The Fall 2023 Messenger

The Messenger

Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal Church

Volume 70, No. 3

September–November | Fall 2023

This Issue is Packed with . . . A Day in the Life of the Flower Guild, How Special Friends Has Spiritually Impacted our Lives, Formation for All, Messages from the Rector & Associate Rectors, Community Engagement Opportunities, Friends of Music, Membership & Stewardship, GSL School News, and much more.

Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal Church Vision Statement

Our Vision is to be a thriving community of hope, belonging, and healing through worship, parish life, and service, and who rejoices in the love of Jesus to transform the world.

Hope and Peace through Life at GSL

Deep peace of the running wave to you. Deep peace of the flowing air to you.

Deep peace of the quiet earth to you. Deep peace of the shining stars to you.

Deep peace of the gentle night to you. Moon and stars pour their healing light on you.

Deep peace of Christ, of Christ the light of the world to you. Deep peace of Christ to you.

–A Gaelic Blessing

Every day on which we wake as God’s beloved, we are presented with the opportunity to offer gratitude and make supplications and intercessions to the One who created us and promises life. Followers of Jesus are called to seize the day and to enter increasingly more into a journey with God, who is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46).

I believe that directly or indirectly, spoken or unspoken, every member of the human family wants to have hope and seeks peace. The natural quest for hope and peace is intrinsic to wanting for ourselves and others the experience of what is good, right, just, joyful, and sustaining.

Grace-St. Luke’s continues to be faithful in a commitment to the mission of the church: to restore all people to unity with God and each other in Christ. Likewise, we offer a compilation of ministry programs that focus on our vision: to be a thriving community of hope, belonging, and healing through worship, parish life, and service, and who rejoices in the love of Jesus to transform the world. Hope and peace live at the root of all that we are and offer.

In this September–November 2023 issue of The Messenger and excerpts from the newly released Life at GSL Program Guide: Worship, Formation, Community, Music & More, look for a myriad of ways to engage and experience God’s abundance, especially offerings that bring parishioners and guests together for prayer, connection-making, encouragement, and service to others.

Thank you for investing time, talent, and treasure to ensure that GSL thrives. Walking by faith and not by sight, may the God within become embodied as our hope and peace, deep peace.

Godspeed, Ollie+ The

| orencher@gracestlukes.org

Inside this Issue

A Day of Dignity

A Day of Dignity with Dr. Beth-Sarah Wright for Grace-St. Luke’s Church and School, September 10: All are invited to a host of events on Sunday, September 10, featuring the giftedness of Atlantabased author, speaker, and co-founder of Thrive With Dignity, LLC, Dr. Beth-Sarah Wright. Through preaching at the 8 and 10:30 a.m. liturgies, a conversation at the 9:30 a.m. Rector’s Forum, and a noon Lunch and Learn Story Time for parents accompanied by children and youth (ages 4-18), Wright will bring insight to our baptismal covenant’s last vow: to respect the dignity of every human being. She is the author of two recent fast-selling books, DIGNITY: Seven Strategies for Creating Authentic Community and Meet Babs and her Beautifully Different Friend, and regularly is engaged by a variety of spaces as a thought leader. Wright will host a GSL School faculty and administration session on September 11. Spread the word about an incredible day in the life of GSL. Learn more at bethsarahwright.com. Sign up for the noon lunch and learn story time here: tinyurl.com/ GSLBethSarahWright2023.

We are all on a journey. Peace be with you on yours.

You have likely seen or heard about a labyrinth before, maybe in your studies, travels, or even here at GSL. But what is a labyrinth? Quite simply, it is a metaphor for the spiritual journey. It is found in many religious traditions and in various forms. The labyrinth at GSL is modeled on the one laid into the floor of Chartres Cathedral, France, in the thirteenth century. It was known as the “Journey to Jerusalem.” Believers walked it in lieu of an actual pilgrimage to the Holy Land. It is not a maze which has multiple paths with dead ends and confounding choices. A labyrinth is quite the opposite; it is a circling spiral, a clear path that invites you to walk in peace, to free your mind from clutter and choices, to calm your spirit, to strengthen awareness, and open one’s soul to God. It is walking prayer and meditation and meets one where they are on their journey.

Why do we walk it?

We are all on a journey. Grace-St. Luke’s vision and welcome reflects our quest and the faith community’s desire to be on a journey together: “We seek to serve God and our neighbor by welcoming into Grace-St. Luke’s parish all people who seek to love God and participate in an open and supportive community based upon the example and teachings of Jesus Christ. Honoring the vows of our Baptismal Covenant, we respect the dignity of every human person by welcoming and affirming all. We seek to become more fully loving and inclusive, so much that one has a clear feeling of belonging. We welcome all who wish to join us in this journey.” *

If you hunger for the spirit, are looking for a moment’s peace in a fractious world, if you’re straining to listen for the quiet still voice of God, walking the labyrinth is a way to pursue this.

How do we walk it? Are there any rules?

There is no one way to walk the labyrinth. First, everyone is welcome. It is open and available for all ages without regard to religious affiliation. Second, each experience is different. When children are present, it is often a more ‘kinetic’ experience than when adults walk it. Walking with others on the labyrinth is a form of group prayer and meditation and some find it amplifies their experience. Others like to linger until they are alone.

You may want to read the material on site as you prepare for your experience. In general, there are three phases to a typical walk. The first is letting go or shedding the details of worry of daily life. Some find a chant or recurring prayer helps to quiet them and focus. Others let their thoughts play themselves out on the walk. All of this quietens the mind and opens one up for the second stage, which may be called awareness or “illumination.” This is the center of the labyrinth, and it is a place of meditation and prayer. Some like to linger there. The third phase is your departure from the center, retracing your steps, and can be thought as “integration” or union with God. This is when one may become conscious of insights, relief, or peace. And as you exit, many offer some kind of acknowledgement of completion—a prayer, a bow, a deep breath of thanks, whatever seems right.

When you leave, you may want to record your insights or feelings in the journal offered by your fellow walkers. Pause and read them. They are windows into others’ journeys and may help you see more clearly your own path.

Please join us for one of our upcoming dates. This fall the labyrinth will be hosted monthly by various GSL ministries. Those details about individual dates are included in these pages of The Messenger under each ministry that is hosting.

Here is a snapshot of upcoming dates:

Saturday, September 9 (see p. 13)

Labyrinth hosted by the Children and Families Ministry

Wednesday, October 18 (see p. 17)

Labyrinth hosted by Wellness Ministry

Wednesday, November 15 (see p. 7)

Labyrinth hosted by the Music Department and Choir

Sunday, December 17

Labyrinth hosted by the Social Justice Ministry (Forum hour)

I am looking forward to walking with you as we listen to our life and what the Divine is speaking to us on our journey together. It is an honor and joy to share the journey with you all.

Peace, Laura+

The Rev. Laura F. Gettys Associate Rector for Community Engagement

901-252-6329 | lgettys@gracestlukes.org

* Grace-St. Luke’s Inclusion & Belonging Statement

An Exciting New Program Year

Dear friends,

It’s hard to believe that we’ve already reached the start of a new program year. We’re very excited about the programming and ministries that GSL is offering this fall. As part of our work with the consultant and the vestry’s work on strategic visioning, we’re trying to be more strategic in how we equip GSL members to be disciples of Christ, not just on Sundays, but every day of your lives out in the real world.

The fall Life at GSL issue tells you more about the opportunities to learn, to experience community with other GSL members, and to feed your spirit. Throughout the weeks ahead, please remember that your clergy are more than willing to meet with you whenever you might want to talk about your faith, your struggles, or your questions. Life is complicated. We’re here to help you sift through all that to find God.

