Christ Church Epistle - Homecoming 2015 by Jeremy Tackett

Volume 9, Number One | Homecoming 2015 Interactive edition available online at www.ccepistle.org

Christ Church on Capitol Square

A Parish of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina

120 E Edenton Street, Raleigh, NC 27601 919.834.6259 | christchurchraleigh.org Rector The Rev. James P. Adams Editor / Art Director Jeremy Tackett Contributors The Rev. Jennifer C. Brown The Rev. Meg Buerkel Hunn The Rev. Callie E. Swanlund Stannie Brewer Carol Brinkley Eliza Brinkley Sloane Brooks Ryan Capp Martha Cox Sandy Fain Naomi Hill John Hodges David Jernigan Sarah Mitchell Lane Nash Nancie Pritchard Liz Stroff Carol Taylor John Ward Photography Tyler Cunningham Elise Mutter Juli Openshaw Jeremy Tackett

On the Cover

The Rev. Jennifer C. Brown and The Rev. Meg Buerkel Hunn baptize Harry Wooten Sartorio during a Service of Holy Eucharist and Holy Baptism (May 31, 2015).

Have a comment or an idea for a future Epistle publication? Send your thoughts to: Jeremy Tackett, Director of Communications jtackett@christchurchraleigh.org or visit www.CCEpistle.org.

In This Issue Features

12 On Mission: Serving in Belize

A first-hand account of what it’s like to serve on an international mission team. John Hodges Photos by Elise Mutter

14 Through Their Eyes: Vacation Bible School 2015

See Vacation Bible School in new and unique ways - through the eyes of those who were there. Sloane Brooks, Stannie Brewer, Sarah Mitchell, and Nancie Pritchard Photos by Juli Openshaw

18 Letters from Our Past

Compassion in the Midst of the Civil War’s Tragedy

John Ward

Sections

4 Rector’s Letter

5 Pastoral Care Corner

A reflection on hearing others’ stories, and telling my own. The Rev. Jennifer C. Brown

6 Sermon: Step Into the Boat Proper 7, Year B, RCL The. Rev. Callie E. Swanlund

8 Ministry Perspectives

11 Worship In Song

Music at Christ Church David Jernigan

20 Adult Christian Formation

Building on Firm Foundations: Fall 2015 Carol Brinkley

22 Moments to Remember

27 Meet the Staff

From the Rector’s Desk

Giving Thanks, and Looking Forward Dear Parish Family, As I write this letter, summer is winding down, and the pace is quickening as children return to school and fall calendars begin to fill with commitments. Before we trade our bathing suits and tennis racquets for backpacks and briefcases, we give thanks for what has been — for the amazing gift of summer and the refreshment of Sabbath time. Whether you recharge best at the beach, in a hammock, on the golf course or on the front porch, I pray that you have enjoyed summer and feel more rested and ready to take on the challenges and opportunities that September will bring. The pages of this Epistle reflect the abundant life and love with which God fills Christ Church. Our common life is blessed by the many hands that make this a vibrant, grace-filled place. My primary purpose in writing here is to express my gratitude to you and to give thanks to God, from whom all blessings flow. On Sunday, July 18, 2010, I arrived at Christ Church, having accepted your invitation to serve as Rector. These five years have been a season for me of spiritual growth and learning, and not a day has passed that I have not given thanks for the privilege it is to be a priest in this blessed parish. My life has been enriched by sharing in ministry with superb clergy colleagues, the marvelous Christ Church staff, and so many gifted, devoted lay leaders and volunteers.

Baseball Hall of Famer Brooks Robinson said this about the game he loves, “In baseball, I found a home that surpasses the grandest castle anyone could ever dream of building.” I am grateful to have found this kind of home at Christ Church. Over the last five years, we have accomplished much together. Thanks to your faithful response to the Age to Age Campaign, our facilities are now growing to match the size of our parish and the scope of our ministries; our Cornerstone Fund for Outreach Ministry will soon be ready to impact the critical needs of our city; and our parish finances will be stronger than ever as we retire all of the church’s debt. Sunday by Sunday, for five years, we have celebrated glorious worship; and we have worked hard to serve our neighbors from downtown Raleigh to Belize, from Newton Grove to Honduras. We have shared in joyous weddings and blessed baptisms; we have kept vigil at hospital bedsides and mourned together at heartbreaking funerals. This is what it means to be a family. This is what it means to find “a home that surpasses the grandest castle.” This fall, Christ Church will be a beehive of activity with many opportunities for worship, learning, and service. The Spirit is on the move in our midst, enlivening our ministries and giving us a growing sense of God’s purpose. The pages of this Epistle are your invitation to make yourself at home and to take your place in what God is doing at Christ Church! In Christ’s Love,

The Rev. James P. Adams

Christ Church Epistle - Homecoming 2015

Pastoral Care Corner

Lessons from Unexpected Journeys A reflection on hearing others’ stories and telling my own. The Rev. Jennifer C. Brown

“I not only have my secrets, I am my secrets. And you are yours. Our secrets are human secrets, and our trusting each other enough to share them with each other has much to do with the secret of what it means to be human.” - Frederick Buechner

A year ago, after a routine mammogram, I unwittingly through, seek to make some sense of their loss or pain, and find embarked upon a journey that was both unexpected and their way to a “new normal.” unwanted. Breast cancer was nothing I had ever worried about, You and I may have the same disease, but our experiences for some reason. Up to that point in time I had worried about are likely entirely different. We are called to ask open-ended plenty of things, just not that. The mastectomy was difficult; the questions, to not “assume” that something is good, bad, easy, chemotherapy felt even harder. People have asked me, “What or difficult, and to listen with curiosity and compassion. did you learn?” The question evokes a variety of emotions The variety of our experiences adds up to the sum total of within me. On the one hand, I think that all of life is a classroom the “human experience” – and it is truly a wonder. I marvel and that our job is to learn from everything that happens to us at the different sorts of courage, grace, strength and faith so that we become more free, whole, and loving. On the other demonstrated by the people I meet. But I can only “get at” hand, I reserve the right — as I believe we all possess this right those truths if I take the time to — to have “learned nothing” listen to the particulars of their Illness occurs in the context of a particular life. or, at the least, to still be in experience. Illness occurs in the the process for however long All of the person’s relationships, losses, successes context of a particular life. Thus, it takes, of making sense of my and failures, hopes and disappointments all of the person’s relationships, illness, and of forming a lifeinfluence how the illness is experienced. losses, successes and failures, giving narrative around it. hopes and disappointments So, with the above disclaimer in mind, I would like to share one thing that I have “learned” over the past year. My brother Jim, a physician and a wonderful human being, has always made the case that “we each have the right to define our own experience of illness.” I understood this only abstractly until the past year. One of the privileges of my job at Christ Church is listening to people’s stories. Particularly, when they are facing some kind of trouble, I try to listen deeply as they sort things

influence how the illness is experienced. Being able to “tell your story” to someone who truly wants to listen and hear, without judgment or preconceived notions, is a priceless gift. I praise God for the generous listeners with whom I have shared this past year, and I pray every day to become a better listener myself. With God’s help, we each can learn to share our unique stories, and to hear, really hear, the stories of one another. u

Pastoral Care Corner

Proper 7, Year B, RCL, Gospel Text: Mark 4:35-41

Step Into the Boat Sermon given by The Rev. Callie E. Swanlund

Be not afraid.

