Volume 71, No. 4
December–February | Winter 2024–2025
Bishop Phoebe Visited GSL on October 27. See page 5 for details.
Christmas Altar Flowers and Decorations
The Christmas Altar Flowers and Decorations deadline is December 16 at 8 a.m. If you would like to make a donation in honor of or in memory of a loved one for Christmas flowers, you may send a check to the church office (1720 Peabody Ave., 38104, ATTN: Lucy Owens) listing the names of those you would like remembered. You can also donate online here: tinyurl.com/GSLAltarGifts. Contact Lucy Owens with any questions (901-2526333, lowens@gracestlukes.org).
Community Engagement at GSL
Community invites us to stay in relationship together with one another, through the hard, the joyful, the sad, and the uncertain times. I am glad to be in community with you and grateful for the ways so many of you show up, stay open to learning, and seek ways of loving in all its varied forms.
These winter months will continue to call us out in full and deep ways of living in community. There are so many ways to love God, love neighbor, and love self here at GSL. Room in the Inn (RITI) and the many roles needed to care for unsheltered mothers and their children have lots of empty spots that want YOUR name by them. The third Thursday of each month includes roles for making beds, playing games in the gym, and helping set up for the warm meal for these families. There are also plenty of roles like laundry and breakfast-buying that can be done earlier in the week if a Thursday has you busy in other places. Thank you to those who have signed up. We love repeat folks, and we love new folks too! tinyurl.com/ GSLRITI24-25
If you like to have fun in the kitchen, know how to chop (or don’t know how to chop!), or like to chat with friends as you help cook for folks at Church Health, then there is a place for you on one of the GSL Cooking Teams. The commitment is simple and regular without overworking you, we promise! Ask Amy and Jerry Hudson, Cook Team Heads, or the Rev. Laura F. Gettys+ for more details.
More Than A Meal is one of our oldest outreach ministries at GSL, and it is exciting to see how more folks, especially young families, are exploring how they can support this Sunday meal and service time. Many thanks to Anthony Calzia, Director of Children and Family Ministries, for exploring this with MTAM leaders. Exciting! If interested, contact Edith Heller, Ruthie Lentz, Jonathan Large, or the Rev. Laura F. Gettys+.
Justice Ministry has MICAH members meeting each month, teaming up with other neighbor partners to amplify voices for areas of need through collective action. We are in an exciting time as we reflect on three areas MICAH has focused on for the last five years—Education, Economic, and Race/Class Equity—and explore the next areas of focus for MICAH. Come be a part and share your voice with us at our monthly meetings or on an issues night! micahmemphis.org
The Labyrinth will be available for walking this Advent on Sunday, December 15, for quiet contemplation and slowing down during this often-busy season. Come join this time at the forum hour from 9:30-10:15 a.m.
If you have not experienced Andrea Morales’ exhibit, Roll Down Like Water, at the Brooks Museum, come join us in January on the 19th for lunch and art together. Details to come closer to the date for caravaning.
And lastly, as Sacred Ground, our 11-week Race and Faith discussion group, wraps up, we are already making plans for the next 11-week series. If you would like more details on upcoming dates or details, please ask Nicki Soule, David Maxson, or the Rev. Laura F. Gettys+. episcopalchurch.org/ sacred-ground
Thank you for these and ALL the ways the GSL community engages one another and the world. It is a gift to walk the journey with you.
Laura+
The Rev. Laura F. Gettys Associate Rector for Community Engagement 901-252-6329 | lgettys@gracestlukes.org
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.
Parenting with Consistency and in Community
Parenting is hard work! It is exhausting and while rewarding, takes practice and a community to do well!
And maybe that is why I have such a hard time at it! Modern life is set up, it seems, to strike at the heart of the two foundation stones of good parenting: Consistency and Community.
Merriam-Webster defines consistency along two primary senses of the word: harmony and firmness. Consistency, in relation to foods and other mixed materials, has to do with having all the ingredients in harmony to assure the meal or mixture is not inconsistent, inharmonious, or imbalanced. As regards firmness, the idea is still to have what you are trying to be consistent at, achieve a balance. It is here that modern life, with the push and pull of health issues, school, sports and other extracurricular activities, work, and a hundred other currents, makes the kind of regular rhymes that lead to consistency difficult.
And, due to many of the above currents and other factors, “it takes a village to raise a child,” has often become a slogan of longing and hope rather than a reality. “Nostalgia,” may be coming upstairs, but I miss the days when Janelle and I regularly attended a weekly or biweekly small group in which we made friends, were able to share griefs and receive support, and were able to listen to others and offer our own solidarity and support. The poet John Donne, in his masterpiece No Man is an Island writes:
No one is an island, Entire of itself; Every one is a piece of the continent, A part of the main.
If a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, As well as if a promontory were:
As well as if a manor of thy friend’s Or of thine own were.
Any one’s death diminishes me, Because I am involved in humanity. And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; It tolls for thee.
Yet, we, or at least I, feel like an island sometimes. My griefs and sadnesses, our griefs and sadnesses, wash up with the tide and down. Yet, I struggle to build or find a beloved community to intentionally know me, for me to intentionally know and to grow with as disciples in a world on fire, a world on edge.
Yet, we are gospel people, people of The Good News: In Jesus “the dividing walls have been abolished in Jesus’ own body.” (Ephesians 4:5) All the lines that divide, all the ways unkindness, isolation, depression, oppression and busyness divide our lives, have been overcome and a new way of life is on offer! There is a new way to be human friends! The Jesus Way. But here, we must shift the blame away from ‘modern life,’ and have a “come to Jesus moment.”