Blessings,

Jesse+

The Rev. Dr. Jesse W.

Abell

Associate Rector for Pastoral Care

901-252-6330 | jesse.abell@gracestlukes.org

A Day in the Life of the Flower Guild

It was suggested that I write a “day in the life of Flower Guild” but I have trouble picking one day because the activity begins on Wednesdays of each week and goes until Saturday when flowers for Sunday are in place on the High Altar. Wednesday is when I come in with my husband to remove the dead flowers from the week before. We both look forward to Wednesday so that we can visit with Abby Huber and whoever happens to drop by while we are there. It helps us stay connected and, though we usually are only there for a very short time, we really feel that we are doing God’s work for that short time. Then comes Thursday.....That’s the day to make decisions on what flowers are available and the color of Altar cloth they have to go with. That’s the day that I visit our favorite folks at Garden District and prepare the order for delivery on Saturday morning. Erick New and his employees at Garden District have been the source of inspiration since the very beginning of the Flower Guild. Garden District knows our way of getting things done— not just on Sundays, but also weddings and funerals. They know us so well that they can remind me of changes. For example, we had one week when I didn’t know there was a funeral and ordered flowers only to have Erick to call me early in the morning to suggest that we didn’t need two orders because the Saturday morning funeral could serve both services.

Behind the scenes so many things are more complicated than they seem, and for that reason Flower Guild keeps me on my toes. I must admit that I love being involved in what I consider to be an important ministry and there are so many perks!  I have been there for a private organ rehearsal and visits with someone stopping by out of the blue to admire the church. I love the work of the Flower Guild and am often embarrassed at how little time it takes to give so much satisfaction.

–Submitted by Lynda Strickland

The Life at GSL Program Guide of Worship, Formation, Community, Music & More is a perfect resource and outline of what’s ahead. gracestlukes.org/life-at-gsl

Easter Day flowers on the altar. On the cover: Flowers from the altar on the Rev. Ollie V. Rencher’s 1st Sunday as rector at GSL, July 29, 2018.

How Special Friends Fellowship Has Spiritually Impacted Our Lives

Back in 2014, when I completed my Education for Ministry course at GSL, one of the final exercises was Lee Nix asking me repeatedly, “What do you want?” I had signed up for the classes mainly to make new friends in my new parish, and was definitely more interested in the Education part than the Ministry part! The only answer I could come up with was that I wanted everyone to find a place where they felt loved and wanted in the Episcopal Church, although I probably didn’t phrase it that clearly.

My son, Walker, as most of you know, has Down Syndrome, and finding a place for him has not always been easy.

If you fast forward a few years, Walker was abruptly informed that he had become too old for the fellowship program that he had come to love in another church, and he was heartbroken; so as his mom, I was heartbroken too.

A few days later, about three fifteen a.m., something I believe was God calling me, woke me up rather abruptly, and I went to my computer and wrote a proposal for an Episcopal Fellowship group for special needs adults. I ran this proposal by a couple of friends and a couple of clergy, and then sent it to the bishop, because everyone seemed to think it was a really great idea.

Now, some eight years later, I find myself with a ministry to twenty-five or thirty absolutely marvelous special needs adults, their families, and sometimes their partners and their pets. And it’s the most rewarding job I’ve ever had. I don’t get paid to do this job, except with hugs and shouts of “Ms. Janie!” everywhere I go, nor do I expect to be fired anytime soon.

If you want to know more about us, check out our Facebook page, Special Friends Fellowship Club or Special Friends Quarantine Support, and join us for supper, spiritual growth and some hugs either individually or when it’s GSL’s Sunday to visit! You can contact me via Realm (tinyurl.com/RealmJanieMorris).

–Submitted by Janie Morris

While summer sometimes brings a slower pace and more casual vibe, the good folks of Grace-St. Luke’s have kept things buzzing with worship, fellowship, ministry, and fun! Thanks to your service, gifts, and presence, this summer we enjoyed fun-filled weeks of Vacation Bible School with more than 50 children attending, we provided our MTAM guests much-needed respite from the heat and nutritious meals, and we worshipped together (8 and 10:30’ers united!) in combined services. We’re so grateful to all of you for including us in your summer plans and for continuing to support our parish financially throughout the year.

In addition to your yearly pledged gifts that support parish ministries, planned gifts are an essential part of Grace-St. Luke’s continued vitality. This summer, we were both humbled and exceedingly grateful to have received a transformative gift from the estate of Anne and Jim Beaty. Longtime parishioners, Jim served on the vestry and as an usher while Anne was a faithful part of the Episcopal Churchwomen and stations of the cross. For just a glimpse into their vibrant personalities, you need look no further than their church directory photo. It’s perhaps the most aptly representative directory photo in GSL history!

In a letter of thanks to their family, Bob King, 2023 Chair of the Grace-St. Luke’s Endowment Committee, expressed our deep appreciation for Anne and Jim’s extraordinary generosity:

Christians routinely pray in hopes that God finds favor with the message. We pray to give thanks for life’s blessings, loved ones, strangers, strength, peace, health, and more. It’s what Christians do, and then we wait for the blessings.

The Endowment Committee begins most meetings with prayers of thanks for the donations, for guidance as we are the stewards of the endowment funds, and for the endowment to grow through wise investments. Our mission is to protect and build the endowment so it can help Grace-St. Luke’s answer other prayers of need. We rejoice when the stock and bond markets yield an even tiny increase in the fund value. Prayers answered with a blessing. Alternatively, we are saddened and take protective measures when the markets are volatile and endowment funds erode. Prayers unanswered or answered with a hard-to-understand blessing.

And then there are the best blessings of all, like the gift from the Beaty Estate. It is an unexpected blessing that creates an exceptional moment for appreciation from the church and from our committee. A blessing that creates an opportunity for Grace-St. Luke’s to answer more calls of need, while strengthening the very foundation of the endowment itself. The unexpected blessings are the best blessings of all. We are thankful for the wonderful, unexpected blessing and acknowledge the love and commitment to Grace-St. Luke’s from Anne, Jim, and the extended Beaty family.

Anne and Jim’s gift along with others large and small are held in trust in Grace-St. Luke’s endowment fund. These thoughtful gifts form a firm foundation for our parish to develop and enhance ministries and properties beyond what is possible through our annual operating budget. For more information on making a planned gift to Grace-St. Luke’s please visit gracestlukes.org/plannedgiving.

Thanks be to God, thanks be to you, and thanks be to Anne and Jim!

Chapman Morrow

Membership

and Stewardship Associate

901-252-6328 | cmorrow@gracestlukes.org

Jim & Anne Beaty and Lilly

Friends of Music Update

Dear Friends of Music, I’m thrilled to begin my FIFTH year at Grace-St. Luke’s! Time really does fly when you’re having fun. It’s going to be a really wonderful season full of some really incredible musical opportunities. We’ll kick off the season with Choral Evensong with the Grace-St. Luke’s Choir on Sunday, September 17. In October, we’ll celebrate the Feast of St. Luke and host guest Choirmaster-Organist, Dr. Maxine Thèvenot, Canon Precentor and Director of Music & Organist at the Cathedral of  St. John in Albuquerque, New Mexico. And in November, the Grace-St. Luke’s Choir will join with the Choir of Calvary Episcopal to offer a Requiem Eucharist, Maurice Duruflé’s, Requiem. One of the most profound and emotional pieces of music ever written, Duruflé’s Requiem is not something to be missed. I hope you’ll consider joining our “Friends of Music Guild” which helps us financially support these programs and future concerts coming up later in 2023 and 2024.