Do not fear. While it’s true that I sometimes repeat these mantras to myself when I feel my heart pounding - when I’m doing something like, say, preaching in my new parish for the first time - I often laugh at the absurdity of these phrases when I encounter them in biblical stories. “Hey Mary, I know I’m a strange wingéd man who appeared in your bedroom in the middle of the night, but don’t be scared!” or, “Greetings disciples! You’re probably not used to seeing someone taking a stroll alongside your boat while it’s in the middle of the water, but have no fear!” I don’t know about you, but hearing someone say, “There’s absolutely nothing to be afraid of here” actually causes my anxiety levels to spike, not lower. I think of the patient who goes to the doctor only to hear, “Look, you need to cut stress out of your life, or you’re headed straight for a heart attack.” Words like that usually have the opposite of the intended effect, don’t they? And yet this is how Jesus responds to his disciples when they wake him up the midst of a storm in today’s gospel. The wind is fierce, the water is threatening to drown them. They are clearly scared for their life, for they say, “Do you not care that we are perishing?” And Jesus asks them - as if he cannot fathom their sense of urgency in awakening him from a much-needed slumber - “Why are you afraid?” “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” Can you imagine if Jesus or an angel had showed up to the Bible study at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church on Wednesday evening in the midst of their horrific storm and asked, “Why are you afraid?” Clutching their Bibles, pleading with their killer and praying for his hate-filled soul, pretending to be already dead in order that they might survive. “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” Fear doesn’t work that way. It doesn’t simply go away because one person says it should or because another person says it’s not real. In Parenting 101, we learn that the best way to calm a child’s fears is not to dismiss them or prove them irrational but to validate them and attempt to see what they see. I heard parenting expert Lawrence Cohen speak last year, and he told the story of a small child who kept seeing a monster in his bedroom at night. I am certain the parent tried every response: There’s no such thing as monsters! Look, I checked everywhere and the coast is clear. Oh, c’mon, please just close your eyes and go to sleep already. Finally, the parent got into bed with the child. It was at that moment when they were on the child’s level that they saw it: a shadow cast onto the wall that looked mighty frightening, like a monster in fact. Instead of dismissing the child’s fear, they were able to say, “Oh yes, I see it, too. 6

Christ Church Epistle - Homecoming 2015

I hear that you’re scared. Let me hold you close and show you that I’m not frightened by the monster. When you’re ready, you can decide if you want to tickle it or sing it a song!”

bled as strategic operation centers during the civil rights movement, the black church has always been the one place where we most often felt protected and nurtured.” But this week, it was a place of terror.

Fear and its triggers are everywhere. I have a difficult time watching the news or reading the headlines in the grocery store Jesus’ rhetorical question “Why are you afraid?” brings little because I think they often just prey on our fears. “What deadly comfort here. In this case, we might find it more helpful to back toxin is hiding in your cereal box? Stay tuned to find out!” “Top up a few verses to the beginning of this gospel passage, where 10 Reasons to Avoid Walking as Exercise” “A deadly virus may Jesus issues an invitation: “Let us go across to the other side.” be in your child’s school. More after the 10-day forecast.” I After a long day of teaching, Jesus begins yet another journey. often take the sometimes unhelpful counter-phobic approach. Jesus asks us to get in the boat with him to cross over to the On September 11, 2001, I declared that I would happily take other side. What is this journey for you and for me? What fears a flight anywhere the next day. Or upon discussing the recent are we being asked to confront, what evils are we being asked to shark attacks with coworkers this week, I checked my calendar stand up against, what leaps of faith are we being asked to take? for a free day to head to the beach. Not because I’m brave, but How can we help calm this storm that has destroyed so many because sometimes jumping and continues to rage on? headfirst into my fears is the only Jesus refuses to let fear rule him. He refuses to let We know that there may be way to keep them from consumthe wind and the sea have power over him. storms on our journey, challenging me. es that feel like they will overIn today’s gospel passage, Jesus refuses to let fear rule him. He refuses to let the wind and the sea have power over him. Instead, he brings calm. But here’s the thing. Jesus calmed that storm. Jesus rebuked the wind for being so violent and the sea for being so destructive and they listened to him. They stopped. But for the people of Emanuel AME in Charleston and targets of hate crimes around our nation, this storm is still raging. The violence and destruction have not ceased. Like the child whose nighttime monster is very real, we cannot simply rationalize away this fear. This fear that the one place we consider to be a safe sanctuary - the church - was in fact not. This fear that people who are different - because of the color of their skin or their sexuality or their religion - are not safe in their own cities. This fear that the storm shows no signs of stopping. Scholar Patricia Williams Lessane writes, “Churches have historically provided a bulwark against such violence, especially here in the Deep South. From the “hush harbors” where enslaved Africans would steal away to worship, to the spirited praise houses that were once the spiritual cornerstone of Charleston’s Gullah community, to the hidden passageways on the Underground Railroad, to the church basements that dou-

come us like fierce wind and waves. But we are also promised that Jesus will help calm the storm if we have faith, if we are able to put trust in God’s vision for us. God’s vision of a world where people love and respect one another, where people work together across difference. We are being asked to take this journey, for the world, for ourselves, for our children, for Cynthia, Susie, Ethel, DePayne, Clementa, Tywanza, Daniel, Sharonda, and Myra. We are being asked to step into the boat and join Jesus in speaking calm to the storm. Let us take this journey together, toward more fully embodying the Kingdom of God here on earth. Let us cross over to the other side. u

Editor’s note: You can hear audio of this sermon and access an archive of sermons given at Christ Church, online at www.CCEpistle.org.

Sermon: Step Into the Boat

Ministry

Perspectives

The life of a church is found in the stories of her people — stories that are vast, inspiring, full of hope and joy. As we collect these stories, these endlessly varying perspectives, and share them on these pages, you are invited to remember, to celebrate, to pray and to give thanks. You are invited to join in the good work God is doing at Christ Church, and to tell stories of your own.