We are not powerless. We are not victims of circumstance… unless we choose that way of being human. Humans were made in the image of God and what is the first image we have of God in the Bible?
“In the beginning, God created…”
The first word on what God is like is: Creator. God, one must imagine philosophically, decides to act, in wisdom exerts ‘techne,’ or art, and makes a universe that seemingly creates itself over deep time. The point is, regardless of our circumstances, beauty, goodness, and truth are never beyond us! In the end it is not what we have bought or got that matters, but how we have loved family and friends, which harkens to an old phrase we must retrieve: kith and kin!
As Creators, we have the ability to ask questions of our life and how our life is satisfying us, our families, and our sense of God’s call on our lives. Are we mentally and physically taking care of ourselves and our children? Are we emotionally, mentally, and spiritually healthy? (The answer is always a pendulum of yes and no, right?) What is working in life? What is not? What kind of life would bring joy into the world? And who is the community that you will build or join to achieve, what a “me,” never can, because “we” were meant to live and thrive together?
It will never be cupcakes and rainbows, but I know I want to live in simpler rhymes. I believe my family would benefit from more intentional re-creation and less “go-go-go.” If you feel as I do, let’s talk. Till then, God’s peace!
Anthony Calzia Director of Children & Family Ministries 901-252-6321 | acalzia@gracestlukes.org
Pastoral Care Update
Dear friends,
Despite the changing of the seasons, the work of pastoral care continues, and I continue to be grateful for all of those on the pastoral care team who help GSL to reach out to individuals and families with the various joys and challenges of life they face.
We have also added a new opportunity that I wanted to highlight. A number of folks in our congregation are in a situation where they provide care for a loved one who has a chronic health condition. Caregiving can be challenging and even frustrating at times. GSL wants to offer a place for support and encouragement for caregivers and for those with chronic illness who are being cared for. We also want to include those who were caregivers not long ago but have more recently been widowed.
In response to this need, we are offering a monthly support group, called the St. Luke’s Guild, which gathers in the Red Room in the basement Christian Education suite on the first Wednesday of each month at 9 a.m.* I am coleading the group with professional therapist and GSL member Beth Rushing.
Please spread the word to anyone you know who may benefit from this gathering.
Best, Jesse+
The Rev. Dr. Jesse W. Abell, Associate Rector for Pastoral Care 901-252-6330 | jesse.abell@gracestlukes.org
*In December we are taking a break due to the busyness of the month. Our next meeting will be January 8.
The Rt. Rev. Phoebe Roaf’s Annual Visitation to GSL
The Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost, October 27, was an inspiring day for life at GSL. Bishop Phoebe led the Rector’s Forum on the State of the Diocese of West Tennessee and The Episcopal Church.
Eight adults and youth were confirmed or reaffirmed by Bishop Phoebe during a wonderful 10:30 liturgy enriched by many visitors, high energy, and superb music. A delicious meal of Bratwurst and Beverages was a perfect end to the morning.
Bishop Phoebe Roaf expressed joyful gratitude for all that was offered to make for a great morning! The confirmation list may be found on page 14. For pictures, see the cover and visit tinyurl. com/10-27-24-BishopsVisit.
Annual Meeting of the Parish – Sunday, December 8
All members and newcomers are encouraged to attend the Annual Parish Meeting from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. in Trezevant Hall on December 8. Time will include the election of the Vestry Class of 2027, update of our five-year strategic plan, year-at-a-glance ministry highlights, Every Member Canvass 2025 stewardship campaign update, and remarks by the senior warden and the rector. gracestlukes.org/annual-parish-meeting
GSL Music Update from Dr. Patrick Scott
A Festival of Lessons & Carols
Sunday, December 15, 5 p.m.
The Grace-St. Luke’s Choir
The Memphis Boy & Girl Choir
Features the World Premiere of “O blest is Christ that came” composed by Michael Sitton and commissioned by the Grace-St. Luke’s Choir to celebrate Debbie Smith’s 20th anniversary as Assistant Organist-Choirmaster at GSL.
Morgan Beckford in Concert
Friday, January 17, 7 p.m.
A Christmas Concert with Jim Cornfoot & Bethann Easterly Monday, December 16, 7 p.m.
Join Bethann Easterly (flute) and Jim Cornfoot (piano) for an evening of festive holiday favorites, including beloved Christmas carols, sparkling yuletide standards, and seasonal classical masterworks.
Memphis native, Morgan Beckford (soprano), returns for a solo concert of music from classical standards to spirituals. Currently living and singing in Boston, she once held roles with Opera Memphis and was 2024’s Louise T. Archer’s Artist-in-Residence at St. Mary’s Episcopal School.
Choral Evensong
observing the Feast of Martin Luther King Jr.
Sunday, January 19, 5 p.m.
The Grace-St. Luke’s Choir
Choral Evensong
Sunday, February 16, 5 p.m.
The Grace-St. Luke’s Choir
Dr. Patrick A. Scott, Director of Music and Organist
901-252-6323
pscott@gracestlukes.org
Artistic Director, Memphis Boy & Girl Choir
memphisboyandgirlchoir.org
The Choir of St. John’s College Cambridge Concert Thursday, April 10, 7:30 p.m.