Dr. Patrick A. Scott, Director of Music and Organist

901-252-6323 | pscott@gracestlukes.org

Labyrinth hosted by the Music Department and Choir

The Grace-St. Luke’s choir will offer an opportunity for people to walk the labyrinth in Trezevant Hall on Wednesday, November 15, at 5:30 p.m. Because the labyrinth is modeled after the very famous 13th century labyrinth at Chartres Cathedral, it seems appropriate to have music from the same period quietly accompanying this event. A recording of the 12th century Cistercian plainchant we will be using is available at youtu.be/BWQtArnPwGg. For nearly a thousand years, the walking of the labyrinth and the singing of plainchant have been used to enhance meditation and instill a feeling of peace and timelessness. At the November 15 event, music director Patrick Scott and several choir members will be available to welcome guests and answer questions about the process. People are welcome to come and go during the 5:30-6:30 period. –Submitted by Patricia Gray

Adult Formation

gracestlukes.org/adult-formation

Sunday Morning Formation

September 3, Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost Rector’s Forum: Suspended until September 10. Enjoy fellowship and community in Trezevant Hall.

September 10, Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Rector’s Forum: Reflections on Dignity with Dr. BethSarah Wright. Author, speaker, and co-founder of Thrive With Dignity, LLC, Dr. Wright is Director of Enrollment Management at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School in Atlanta and an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Emory School of Medicine. She brings significant insight into the last vow of the Baptismal Covenant: to respect the dignity of every human being. Originally from Jamaica and having lived and studied worldwide, she holds degrees from Princeton, Cambridge, and New York universities and bears incredible stories and wisdom. Dr. Wright will preach at the morning liturgies, offer a lunch-and-learn for parents, and host a continuing education event for GSL School Faculty on Monday. [bethsarahwright.com]

September 24, Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost. Rector’s Forum: Strategic Plan Town Hall Meeting with Consultant Katie Spencer. Gather with the GSL parish community for our consultant to share remarks from the 275 responses to the summer survey, facilitate conversation, and articulate next steps for five-year plan development. | An Instructed Eucharist follows at the 10:30 liturgy to help unpack and explain the Liturgy of the Word and why Episcopalians worship the way that we do.

Small Group Bible Study facilitated by Lay Leaders, Peete Room

October 1, Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Rector’s Forum: The Meaning and Practice of Baptism in the Episcopal-Anglican Tradition with GSL Clergy. With the adoption of the “new” Book of Common Prayer edition in 1979, the Episcopal Church sought to emphasize the importance of Baptism in the way it lived, worshipped, and did business. Join the GSL Clergy in a conversation about why Baptism is such a big deal in the life of a Christian and how we can enrich our lives by delving into the Baptismal Covenant. | An Instructed Eucharist at the 10:30 liturgy to help unpack and explain the Liturgy of the Table and why Episcopalians celebrate Communion the way that we do.

September 17, Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Rector’s Forum: Education and Equity in Memphis: A Past, Present and Future Look with Cardell Orrin (Stand for Children: stand.org/tennessee) and Dr. Russ Wigginton (National Civil Rights Museum: civilrightsmuseum.org) moderated by Tomeka Hart Wigginton (Schott Foundation: hschottfoundation.org). Mindful of the complexity, challenges, and opportunities for education systems in our region, a panel of well-versed community leaders will provide insight, answer questions, and encourage faith-based actions to become a part of the solution to a longstanding issue.

Small Group Bible Study facilitated by Lay Leaders, Peete Room

October 8, Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Rector’s Forum: The Meaning and Practice of Holy Communion and the Eucharistic Presence of Christ in the Episcopal-Anglican Tradition with GSL Clergy. Every Sunday, we gather at GSL to worship together using the Eucharistic liturgy and we receive Holy Communion. Join the GSL Clergy in a conversation about why Anglicans/Episcopalians believe Communion is so important and learn how you can deepen your own faith through this important Sacrament.

Small Group Bible Study facilitated by Lay Leaders, Peete Room

gracestlukes.org/adult-formation

October 15, Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost | Feast of Saint Luke (October 18 transferred). Rector’s Forum: Finding Time for the Timeless: Spirituality in the Workweek with GSL member and author John McQuiston. Author, GSL member, and attorney John McQuiston believes that one can practice spirituality in a culture where work has become a religion. Finding Time for the Timeless: Spirituality in the Workweek (2012) is a short collection of real-life examples, which offer refreshing stories of everyday spiritual practices people can use to free themselves from the work-and-worry mindset of today’s culture. Drawing from the experiences of others, it shows how to refocus and enrich daily life with spiritual practice. Full of insight and inspiration, it helps to empower people of all stages to see how even the busiest workweek can include spiritual habits and routine. The book is available through local or online booksellers. If this topic resonates with you, come for a conversation between McQuiston and Father Ollie Rencher and bring others.

Small Group Bible Study facilitated by Lay Leaders, Peete Room

October 22, Twenty-first Sunday after Pentecost | Wellness & Recovery Sunday. Rector’s Forum: The Power of Spirituality With or Without God with the Very Rev. Ward B. Ewing. Ewing of Ten Mile, TN, retired in 2010 after 31 years serving congregations and 12 years as Dean of The General Theological Seminary of the Episcopal Church, from which Fathers Richard Lawson and Ollie Rencher graduated. He is the author of several theology and spirituality books, including Twelve Steps to Religionless Spirituality: The Power of Spirituality with or without God (2021). Ewing offers, “At a time when more and more people identify themselves as spiritual but not religious and the traditional religious institutions are in decline in Western culture, Twelve Step spirituality provides insights that can assist in the renewal and reinvigoration of our churches, synagogues, and mosques. In our time of dramatic social polarization, it can provide a foundation for bridging differences.” Dean Ewing also will preach at the morning services.

October 29, Twenty-second Sunday after Pentecost | 2024 Stewardship Campaign Launch. Rector’s Forum: Faith and Journalism Conversation with Retired Sports and New Venture Columnist Geoff Calkins. Succeeding graduation from Harvard College and Law School and practicing law

in Washington, D. C., Calkins worked as a columnist at the Commercial Appeal and The Daily Memphian and has been lauded several times as the best sports columnist in the country. He is the author of After the Jump: Columns on the Best 20 Years in Memphis Sports (2016) and was featured in the 2022 Calvary Lenten Preaching series. Inspired by his great uncle, the Rev. Raymond Calkins (Cambridge, MA), he is a person of faith who cares about the stories unique to those about whom he writes. | Day highlights investing in GSL through Every Member Canvass 2024, a call for 100% participation in pledges of time, talent, and treasure to support and sustain the parish.

November 5, All Saints’ Sunday: Twenty-third Sunday after Pentecost | Baptisms. Rector’s Forum: How Human Goodness Demonstrates the Existence of God with the Rev. Dr. Rob MacSwain. Earning degrees from Liberty University, Princeton Theological Seminary, University of Edinburgh, Virginia Theological Seminary, and University of St. Andrew’s, Dr. MacSwain has served since 2009 on the faculty at Sewanee’s School of Theology. This All Saints’ Sunday conversation will highlight his teaching and research, combining philosophy, theology, ethics, literature, and spirituality, and will invite the audience to reflect on “saints” and how the reality of God is revealed through human goodness. Dr. MacSwain also will preach at the morning services.