Deo Gracias (Thanks be to God) Miss Coco and the Christ Church Cherub Choir by Lane Nash When I was in my thirties, there was nothing more heartwarming, more confirming as a parent, more gratifying or more spiritually reassuring than those Christmas Eves at Christ Church when my children were in Miss Coco’s cherub choir. White robes dragging the floor, hair bows wider than their shoulders, leftover early supper on my son’s chin, they climbed those dark menacing stairs up to the choir loft with a purpose. That purpose was to please Miss Coco. This was, after all, their premiere performance before a packed house. They finally got to sing their most favorite song, Deo Gracias! They were in church but could actually sing a fun song with an upbeat tempo, and they could sing it as loud as they wanted. They were thrilled with themselves and with the adoring reception they received from their audience. Coco Davis has been introducing the children of Christ Church to music and to their role as part of the Christ Church family for more than 25 years. If my calculations are remotely close, she has left her imprint on literally hundreds of our children. What Coco understands with absolute clarity is that talent and love and faith are the three things in life that are meant to be shared. She has generously shared each of these magnificent gifts with my children and hundreds of yours. And she hasn’t changed a bit during all those years of rehearsals and pageants, lamb costumes and sticky orange popsicles melting in her living room. The children have kept her young, the music has kept her joyful and her faith has kept her strong throughout her radiant life. Can you even imagine a finer role model for your children than Coco Davis? I am no longer in my thirties - my children are! And for more than 25 years on Christmas Eve after church, we have gathered with Christ Church families, and there is always, always, the singing of Deo Gracias by the now adult “children”- and with Coco still directing them. Many are married now. Many have babies of their own. But on this night, they are once again the children of Christ Church, singing with absolute abandon for their Miss Coco. The men have bass voices now. There is beautiful harmony. There is love in abundance. There is joy. And there is Coco still at it. Still giving to children of every age — and to their aging parents. It’s my favorite part of Christmas. It is still as confirming, gratifying and spiritually reassuring as when I was a young mother. Only more so. Coco makes everything “more so.” This Christmas Eve the cherubs will sing along with Miss Coco one last time. Coco has announced that she will retire at the end of the year, bringing to a close her many years of dedication to the children and families of Christ Church. The thought of Coco retiring is unsettling. And because this essay needs a happy ending, I asked permission to announce in print that Coco’s daughter, Caroline Davis Braswell, will be taking Coco’s place at the helm of the cherub choir. My grandchildren will be singing Deo Gracias with Caroline! I can hardly wait to hem and iron the choir robe. And so the talent, and the love and the faith continue. Thanks be to God. Deo Gracias. 8

Christ Church Epistle - Homecoming 2015

A First-Person Mission View by Eliza Brinkley

Editor’s Note: This is the first in an ongoing series of Eliza’s first-person accounts during her time in Haiti. We’re excited to bring this unique view of the mission field to our readers and hope you’ll enjoy following this journey. I have had the wonderful privilege of being invited to serve for one year as a missionary of the Young Adult Service Corps of the Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Haiti beginning this Fall. My primary work as a missionary will consist of teaching English and establishing an English program at the St. Barnabas Agricultural Center (CASB) in Terrier Rouge in Haiti’s northeastern region. The college at CASB is dedicated to teaching local students how to farm small plots of land, focusing particularly on the cultivation of vegetables, animal production, the environment and the management of risks and disasters. The overall mission of the college at CASB is to create a sustainable source of economic dependency for its students, area farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs, and to incite overall economic growth in Haiti’s northern region.

Showcasing, Celebrating and Supporting The ECW Art Sale by Sandy Fain

As of way of involving my friends, family and members of my church community in this journey, I am required to raise $10,000 of the funds that will go to support my mission in Haiti. I have been truly touched by the incredible number of fellow parishioners who have contributed to my mission through financial gifts, well-wishes and prayers. I am also grateful for the Christ Church clergy and staff, who helped me in making the decision to commit to YASC and in the planning and management of fundraising.

For more than 30 years, Christ Church parishioners, friends and family have gathered every other year to celebrate art and enjoy food and fellowship. It all began as a way to showcase works from artists in our congregation and to support the Episcopal Church Women (ECW). In 2013, a most successful year for the sale, more than 250 people attended. “The ECW Art Sale is an event highly anticipated by our parish and community. The evening, which always proves to be great fun, is the product of many talented hands - artists and volunteers alike - and creates necessary funds the ECW uses to support numerous deserving organizations such as Growing Together Preschool, Wake Relief, St. Savior’s Center/Diaper Train and Clark’s Promise just to name a few,” says Beth Moye, ECW president.

I invite you to share in my mission by visiting my blog at inwardspiritualgrace.blogspot.com. I will be posting regular updates on my life and work in Haiti and at CASB. If you have general questions about my mission, feel free to send me an email at ebrinkley@elon.edu. I ask for prayers and wellwishes as I prepare to embark on this exciting, new journey.

Marriott Little, an artist and Christ Church parishioner who has participated in the Art Sale from the very beginning, expresses her joy in participating in the event. “This event exposes the talent of so many Christ Church parishioners,” says Little. “As an artist, I feel that my involvement is a good way to contribute to my church – it’s my way of giving back.” This year’s Art Sale will be held Oct. 17, 2015 at Saint Mary’s School in Raleigh. Everyone is invited for chatting and socializing, nibbling on delights from Martha’s kitchen, and buying art to support ECW’s good work in the community. Mike Hoyt has donated a special piece (pictured above) for the always popular raffle. Evoking memories of the traditional Cotillion experience, this work is a delight. It captures both the awkwardness and anticipation of waiting for a turn on the dance floor. Wouldn’t it be wonderful hanging in your home? You will hear more about how to purchase raffle tickets in the weeks to come.

Local church in Terrier Rouge, Haiti

One of the great pleasures of Christ Church events is being involved. If you would like to volunteer to help with the Art Sale, get in touch with Allene Adams (capecooley@aol.com). Whether an attendee, patron or volunteer (or all of these), there is a place for everyone at the Art Sale. Save the date, invite your friends and make plans to attend.