The Choir of St John’s College, Cambridge is one of the finest collegiate choirs in the world– known and loved by millions from its broadcasts, concert tours and over 90 recordings. Founded in the 1670s, the Choir is known for its rich, warm and distinctive sound, its expressive interpretations and its ability to sing in a variety of styles. We are honored to host them during their 2025 American tour, and this concert is not one to be missed!
Luna Nova Music Welcomes the Winter Season!
Once again, Luna Nova Music will welcome the arrival of winter by giving a concert at Grace-St. Luke’s on Monday, December 9, at 7 p.m.
The program will feature music spanning over 400 years with compositions by Louis-Claude Daquin, Alonso Mudarra, Gerald Finzi, Joseph Schwantner, Ralph Vaughan-Williams, and others.
Performers include Barrie Cooper (violin), Benjamin Minden-Birkenmaier (guitar), Nobuko Igarashi (clarinet), Michelle Vigneau (oboe), Alex Benford (piano), Robert Patterson (horn), Sabrina Laney Warren (soprano), and Patrick Scott (organ).
The concert will last approximately an hour with no intermission. Admission is free, and a reception will follow in Trezevant Hall. Please plan on joining us. Call Patricia Gray at 901-493-0958 with any questions.
The
Gifts
of
God for the People of God
During our 2025 stewardship campaign, we are being invited to pray and talk about one of the topics that many of us have come to understand that we don’t talk about in polite company. It’s not politics, it’s not the S word, it’s money. As Laura+ said a few weeks ago in her sermon, money is one of the most talked-about topics in the New Testament following only love. That’s interesting, right? Of course, no matter our financial position, most of us recognize the powerful force that money can play in our lives. It can fuel fear, anxiety, jealousy and greed, power our good dreams, and it can do great, great good in the world.
That brings us to our parish stewardship campaign for 2025. There is something aweinspiring in knowing that the Creator who called into being the cosmos, created tiny seahorses and massive elephants, and gave wisdom to human beings to create a vaccine to prevent polio asks me and you to fund the budget so that our parish can open its doors to a world in deep need. Why? Surely the God who creates that tiny, colorful little seahorse could easily figure out how to supply the roughly $5000 that we budget each month for utilities, or the $448 we need each month for leaflets and other printing. As we receive our pledge cards (in the mail and at the back of the church and online if you prefer online), one of the ideas that circulates in my head and heart is that Nedra and I make our pledge not because God cannot meet the needs of Grace-St Luke’s without our help, but because we are being given the opportunity to help—to participate in God’s great work. It’s another one of God’s gifts to us. Pledging helps us express our knowledge of and gratitude for everything that we have which all comes from God. It turns my gaze toward Jesus for real security, not the transient security of my bank balance, and it allows me to be a fuller participant in throwing open the doors for more people into God’s Kingdom.
Today, we’re asking you to take that transformative step which may be a little scary: pledge to the church’s annual campaign. Our goal is that 100% of us make our pledge and participate in the work of God through Grace-St. Luke’s. Thank you to our vestry who have already reached the 100% pledge level. I can tell you from my experience that making a pledge is a holy undertaking, and holy undertakings are usually a little scary, a lot exciting, and always enlightening.
As you are considering your pledge, I would encourage you to read our friend, the Apostle Paul’s, 2nd letter to the Corinthians. I don’t completely agree with Paul’s fundraising style, but he shares some wisdom that can be helpful to you and me when we begin to think that we don’t have enough to make a difference. In 2 Corinthians, Chapter 8, V. 23, he says, “For if the eagerness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.” Those wise words open the door and my heart to knowing that what I have to give is enough no matter how sparse or abundant those resources look to me on any given day. Make your pledge with that in mind. One way to start is by considering what your typical offering is each week or each month and multiply that by one year. If every one of us starts our holy work here today, our gifts together will be enough.
You can drop your completed pledge card in the offering plate, mail it to the church office, or make your pledge online at www.gracestlukes.org/pledge. If you have any questions, you can call Chapman Morrow, our Membership & Stewardship Associate, for assistance. And, of course, making your pledge as soon as possible will be deeply appreciated.
As we go into the next year, we’re going to talk more about the spiritual practice of generosity. We’ll have conversations around the giver, the gift, and the recipient as well as the multiplied effect of taking the generosity journey with the Spirit. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we’ll deepen our relationship with God, each other and a world in desperate need. Thank you so much!
Rebecca Locke, 2025 Stewardship Chair
Why
Giving Matters | Frequently Asked Questions
Some may think that GSL is funded primarily by a few generous donors. This is not the case. We are grateful for the blend of pledges of all sizes to fund our ministries, keep the lights on, maintain buildings and grounds, compensate and provide benefits for full and part-time staff and clergy, and serve beyond our doors. For 2024, 253 pledges were offered totaling $1,387,067.02. For 2025 our goal is to increase participation by having all our 400+ households and friends support the life and work of GSL with a pledge.
What is a pledge? A pledge is a thoughtful estimate of what you hope to give to support the church’s operational budget for the coming year, as well as how you hope to serve with your time and talent.
Why not simply give as I can through the collection plate or in other ways? While all giving is greatly appreciated, a monetary pledge acknowledges the priority of God and GSL, and provides the parish treasurer, finance committee, and vestry with a noteworthy estimate of expected income. This is essential to maintaining operations and setting the annual operating budget. Like our personal households, GSL and its ministry could not operate and thrive without a reasonable estimate of its financial resources.