November 12, Twenty-fourth Sunday after Pentecost. Rector’s Forum: Memphis Feeding Initiatives: A Response to Food Insecurity with Community and GSL Leaders. In response to the Gospel charge for the Church to feed the hungry, GSL’s Food Pantry (since 1975) and More Than A Meal (since 2001) are among several regional organizations making an impact on the hunger experienced by neighbors from all walks of life. Small and large agencies are paying attention to the dire situation of food insecurity and are enlisting a host of volunteer adults, youth, and children. GSL ministry leaders will be joined by guest community leaders to share key facts and stories and how you can help in a variety of ways. [gracestlukes. org/outreach]

Small Group Bible Study facilitated by Lay Leaders, Peete Room

Adult Formation

gracestlukes.org/adult-formation

November 19, Twenty-fifth Sunday after Pentecost | 2024 Pledge Consecration & Honoring Thanksgiving Day 1940

Rector’s Forum: The Theology and Power of Prayer with the GSL Clergy. Individual and corporate prayer has existed since the beginning of creation and has been an integral part of life for the whole human family. People of faith and those who often profess to have no faith commonly speak about and/or practice prayer in a variety of ways. Explore with the parish clergy and fellow parishioners the theology and power of this historical spiritual custom commonly defined as a “conversation with God.” | All liturgies highlight Thanksgiving Day 1940 when Grace and St. Luke’s Churches merged and celebrate time, talent, and treasure pledges given to the glory of God to support parish life in 2024.

Small Group Bible Study facilitated by Lay Leaders, Peete Room

November 26, Last Sunday after Pentecost: Christ the King 9:15-10:15 Intergenerational Advent Wreath-Making in Trezevant Hall.

Small Group Bible Study facilitated by Lay Leaders, Peete Room

Small Groups

“Trusting Jesus” with Dr. Mitzi Minor, Memphis Theological Seminary Mary Magdalene Professor of New Testament

WEDNESDAYS, August 23, 30, and September 6, 6–7 p.m., in Trezevant Hall

We’ve often heard in church about “having faith” that Jesus is the “divine Son of God” or that “he died for our sins” or believing some other doctrinal claim. But the New Testament more often calls us to another understanding of what it means to “trust Jesus.” The class will explore this different New Testament perspective and how it might impact our spiritual journeys, so bring a Bible. Registration requested by the Sunday before each session: tinyurl.com/GSLTrustingJesus2023

“The Book of Psalms: Experiencing the Seasons of Life” with Dr. Dan Pigg

WEDNESDAYS, September 20, 27, and October 4, 6–7 p.m., in the Peete Room

GSL member Dan Pigg, PhD, EdD, is UTAA Distinguished Service Professor at the University of Tennessee at Martin. He shares that few books in the Bible have been more important to the synagogue and church as has the Book of Psalms. Vital to Episcopal worship in all our services, the Psalms speak about the individual and corporate encounter with God. In our study, we will examine how the psalm types of hymn, thanksgiving, lament and petition, and wisdom speak to the religious life of Ancient Israel, the Christian Church, and the contemplative person today. Participants should bring a Bible and resources for personal notetaking. Registration requested by the Sunday before each session: tinyurl.com/GSLBookofPsalms2023

Spirituality and Symbol with The Rev. Dr. Jesse Abell

THURSDAYS, October 19, 26, and November 2, 10–11 a.m., in the Peete Room

The Bible, as well as the Church’s prayers, are filled with rich imagery and symbolism to describe the mystery of God and the way of Christian life. Join Fr. Jesse Abell as we learn a process for unpacking these images and then use them as tools for meditation and prayer. Registration requested by the Sunday before each session: tinyurl.com/GSLSpiritualityandSymbol2023

Weekday Bible Study with the GSL Clergy

THURSDAYS, November 9, 16, and 30, 10–11 a.m., in the Peete Room

Join the GSL Clergy as we look to the Sunday lectionary readings and explore what those biblical texts mean for us as Christians today. Please bring your favorite Bible along with you, but extra Bibles will be available to those who need to borrow one. We also recommend a note pad and pen for making notes. Registration requested by the Sunday before each session: tinyurl.com/GSLClergyBibleStudy2023.

Daytime Book Group hosted by Janie Morris and Carol Ann Mallory

SECOND THURSDAYS, September–May, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m., in the Main Floor Lounge

Bring your lunch if you like. No obligations or requirements, just show up if you read the book, are thinking of reading the book, or just want company with others who loves books. To learn more or add your name to the mailing list, contact Janie Morris (tinyurl.com/RealmJanieMorris) or Carol Ann Mallory (tinyurl.com/RealmCarolAnnMallory) via Realm or through the church office (901-272-7425). The reading list for 2023-2024 is found at gracestlukes.org/gsldaytime-book-group.

Men’s Morning Fellowship

THURSDAYS, September 7–May 23, 7–7:45 a.m., in the Main Floor Lounge

Always-open community for a conversation about spiritual growth, faith and doubt, current events and concerns, intellectual stimulation, and thoughtful living in a fast world. Each begins and ends with prayer. For more information, contact Doug Duncan (through Realm) or Fr. Ollie Rencher (orencher@gracestlukes. org or 901-252-6320) or visit gracestlukes.org/mens-fellowship

News from GSL School

By the time you read this, school will be back in session at GSL! We had a great summer, but we are so happy to be back in action doing what we love best. SummerFest 2023 was a blast, with hundreds of children from GSL and all around the area enjoying a wide variety of weekly day camps and fun pool time on our campus. We also relaunched an important GSL tradition this year—the summer trip to Europe! We sent 14 of our rising 8th graders and recent graduates through Italy (Venice, Florence, Assisi, and Rome) with teachers Juan Roncal and Marti McCloud; they had an amazing experience they will never forget.

In August we reunited with returning faculty and new teachers during our Opening Eucharist and busy Inservice Week, and we were delighted to welcome families to campus on August 14. Our All-School Opening Convocation on August 18 was a festive and celebratory affair, with the entire student body gathering together in the church, even our youngest Little Lukers! That event was soon followed by our annual Lead Donor Party, Episcopal School Sunday, auditions for the fall Middle School musical, a busy Back-to-School Night for parents, Student Council campaigning, and much more. We are excited about what’s ahead for our outstanding students.

In Admissions news, some 80 new families joined our community for the 2023-24 school year, and we will have 450+ total students on campus in Preschool, Lower School, and Middle School. We always do our best to accommodate families who relocate here after school starts, and there are openings in select grade levels for qualified applicants. We also began accepting applications for the 2024-25 school year on August 1, and we’ll have a Preschool Preview Day for interested parents on Saturday, November 11, so please tell your friends with young children to plan on visiting GSL! Your positive word-of-mouth is an incredible marketing tool, and we all know that an educational experience grounded in the Episcopal tradition is the best! You may direct any inquiries to Head of School Andy Surber or Director of Enrollment Shelly McGuire at 901-278-0200. Thank you, as always, for helping share the word about our wonderful Episcopal school with your friends and family.

Upcoming Events & School Holidays

Sept. 4: Labor Day; School Closed

Sept. 5–22: P.A. Fall Wrapping Paper Fundraiser; see our social media for details (facebook.com/gslschool)

Sept. 22: Parent-Teacher Conferences; No School for Students

Oct. 2–6: Fall Break; School Closed

Nov. 6: Faculty/Staff Professional Day; School Closed

Nov. 6–12: P.A. Fundraiser at Novel; see our social media for details

Nov. 13–Dec. 11: Annual StudentLed Food Drive at GSL

Nov. 21: Grandparents’ Day Noon Dismissal

Nov. 22–24: Thanksgiving Break; School Closed

This year GSL relaunched its annual trip to Europe, sending 14 students and two teachers on a fantastic tour of Italy this summer! Our travelers saw the Colosseum and the Vatican, took a gondola ride, saw a glass-blowing demonstration, experienced gladiator school, and much more! Pictured here are teachers Marti McCloud and Juan Roncal with students Talat, Wren, Eddie, Gates, Lucy, Ruby, Joan, Will, Harrison, Jake, Stephan, Jackson, Bella, and Stella.