Perspectives

Helping Understand God through Sharing HUGS Camp Brings a Summer Camp Experience to Campers with Disabilities by Naomi Hill Everything is better when you have someone to share it with, when you can rely on that person for help, and share in your moments of pride and weakness. When we see love, I think that it is God’s way of showing us His kingdom here on Earth. The Diocese of North Carolina hosts HUGS (Helping Understand God through Sharing) Camp, which allows many youth, including me and other youth from Christ Church, to help build a safe haven for those who might otherwise not be able to experience the joy of camp. Each year we are presented with a new challenge and yet also the profound idea that we can do anything we set our minds to do. In our world, those who appear different are quick to be judged based on appearance or how they interact with others, especially those who have disabilities. That is what makes HUGS so unique; it is a place where all are integrated helping one another and showing one another kindness no matter what we look like or how we act. I and other teenagers are trained to be “helper campers” and act as the camper’s (with disabilities ranging from autism to being wheelchair-bound) caregiver for the week. Throughout the week we do activities that would happen at a typical sleepaway camp; things like campfires, pool times, field games and crafts. Each camper is encouraged to participate and enjoy the activities with the teenager or helper camper they have been paired with for the week. Every year the week of HUGS has a different theme to guide activities and set the tone, and this year The Lego Movie was picked. The message in the movie is that each of us has the power to change the world with the incredible gifts with which we have been blessed. My favorite parts about camp are the bonds we form not only with the other helper campers, but with the campers themselves. This camp is a place of pure magic where God’s love is shown through laughter, dance, kind words and, last but certainly not least, lots and lots of heartwarming hugs. I hope one day you are all able to experience the raw happiness of HUGS and those who are blessed to be different. Naomi Hill is one of six Christ Church youth who served as helper campers this summer. She was one of a group of helpers named “Helper of the Year.” In addition to her work at HUGS Camp, Naomi regularly serves as an acolyte in Christ Church worship services.

Providing Comfort to Those In Need The Christ Church Prayer Shawl Guild by Carol Taylor Founded about 10 years ago, the Prayer Shawl Guild is part of an international knitting movement whose purpose is to knit prayer shawls and lap robes for people in need of comfort. The Christ Church ministry currently has 12 active members who have created 40 prayer shawls this year. Over the years, members have knitted more than 400 prayer shawls. Members meet monthly for fellowship and to knit. The shawls are made of a special homespun yarn (designed to be soft, warm and washable) that recipients say is comforting and envelops them in love and security. At each meeting, members pray over the shawls and place them in a box with a prayer card signed by the knitter. The shawls are blessed and delivered by the clergy to parishioners who are ill, hospitalized or grieving, or in need of comfort. Two or three times a year, shawls are blessed during a church service. Knitters also create shawls for their own loved ones and friends when they are in need of support.

Christ Church Epistle - Homecoming 2015

Parishioners and friends who receive the prayer shawls and robes express deep feelings about the solace and love they receive and gratitude they feel toward the Christ Church community. They have said that shawls are a source of peace, a reminder of God’s love, and that they ward off fear and anxiety. Knitters continue to hear from recipients about how much the shawls mean to them and about their ongoing benefits.

Worship in Song Music at Christ Church on Capitol Square by David Jernigan The Goldberg Variations Oct. 8, 7 p.m.

The Faces of Bach: Court Composer and Church Musician Mar. 18, 7 p.m.

North Carolina Symphony trio Libbie Phelps, Sam Gold and Nathaniel Yaffe perform Bach’s famous Goldberg Variations. The piece was originally written for keyboard and is widely accepted as one of the most important and prolific examples of variation form.

Schola Cantorum and the N.C. Baroque Chamber Players team up to perform two of Bach’s earliest cantatas, the profound requiem-cantata, Actus Tragicus, and the Lenten cantata, Aus der Tiefen. Brandenburg Concerto No. 6, written for Prince Leopold at the court of Köthen shows Bach’s mastery of composition for chamber music.

The Flight of Angels: Music for the faithful departed Nov. 1, 3 p.m. A time for Christians to remember and celebrate those loved ones who have departed this life for the next, this All Saints Day program honors all those from our parish who have died. The Choir of Men and Girls and the Adult Choir perform Sir John Tavener’s Song for Athene, sung as Princess Diana’s coffin departed Westminster Abbey and Vivaldi’s famous Gloria, in period style. Clavier-Ubüng III Jan. 31, 7 p.m. David Jernigan, Christ Church Organist/Choirmaster, performs music from Johann Sebastian Bach’s most extensive work for organ, the Clavier-Ubüng III (Meaning “Keyboard Practice”). The Prelude and Fugue in E-flat major, considered by many to be Bach’s single greatest contrapuntal work, bookends this collection of choral preludes written to showcase all possible styles of contrapuntal writing.

All God’s People: A festival of hymns and anthems with brass May 20, 7 p.m. This combined concert and hymn-sing showcases the great hymns and anthems of the Episcopal/Anglican musical tradition. Hymns such as Praise to the Lord the Almighty and Lo he comes with clouds descending are given new life with brass arrangements and descants while William Walton’s Coronation Te Deum displays the very best of ceremonial music for choir, organ, and brass.

Other musical offerings at Christ Church A Festival of Lessons and Carols Dec. 13, 5 p.m. Traditionally sung on Christmas Eve at King’s College Cambridge, Lessons and Carols illuminates the prophecy and birth of Christ through scripture and song. This year’s service will be sung in candlelight and will feature Bieble’s Ave Maria, Roderick Williams’ O Adonai, Eric Whitacre’s Lux arumque, John Gardiner’s Tomorrow shall be my dancing day, as well as many traditional Advent and Christmas carols.

Worship In Song

Meet John. John Hodges is a senior at Broughton High School and an active member of the Christ Church community. John is a member of the Youth Leadership Committee (YLC), a group of high school students who help design, coordinate and create programs in the Christ Church youth ministry. He has served on YLC since his freshman year and this past year took on the role of communications co-coordinator, which includes oversight of and content creation for all youth social media accounts. In addition to YLC, John has served on the Run for Young committee for three years. We asked John to give us an insider’s look at what it’s like to serve on an international mission team. These are excerpts from a daily journal he kept to document the youth mission to Belize in June 2015. June 13: Arrival I arrive at the airport very early, having had way too little sleep. After sleeping through most of both flights, we arrive in Belize City. Our bus ride from the airport to the water taxi is our first exposure to Belize. The scenic water taxi from Belize City to San Pedro puts everyone to sleep as we cruise across the clear water. We arrive at Hotel Akbol, and have a delicious welcome dinner prepared by the kitchen staff. We go to bed pretty early, excited for the rest of our Belize trip.

June 14: Sunday Funday Our second day is our “Sunday Funday,” as the school is not open. We spend the day snorkeling and discovering the Belizean maritime wildlife. Afterward, we explore the neighboring island of Caye Caulker. For dinner, we join our small groups and take our first trip into downtown San Pedro. Liz has us in bed early again, getting ready for our first day at the school.

