All Saints’ Episcopal Church
December 2012
The Bell Tower
Reisterstown Parish
A Letter from Father David All over the world this gospel is bearing fruit and growing, just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and understood God's grace in all its truth. (Colossians 1:6) Dear All Saints’ family and friends,
Vision Statement: All Saints’ strives to be a place where people come to know Jesus Christ, are transformed to His glory, and become witnesses to God’s unchangeable word.
For many of us January is a time to look back over the past year and to place our hopes and dreams for the New Year before the throne of God. 2011 sure had its share of major news events in every corner of the world from Japan to the Middle East, to Europe, and here at home in the United States. Politics, wars, the economy, technology, and natural disasters seemed to fill the headlines almost every day filling the hearts of many with fear and anxiety. Of course these events are not new; although they seem to be increasing, they have been going on for ages in this fallen world of ours. The good news is that the Creator of this uni‐ verse remains on His throne in heaven bringing salvation, hope, and comfort to all who put their faith and trust in Him.
Volume 12,Number 1
St. Paul reminds us in his letter to the Colossians that “All over the world this Gospel of our Lord, Jesus Christ is bearing fruit and growing” and it is. In the midst of all that is wrong, our God remains faithful. His plan of redemption, reconciliation, and restoration of all Creation under the Lordship of Jesus Christ is being worked out right before us in spite of what we read in the news. In the words of an old preacher, “I read the end of the book and God wins”. Go‐ ing back to the words of St. Paul, “All over the world this gospel is bearing fruit and growing, just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and understood God's grace in all its truth.” (Emphasis mine) This scripture verse reminds me that the gospel is bearing fruit and growing right here at All Saints’ Church. Our struggle comes when we all too often focus on those things that bring anxiety and fear instead of the wonderful things God is doing among us.
Inside this issue: Stewardship
2
Library Corner
2
The Body
3-4
Words from the Congregation
Congratulations
4
Calendar of Events
5
Looking back over the past year I am encouraged by signs of fruitfulness and growth in our congregation. Our worship attendance that had been declining over the past few years has begun to increase. Our financial situation has improved thanks to an increased understanding of stewardship, good budgeting, and help from our appeal to the Diocese. We have increased our awareness and desire for outreach touching the lives of many outside our walls. Most of all, we have seen an increase in the fruitfulness and growth in the lives of those who call All Saints’ their church home. It is true that we tend to miss the true gifts God has bestowed upon us due to over familiarity or because experiences become routine. Often it takes fresh eyes to see things as they are. After Bishop Sutton’s visit in November he wrote about; “My first Episcopal visit to All Saints’, Reisterstown, a traditional, energetic, and Spirit‐filled par‐ ish!” The gospel is bearing fruit and growing right here at All Saints’. To Him be all honor and glory! I want to close with some thoughts I received from a devotional that Janet got at Christmas. As we go forward into the New Year may we proceed with a teachable spirit, a life of continual newness, seeking God with an open mind, focusing our thoughts solely on Him, giving ourselves to the adventure of in‐ creasing attentiveness to God’s presence. For God knows and understands you completely, is fully attentive to you, and He embraces you in everlasting love. Happy New Year Fr. David
The Bell Tower Volume 12,Number 1
Page 2
Stewardship Corner Series
Continued from December’s 2011 Bell Tower…. Jesus also said: “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." Luke 6:38 The Apostle Paul likewise wrote: 6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 2 Corinthians 9:6‐8
Several thoughts:
By Jeff Mauler
17 Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. 18 I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphrodi‐ tus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19 And my God will meet all your needs according to his glori‐ ous riches in Christ Jesus. 20 To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen. Philippians 4:15‐20 What I see in this passage is: 1) That God sees what we give 2) That our giving and tithing are pleasing to Him ‐ like a fragrant offering 3) That He will meet ALL of my needs Not just meet them, but meet them according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. That is amazing!
These past two years, I have repeatedly seen the 1) The Spiritual dynamic‐the measure you use, it will be Lord provide what was needed when it was needed. measured to you I also believe that the Lord is continually adjusting 2) I can never ever out give God‐A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over my thinking concerning what my wants are versus 3) God loves a cheerful giver what my needs are. 4) God will pour out His Grace in and to me As we remember what our Lord has done for each of us, I would ask that you pray and ask Jesus what He Paul also writes: wants you and your family to do. 15 Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set May our Lord bless you all with His Grace, Mercy out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me and Peace, in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; Jeff Mauler 16 for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need.