Children & Family Ministry

gracestlukes.org/childrens-formation

What to Expect When Expecting . . . Children to Participate in Worship

It was a powerful corporate offering of the Prayers of the People. Our hearts have been lifted up as one baptized and blessed community to God and we are connecting spiritually in a way that is often rare in our busy and full modern lives.

Children and the Liturgy

Expectation 1: We expect that it is harder on children during most worship liturgies than on adults.

Developmentally, though all children are unique and do not share the same neurotypical age attention span, children between the ages of 4–11 are able to focus on a task for an average of nine minutes (at the higher end). Adults, by comparison, on average, can attend to something or someone for 30–50 minutes. A typical service of Holy Communion lasts from 60–75 minutes. Additionally, pre-readers are unable to read the leaflet or hymnal. I know when I think about this it makes me more compassionate and, in fact, I admire the way so many of our children are present during Mass.

Expectation 2: We expect that children are full members of the Church, members of the whole Household of Faith.

All of a sudden, sound enters a space, the silence is interrupted. Our youngest siblings in faith have reentered after Children’s Chapel and are returning to color the Children and Youth Worship Bulletin or use a focus tool (cube, bag of themed animals, or people), prayer beads or finger labyrinths, or to read an ageappropriate Bible or spiritual story from our worship center for children and youth in the Narthex. The sounds are disruptive, they continue in spurts. Some of us are pulled from the Presence of a few moments ago, others of us return and hear the sounds, echoes of the Presence, but in a different way. What is the difference? We are each so unique that an answer might be silly. Since I have rarely been accused of seriousness, I hazard that much of our response to the presence of children during the Liturgy is related to expectations. I hope to honestly set some expectations that might be tried on as we invite, welcome and connect with more children and youth at GSL this fall. Whether you love the “noise” children bring or not, I hope no one will feel shame regardless of how they feel, as the poet Solmaz Sharif says in their lovely poem “Self-Care,” ‘have you finally stopped shoulding on yourself?’

Expectations can either lead to simmering resentment (if expectations are not shared or are slighted) or lead to growing relationships (if expectations lead to responsibilities, to healthy responses). While there is certainly more to expect when expecting children in church, I wanted to share two responses that we as a parish might try on (like a warm sweater) as we grow together in faith, hope, and love (reminding each other that “the greatest of these is love”).

Response 1: We learn how to breathe deeply. In Genesis 2, the breath of God animates the “human from the hummus,” and they become living beings. When the last breath leaves our lungs, we return to God and the ground from which we came. Breathing, every breath between birth and death is gift. One gift we can give ourselves, parents, and our children is to learn how to soothe the frustration or disruption of the spirited, rambunctious, beloved children that they can reveal in us. A few deep breaths go a long way to opening space in our hearts, which makes worshiping with children, even the most brave, brazen, and boisterous, possible. Try it and you might be pleasantly surprised!

“Boom, boom, clatter, clatter!”

gracestlukes.org/youth-formation

From the Youth Formation Associate

Hi all, my name is Jess Steenbergen, and I am the new Youth Formation Associate at Grace-St. Luke’s. I worked at GSL in 2018 and am so excited to be stepping back into this role and reconnecting with you, the outstanding youth, and the families of GSL. I have been busy this Summer preparing our youth programming for this year, including forma-

tion classes on Sunday mornings and EYC meetings on Sunday afternoons. To stay up to date on all things GSL youth, follow our Instagram (@gsl.youth) and be on the lookout for emails from me.

The following are some of our upcoming events:

9/3: No EYC

9/10, 17, & 24: EYC at GSL 4–6 p.m.

10/1: Diocesan Youth Event:

Fall Festival location TBD

10/8: No EYC

10/15, 22, & 29: EYC at GSL 4–6 p.m.

11/5: Diocesan Youth Event:

Campout at St. Columba

11/12, 19, & 26: EYC at GSL 4–6 p.m.

Jess Steenbergen, Youth Formation Associate

901-252-6339 | jsteenbergen@gracestlukes.org

Children’s Formation continued

Response 2: We “remember you are baptized and give thanks.” Baptism changes things. While the depths of our catholic understanding of Holy Baptism are too deep to explore here, Martin Luther’s refrain: “Remember you are baptized and give thanks,” is something we as a parish can learn from. When faced with choices, when faced with sickness, even in the valley overshadowed by death, Luther said we could remind ourselves of our identity as members of the family of God, the community of all the baptized. And all the rights, privileges, and developmentally appropriate responsibilities that all the baptized share, also belong to our children. Our children belong to God and God’s family. They are not nuisances, inconveniences (despite some appearances); they are worshippers. The Church’s response to our wee worshippers is patient, loving, care-full inclusion. We show them how to find hymns, how to kneel, bow to the cross, stand as the cross passes, and so much more. And we learn from them: “Unless you become like children, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.” As families minister to their children, as families and children minister to the larger parish, I hope and pray we all support one another in navigating life together.

Anthony Calzia, Director of Children, Youth, and Family Ministry | 901-252-6321 | acalcia@gracestlukes.org

Children and the Labyrinth: A Fall Adventure

September 9, 3:30-5 p.m.

“A Child, a Labyrinth and the Holy Spirit Walk into a Bar…” Okay, they don’t really walk into a bar, nor do I think children should frequent or even go to bars (monkey bars excepting, of course). I do, however, believe in the power of a good joke, in the power of stories and the power of words to shape our world. So, a few words about our children and family labyrinth time in September and how the Holy Spirit can be at work in “the least of these, my siblings…” (Matthew 25:40)

I would start by explaining what a Labyrinth is, and the Rev. Laura Gettys has offered a clear, informative and exciting article in this edition of The Messenger on page 3. You will not regret taking the time to read it. Instead, I will say that at our first labyrinth walk, we will learn about breathing and its importance, practice some Centering Prayer (Yes, even 4-year-olds can be introduced and grow in Centering Prayer), and walk the labyrinth together. We may also break the silence to explore how the labyrinth can be both a quiet place and a place of joyful noises! There will be snacks and drinks. While there will be structured activity, there will also be space for parents and children to simply explore. Please plan on attending and contact Anthony at acalzia@gracestlukes.org for more information!

Social Justice

gracestlukes.org/social-justice

So what is this MICAH Public Meeting?

“You may have seen announcements about the MICAH (Memphis Interfaith Coalition for Action & Hope) Public Meeting on Sunday, August 27, from 4–6 p.m. at New Sardis Baptist Church. You may have thought something like: “MICAH is having a meeting that is open to the public. That is nice, but doesn’t seem very interesting—aren’t most MICAH meetings open to the public?” It isn’t obvious from the name, but the MICAH Public Meeting is not a meeting between MICAH representatives and the general public. It is a central function of MICAH in its efforts to influence public policy.

The MICAH Public Meeting is a once-a-year meeting between MICAH and public officials and candidates. In this meeting, MICAH:

• Reported its accomplishments for the previous year

• Detailed its goals for the upcoming year

• Asked officials and candidates to commit to supporting specific MICAH goals that pertain to the official or candidate’s office

The last of these is the most important. The source of MICAH’s power to influence public policy to the good is rooted in MICAH’s ability to energize voters to support candidates aligned with MICAH’s goals. One of the main ways that MICAH demonstrates its influence to the officials and candidates is by attendance at the yearly Public Meeting. The officials can estimate the influence and energy that MICAH has by looking at the size of the crowd at the meeting. If only a few people attend, then either MICAH does not have much influence, or the issues are not very important to MICAH’s partner organizations. However, if there is large and enthusiastic attendance, this tells the officials that the issues that MICAH is asking about are ones that are of great concern to MICAH’s partners and the general public, so they better pay attention if they want to keep the public happy.