Doesn’t Grace-St. Luke’s receive financial support from the diocese and the GSL Endowment? The parish does not receive financial support from the diocese. In fact, based on the organizational ministry structure of The Episcopal Church, GSL supports diocesan expenses by contributing an annual approximate average of 10% of our budget. Our Endowment also provides some capital and program funding, but this funding represents only a small portion of our budget and should not be where we turn for operational support, except in emergency or strategically planned circumstances. While the Endowment is a vital resource, our annual operations depend almost entirely upon the investment and payment of pledges.
How much should I pledge? The actual amount of your pledge is, of course, entirely a personal decision. But, it should be grounded in your faith, love, and commitment to God’s work through Grace-St. Luke’s. Pledging invites reflection,
prayer, and priority. While everyone may not be able to tithe (ten percent of income), we urge everyone to aspire to reach a goal of tithing and to make Grace-St. Luke’s their primary philanthropic priority. Unlike other charities, which receive contributions from around the city or nationwide, Grace-St. Luke’s is supported only by parishioners and friends.
10% Tithe = Goal based on yearly income
$60,000 $1,800 $3,000 $4,200 $6,000
$80,000 $2,400 $4,000 $5,600 $8,000
$100,000 $3,000 $5,000 $7,000 $10,000
Everyone is asked to consider the 10% tithe as a goal or to make an incremental increase to their last pledge – to stretch in faith. Each pledge is an outward expression of gratitude for the blessings we receive from God and is a meaningful component of the threefold ministry of giving time, talent, and money.
How can I make and pay my pledge? To pledge online visit www.gracestlukes.org/pledge or complete a paper Pledge Form to deliver on Sundays, other occasions, or by mail. Payments may be made by: (a) check; (b) secure electronic payment option at www.gracestlukes.org/give to set up recurring payments or make one time payments; or (c) appreciated stocks or IRA payouts to pay your pledge and alert Director of Finance and Operations John Barnum (901-252-6324, jbarnum@gracestlukes.org) to ensure your credit.
What if my situation changes and I cannot fulfill my pledge? When life circumstances change, let Director of Finance and Operations John Barnum know so we can adjust the budget accordingly. All conversations are confidential and pastoral support is available if you need it.
How can I learn more about the stewardship ministry of time, talent, and money at GSL? Contact Membership and Stewardship Associate, Chapman Morrow (901-2526328, cmorrow@gracestlukes.org).
Important Sports Information for the Winter
GSL Church Spring Soccer- 2025
GSL Church sponsors Spring Soccer for JK–4th grades. The 2025 Spring Soccer season is April 5–May 17. The spring season is a continuation of the fall season and is designed for continued skill development during the Spring. Spring Soccer registration is January 1–31 and can be accessed on the GSL Church website at gracestlukes.org/spring-soccer. Please refer to the website for ALL information regarding spring soccer. Registration fills up quickly, so please register sooner than later. Once registration is closed, individual placement will be permitted if space is available. For continuity, WHENEVER possible, the intent is to keep the Spring Soccer teams and coaches together from the previous fall season. Soccer is offered twice annually, so this is the ONLY SPORT that teams will likely stay the same for ONE FULL CALENDAR YEAR.
Spring Soccer “What to Expect” Checklist for PARENTS
1) SPRING SOCCER REGISTRATION is January 1–31. TEAM ASSIGNMENTS are made with every effort to keep the “previous” GSL Church Fall Soccer teams together. They will play on the same team for one year—fall & spring.
2) PRACTICES may begin in late February and are held at Tobey and GSL Fields. Soccer coaches generally have one to two pre-season practices per week. Please contact Athletic Director Christi Authement if you have not heard from a coach by February 20.
3) The SEASON BEGINS April 6. Games are on Saturday mornings and afternoons and held at GSL and away fields. The season ends May 18. Game schedules will be ready mid-March. We play in the ESCRA League, and soccer information may be found on the ESCRA website: escrasports.org/sports/soccer.
4) SOCCER UNIFORMS are provided by GSL (jersey and shorts). Players will provide their own RED soccer socks. Uniforms are distributed by the coaches before the season begins.
5) GSL RECYCLES UNIFORMS each year to keep the replacement costs low. Please return your uniform to your coach at the end of the season or place it in the announced Uniform Drop Box.
6) SPRING SOCCER is an extended season. Our main season is in the fall. So, team photos and trophies are not provided during this season.
Let’s Play Ball
It’s time for the 2025 GSL Church Baseball registration. Teams are provided for JK – 4th Grades and Registration is February 1–28. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis and does fill up quickly. So, please register sooner than later. Once registration is closed, individual placement will be permitted if space is available. Mandatory Baseball and Softball Assessments for 1st/2nd grades ONLY are March 24 and will be held at the GSL field. Times TBA. NO Assessment is required for T-ball, Lassie, and Boy’s Kid Pitch. Please register at gracestlukes.org/playball and review current baseball season information. If you are interested in coaching, please email Christi Authement at cauthement@gracestlukes.org and / or fill out the coaching box on the registration form.
Christi Authement
Recreation and Wellness Director
901-252-6325 | cauthement@gracestlukes.org
Winter Wellness Events
A Christmas Carol
GSL Church 60+ Adults will team up with Creative Aging on December 4 to see Theatre Memphis’ rendition of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. This beloved production has been staged by Theatre Memphis for over 40 years, making it the longest running recurrent play on any Memphis stage. All proceeds support Creative Aging—enriching older adults’ lives by bringing music and the arts to places seniors live and gather.