June 15: The First Day of School After a big breakfast at the hotel, we walk along the beach for our first day at the school. We meet Ms. Dora, the new volunteer coordinator, along with other officials from the school. Broken up into our work groups, I am assigned to the graduating Standard VI class, equivalent to eighth grade in the United States. Being teenagers, the students are hesitant to talk to us at first, but after settling in they begin to open up. The whole group comes together again for a delicious lunch prepared by the school, and then we break into smaller groups for afternoon tasks. I am assigned to scrubbing the walls in preparation for a new coat of paint. While it is hot under the Belizean sun, the job is rewarding because I can see how much cleaner the walls are. I come back from my first day at the school tired, but ready to keep working. 12

Christ Church Epistle - Homecoming 2015

June 16: I’m Not an Artist Our second day follows a similar pattern to our first. I spend the morning with the Standard VI students, and today we try the impossible task of making complicated bracelets. While many of the students catch on, my lack of artistic ability makes it a lost cause. One of the students in the class, Jocelyn, feels bad for me and braids a bracelet for my water bottle. Though it is challenging, making the bracelets brings my group closer to the students. In the afternoon, I switch to the painting crew, adding a fresh coat of white paint to the wall I had scrubbed the day before. Paint drips all over me, but I have a fun time with my friends throughout the afternoon.

June 17: We’re Not So Different, You and I I again spend the morning with the Standard VI students. Today, I help the highest-achieving student in the grade (equivalent to our valedictorian) edit her speech for graduation. It is really interesting to see the parallels between our education and theirs. I continue to grow closer and closer to my new friends and begin to get to know them and understand their lives. I spend the afternoon painting again, something for which I have developed a practiced skill. We are all completely exhausted, but it is very rewarding to see the fresh coat of paint on the previously decrepit wall. June 18: The Last Day of School Our last day at the school is a bittersweet one. My work group takes a field trip from the school to the playground just across the bridge. It is beautiful, right by the beach, and is a great opportunity for me to spend time with the students outside of the classroom. We have a lot of fun playing volleyball and basketball, or just sitting on the swings and talking. Everyone is excited to get back for lunch to prepare for the Christ Church vs. Holy Cross soccer match. We pick our best players to square off against theirs, but in the end, we can’t match their skill and grit. After a few hours of painting, we say goodbye to our students and leave the school for the last time.

June 19: This Is Not the End Traveling back home is bittersweet. The whole group had a fun and meaningful time in Belize, doing both fun things and important service. We arrive home tired, but very affected by our experiences. The development at the Holy Cross School and in the neighboring area of San Mateo was obvious but they still lack necessary supplies and resources. The relationship between our church and the school is essential to both of us because it not only provides an opportunity for an international mission, but necessary aid to the students at Holy Cross.

About Holy Cross Anglican School Founded in 2006 by two Episcopalian missionaries, Holy Cross Anglican School began with just three classrooms and 62 students. Nine years later, the school serves 440 students in grades preschool - Standard VI (Eighth Grade). The school is located in San Mateo, on the outskirts of San Pedro, Belize, on the island of Ambergris Caye. Most of the homes in the San Mateo area do not have running water, electricity or sewage systems, and families struggle to provide the most basic needs for their children. In addition to classroom education, Holy Cross Anglican School provides access to services and resources that meet the needs of the whole student and San Mateo community, including computer labs, libraries, feeding programs, healthcare and much more. Since partnering with the school in 2009, Christ Church has sent 134 parishioners to visit and work with Holy Cross. Our ongoing partnership and support help ensure a brighter future for the children of San Mateo. u

What does it mean

to trust in God and to stand up for what you believe in? This summer, 105 children, along with 75 youth and 60 parent volunteers, tackled those questions and more as they explored the story of Daniel and the Lion’s Den. Vacation Bible School is a summer staple at Christ Church, and would not be possible without the tireless work of the church’s volunteers and staff. This year, participants learned that when you’re in a den of lions or a fiery furnace, and you believe in God, God is in there, too. They learned that God loves us and that with God all things are possible. Along the way, those at VBS enjoyed old friends and made new ones, became really good friends with the youth of our church and were thankful for having parents and grandparents there to help, too. To help us relive this fun and important week of the church year, we asked some of our friends to share their memories of the week and to help us see Vacation Bible School in new and unique ways - through the eyes of those who were there.

In worship,

our focus was on prayer, balance and trust. We used Daniel as our example of someone who prayed to God every day. God helped Daniel to have balance in his life and to trust God in all things. We played a trust game where the children paired off and took turns guiding each other, while blindfolded, through an obstacle course. In processing this challenge we heard from the children: “It was scary.” “I had a good partner that I could trust.” “My partner really let me guide her and that made me feel good.” In relating their experience to God, the children understood: “When I’m scared, God will help me.” “God is the best partner.” “God really likes it when we trust God.” To illustrate one of the stories of Daniel, the children were to draw their idea of a tall, shiny statue. In the story, the King of Babylon built a tall, shiny statue for the people to worship. We had many interpretations, all good; however, one child drew a cross for her statue, and several children put crosses at the top of their statue. Our last day each class wrote a prayer together. The prayers were very thoughtful and comprehensive. When asked, “How do we want to close our prayer?”, the response was, “Thanks be to God!” Thanks be to God for all our children. What a joy it was to be with them this week. - Stannie Brewer Stannie is the grandmother of Wait, Ellerbe, Michelina, Liliana and Ford Brewer all participants of this year’s Vacation Bible School. For the past two years, she has been a VBS worship leader, meeting with the children each day for 30 minutes of classroom time to learn the Bible story from the week. VBS 2015: Through Their Eyes

For the past

six summers, I have looked forward to Vacation Bible School week. VBS is my favorite volunteer opportunity at church. It is a great way to get to meet fellow church members and I love seeing the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bright faces everyday. Over the years, I have been assigned different jobs. I have been in a classroom, worked on the worship committee and this year helped in the nursery. Whatever the assignment, it is a fun way to be involved in the church and interact with the young children. The church staff always picks a great bible story as the theme for the week. Fun crafts and songs are picked to teach the story and it is always neat to see the children learn the bible story in a creative manner. One of the most rewarding parts of VBS is being able to see the children I have worked with grow up and be active in the church. I love going to the Christmas pageant every year and seeing the children be a part of the church. With the large size of our congregation, Vacation Bible School is a perfect opportunity for all age groups to come together and serve and get to know one another. If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t volunteered or sent your child to VBS, I highly recommend it! - Sarah Mitchell Sarah is a member of the Christ Church youth ministry and a devoted Vacation Bible School volunteer.