As one of Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal Church’s delegates to Memphis Interfaith Coalition for Action and Hope, I ask that you show your support for MICAH’s social justice mission. If you missed this year’s meeting, consider attending next year—I am sure we will still need you. If you would like to know more about what MICAH is doing, talk with me (Murray McKay), Barb Frazer, or the Rev. Laura F. Gettys, or sign up for the MICAH newsletter at the QR code shown. Thanks!

–Submitted by Murray McKay

Food Pantry Ministry News

Fall Greetings from the GraceSt. Luke’s Cooking teams. Our cooks come from churches and places of worship all over the city—shout out to Church of the Good Shepherd especially for their strong presence. Volunteers continue to work fervently to fill GSL freezers with healthy meals for our brothers and sisters in Christ. Teams continue to cook once every six weeks to prepare a variety of recipes to feed 140 Church Health patrons each week. Since January 1, 2023, 3,500 individuals have received these tasty, nutritious meals.

Many thanks to Palazola Produce and Cash Saver for continuing to support the food pantry by providing fresh produce and dry ingredients each week for our recipes. These amazing sponsors help us to reduce food cost and meet the needs of our food insecure neighbors.

Cheers to the cooking team volunteers from Grace-St. Luke’s and Church of the Good Shepard that attended a Safe Food Handler workshop offered by Clean Memphis in partnership with the Shelby County Health Department this past June. Our instructor, Yolanda, made learning about safe food handling, temperatures, and storage fun as well as interesting. After completing the workshop, each participant earned a food safety certificate.

In July, a food drive was held to collect food items low in fat, salt, and sugar. Thank you to everyone who donated items to GSL’s Food Pantry. These products were used to make care packages for individuals who come to GSL’s office seeking food assistance.

If you are interested in fun and fellowship while serving others, this ministry offers that!! If you would like to join a cooking team, lead a cooking team, and/or distribute meals to Church Health patrons, please reach out to Congregational Life Associate/Assistant to the Rector Abby Huber (ahuber@gracestlukes.org) or Jerry Hudson through Realm (tinyurl.com/RealmJerryHudson). We look forward to hearing from you!!

–Submitted by Amy Hudson

Church of the Good Shepherd Team

Grace-St. Luke’s Team

Team members hard at work chopping and pouring

gracestlukes.org/athletics

Important Sports Information for the Fall

Fall Soccer & Flag Football—What to Expect for Parents

Visit gracestlukes.org/youthsoccerandfootball or download here: gracestlukes.org/assets/2822/top_10_list_fall_soccer_and_flag_football_parents_2023.pdf

Basketball Registration Open

September 1-30

JK–4th Grades Online Basketball Registration is open September 1–30.  Please visit https://www.gracestlukes.org/ youthbasketball and click on the registration link to register your child. Remember registration fills up quickly and is on a first-come, first-served basis.  Please register sooner than later.

Basketball—What to Expect for Parents

Visit gracestlukes.org/youthbasketball or download here: gracestlukes.org/assets/2822/top_10_list_ basketball_2023-2024_parents.pdf

GSL Church Youth Basketball Skill Assessment

It’s basketball season and to get started we include a Basketball Skill Assessments part of the registration process. This is for 1st–4th Grades ONLY and is required for children who register to play in our sports programs. This is not a tryout, but simply a way to evenly divide teams. This should be a fun process for the registrants!

Who: All 1st-4th Graders registered for GSL Church Basketball. This is a required part of the registration process. All players need to attend.

When: Sunday, October 22, Times TBA

1st & 2nd Grade Boys

3rd & 4th Grade Boys

1st & 2nd Grade Girls

3rd & 4th Grade Girls

What: Players Assessment on scrimmaging, team play, ball handling, passing, layups and shooting.

Where: GSL Saints Gymnasium (old gym).

Players: Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled time so your child may sign in and warm up. Please have your child dressed for sports play. Assessment times will be emailed at a later date.

Christi Authement

Recreation and Wellness Director

901-252-6325 | cauthement@gracestlukes.org

Fall Wellness Events

Pilates

GSL’s Pilates meets on Mondays and Thursdays, 5:30–6:15 p.m. in McClure Hall. For details about the class, visit gracestlukes.org/ pilates

Yoga

Yoga with Anne meets on Thursdays, 5:30–6:30 p.m. in Trezevant Hall. For more information, visit gracestlukes.org/yoga

Self-Defense Course

September 16, 1-4:30 p.m.

Trezevant Hall; Cost: $40 per person

TRAINING CAN BE A POWERFUL REACTION. Do you know what to do if someone grabs you and you are unsafe? Would you like to be empowered and learn how to react and protect yourself and possibly others in hostile situations? Would you like to learn how to respond from trained professionals? Given the reality of aggressive and violent events that can occur, GSL Church is offering a one-day self-defense course. This is a unique seminar and training presented by highly experienced professionals including law enforcement officers. The course is a combination of lecture and scenarios where participants are taught to be more aware of their surroundings, learn how to navigate dangerous situations, and deescalate confrontations. Facilitators will teach different techniques and demonstrate how to defend oneself in and escape from circumstances. Snacks provided. Athletic attire recommended. Childcare provided.

Sign up here: http://tinyurl.com/GSLSelfDefense923

Redbirds

Baseball Game

Sunday, September 24, 2:05 p.m.

AutoZone Stadium

Join us for a fun-filled afternoon of baseball as we head to AutoZone Park to watch the Memphis Redbirds take on the Charlotte Knights. Make sure you mark your calendar for Sunday, September 24. Game time is 2:05 p.m. Ticket prices TBA. There is limited space, so register sooner than later. Please look for more information in the coming weeks.

gracestlukes.org/wellness

Bowling and Lunch at the Famous Wahlburgers Family Restaurant in the Bass Pro Shop

Sunday, October 8, 1 p.m.

Downtown Bass Pro Shop

Join us at the downtown Bass Pro Shop for a fun afternoon of bowling and lunch at Wahlburgers Famous Family Restaurant, owned by celebrity Mark Wahlberg. Start off with appetizers, burgers, sides, salads, and more. Then we’ll walk next door for some FUN-FILLED bowling! GSL Church is covering the Bowling cost. Registration is required. Please look for more information in the coming weeks.

The UNION of the Labyrinth & the Enneagram

Wednesday, October 18, from 5:30–7:30 p.m.

Trezevant Hall

The Labyrinth is a sacred space where we discover in new ways how God is present in our walk-through life. The Labyrinth is a unicursal (one line), mathematical pattern designed to silently reveal deep spiritual and theological truths that result in growth and transformation. The Enneagram is a tool for self-discovery, a system describing 9 positions of personality traits, a means to examine relationships among different personality types, and a way of understanding how we organize our thought patterns and perceptions. The Wellness Committee has combined these TWO Powerful, Spiritual Tools to create a UNIQUE EXPERIENCE of the Labyrinth Meditation Walk. Please join us on Wednesday, October 18, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. in Trezevant Hall. Come as you are—with your brokenness and fullness. No reservations required.

Healthy Holiday Cooking Classes

Tuesday, November 7 & Thursday, November 9, 6 p.m.

GSL Church Kitchen

Are you looking for some tasty, healthy, and festive food ideas for the holiday season? I know I am! Please join us on Tuesday, November 7, and Thursday, November 9, from 6–8 p.m. in the GSL Church Kitchen. Instructors from Church Health will demonstrate preparing healthy, holiday side dishes (on November 7) and healthy, holiday desserts (on November 9). There is no cost. Reservations are required. Please look for more information in the coming weeks.

Christi Authement

Recreation and Wellness Director 901-252-6325 | cauthement@gracestlukes.org

Altar Flowers, Eucharistic Supplies During Worship Thank you for your gifts!