From the Library Corner The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard The author, a Christian philosopher, univer‐ sity professor and former pastor, believes Christ’s Teachings should be more evident in our daily lives. Although a large percent‐ age of our nation’s citizens consider them‐ selves to be Christian, many of them prac‐ tice “Consumer Christianity.” They use their faith as assurance for eternal life or for life’s special occasions, rather than walking with Christ daily, practicing his teachings
by Barbara Carr and following the Ten Commandments. This book, a compelling call for Christian discipleship, explains the meaning and purpose for our existence, as well as the redemption and care of our souls. We, as Christians are repeatedly reminded to “Build your house upon a rock,” practice solitude and self disci‐ pline and continually grow spiritually through worship and study. The depth and length of Willard’s writings lends this book to be a reference or devotional guide for the new year. Suggestions for teaching discipleship and an index are also included. The Divine Conspiracy can be found in Groff Hall on the table.
Santa Claus: Post-Christmas Health Assessment
by God’s Older Children
Page 3
After completing the usual tasks of making lists and checking them twice, hiring elves, establishing production schedules for toys and putting in a cookie order with Mrs. Claus, Santa decided to do something he hadn’t done in quite a while (about 100 years) ‐ get a check‐up. He made an appointment at North Pole Family Practice. He expected to have a quick visit and ho‐ho‐ho out the door—but it didn’t go like that. It seems that much has changed since his last check‐up. Santa was sent off, not with a “ho‐ho‐ho,” but rather a “whole” list of referrals and follow‐up appointments. First, Santa saw an Ophthalmologist, who said it was time for bifocals so Santa can read lists and see how to drive the sleigh without changing glasses. His night vision was also checked—we can’t have Santa being pulled over by the North Pole police for erratic driving! Then, Santa made an appointment with a chiropractor ‐ lugging that heavy toy bag has taken a toll on his back. He even saw a rheumatologist to make sure the toy bag and cold environment haven’t caused arthritis. A visit to the podiatrist was in order, and Santa was fitted with orthotics in his famous black boots. This would help alleviate his back pain as well as the pain in his achy, tired feet. Since Santa has a definite sweet tooth, he made a dentist appointment. I wonder how his check‐up will go after eating all those holiday goodies! The pipe smoking will have to go, after Santa’s appointment with the pulmonologist. Just inhaling soot from the chimneys can do a number on his lungs, he was told. The pul‐ monologist tested for asbestosis as well. A cardiology work‐up was necessary ‐ all those cookies and milk must have had some effect on his heart and blood vessels. I’m sure he left that office with a referral for the dietician and a prescription for lab work for cholesterol and blood sugar testing (possibly a thyroid panel, too). Keep your fingers crossed ‐ high blood sugar could mean a trip to a diabetes specialist. In addition to cholesterol lab work, Santa’s general practitioner wanted a Lyme titer ‐ you know how reindeer can attract deer ticks. We ought to add that Santa scheduled his first pre‐exposure rabies shot at the family practice, because you can’t take any chances when you spend so much time around animals. Hopefully, Mrs. Claus and his elves can remind him to complete the series of shots. Come to think of it, they could use the shots too, but let’s get Santa taken care of first. A blood lead level test was ordered, because Santa did not know about the types of pain used for toys made long ago. Two other specialists Santa had to see were a dermatologist to evaluate Santa’s rosy cheeks for eczema and rosacea ‐ and a psychiatrist. WHAT? A psychiatrist? However, Santa is not immune to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), especially since he is in public only once a year. He also extremely introverted ‐ he travels at night when everyone is asleep. He also could have obsessive compulsive disorder; after all, he makes a list and checks it twice. Anxiety and panic disorder could set in because of the demanding task of having all the toys ready to be delivered to all children of the world on Dec. 24 every year. You know, it is a good thing Christmas only comes once a year. It took Santa a whole year just to have all these medical visits completed.
The Bell Tower Volume 12,Number 1
Page 4 Prayer Shawl Ministry Thank You from God’s Older Children's Prayer Shawl Ministry The Prayer Shawl Ministry wishes to extend our sincere appreciation and thank you to all of our parishioners who so generously have given monetary donations. You have enabled us to purchase yarn and fabric to cre‐ ate hats, shawls, blankets, etc. to be given to those who are in need of comforting. Again, thank you for your support and thoughtfulness. Giving enriches the giver as well as the recipient. God’s Blessings, The Prayer Shawl Ministry
SPECIAL BIRTHDAYS Mrs. Lillian Arnold st
Mrs. Margaret Lawson
will celebrate her 91 birthday on
will celebrate her 94th birthday on:
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Monday, January 11, 2012
Wednesday, January 13, 2012
(St. Elizabeth’s Hall, Apt. K202,
(5223 – 86th Street
Jeffrey Bakhsh, January 1
2300 Dulaney Valley Road
Lubbock, TX 79424)
Gregory Mace, January 4 Erik Ewertz, January 7
Timonium, MD 21093‐2748)
Mike Patterson, January 8
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY
Scott Robertson, January 10 Joe Mitchell, January 13 Lee Parsons, January 15 Mercedes Rodgers, January 16 Jean Robinson, January 17 Peter Phelps, January 18 Scott Gill, January 21 Maia Mace, January 21 David Aker, January 22 Erin Bolgiano, January 22 Samuel Phelps, January 27 Debbi Trump, January 28 Elizabeth Aker, January 29
Jerry and Barbara Kelly nd
J. Buford, Jr. and Betty Davis
will celebrate their 52 wedding
will celebrate their 55th wedding
anniversary on
anniversary on
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Sunday, January 17, 2012
(117 Cherry Valley Road Reisterstown, MD 21136‐3231)
(Fairhaven, 7200 Third Ave., Apt. O‐ 505
Sykesville, MD 21784)
The Rev. Melvin and Margaret Turner
rd
will celebrate their 53 wedding
anniversary on
January Anniversary
Sunday, January 10, 2012
Robert and Marcia Henshaw, January 1
(4759 Shellbark Road
Jerry and Dian Hicks, January 8
Owings Mills, MD 21117‐5102)
NOTE FROM PARISH OFFICE: If your birthday or anniversary is not listed, we may not have correct information on file. Please provide the appropriate information to the Parish Office so we may up‐ date our records. Thanks!