Dance Classes in January
Dust off your dancing shoes, ‘cuz we’re bringing ballroom dance classes to GSL Church in January 2025. The classes are for ALL AGES, couples and singles alike. Instructors from Prestige Ballroom Dance Studio are teaching the fun, energetic, easy to learn, and danceable-in-many-settings styles of the East Coast Swing Dance. They are also teaching the slower paced, romantic, and laid-back styles of the Latin Rumba Dance. There are a total of 8 classes, and we’ll have a party during the last class to show off our AWESOME dance skills! This is a GREAT way to kick-off January and the New Year. Watch for more info to come in your eNews!
SAVE THE DATE
Quick, Tasty, and Healthy Meals in a Pinch
This February, we’re teaming up with the Church Health Center to learn how to make some delicious, quick, and healthy meals in 30 Minutes or less. The classes will be on Wednesdays, February 19 and 26, at 6:30 p.m. Please look for more details in the coming weeks.
for AMUSE - The Adventure Museum
Join GSL Church folks for a fun, family night out to the AMUSE Adventure Museum on Saturday, March 29. The Adventure Museum was brought to life in 2023 by the same founders that created Memphis Escape Rooms in 2015. AMUSE believes that play is a form of art, so they set out to create a place that celebrates and curates the finest form of fun imaginable: AMUSE – The Adventure Museum. Read more about AMUSE here: theadventuremuseum. com. Complete details in the Spring Messenger!
Christi Authement
Recreation & Wellness Director
901-252-6325
cauthement@gracestlukes.org
Pilates
Pilates with Sydney meets on Mondays and Thursdays, 5:30–6:15 p.m. in McClure Hall. gracestlukes.org/ pilates
Yoga
Yoga with Anne meets on Thursdays, 5:30–6:30 p.m. in Trezevant Hall. gracestlukes.org/ yoga
60+ Adults Fitness
60+ Adults Fitness
Class, Wednesdays, 9:15-10:05 a.m., in Trezevant Hall. gracestlukes.org/60adults
Outreach gracestlukes.org/outreach
Opportunities to Serve
GSL has a rich history of supporting the greater Memphis area community through grant funding and volunteer service. The following community agencies have applied for funding in 2025 and have suggested ways for our parishioners to get involved. Opportunities and the contact persons are provided below.
A Step Ahead
Provide health fair support, assist with fundraising, organizational awareness, staff community events. Amy Mulroy amy@astepaheadfoundation.org 901-729-7044
Adult and Teen Challenge
Provide program speakers for addiction recovery. Benjamin Jared ben@atctn.org 901-590-3786
Carpenter Art Garden
Participate in Art Garden Tuesday, community bike rides, and organic vegetable garden fall planting. Chandra Ellerson chandra@carpenterartgarden.org 901-249-3577
Dorothy Day
Help unhoused families settle into new homes, house maintenance: cleaning, yard work, interior painting, meals, transportation; car maintenance, donation pickup and delivery of large goods, sort donated goods, personal interaction: child care, tutoring, and assist with ID documentation.
Ben Short bshort@dorothydaymemphis.org 901-726-6760
Friends for All
Fill food pantry bags and shelves. Serve bimonthly at Feast for Friends Community meal, assist with fundraising events.
Kim Moss
kim.moss@friendsforall.org 901-482-9504 or 901-272-0855
Memphis Child Advocacy Center
Assist with special events, deliver donor appreciation cookie delivery, join Padrinos (an organization assisting families in crisis), donate school supplies and uniforms, holiday gifts, etc.
Kate Hackett
khackett@memphiscac.org 901-888-4359
Memphis Teacher Residency
Assist with STEM camp, Memphis Literacy Conference, adopt an MTR Teacher’s Classroom, support MLI coach at partner school, hold school supply drive for MTR teachers, and provide faculty lunch for MTR residents.
Angie Gardner angie@memphistr.org 901-937-4695
Multinational Memphis
Assist with after school art program, tutoring, and holiday Santa activity. Laurie Graves. 815 N McLean lauriegraves.multinational@gmail.com 901-832-9061
Room in the Inn
Assist with providing shelter food and clothing for unhoused families in transition, volunteer for City Camp in June and July, as well as RITI headquarters (409 Ayers).
Terri Dulaney terri@ritimemphis.org 901-467-2093
Samaritan Counseling Centers
Serve on Board of Directors, assist with fundraising events/marketing, hospitality for lunch and learn events with partners.
Kristin Fox-Trautman kristin.foxtrautman@samaritanmidsouth.org 901-292-2920
Society of St Vincent de Paul Memphis
Help food mission to prep food and serve meals.
Signup: serve.volunteerodyssey. com/event/update/215182
Gloria Hyden gloria.hyden.svdp@gmail.com 901-552-7038
St Columba Episcopal Camp and Retreat Center
Provide lunch to Camp Able campers, day camp counselors (one-week intervals).
Matthew Arehart matthew@stcolumbamemphis.org
Adam Cruthirds adam@saintcolumbamemphis.org 901-377-9284
Su Casa
Assist with special events, childcare, ESL classes, legal help for Latino immigrants, and connection with broader Memphis community. Cherise Clark cherise@sucasamemphis.org 901-320-9833
Thistle and Bee
Help with community outpatient clinic, donation drives for household items, teach survivors professional skills, holiday events, sponsor family gifts, and clinic maintenance.