Grace-St. Luke’s provides two meaningful ways to remember loved ones during worship services: altar flowers and Eucharistic supplies given in their memory or honor. Flowers are $215 per Sunday, which one or more persons may share in giving, and Eucharistic supplies (wafers, wine, candle oil) are $25 per week. To explore and make payments to reserve available dates, including dates that may hold significance and have been reserved by you in the past, contact Communications Associate Lucy Owens (901-252-6333, lowens@gracestlukes.org). Your request must be made no later than two weeks in advance of the desired Sunday; further in advance may show more available dates. Once the date is confirmed, please issue payment for the appropriate fee (listed above) either online or mail it to the parish office. Your donation must be received for the reservation to be considered complete, and for the acknowledgement to be printed in the Sunday leaflet.

Baptisms at Grace-St. Luke’s

The sacrament of Holy Baptism will be administered in public worship at Grace-St. Luke’s during 2023 on November 5 (All Saints’ Sunday). The 2024 dates are January 7 (Baptism of our Lord), March 30 (Easter Vigil), May 19 (Pentecost Day), and November 3 (All Saints’ Sunday). For more information and to schedule a baptism, contact Membership and Stewardship Associate Chapman Morrow (901-252-6328, cmorrow@gracestlukes.org).

Membership News May–July

Transfer In

• Mary Kemp Kuhlo from Christ & St. Luke’s, Norfolk, Virginia

• Bob Kuhlo

• Frances Hardy Williams from Calvary Episcopal, Cleveland, Mississippi

Transfer Out

• Minje & Randy Ramey to Holy Apostles, Collierville, Tennessee

Holy Baptism

• Lucia Joy Braswell, daughter of Laurie & Peter Braswell, May 28

• Aimee Jane Ferrell, daughter of Katie & Benjamin Ferrell, May 28

• Henry Leland Boggs, son of Jenay & Alex Boggs, June 4

• Elizabeth Claire Owens, daughter of Mary & Paul Owens, June 4

Burials, Committals, & Deaths

• Robbie Walker McQuiston (died May 12)

• Susan Jayne Benson (died June 28)

• Fairfax Ralston Wynne (died July 10)

• Elizabeth Whitlock Haynes (died July 20)

Preparing for Sunday

Follow this link (gracestlukes.org/discover/this-sundays-texts) for access to Sunday lectionary readings online where you may reflect and pray with them at any time. You can view and print the current Sunday’s readings as well as last Sunday’s and next Sunday’s. Readings automatically update each Monday morning. Also offered are an overview, scripture backgrounds, a reflection, and prayer starters to enhance your worship experience.

Memorials and Honoraria

Memorials (May–August 15)

• Robbie Walker McQuiston by Patti Newsom Lewis, Margaret & Alec McLean, Vicki & Ed Park, Becky Boone, Tammy Harper Sullivan, Stephanie Nagley, Barbara & Roy Keathley, Cissy & Waldrup Brown, Mackie Johnson, Barney Rolfes, Debby & Steve Schadt, Jennifer Buhler, Bond & Jim Moore, Trish & John Pontius, Janette & Paul Brundige, Emily Woodside & Bill Falvey, Sherry & Mike Murphy, Billie Anne Williams, Ruth & Harry Rike, Jackie & Keith Kays, Eunice Tenent, Minna Glenn, Paula & Cliff Barnes, Pauline & Brook Lathram, Carol Ann Mallory, Margaret & Bill Craddock, American Cotton Shippers Association, Cheryl & Joe McCormack, Anna Anderson, Suzanne Henley & James Cole, Betsy Black, Elizabeth & Hubert Minton, Walter D. Willis III, Mary Honey, Jill & Simon Wadsworth, Brenda Black & James Hooper, Sara Burnett, Kathy & Ben Adams, Sally Thomason, Kate & Robert Gooch, Delta Asset Management, Allenberg Cotton Company, Carmine & Bill Vaughan, Betsy & Preston Wilson, Marynelle Wilson & Douglas McNamara, and Lulu Wilson & William Wild, Pamela & Charles Tracy Jr., Peggy & Jim

Williamson, Barbara & William Sands, Julia & Bill Gibbons, Jane Tyson, Judith Lawson Johnson, Anna & Gwin

Robbins, Judy Douglass, Sarah Lodge

• Rebecca Johnson by Betsy & Preston

Wilson

• Fairfax Ralston Wynne by Mary & Don

Campbell

• Elizabeth Whitlock Haynes by Bond & Jim Moore, Lauren & Justin Taylor, Lynn & Todd Allen, Kristi Neuroth, Barney Rolfes, Candice & Marty Carr, Leigh & Brack Carter, Sharon Taylor, Lisa & Stephanie Lawson, Chris & Dean Spurlock, Dawn Crawford, Lupe Mora, Linda Niell, Edward Dobbs, Carolyn & Whitten Bell, Judy Douglass, Edith & Bob Heller, Alys Drake, Emily Addison, Linda Rebrovick, Sondra & Dan Armour, Roberta & Ben Witten, Linda Mayfield, Nancy Edwards, Ruth Lentz

• L. Douglas Smith by Elizabeth & Steve Brewer, Ruth Lentz, Chapman & Chip Morrow, Patti & Mark Dye, Betsy & Preston Wilson, Warren Wilson, Marynelle McNamara, Laura Wilson Wild, Anne & Ralph Lake, Barney Rolfes, Judy Douglass, Sharon Taylor

Honoraria (May–August 15)

• Lucy Owens by Debbie, Larry, & Patrick Whitlock, Geoffrey Haynes

• The Rev. Anne S. Carriere by Debbie, Larry, & Patrick Whitlock, Geoffrey Haynes

Worship & Formation

gracestlukes.org/worship | gracestlukes.org/discover

SUNDAYS

8 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Homily and Hymns

8:30–9:15 a.m. Community Breakfast by the Crossmen

*Nursery for infants through three-year-olds, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

9:15–10:15 a.m. Youth and Children Classes

9:30–10:15 a.m. Adult Classes

10:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Sermon and Choir, Livestreamed includes Children’s Chapel and return to families at the Peace

9:30 a.m. Fellowship & Refreshments, Trezevant Hall

4–4:50 p.m. More Than A Meal Outreach, Trezevant Hall

4–6 p.m. Episcopal Youth Community (EYC) most Sundays at GSL

5 p.m. Contemplative Holy Eucharist with Music and Third Sunday Choral Evensong (September–May)

WEEKDAYS

Wednesday Noon–12:30 p.m. Holy Eucharist in the Chapel

September–May; Healing Prayers included on First Wednesdays

Wednesday 6–7 p.m. Adult Formation Offerings (as announced)

Parish Office Hours

Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

901-272-7425 | www.gracestlukes.org | 901-252-6334 Pastoral Emergencies

Parish Clergy & Staff

www.gracestlukes.org/welcome/clergy-and-staff

The Rev. Ollie V. Rencher, Rector

The Rev. Laura F. Gettys, Associate Rector

The Rev. Dr. Jesse W. Abell, Associate Rector

The Rev. Anne S. Carrière, Priest Associate

The Rev. Jessica T. Abell, Deacon

Christi Authement, Recreation and Wellness Director

John Barnum, Director of Finance and Operations

Anthony Calzia, Director of Children, Youth, and Family Ministry

Patricia Gray, Lead Volunteer Receptionist

Abby Huber, Congregational Life Associate and Assistant to the Rector

Chapman Morrow, Membership and Stewardship Associate

Lucy Owens, Communications Associate

Dr. Patrick A. Scott, Director of Music and Organist

Debbie Smith, Assistant Organist-Choirmaster

Jess Steenbergen, Youth Formation Associate

Chris Swenson, Facilities Manager

Darling “D” Thomas, Lead Facilities Assistant

2023 Vestry

www.gracestlukes.org/vestry

2023: George Johnson (Senior Warden), Andy Nix, Johnny Norris (Junior Warden), Paula Sappington, Taylor Taylor

2024: Bill Abernathy, Karen Clark, Beth Perkins, Hallie Peyton (Clerk), Rudy Williams

2025: Jennifer Gibbs, Ruthie Lentz, Price Peacock, Matt Sights, Hal Wright

Treasurer: Phil Ashford; Parish Chancellor: Steven King.