Note from the Parish Office: If you know of anyone who will celebrate their 80th birthday or older– or who will have a 50th wedding anniversary or higher, please call the parish office to make sure we are aware of the information. Thank you.
Page 5
January 2012 Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
1
2 PARISH OFFICE CLOSED
3 PARISH OFFICE CLOSED
4
5
6
7
Epiphany 4
Epiphany 3
Epiphany 2
Epiphany 1
7:00p Youth Study 8:00p Choir Reh.
7:00p As You Are Worship, Groff Hall
8 11:00a Young Adults 12:00p Youth for Truth 12:30p G.O.C
9
7:30p Alanon 8:30p A.A.
7:30p R.O.G./GH
15 Bell Tower DEADLINE 9:30 ASEC Annual Metg 11:00a Combined Worsh. 11:00a Young Adults 12:00p Youth for Truth 7:30p Alanon 8:30p A.A., FH
16 Martin Luther King, Jr Holiday
17 10:00a Bible Study
PARISH OFFICE CLOSED
7:00p Women/FH 7:00p Men’s Fellowship 8:30p A.A.
7:00p Youth Study 8:00p Choir Reh.
7:30p Catonsville Kennel Club
22 11:00a Young Adults 12:00p Youth for Truth
23
24 10:00a Bible Study
25
26
7:00p Women/FH 7:00p Men’s Fellowship 8:30p A.A.
7:00p Youth Study 8:00p Choir Reh.
10 10:00a Bible Study
7:30p Alanon 8:30 A.A. . 29 11:00a Young Adults 12:00p Youth for Truth
30
7:00p Vestry Planning 7:00p Women/FH 7:00p Men’s Fellowship 8:30p A.A.
11
12 10a-3p Franklin Garden Club
7:00p Youth Study 8:00p Choir Reh.
7:00p Vestry
18
19
7:00p Women/FH 7:00p Men’s Fellowship 8:30p A.A.
Schedule of Special Events
January 15, 2012 Service Schedule
*Jan 1st 2012* Service Schedule •
8:00am: Quiet Service
•
10:00am: Blended Contemporary/ Traditional Service
14
20
21 1p-3p Prayer Shawl Workshop, FH
31 10:00a Bible Study
7:30p Alanon 8:30 A.A.
13
•
7:45am: Holy Eucharist Quiet Service
•
9:30am: ASEC Annual Meeting (Groff Hall)
•
11:00am: Combined Worship
•
Sunday Morning Service Schedule *1/8, 1/22, 1/29* 7:45am: Holy Eucharist Quiet Service
•
9:00am Holy Eucharist (Contemporary Family)
•
10:15am Children’s School
•
11:00am Holy Eucharist (Traditional)
27
28
All Saints’ Episcopal Church 203 E. Chatsworth Ave. PO Box 279 Reisterstown, MD 21136-0279 Phone: 410-833-0700 Fax: 410-833-2352 E-mail: allsaints_church@verizon.net
We’re on the web: www.allsaints.ang‐md.org
One last thought... THE PENCIL MAKER TOLD THE PENCIL 5 IMPORTANT LESSONS JUST BEFORE PUT‐ TING IT IN THE BOX : 1.) EVERYTHING YOU DO WILL ALWAYS LEAVE A MARK . 2.) YOU CAN ALWAYS CORRECT THE MISTAKES YOU MAKE. 3.) WHAT IS IMPORTANT IS WHAT IS INSIDE OF YOU. 4.) IN LIFE , YOU WILL UNDERGO PAINFUL SHARPENINGS, WHICH WILL ONLY MAKE YOU BETTER. 5.) TO BE THE BEST PENCIL, YOU MUST ALLOW YOURSELF TO BE HELD AND GUIDED BY THE HAND THAT HOLDS YOU. May we each allow God to shape us to his will and be a tool for his work.
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit No. 45 Owings Mills, MD.