Laura Walker thistleandbee.org/pages/contact-us 662-806-4715
Food Pantry Ministry News
Winter greetings from the GSL Cooking Teams! Our volunteers continue to fill GSL freezers with healthy meals for our brothers and sisters in Christ. Teams cook once every six weeks to prepare a variety of recipes to feed 80 Church Health patrons each week.
Many thanks to Palazola Produce and Cash Saver for their continued support of GSL’s food pantry. The fresh produce and dry ingredients they provide weekly for our recipes help us to reduce food costs and provide sustenance for our food-insecure neighbors.
For the second year in a row, 19 enthusiastic high school students from Memphis University School prepared 80 individual servings of lentil spaghetti in GSL’s kitchen for Church Health patrons. Kudos to these gentlemen who altruistically gave up a day off to serve others in our community. Thank you to Jonathan Large and Beth Taylor for coordinating this activity with GSL. We look forward to hosting these fine men again next year!!
Anthony Calzia and a few school-age children recently spent an evening coloring cards and pictures that were attached to individual containers of prepared food. Church Health patrons, who received the children’s artwork, shared with GSL volunteers how much the children’s pictures and messages meant to them.
A very warm welcome to our newest cooking team volunteers: Maggie Hays, Darin Sloan, Stacey and Ben Smith, and Lynn Clark. We are thrilled to have you cooking with us!
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
Outreach continued on page 14
Formation at GSL
Watch for updates on the GSL web pages for Adult, Youth, and Children’s Formation: gracestlukes.org/adult-formation gracestlukes.org/youth-formation gracestlukes.org/childrens-formation
Be on the lookout for a new issue of the Life at GSL Program Guide to come out in the new year: gracestlukes.org/life-at-gsl
Outreach Grants Awarded for 2025
The Grace-St. Luke’s Outreach Committee has awarded 12 grants totaling $60,000 for the 2025 year which focus on caring for the sick; feeding, clothing and sheltering those in need; welcoming the stranger; and enabling children and families to overcome economic, education, and health disparities.
The Outreach Committee has spent hours of homework, prayer, and meetings reviewing grant applications and making decisions under the guidance of the Rev. Laura F. Gettys. We are grateful to partner with these Servant Ministries as we seek to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus Christ in our community. We welcome new members to join our committee as we meet on the first Thursday of the month in the church Lounge.
Each 2025 grant recipient will receive $5000: Carpenter Art Garden, Samaritan Counseling Centers, Dorothy Day House, Memphis Child Advocacy, Room in the Inn, A Step Ahead Foundation, Su Casa, St. Columba Episcopal Retreat Center, St. Vincent De Paul, Thistle and Bee, Adult & Teen Challenge Memphis, and Multinational Memphis.
Winter is coming... and the Hub is preparing!
Winter is coming... and the Hub is preparing! With the cold weather upon us, the Hub is in full preparation mode for this season’s Warming Center needs. Every winter, the Hub serves as the City’s Emergency Warming Center, meaning we open up our doors to provide our unhoused neighbors with respite from the elements. During any given Warming Center event, we host anywhere from 50 to 400 individuals, providing a safe place to stay, meals, and blankets.
As we prepare for the Warming Center season, we need your help! Here are some ways you can be a part of the life-saving work we’ll do this winter: Make a monetary or in-kind donation. We rely on our community to donate essential items such as food, blankets, and so much more to keep our Warming Centers well-stocked! Additional details here: gracestlukes.org/news/posts/the-hubemergency-warming-center
Get out the Vote Canvass with MICAH
Spring Pilgrimage to Alabama
School Board Candidate Forum
Beloved Community & Walking the Labyrinth
MICAH Alternative Sentencing Advocacy
Grace-St. Luke's School
News
from GSL School
At the time of this writing, we are putting the final touches on plans for our annual Grandparents’ Day event on November 26, when we hold not one, but TWO special chapel services – with the help of the church’s amazing clergy and staff—to welcome all the grandparents and special friends who join us to celebrate Thanksgiving. They get to visit their grandchildren’s classrooms and enjoy a beautiful church service, as we all reflect on the blessings of family and community. We have so much to be thankful for, and getting to spend time with all of GSL’s grandparents ranks right up there at the top of the list!
We are also grateful for our community and the fun we had celebrating a huge milestone this fall – the centennial anniversary of our Miss Lee’s campus! Founded in 1924 by educator Eva Lee, the original Miss Lee’s School of Childhood was dedicated to instructing elementary students in the three R’s, in addition to focusing on foreign language, the arts, music, and manners. Not unlike GSL today! GSL acquired the campus when Miss Lee’s closed in 1986, and we were so happy to celebrate Miss Lee’s legacy this fall during the Central Gardens Home & Garden Tour and our 100-Minute Birthday Bash. Many thanks to all who came out to join us!
Looking forward, we are excited about year-end special events in December, including our third annual Lower School Advent/Christmas Evening Chapel on Tuesday, December 19, at 6 p.m. in the Church. This service is open to all, and we invite you to attend and see our Lower Schoolers help perform and lead this service. We also have a number of community events to look forward to in 2025, such as the annual 8th Grade Italian Dinner (you are all invited; please see our social media in December for details!) and the annual Sweetheart (Father-Daughter) Dance and Son-Day Fun Day (Mother-Son) Event.