Christ Church Epistle - Homecoming 2015

Relocating to Raleigh

nearly a year ago, my family has been in search of a church that is not only welcoming, but offers a strong children’s ministry that will excite, engage and support our seven-year-old daughter, Annabelle, as she grows in faith. Initially, I thought this task would be simple; however, it has proven to be more challenging than expected. Moving from city to city over the past several years, we had yet to connect with a church that truly offers the criteria we are seeking. In addition, our Annabelle is a shy child that prefers observing others from the back of the room, as she is timid around new people and new environments. Enter Christ Church. Wow! We attended Christ Church on a random Sunday at the 11 a.m. service and were immediately blown away by the beauty and history of the church, as well as the warm words spoken by the Rev. Jim Adams. Even more importantly, my daughter expressed excitement as she saw dozens and dozens of children exit Sunday School. Being a typical mom I thought, “Finally! Yes! This is the place! I found it! Hallelujah! ... Now, how can I get Annabelle involved before she loses interest?” Vacation Bible School proved to be the perfect answer to this question. I signed Annabelle up for VBS and then volunteered as much of my time as possible in hopes that attending together, we could make this experience a success. And, a success it was! Throughout the week, VBS was so much fun! Annabelle and I made new friends. We loved the theme, Daniel and the Lion’s Den, and had a blast singing the VBS songs (we are still singing them!). Annabelle was super excited about performing the week’s end VBS play in the Sunday service. And, she even invited one of her new friends from VBS to sit with our family during the service. I absolutely loved seeing Annabelle grow in confidence and consider Christ Church “our church.” From arts and crafts, to the worship lessons, to singing and playing fun games outside, we loved it all! The youth, staff and adult volunteers made us feel so special and so loved. Our family could not be more thankful. I can happily say, we have found “our church,” Christ Church. Our family looks forward to getting more involved in all the wonderful children’s ministries Christ Church offers. Thank you for making us feel welcome! u - Nancie Pritchard Nancie is a first-time VBS volunteer and the mom of Annabelle, a first-time VBS attendee.

VBS 2015: Through Their Eyes

From the Archives

Letters From Our Past Compassion in the Midst of the Civil War’s Tragedy by John Ward

In 1981,

a trunk of old letters was found at the Archibald Smith home in Roswell, Ga. Uncovered in those letters was the story of a young soldier, caught in the conflict of the Civil War, who was led to the arms of The Rev. Dr. R.S. Mason, Rector of Christ Church, and his family. William S. “Willie” Smith, a soldier in the Confederate Army, participated in General Hardee’s retreat through the Carolinas to Raleigh. Being ill, Willie was admitted to hospital No. 8, Peace Institute. Willie died of disease at the home of Rev. Mason on July 7, 1865. The transcription of the letters was published in The Death of a Confederate.1 May 30, 1865 Archibald Smith (Father of Willie Smith) to Rev. I.S. Axson

July 20, 1865 - Raleigh Received Aug. 18, 1865

I am in much anxiety about my son Wm. S. Smith, and apply to you to assist me, in the confidence that your friendship & Christian sympathy will lead you to do all you can to aid me. The last account that I have been able to get of William, was, that he was sick of Typhus fever in Raleigh, N.C. when our forces left that place.

Mary Ann Mason to Ann Magill Smith (Mother of Willie Smith)

June 20, 1865 - Raleigh Rev. Mason to Archibald Smith It is with great pain I am compelled to inform you of the continued and dangerous illness of your son, Mr. William Smith, formerly a soldier of the confederate army. About four weeks ago your son with two other fellow soldiers was brought, for his great comfort as we hoped from the hospital to our house. ... One of his fellow soldiers has died, and the other has recovered and gone home. Your son was afflicted when he came to us with chronic diarrhea, occasionally assuming the form of dysentery. ... I can assure you that we, my family, have felt that sympathy very deeply for your son, not only from his situation, but from the interest we have taken in him personally from his Christian character and from his superior manner and attainments. 18

Christ Church Epistle - Homecoming 2015

It has become my painful duty to tell you that our efforts have all been in vain to save your excellent son from the lot of martyrs. He died as he had lived, calm, peaceful and resigned to the will of Heaven. He came to me in the latter part of the month of April, and never for one moment has he evidenced the least impatience of discontent at the decrees to Divine Providence in his disposal. I found him with two other sick soldiers in the Peace Hospital near my house, and became very much interested in them, so that when the Yankees were about to remove the inmates of this hospital to another some distance from here, I resolved to take them to my own home. As the weather was getting warm, and they had been accustomed to a tent, I thought as they did, that it would be best for them to continue in one, and according one was obtained and placed in my front yard under the shade of trees. One, quite a boy, came in a settled consumption and only survived a week. Another as I thought the oldest of the three with typhoid fever recovered and

The Rev. Dr. R.S. Mason Rector, 1840-1874 returned home in S. Carolina some four weeks ago. So that for the last period my whole attention has been given to your Son. At first his disease I am told was typhoid fever; then erysipelas, which continued to affect him more or less to the close, though an unconquerable diarrhea completed the exhaustion of his life. Every thing that medicine could do was done, but nothing could stay the fatal disease. At six o’clock on the evening of the 7th of this month your truly pious son slept with Jesus. My husband and five grown daughters were his constant companions. He used to tell me I reminded him of his mother, and he felt like calling me mother all the while. But alas now that I have lost my patient, I feel as if I had never done enough for him. But when these misgivings come over me, my comfort is to recall his own words to me. “My mother could not do more if she were here.” ... But Oh I can not tell you how ardently he longed to see you and all

his “dear ones at home” as he continually said. ... The day before he died he received your letter. It was indeed a cordial to him. ... On the following morning I found he was growing much weaker and his disease overpowering. All hope was gone by noon. He lay in unconscious quietude. ... Tranquilly as an infant he breathed for the last three or four hours and passed into the world of bliss, without a sigh. But Oh Christian Mother I bid you rejoice in laying up this precious treasure in heaven. Doubt not to meet him there. ... Six confederate soldiers young men from the first families here, all in their gray uniforms acted as the bearers of their lamented comrade in arms. ... He had a coffin ordered by myself. It was colored like black walnut varnished and lined with fine white muslin cushioned at the bottom and a nice little pillow, with book muslin on the face. ... I closed his eyes myself. I assisted in bathing him as tenderly as you could have done it yourself. I am also a mother. I helped to put him in his coffin. ...

