ministry. There is a Commission for Overseas Mission in this diocese that can help churches with ideas. We also ask to be included in your annual budget as an outreach ministry of your parish. It does not take much financially to participate in our ministry but it bears fruits that last for eternity. Please prayerfully consider and participate in this ministry. Please make your checks payable to DCF Missionary Outreach and send to: Diocese of Central Florida 1017 E. Robinson St. Orlando, FL 32801 I thank you for your prayers and continual support. God bless. Our e-mail address: Fr.StephenDass@gmail. com ( I appreciate e-mails and respond to them immediately) Blog: www.spmercyministry.com.■
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Parenting in the Pew Conference Guiding Your Children into the Joy of Worship
CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN - OCTOBER 2014
Noted author and speaker Robbie Castleman
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Friday, Oct. 24, 6:30pm, Dinner and Overview Saturday, Oct. 25, Conference 8:30am-3pm, Breakfast and lunch Included in cost: meals and snacks, books including Parenting in the Pew and childcare (limited to the first 100 children) Cost: $20 couple, $12 single during early registration until Oct. 3. After Oct. 3 $50 couple, $25 single Location: Agriculture Complex on Jacksonville Road Registration online at graceocala.org or more information 352-622-7881 Hosted by Grace Episcopal Church
Sharon Jones
The New ecc Director Sharon Jones
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haron Jones, Ph.D. has been appointed to serve as the Interim Executive Director of the Episcopal Counseling Center. In the late 1990’s she served as Executive Director of the ECC for a total of four years during which time the Center grew and expanded geographically. She opened the satellite office at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Melbourne and has worked there for almost 23 years. Sharon has a general practice in Melbourne with specialties in grief, trauma and crisis. She has a special ministry to first responders and is the psychological consultant for the Melbourne Police Department. A trainer for International Critical Incident Stress Foundation, she is on the NOVA Florida Crisis Response Team, Kennedy Space Center Crisis Response Team and Brevard County Crisis Response Team. In her community, she provides Continuing Education Opportunities to colleagues and a variety of workshops including Vestry Retreats and leadership forums. Sharon is a life-long Episcopalian and was baptized and raised as a member of the Cathedral Church of St. Luke in Orlando. She and her husband, Don, are the proud parents of two adult children and four wonderful grandchildren.â–
AROUND THE DIOCESE
The Course: Rio Pinar Golf Club, 8600 El Prado, Orlando, Florida 32825 / www.riopinar.com The rich history at Rio Pinar includes hosting the PGA Tour’s Citrus Open and the LPGA’s Women’s Citrus Open events from 1966 to 1982.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDE • Buffet Lunch $ 1,500 • Golf Beverage Cart $ 400 • Golf Towels $ 400 • Closest to the Pin (M/W) $ 200 • Longest Drive (M/W) $ 200 • Hole Sponsorship $ 100
If you or your company would like to sponsor one of the above items, contact Canon Anne Taylor at the Cathedral T: 407.849.0680 ext. 205 E: awesumanne@hotmail.com
& corporate sponsorships • Titanium Club $ 2,000 • Graphite Club $ 1,000 • Steel Club $ 750 • Wood Club $ 500
Your sponsorship is tax deductible. For information please contact Kathy Ori, Cathedral Administrator T: 407-849-0680 ext. 214 E: kori@stlukescathedral.org
congregation
See www.cfdiocese.org/Timothy for complete info on sponsorships, entry fees, prizes and more!
WWW.CFDIOCESE.ORG - OCTOBER 2014
5th Annual dean’s cup golf tournament
To benefit the Timothy Fund: “The purpose of the fund is to underwrite residential theological training for those seeking ordination to the priesthood. It has become clear that local option theological training is inadequate when it comes to providing high quality Anglican theological education. Distinctive Anglican formation is missing from
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CENTRAL FLORIDA EPISCOPALIAN 1017 E. Robinson Street, Orlando, FL 32801-2023
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EPISCOPALIAN
NEWS FROM THE EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA WWW.CFDIOCESE.ORG OCTOBER 2014 VOLUME 116, No. 8
Canterbury – Wingmann Sunday October 12, 2014 Canterbury – Wingmann Prayer: Almighty God, bless Canterbury Retreat and Conference Center and Camp Wingmann: make them places of spiritual renewal, Godly growth, refreshment and peace for your people, young and old. By your power make Camp Wingmann always to be a place for kids to come to have fun and grow in their faith in Christ; May your Holy Spirit guide Canterbury to greater mission and effectiveness for the expansion of your Kingdom, that people would come to know Jesus as Savior and Lord; through Jesus Christ Our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. AMEN Possible Insert for Bulletins Camp Wingmann and the Canterbury Retreat and Conference Center are valuable assets to the spiritual life of the Diocese of Central Florida. They are set apart as sacred spaces for the nurture of faith and equipping for ministry of the people of God, where youth and adults go to be renewed and refreshed in their relationship with Almighty God. They are places where Jesus is Lord and lives are changed. Camp Wingmann is the center for diocesan youth events with a growing and vibrant summer camp program. Children and youth come here to have fun and to learn to love Jesus and serve Him as Lord of their lives. Canterbury is the center of continuing education for clergy and lay leaders, hosts Cursillos, clergy conferences, and other retreats designed to help our people and churches grow. On this Sunday we celebrate the ministries of Camp Wingmann and Canterbury Retreat and Conference Center and ask God to continue to bless and prosper them that the Lord will use them so that many people old and young will be encouraged in their faith in Christ! How can you help? • Use the Wingmann - Canterbury Collect every Sunday in your church • Include both ministries in your daily prayers • Donate today and put your offering in the plate Vestries can designate for Camp Wingmann and Canterbury. • Put Camp Wingmann and Canterbury in your Church’s monthly or yearly outreach budget. • Attend events, send kids to camp • Ask about volunteer work days and projects For more information Camp Wingmann The Rev. Deke Miller 863-453-4800 dmiller.campwingmnn@gmail.com Canterbury Retreat and Conference Center The Rev. Jon Davis PhD 407-365-5571 jon@canterburyretreat.org
For more info, please go to www.campwingmann.org & click on the Events button