And how fast a year goes by! You might recall that last year at this time, we announced the plan to open a new grade level called Little Saints for 18- to 23-month-old children, and to elevate the Junior Kindergarten experience by moving that grade level to the Primary Building. We are happy to say our changes were successfully implemented this fall. We now have 24 new Little Saints who are thriving at the Preschool, and 48 happy, busy Junior Kindergartners who are loving being in new classrooms near their friends in Lower School.
If you know anyone who is looking at schools this fall, we hope you will talk about our program and encourage them to consider GSL. Your positive word-of-mouth is a huge help to us, and I am sure we all agree that an educational experience rooted in the Episcopal tradition is impossible to beat! You may direct any inquiries to Head of School Andy Surber or Director of Enrollment Shelly McGuire at 901-278-0200.
As always, please know how grateful we are for the many parishioner families who have chosen GSL School. We look forward to being with you all this Advent season and in the coming year!
Grace-St. Luke's School
Upcoming Events & School Holidays
Dec. 19: Lower School Advent/Christmas Evening Chapel, 6 p.m., GSL Church
Dec. 23-Jan. 3: Christmas Holidays, No School
Jan. 6: Classes Resume
Jan. 17: Re-Enrollment Agreements Available to Families
Jan. 20: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, No School
Jan. 30: 8th Grade Italian Dinner, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Anchor Center
Jan. 31: Parent-Teacher Conferences, No School
Feb. 1: Re-Enrollment Agreements Due Feb. 3-7: Third Annual Giving Week at GSL
Feb. 14: New Student Enrollment Agreements Emailed
Feb. 17: Presidents’ Day, No School
Feb. 19-21: Annual 8th Grade Internships
Feb. 21: 4th-8th Grade Sweetheart Dance, 7 p.m., Anchor Center
Feb. 23: 4th-8th Son-Day Fun Day Event, 6 p.m., Anchor Center
Feb. 27: Echoes & Harmonies of History Black History Month Chapel Service
Feb. 28: New Student Enrollment Agreements Due
St. Columba Events for Children and Youth!
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Jr. and Sr. High Ski Trips
3-Day, 2-Night Ski Adventures
Senior High Ski Trip
January 17-19
Junior High Ski Trip
February 14-16
For more information, contact Adam Cruthirds at adam@saintcolumbamemphis.org or call 901-377-9284.
The Gettys family gathered for Chapel in September when their eighth grader delivered his Chapel Talk, a signature and capstone moment for every eighth grader at GSL
ADVENTure at St. Columba
All are invited to this fun Sunday series during Advent on December 1, 8, and 15, 3–6 p.m. Kids and families are welcome! $50 registration includes ziplining, climbing tower, dinner and hot cocoa with special activities on each Sunday.
Sweet ReTreat
December 1: Family photos and pictures with Santa. December 8: 5k trail run. December 15: Mega Bonfire and Christmas Carols
On December 21 and 22, discover the magic of St. Columba during winter break at Sweet ReTreat! From 9 a.m.–3 p.m. each day, campers (Kindergarten through 6th grade) will embark on a holiday adventure with baking classes, arts and crafts, and outdoor adventure time at our climbing tower and ziplines. Overnight option available for students 3rd through 6th grade.
Sign up here: saintcolumba.campbrainregistration.com. For more information, contact Adam Cruthirds at adam@saintcolumbamemphis.org or call 901-377-9284.
Altar Flowers, Eucharistic Supplies During Worship
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 either online or mail a check 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.
Memorials and Honoraria
Honoraria (through November 12, 2024)
• Frank Langford by Carolyn & Greer Simonton (Garden Guild)
• Janie Morris on her 80th birthday by Ruth & Ronnie Thompson Memorials (through November, 2024)
• Brian Llewellen Davies by Marynelle Wilson (Friends of Music)
• Sandra Garner Ireland by Simone Meeks, Holley & Lucius McGehee, Dorsey Wade, Jane & Mackie Gober, Mary Call & Mott Ford, Bev & Terry Trojan, Jill Norcross
• John Harvey Viser III by Kelly & Chris Burnham
• Brenda Little Hudson by Lucy Owens, Ginger & Dabney Collier, Sharon Taylor
• William E. Denman III by Lucy Owens, Candice & Marty Carr, Chapman Morrow, Ginger & Dabney Collier, Betsy Warren Wilson, Ruth Lentz, Cissy & Waldrup Brown, John Carter, Sharon Taylor, Leigh & Brackie Carter, Jan & Michael Jaeger, Bond & Jim Moore, Barney Rolfes, Mary & Jon McCalla, Alice & George Burruss, Susan & Jack Knight, Nancy & Louis Chiozza, Kate Boone, Gina & Mike Smith, Linda Wray Jordan, Linda Niell, Holley & Lucius McGehee, Emily Woodside & Bill Falvey, Mabel & Phillip McNeill, Frances Cianciolo, Ann & Mason Hawkins, J. Walker Hays, III, Linda Miller, Grace & Jeremiah Upshaw, Michael Heffernan, Wynn Scott & family, Carole Blackburn, Bev & Terry Trojan, Josh Nickol, Kelly & Chris Burnham, Corinne & Bob Adrian, Debbie & Larry Whitlock, Jim Hartley, Gayle Barnwell, Peggy Owen, Suzanne Plyler, Jill Norcross, Carol Walker
• Gayle Dupont Evans by the Hartney Family, Candice & Marty Carr, Lucy Owens, Ruth Lentz (MTAM), Chapman Morrow, Ginger & Dabney Collier, Sharon Taylor, Philip Weber, Holley & Lucius McGehee, Arts for Learning Maryland, Peggy Owen, Jill Norcross
• Margaret Johnson Ridolphi by Mary Ann & Fred Wittber, Glynn Wittber, Cissy & Waldrup Brown, Margaret Wiener, Terre & Henry Sullivant, Nancy & Steve Morrow, Stephanie White, Barney Rolfes, Alice & Matt Crow, Tina Varner, Maggie & Milton Lovell, Dede Austin, Walker Hays
Preparing for Sunday
Baptisms at Grace-St. Luke’s
The sacrament of Holy Baptism will be administered in 2025 public worship at Grace-St. Luke’s on January 12, April 19, June 8, and November 1. For more information on scheduling a baptism, contact Membership and Stewardship Associate Chapman Morrow (901-2526328, cmorrow@gracestlukes.org).