I have put away his knapsack and some little valuables which await your order. He rests in our cemetery where he wished to be “with a community of pious dead.” July 20, 1866 - Raleigh Rev. Mason to Archibald Smith Thinking it would be agreeable to you to have a minister of his own faith to attend his funeral, I requested the Rev. Mr. Atkinson, the pastor of the Presbyterian congregation in this town, and who had previously visited him to do so. ... Many of the neighbors with of course my own family attended the services, and he was borne of the grave by returned Confederate Soldiers & officers, natives of Raleigh who volunteered their services for this purpose. Feb. 27, 1866 - Raleigh Mary Ann Mason to Anne Magill Smith I herewith enclose you a photograph of the old woman who had the care of your departed son. You may judge perhaps some of what the eyes that looked with

For there stood by me this night the angel of God ... Acts 27:23

Skinner, Arthur N., and James L. Skinner. The Death of a Confederate: Selections from the Letters of the Archibald Smith Family of Roswell, Georgia, 1864-1956. Athens: University of Georgia, 1996. Print. 1

so much interest upon his fading form. Perhaps the countenance may not express, but the heart was full of kindness as well as anxious solicitations for his recovery and restoration to his “loved ones at home” This old lady is 63 years of age, gray headed, and her eyes are, some say blue, some, gray bordering on blue. She is rather above medium height, carries some what of the elevated head (I trust) of the bred and born Southerner, not a semblance of a drop of Puritan blood in her veins. ... This old woman was the mother of five sons and five daughters but the Good God was pleased to take three of his sons, ripe for Heaven before this cruel Puritan War. I trust your dear Willie and mine, has embraced then in their heavenly home, brought them tidings from their earthly home. (continued on next page)

May 12, 1866 - Raleigh Mary Ann Mason to Anne Magill Smith As respects to the monument. Dr. Mason has seen the stonecutter and he says he can prepare a slab and two uprights-of granite at 75 dollars. Of Marble about 100. Dr. Mason says he has in his hands now of your about $40, which can go toward the stone. If you say so he will have it done at once. Send on the inscriptions you wish at once-if you conclude to have it done now. ... A few days ago in cleaning up my dressing room – I found on the top of a wardrobe an over coat of our son, his cap & blanket. I had forgotten these. How shall I send them to you? ... I send you a Raleigh paper containing the account of the floral visit to tombs of Confederate dead. I think It will interest you. Your Willie’s grave of course was among the number of graves visited. Aug. 15, 1866 - Raleigh Mary Ann Mason to Anne Magill Smith I am writing at the window where I used to sit and watch the tent of my patient last summer, and listen, for a word or song from my baby. And some times I shut my eyes, imagine he is sitting out before the tent door. But alas when I open my eyes I miss the bright smiling inviting countenance, that used to hasten me down to minister to his wishes or wants. You don’t know what a pleasure it was & how mournfully I miss that pleasing occupation. Our church is on a small lot in the heart of the town, so there is no grave yard attached to it. But your son was laid in the city cemetery (Oakwood). There is no other place. None of the churches here have burying grounds attached to them. ... Dec. 26, 1866 - Raleigh The Rev. Dr. R.S. Mason to Archibald Smith I have the pleasure to inform you that the slab of marble for your son’s monument has been received, and the stone cutter has promised me to have the monument completed in a week or ten days. I have no doubt the work will be well done, as they who have engaged to do it are Scotchmen regularly trained; and all the gravestones and monuments which they have prepared have been well executed. As soon as they have completed your son’s monument, I will let you know. Feb. 6, 1867 - Raleigh The Rev. Dr. R.S. Mason to Archibald Smith Enclosed I sent the account for the monument which is completed and erected. I think you would be pleased with its appearance. The stone is a handsome one, and the execution is good. I hope we shall have the satisfaction of seeing yourself or some member or members of your family in Raleigh before a long time, and that you will have the melancholy gratification of seeing your noble son suitably remembered. Inscription in the Smith Family Bible (Annie Magill Smith): William Seagrove Smith Sweetly fell asleep in Jesus, on the 7th July 1865, in Raleigh, N.C. where he was received into the family of Rev. R.S. Mason D.D. an Episcopal Minister, & tenderly nursed with Christian sympathy for months, to the final issue of diseases contracted by exposure in the service of Confederate States, into which he early and heartily entered. Willie Smith’s grave is in the Mason family plot in Oakwood Cemetery, Raleigh. u 20

Christ Church Epistle - Homecoming 2015

Building on Firm Foundations

Adult Christian Formation - Fall 2015

Carol Brinkley Change is afoot at Christ Church these days, as our parish prepares for a major renovation project. Already we are getting used to the new landscape. The glorious stone we now gaze upon in the lobby and parlor, newly uncovered after many years behind drywall, reminds us that the strength and beauty of our church run deep. Even as we anticipate with great excitement expanded facilities to accommodate our evergrowing programs and ministries, we are reminded of how Christ Church has always been a “rock” for the community—a place of amazing durability and, at the same time, loveliness. This union of strength and beauty makes a fitting metaphor for the offerings of the Adult Christian Formation Committee this fall. In some ways, it’s a “back to basics” program that focuses on the foundations of our faith. In the Parish Hall, we delve into the Book of Common Prayer, to make a study of our magnificent liturgy and the sacraments which affirm and sustain our Christian heritage. Our gifted clergy team, including Jim, Jenny, Meg and Callie, take on most of the teaching, but we look forward to welcoming other excellent teachers and friends ... Phil Fackler, Mary Davila and Adrienne Koch. Room 202 also offers a range of meaningful experiences for Sunday mornings. In addition to our “Meet Callie” event and presentations by the Pastoral Care Commission, Alzheimers NC and our own Director of Communications, Jeremy Tackett, we offer five sessions from the Animate Bible series, a video Bible study course for adults. Each session starts with a brief video featuring a well-known theologian (Will Willimon and Phyllis Tickle, to name two). A facilitator then helps lead discussion. Topics include Testaments, History, Gospels, Interpretation and Grace. We are very excited to be offering this foundational and accessible Bible study experience! Please refer to the Adult Christian Formation page on the Christ Church website (www.christchurchraleigh.org) for details on this year’s schedule of speakers and events. And be sure to read your Parish Weekly and Sunday school e-blasts for upcoming programs.

Adult Christian Formation

September 13

On Capitol Square

Rally Sunday

www.ChristChurchRaleigh.org

Building on Firm

“Sacramental People”

Foundations

The Rev. James P. Adams

September 20

A Spire in the Metropolis

The History of Christ Church Martin Brinkley

September 27

What’s so common about

the Book of Common Prayer? The Rev. Phil Fackler

October 4 October 25

A Prayer Book Primer

Hope of Jesus

The Rev. Meg Buerkel Hunn

Children’s Home Mike Miller

Sundays in Fall 2015 Parish Hall October 11

Sacraments: Baptism: The Priesthood of all People Adrienne Koch

October 18 November 1

Pop-Up Eucharist The Rev. Callie E. Swanlund

November 8

Sacraments:

Eucharist

Sacramental Rites

Unction and Reconciliation

The Rev. James P. Adams

The Rev. Jennifer C. Brown

November 15

Sacramental Rites

December 6

Confirmation, Ordination and Holy Matrimony

Belize Youth Mission

The Rev. Mary Davila

Presentation

November 22

Building Committee

Update

Blount Williams and Mary Tucker

Liz Stroff and CC Youth

December 13

The Liturgical Year The Rev. Callie E. Swanlund

Other Weekly Offerings (Room 202) Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1 Nov. 8 Nov. 15 Dec. 6

November 29

Meet Callie Swanlund and Phil Fackler Advent Animate Adventure Animate Finishing Well (with The Rev. Jennifer C. Brown) Animate Pastoral Care Commission Animate Staying Connected (Jeremy Tackett, Director of Communications) Animate Alzheimers North Carolina (Lisa Levine)

Moments to Remember

1 Members of the St. Adeleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ECW group meet at the home of Diana Harris, and listen to Diana explaining their asparagus garden. 22

2 Coles Jones and Jenny Brown sample the asparagus.

4 Youth group members joined forces to serve at Glory Ridge Camp in Maddison County.

6 On the June 10 Youth Outreach Day, students and youth leaders meet for prayer and reflection with the Rev. Meg Buerkel Hunn.