Pastoral Care

Sharing and Responding to Concerns. To alert the clergy of a pastoral matter concerning yourself or a member, including any medical procedures, contact the clergy confidentially via 901-252-6330 or pastoralcare@ gracestlukes.org. For hospitalizations or emergencies concerning a member, contact the 24/7 Clergy-on-Call phone line at 901-252-6334. This is the best way to communicate pastoral needs and ensure a prompt response from a member of the clergy or pastoral care team. Lay Pastoral Care Coordinators: Natalie Davis and Beth Perkins.

On the Cover

Altar flowers from the Rev. Ollie V. Rencher’s first Sunday at GSL, five years ago this summer.

Look for GRACESTLUKES in Cyberspace.

Church website: gracestlukes.org

Facebook: --- facebook.com/gracestlukes

X.com: ----- x.com/gracestlukes

Instagram: --- instagram.com/gracestlukes

Vimeo: ----- vimeo.com/gracestlukes

Pinterest: ---- pinterest.com/gracestlukes

Flickr: - - - - - - flickr.com/gracestlukes

YouTube: --- youtube.com/gracestlukes

Realm Connect for GSL

Realm is a GREAT WAY to connect to other parishioners. Rather than print members’ emails and phone numbers in our publications on the internet, we encourage connecting through Realm. Realm is the church’s ministry platform through which you can update your own profile, keep in touch with others, learn about upcoming events, stay involved in groups, and more. Text START to 901-676-9013 to Opt In to Receive One-Way Texts from GSL. In addition to replying to opt-in email requests, the simplest way to opt in to receive One-Way Texts from GSL via Realm is to text START to 901-676-9013. Your mobile number must be added to your Realm profile for this to work. If you’re not certain that we have your mobile number, please contact Communications Associate Lucy Owens. For questions or more information, visit gracestlukes.org/realm or reach out to Abby Huber (ahuber@gracestlukes.org, 901-252-6336) or Lucy Owens (lowens@ gracestlukes.org, 901-252-6333).

GSL eNews

Missing your weekly eNews? Check your spam folders! We have switched to an email service, MailChimp, to send out our eblasts. If you are not getting eNews emails, they are most likely going to your spam or junk folder. Be sure to add gsl@gracestlukes.org to your address book. Need help getting them to NOT go in your spam folder? Contact Lucy Owens, 901-252-6333 or lowens@gracestlukes.org.

Privacy Policy & Photo Opt-Out Form

Grace-St. Luke’s privacy policy and photo opt-out form may be found on the GSL website at www.gracestlukes.org/privacy-policy.

Support Groups at GSL

AA meetings: Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m.

Narcotics Anonymous: Sundays, 7 p.m.

Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous: Saturdays at noon

Contact: Lucy Owens lowens@gracestlukes.org or 901-252-6333

Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal Church

1720 Peabody Avenue

Memphis, Tennessee 38104-6124

901-272-7425, 901-272-9833 (fax) gsl@gracestlukes.org, www.gracestlukes.org

The Messenger of Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal Church (USPS 778-900)-published quarterly by Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 1720 Peabody Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38104. Periodicals postage paid at Memphis, TN. POSTMASTER: send address changes to GraceSt. Luke's Episcopal Church, 1720 Peabody Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104, (901) 272-7425, email gsl@gracestlukes.org. Lucy Owens, Editor.

Grace-St. Luke's Church benefits from financial gifts to support our life and ministries: visit www.gracestlukes.org/onlinegiving.

POSTMASTER: Please do not hold. Dated Material.

Mark Your Calendars with These Important Dates

Sept. 8 Young Adults Fellowship, 5 p.m., gracestlukes.org/young-adults-fellowship

Sept. 9 Labyrinth Walk, hosted by Children & Family Ministry, 3:30 p.m., see page 13

Sept. 10 A Day of Dignity with Beth-Sarah Wright, see p. 2 gracestlukes.org/a-day-of-dignity

Sept. 10 MICAH Postcard Party & Luncheon, 11:45 a.m., gracestlukes.org/micah

Sept. 13 MICAH Core Group, 6 p.m., gracestlukes.org/micah

Sept. 14 GSL Daytime Book Group, 11:30 a.m., gracestlukes.org/gsl-daytime-book-group

Sept. 14 Public Theology, 5:30 p.m., gracestlukes.org/public-theology

Sept. 16 Self-Defense Course, 1 p.m., tinyurl.com/GSLSelfDefense923

Sept, 17 Choral Evensong, 5 p.m., gracestlukes.org/music

Sept. 17 Parents Connect, 5 p.m., tinyurl.com/ParentsConnect923

Sept. 20 Wednesday Lunch & The Arts, 12 p.m., gracestlukes.org/lunch-and-the-arts

Sept. 24 Redbirds Baseball Game, 2:05 p.m., gracestlukes.org/wellness

Oct. 8 Bowling & Lunch, 1 p.m., see page 17

Oct. 11 MICAH Core Group, 6 p.m., gracestlukes.org/micah

Oct. 12 GSL Daytime Book Group, 11:30 a.m., gracestlukes.org/gsl-daytime-book-group

Oct. 12 Public Theology, 5:30 p.m., gracestlukes.org/public-theology

Oct. 15 Social Justice Monthy Gathering, gracestlukes.org/ social-justice-upcoming-events-and-meetings

Oct. 15 Choral Evensong, 5 p.m., gracestlukes.org/music

Oct. 18 The UNION of the Labyrinth & the Enneagram, hosted by the Wellness Ministry, see page 17

Oct. 18 Wednesday Lunch & The Arts, 12 p.m., gracestlukes.org/lunch-and-the-arts

Oct. 20 Shrimp Boil & Fish Fry, 6 p.m., gracestlukes.org/shrimp-boil-and-fish-fry

Oct. 29 Bratwurst & Beverages, 11:30 a.m., gracestlukes.org/bratwurst-and-beverages

Nov. 5 Choral Requiem Eucharist, 5 p.m., see page 7

Nov. 7 Healthy Holiday Cooking Class, 6 p.m., see page 17

Nov. 8 MICAH Core Group, 6 p.m., gracestlukes.org/micah

Nov. 9 GSL Daytime Book Group, 11:30 a.m., gracestlukes.org/gsl-daytime-book-group

Nov. 9 Public Theology, 5:30 p.m., gracestlukes.org/public-theology

Nov. 9 Healthy Holiday Cooking Class, 6 p.m., see page 17

Nov. 15 Wednesday Lunch & The Arts, 12 p.m., gracestlukes.org/lunch-and-the-arts

Nov. 15 Labyrinth Walk, hosted by the Music Department, see page 7

Nov. 19

Social Justice Monthy Gathering, gracestlukes.org/ social-justice-upcoming-events-and-meetings

Nov. 19 Concert of Music for Brass & Organ, 5 p.m., gracestlukes.org/music

Nov. 23 Thanksgiving Day Eucharist, 10 a.m., gracestlukes.org/thanksgiving

Explore this issue for other important dates for formation offerings, events, and more for adults, young adults, youth, and children and subcribe to our weekly eNews (gracestlukes.org/subscribe) for updates including new offerings and more news.