Membership News
Confirmations & Reaffirmation
(11/3)
• Margaret King Hays
• Patrick Greer Smith
• Edward Bartlett Smythe, III
• Margaret Blaney Rowe
• Hunter Allyn Rowe
• Jeffrey Ohlendorf Rowe
• Victoria Bolling Smith Rowe (Reaffirmed) Transfer In (through 11/12)
• Kevin Searle from St. John’s Transfer Out (through 11/12)
• Cynthia Nauert to Grace Episcopal, Georgetown, Texas
• Elizabeth Allen to St. George’s, Germantown
• Sam Boyd to St. Bartholomew’s, Nashville
• Caroline & Arthur Nave to All Saints’
• Sandy Crook to Calvary Burials, Committals, Deaths (through 11/12)
• Gayle DuPont Evans, Died 8/16, Service 9/21
• William E. Denman III, Died 8/17, Service 8/21
• Margaret Johnson Ridolphi, Died 10/9, Service 10/16
• Carol Hope Plumlee, Died 9/12, Service 10/26
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.
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 eight-weeks through four-years old, 8 a.m.–12 p.m.
9:30–10:15 a.m. Formation Classes for All
10:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Sermon and Choir, Livestreamed includes Children’s Chapel and return to families at the Peace 11:30 a.m. Fellowship & Refreshments
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
Other 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 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
Dianna Wright, Facilities Assistant
2024 Vestry
www.gracestlukes.org/vestry
2024: Bill Abernathy, Karen Clark, Beth Perkins, Hallie Peyton (Senior Warden), Rudy Williams
2025: Jennifer Gibbs (Clerk), Ruthie Lentz, Price Peacock, Matt Sights (Junior Warden), and Hal Wright
2026: Dawn Currica, Jerry Hudson, Jim McCall, Terry Trojan, Susanna Weston
Treasurer: Dan Reid; 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
On October 27 we welcomed the Rt. Rev. Phoebe A. Roaf for her Annual Visitation for confirmation and reaffirmation.
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 Online Directory for GSL & One-Way Texts. Realm is a GREAT WAY to connect to other parishioners. In order for other members to find you in the Realm Directory, your privacy settings need updating through your Realm profile. Contact Lucy if you need assistance doing this. 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. You can log into your Realm profile here: onrealm.org/gracestlukes. 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, 901252-6336) or Lucy Owens (lowens@gracestlukes.org, 901-252-6333).
Subscribe to the GSL eNews
Missing your weekly eNews? Check your spam folders! We use the 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.
Dates to Remember
Dec. 4 A Christmas Carol Outing (p. 11)
Dec. 5 Outreach Committee Meeting (gracestlukes.org/outreach)
Dec. 6 Feast of St. Nicholas (gracestlukes.org/childrens-formation)
Dec. 8 Annual Parish Meeting (p. 5)
Dec. 9 Luna Nova Concert (p. 7)
Dec. 11 MICAH Core Group (gracestlukes.org/micah)
Dec. 12 GSL Daytime Book Group (gracestlukes.org/gsl-daytime-book-group)
Dec. 15 A Festival of Lessons & Carols (p 6)
Dec. 16 Christmas Concert (p. 6)
Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Services (p. 2)
Dec. 25 Christmas Day Service (p. 2)
Jan. Spring Soccer Registration (p. 10)
Jan. Dance Classes (p. 11)
Jan. 2 Outreach Committee Meeting (gracestlukes.org/outreach)
Jan. 8 St. Luke’s Guild (gracestlukes.org/pastoral-care-request)
Jan. 8 MICAH Core Group (gracestlukes.org/micah)
Jan. 9 GSL Daytime Book Troup (gracestlukes.org/gsl-daytime-book-group)
Jan. 17 Morgan Beckford in Concert (p. 7)
Jan. 19 Choral Evensong observing the Feast of Martin Luther King Jr. (p. 7)
Feb. Baseball Registration (p. 10)
Feb. 5 St. Luke’s Guild (gracestlukes.org/pastoral-care-request)
Feb. 6 Outreach Committee Meeting (gracestlukes.org/outreach)
Feb. 9 Messy Church (gracestlukes.org/messy-church)
Feb. 12 MICAH Core Group (gracestlukes.org/micah)
Feb. 13 GSL Daytime Book Group (gracestlukes.org/gsl-daytime-book-group)
Feb. 16 Choral Evensong (p. 7)
Feb. 19/26 Quick, Tasty & Healthly Meals in a Pinch (p. 11)