3 Middle school youth group members show off their artwork.

5 A Glory Ridge workgroup takes a break for a group photo.

7 The Rev. Callie Swanlund, and son Linus, share the Gospel reading during a Eucharist service for the Belize Youth Mission Team.

Christ Church Epistle - Homecoming 2015

Photos 1 & 2 Courtesy of Coles Jones

6 1 From right, Don Finkbeiner, June 2 From bottom right, Mayor 3 From bottom right, Marriane Finkbeiner and friends at the Miro Smedes York, Co-author John Ford, Ann Ostrow, Betsy Exhibit at the Nasher Museum Sharpe, Johnny Wardlaw, EK Stratemeyer and friend Howard, Bob Leak and friend. 5 From right, Jan Silvia and Peg Fisher

4 Front Martha Leak, Jackie Savage, Jack Lewis, guest speaker Thomas Sayre and Marriott Little

6 A full house at Lunch and Learn Moments to Remember

Moments to Remember

4 1 & 2 Kids and adults alike enjoy a relaxing time of fellowship during the Christ Church AllParish Weekend at Kanuga.

3 Saturday morning at Kanuga begins with a Service of Holy Eucharist, led by the Rev. Jim Adams, at the outdoor chapel.

Christ Church Epistle - Homecoming 2015

5 4 Martha Cox, Assistant Youth Ministry Director, poses with students at the Kanuga climbing tower.

5 A local bluegrass band provides Saturday evening entertainment during the AllParish Retreat.

6 1 Jack and Marianne Ford present the Rev. Miller Hunter with a token of appreciation for his work with StepUp Ministry.

2 On May 31, the Christ Church parish joined to thank Miller and Carol Hunter for their service to the church.

5 Laura McCall Whitley, head chorister in the Choir of Men and Girls, singing in concert with the choirs of Christ Church.

6 The adult choir, Schola Cantorum, and the Choir of Men and Girls perform during a concert at Christ Church.

3 The Rev. Miller Hunter thanks 4 Cathy Monaghan thanks Miller the parish during his May 31 for his service and tells the retirement celebration. crowd, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Miller takes the cake!â&#x20AC;?

Moments to Remember

Meet the Staff In 2015, Christ Church has continued to experience growth and success, and additions to the church staff and clergy have contributed to excitement about the future. In January, Jeremy Tackett (pictured at left) began work as the Director of Communications. Ryan Capp, Operations and Facilities Manager (pictured at right), joined Christ Church in March and in June we welcomed The Rev. Callie Swanlund as Associate Rector for Worship and Community Life. To help us get to know these new members of the family, we asked them to participate in a short question and answer session.

What did you do before you came to Christ Church?

CALLIE: I was the Associate for Formation & Family Ministry – which ties with my new title here for “longest title ever” – at the Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields in Philadelphia, Penn. I led a weekly 30-minute Eucharist for families with young children, oversaw the church school and VBS, shared in preaching and teaching the gospel and helped build a more welcoming community. RYAN: Prior to working at Christ Church, I worked at Edenton Street United Methodist Church as an Event and Facility Coordinator. JEREMY: I served as the Publications Coordinator for the University of Pikeville in Pikeville, Ky., and volunteered as a teaching pastor with the university’s Office of Spiritual Life.

What has surprised you most about your position?

CALLIE: I have been blown away by both the hospitality extended to me and my family, and by the small town feel of Raleigh. The notes, flowers, groceries and visits we received before and upon arriving in town gave us a wonderful glimpse of this open-hearted community. RYAN: The thing that has surprised me the most about working at Christ Church is that the staff and church leadership conduct themselves with such humility and kindness while at work. JEREMY: For me, the biggest surprise has been seeing how alive this church is and how connected we are to the community. I feel like I’m learning about a new ministry or outreach program every week.

What has been your favorite part so far?

CALLIE: Relationship building (aka eating my way through the city)! As a highly relational person and the priest focusing on Community 26

Christ Church Epistle - Homecoming 2015

Q & A with the newest members of the Christ Church team

Life, I spent my first weeks meeting individuals and small groups to learn about them and what they love about Christ Church. By the way, if we haven’t gotten to talk one-on-one, my invitation to meet for tea or coffee still stands. RYAN: My favorite part has to be the interactions I have with parishioners. I enjoy that my position allows me to get to know people while supporting them. JEREMY: Seeing the passion of our church members. Each meeting I get to have with a ministry leader, volunteer or clergy member has been a chance to feed off their energy and their drive to see their group’s work have an impact. It’s easy to love coming to work knowing those stories are waiting to be discovered.

What would Christ Church parishioners be surprised to learn about you?

CALLIE: Three fun facts: I played the tuba in middle school, my first car was a pickup truck and I want to adopt a pot-bellied pig and name it Hubris. RYAN: I think they’d be surprised to learn how much I love Duke basketball, and that I recently made my first travels abroad on a trip to Italy, Croatia, Greece and Turkey. JEREMY: I’m an avid rock-climber, handler of a (now retired) search-and-rescue dog and I’m related to an astronaut.

If the sky were the limit, what would you like to achieve in your role?

CALLIE: My grandest hope is that Christ Church can become a model of Christian community, discipleship and ministry for our city, the wider church and the world. I see in this place the possibility of a community that welcomes and includes all of God’s beloved people, reflects the diversity of our city and nation and demonstrates the tremendous joy and wonder that comes from trying to live as if the Kingdom of Heaven has already come. RYAN: I want to help the members of Christ Church protect and enhance the church’s historic resources. I would like to improve the operations and facilities for future generations to come. JEREMY: Ultimate success for me would be to help the church reach its full potential to impact the community and the world outside the walls of the church. We have an amazing message and the tools and resources to share that message with the community, other churches and the world in new and innovative ways. u

P.O. Box 25759 Raleigh, NC 27611-5759

Age to Age: Building for Our Third Century Upcoming Features (Advent 2015)

Reaching Out to Raleigh: Highlighting Step Up Ministry, Clarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Promise and other Christ Church Outreach Ministries ... and much more!